Fukushima’s coastal towns move to a quiet rhythm — fishing boats returning to port, children walking to school, and the Pacific surf crashing along the dramatic shoreline. The region has risen in popularity recently due to the development of the Michinoku Coastal Trail, Japan’s newest hiking trail that stretches for over 1,000 kilometres along the eastern edge of the Tohoku region. In Fukushima, a 200-kilometer section known as the Fukushima Hamakaido Trail follows and extends this grand coastal route. The three following footpaths introduced here — Hirono, Naraha and Tomioka — were designed as gentle, immersive entry points that connect directly to the Fukushima Hamakaido Trail, making for a chance to walk at the pace of the town itself.
These footpaths invite travelers to slow down and to be in complete presence. Meander past shrines, seaside parks and vast fields where dragonflies dart over the last stalks of autumn rice. Each step reveals the quieter side of Japan — a landscape that charms with its calm dignity and open skies.
Hirono Town: A Town of Folk Songs and Literary Vistas
Hirono greets visitors with an easy coastal calm. Start your walk at Hirono Station, recently renovated with a brand-new bridge with accessible elevators, and discover the town that unfolds to a stunning view that has inspired literary giants.
The first stop is Plat At Hirono, a community space where locals, children and travelers can converse. Yusuke Aoki, the vice chairman of the Hirono Tourism Association, greets visitors with quiet pride.
“When you emerge from the thin hilly road of Tenjinyama, the rice fields spread across the whole landscape,” Aoki says. “Just beyond the fields is Mount Takakurayama, where we believe a castle used to stand in ancient times. Now, it’s an observation deck, and has one of the most beautiful sunrise views in all of Japan.”
After a warm chat with Hirono locals, continue your stroll to the Tsukijigaoka Park to see the charming monument to the famous children’s song “Tombo no Megane” (The Dragonfly’s Glasses). Its lyricist once practiced medicine here in Hirono, making this spot a sweet nod to local history.
From there, find the Ashiato no Michi, or “Footprint Path,” where mischievous footprints are etched into the concrete ground. Even locals are unsure of the origins of the whimsical prints, but the steps reflect the adventurous spirit of the Hirono footpath.
Continue along the path to find the iron bridge of the Joban Line, where if you time it just right, you can watch the local train pass directly overhead, closer than could ever be possible in the crowded city.
One of the last stops of the footpath is Ubatake Jao Shrine, a dramatic shrine with an ocean view and impressive history. This area inspired literary great Ogai Mori, his novel Sansho the Steward referencing this unique shrine.
Stroll down to the Natural Disaster Prevention Green Space, where rows of wind-breaking trees line the gentle downhill path — a symbol of the town’s resilience in facing nature and rebuilding the town. Soon enough, you’ll end up back at Hirono Station, a little more thoughtful and present than a couple hours before.
Naraha Town: Sea Winds and Sacred Steps
Just a short drive north of Hirono, Naraha Town moves to a slightly different rhythm — brighter, breezier and colored by the proximity of the ocean and impressive spiritual landmarks. Begin your walk at Tenjinmisaki Sports Park, where sweeping views of the Pacific set the tone for the footpaths ahead.
While there, stop at Windy Land for a sweet boost of energy: creamy gelato made with local yuzu citrus, sweet potatoes and sake, as well as classic Japanese flavors like matcha.
Continue through the cherry tree-filled path to arrive at Kitada Tenmangu Shrine. Dedicated to the god of learning, it’s a place where students come to pray before exams, and where the community gathers in early spring for luxuriously private cherry blossom-viewing. After paying respects, continue on the path to the impressively large red torii gate, a striking backdrop for a moment of reflection and photos.
Follow the path toward the shoreline, and watch as the view opens to dramatic cliffs towering high and running for about three kilometers. Their exposed rock faces reveal layers shaped over years, creating a dynamic, almost otherworldly vista. This breathtaking view is inaccessible by car, making it a special sight reserved only for those who explore on foot.
Tomioka Town: Paths Beneath a Golden Tree
The final stop, Tomioka, carries a quieter, introspective atmosphere. Begin at Ota Park, a convenient spot to park and chat with local townsfolk taking their fur babies out for a walk.
The first stop on the route is Shijuhassha-yama Shrine, guarded by two pairs of weathered komainu lions, one with a traditional look and the other a more friendly-looking spirit of safe birth. A forested staircase straight out of a Ghibli film leads visitors upward, rewarding those who climb it with a quiet moment of reflection.
At the heart of town stands the Oicho, a giant ginkgo tree whose leaves turn the color of sunlight in autumn. Continuing on the Komichi Path, a trail that winds softly through a forest, with neat, tall conifers and down a bamboo-lined hill. Nearby but not exactly on the footpath, the Yu-yama no Kami and Kodomo no Kami monuments honor local guardian spirits of safety and community care.
Tomioka’s footpath leaves a lasting impression, offering an opportunity to feel renewed.
