See the towns and people pushing forward to the future.

Reconstruction Tour - Iwate Area2 nights, 3 days

We will not be beaten by this tsunami. A reconstruction tour where you get the chance to see the reconstruction and the cities that continue pushing forward to the future following the Great East Japan Earthquake, and how those in the area live currently. The fact that this is an area which cannot be seen anywhere else in the world is what makes this trip so special.

  • IWATE
14:40

Depart from Shin-Hanamaki Station
(Sightseeing in Hanamaki, Tono, etc.)

16:40

Kamaishi Station

17:30

Nebama Coast: Stay in the Horaikan Inn

Hear stories of the tsunami from a proprietress
Located near Kamaishi Nebama Coast and famous as a Japanese-style inn where guests can enjoy the harvest from the sea of Sanriku. It was damaged up to the second floor by the Great East Japan Earthquake, however it reopened for business 10 months later. The proprietress who miraculously survived despite being struck by the tsunami talks to patrons everyday about her experiences, lessons, and hopes for Kamaishi.
Phone
0193-28-2526
FAX
0193-28-1288
Fee
1 night, 2 meals: 15,000 yen (excludes tax)
URL
https://houraikan.jp/
9:00

Depart from Horaikan Inn

9:30

To the World Heritage Iron Mining Site

The beginning of Japan's present day iron manufucturing
One of the 23 “Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution,” that belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is composed of the remains of an iron ore mine, transportation routes and a primitive blast furnace. The blasting furnace which is open to the public is Japan's oldest existing Western style blast furnace, and consists of remains of waterways, and 3 stone blast furnace ruins. The explanations of the history and other information can be seen on panels and movies located in the Hashino Mine Information Center.
Phone
0193-54-5250 (Hashino Iron Mining Information Center)
FAX
0193-54-5250 (Hashino Iron Mining Information Center)
Hours open to visitors
9:30AM-4:30PM from April 1st to December 12th
Closed
No holidays
Fee
Free
URL
http://www.city.kamaishi.iwate.jp/tanoshimu/spot/hashino_tekkouzan/detail/1200513_3028.html
10:30

Tour the History of Iron Museum

Experience the history of iron
A museum focused the iron located in Kamaishi, the origin of Japan's present day iron manufacturing. Along with its full-scale model of the Hasino iron mining and smelting site, and a theater showing a film which lets you experience the steel creation process, the museum educates you on the history of iron manufacturing through documents and panels. There is also a corner where visitors can create their own original key holders while experiencing the casting process (500 yen to experience). You can also see a sweeping view of Kamaishi Bay from the observation terrace.
Phone
0193-24-2211
FAX
0193-24-3629
Hours open to visitors
9AM-5PM
Closed
Tuesday
Fee
Adults: 500 yen
URL
http://www.city.kamaishi.iwate.jp/tanoshimu/spot/detail/1191193_2452.html

Kamaishi Daikannon Statue

A rare Kannon statue holding fish in its hand. There's an observation platform inside where you can overlook the coast.

11:00

Visit the Hashikami market in front of the station

A new marketplace which opened in front of Kamaishi Station. Also known as "Sunfish Kamaishi."

Kamaishi Ramen (extra fine noodles)

Flavors of home which have supported this town of iron since the Showa era.

13:00

Board the Disaster Education Train from Kamaishi Station

Learn about the Great East Japan Earthquake on a train ride
In April of 2014, Sanriku Railways, which was struck by the Great East Japan Earthquake, reopened all its lines as a symbol of restoration of the disaster-stricken areas. The “Disaster Education Train” provides a form of “study tourism” to learn about disaster prevention where passengers can see, hear, and experience the state of the area along the railway. While on the train passengers will hear about the conditions of the earthquake from Sanriku Railway employees or people who live along the railway line while the train is moving or temporarily stopping in areas where one can see the current situation of the disaster. (Reservations required.)
Phone
0194-52-3411 (Between Tanohata and Kuji: Kita-Rias Line Operations Department)
0192-27-9669 (Between Sakari and Kamaishi: Minami-Rias Line Operations Department)
FAX
0194-52-3431 (Between Tanohata and Kuji: Kita-Rias Line Operations Department)
0192-27-9677 (Between Sakari and Kamaishi: Minami-Rias Line Operations Department)
Hours open to visitors
Must call in advance. Operation days and times decided by reservation
Fee
Group from outside of Iwate Prefecture: 43,000 yen for 1 carriage of normal train, 51,400 yen for 1 carriage of event train
URL
http://www.sanrikutetsudou.com/
about 70 minutes
(Sanriku Railway)
14:30

From Sakari Station to Goishikaiganguchi Station

about 20 minutes
(BRT)
14:50

Walk around the Goishi Coast and Sekai-no-Tsubakikan(Camellia botanical garden)

A coastal line that includes areas such as the black gravel-covered Goishi Coast. It is designated as one of Japan's places of scenic beauty and also has a promenade.
A collection of 550 types of camellia from around the world!
The camellia is the symbol of Ofunato. Inside a large glassed facility visitors can find 550 different types of camellia from 13 countries in the world, allowing you to appreciate their vivid colors ranging from red, pink, white and even yellow. The blooming season for camellia lasts from the beginning of October to the end of April, and the best time for viewing is from January to March. Products made from camellia such as camellia oil, makeup and treats are also available for purchase.
Phone
0192-29-4187
FAX
0192-29-4189
Hours open to visitors
9AM-5PM
Closed
Mondays (And following day of holidays)
Fee
Adults: 500 yen
URL
http://www.sekaino-tsubakikan.jp/

Anatoshi Boat Cruise

Board a small boat and head off on a cruise full of adventure. Fishermen show you around with their skills at the helm.

