Sanriku Camellia Story
A Coastal Journey of Resilience & Renewal
Duration3days
DifficultyMedium
Summary
Along the Sanriku Coast, much was lost to the tsunami of the Great East Japan Earthquake. Yet amid the devastation, some camellia trees survived the saltwater and went on to bloom once again.
With their thick, hardy leaves, Sanriku’s camellias have adapted to the region’s cold climate and the Yamase, the chilly winds that blow in from the sea. Deeply rooted in this land, their resilience mirrors that of the people of Sanriku, who have long lived in harmony with nature and found the strength to move forward through times of hardship.
The Sanriku Camellia Story is a three-day, two-night Bike & Hike Journey along the Sanriku Coast, with the camellia serving as a symbol and guiding thread throughout the journey.
Highlight
- 30-km E-bike cycling
- 15-km Michinoku Coastal Trail Hike
- Camellia Tree Planting experience
- Learn about the connection between Camellias and this area, and why it is a symbol of resilience for locals
DAY1
Understanding Resilience — Ride Through a Coast Reborn
Cycling: 30km | About 5 hrs
Difficulty：★★★☆☆
The journey begins in Rikuzentakata with a visit to the Tsunami Memorial Museum, where we learn how local communities have rebuilt their lives after the 2011 tsunami while continuing to live alongside the sea.
We then set out on a 30-km E-bike ride along the coast, passing disaster memorial sites, communities rebuilt on higher ground, and small fishing villages.
Along the way, we meet a local oyster fisherman and hear why, despite everything, he continues to make his living from the sea.
OVERNIGHT Ofunato area
（Meals: B:X / L:〇 / D:〇）
DAY2
Walking the Camellia Story
Hiking: 15km About 5hrs
Difficulty：★★★☆☆
Day 2 takes us on a 15-km hike along the Michinoku Coastal Trail, following the story of the camellias that have taken root and thrived along this rugged coast.
In the evening, the story continues at the table with a special French course dinner inspired by Sanriku camellias.
Through cuisine, we experience another expression of the camellia and its connection to the land and culture of Sanriku.
OVERNIGHT Rikuzentakata area
（Meals: B:〇 / L:〇 / D:〇）
DAY3
Planting the Future Become Part of the Story
Difficulty：★☆☆☆☆
On the final day, we reflect on the landscapes, people, and camellias encountered throughout our journey — and plant a young camellia tree with our own hands.
The tree will take root, grow, and one day become part of Sanriku’s future landscape. Local camellia initiatives also support products such as camellia tea, create local employment, and help pass the region’s culture on to future generations.