16:10

From Goishi-Kaigan Station to Ofunato Station

about 20 minutes
(BRT)
16:30

Dinner and shopping at Kyassen Ofunato

The various charms of Ofunato!
A brand new restoration shopping district established in April, 2017. Enjoy shopping and dining at over 50 shops within Food Village, Mall and Patio, and Dream Plaza zones. We recommend participating in the various events held throughout the year, or enjoying the verdant Sennen Square.
Phone
0192-22-7910
Fee
Depends on the store
URL
http://kyassen.co.jp/

Stay in Ofunato

9:00

Depart from Ofunato

10:10

From Ofunato Station to Kiseki-no-Ipponmatsu Station

about 60 minutes
(BRT)
11:10

Tour the Kiseki-no-Ipponmatsu(Miracle Pine)

Symbol of Rikuzentakata's reconstruction.
The Takata-matsubara Pine Grove which is said to have contained approximately 70,000 pine trees was washed away by the giant tsunami which occurred during the Great East Japan Earthquake disaster, however one tree miraculously remained, and is now called the “Kiseki-no-Ipponmatu” or the“ Miracle Pine.” It died from the effects of the ocean water later and it is now preserved as a monument to teach later generations of the disastrous earthquake. It is lit up from sunset to 9PM every day.
Phone
0192-54-2111 (Rikuzentakata Commerce, Industry, and Tourism Division)
FAX
0192-54-3888 (Rikuzentakata Commerce, Industry, and Tourism Division)
Hours open to visitors
From 5PM(6PM from June to August) to 8AM the next day, the gates are locked so the Miracle Pine cannot be reached.
Fee
Free to tour
URL
http://www.city.rikuzentakata.iwate.jp/kategorie/fukkou/ipponmatu/ipponmatu.html
http://www.city.rikuzentakata.iwate.jp/english/ipponmatu-eng/ipponmatu.html

Take a break in the Ipponmatsu Chaya

Full of great souvenirs. Try the soy sauce ice cream!

13:00

Marugoto Rikuzentakata Project Tour

Learn the past, present, and future of Rikuzentakata
A tour where one can learn about Rikuzentakata's past, present, and future. Being guided by an expert guide on the main tour, participants will visit the front line of restoration such as the “Kiseki-no-Ipponmatsu” or “Miracle Pine Tree,” remains of the old roadside station “Tapic 45,” and construction of the breakwater structure. Approximately 90 minutes required for tour and reservations are required. At least 10 participants required.
Phone
0192-22-7410 (Marugoto Rikuzentakata)
FAX
0192-22-7420 (Marugoto Rikuzentakata)
Fee
1,500 per person (excludes tax)
URL
http://marugoto-rikuzentakata.com/
17:00

From Kiseki-no-Ipponmatsu Station to Kesennuma Station

about 30 minutes
(BRT)
17:50

From Kesennuma Station to Ichinoseki Station

about 80 minutes
(JR Ofunato Line)
19:15

Depart from Ichinoseki Station
(to Sendai Station or Tokyo Station)

  • AOMORI
  • IWATE
  • MIYAGI
  • FUKUSHIMA

This want-it-all plan takes you around to all of the coasts along the Pacific Ocean in Tohoku. Grab the steering wheel and see the beautiful landscapes on the coastline in no time. Interact with the locals, enjoy delicious gourmet seafood, watch the morning sun rise over the ocean horizon. An unforgettable trip both with loved ones and friends.

  • AOMORI

Trek along the Tanesashi Coast which is said to be a treasure trove of beautiful scenic views. Feed the black-tailed gulls, view the alpine plant life, eat Japanese food. Take a relaxing walk along the beautiful coastline!

  • IWATE

This ever-changing coastline is almost like something you would see in a painting. A newly famous trekking area where you can enjoy the beautiful rias coastline right in front of you!

  • IWATE
  • MIYAGI
  • FUKUSHIMA

A trip in Tohoku is a trip where you get to know the people and its culture. The Highlight Course is recommended for those coming to Tohoku for the first time where you can make good time visiting all the recommended locations. This plan will take you around the must-go places for sightseeing in Hiraizumi and Matsushima.In addition, you can visit aquariums, enjoy shopping and try various hands-on activities.

  • AOMORI
  • IWATE

The Tohoku Journey is a trip which brings you in contact with the people of Tohoku and its culture. We recommend the Highlight Course which efficiently includes all the recommended spots for those coming to Tohoku for the first time. This is a packed plan that will take you around the shopping alleys and morning markets of Hachinohe and the local train lines as well as touring around places such as the Tanesashi Coast, Kitayamazaki Cliffs, and Jodogahama.

  • MIYAGI

We will not be beaten by this tsunami. A reconstruction tour where you get the chance to see the reconstruction and the cities that continue pushing forward to the future following the Great East Japan Earthquake, and how those in the area live currently. The fact that this is an area which cannot be seen anywhere else in the world is what makes this trip so special.

  • FUKUSHIMA

A relaxing walk through country hills. Experience Matsukawaura's nature and Soma's history in this adventure through the Japanese countryside.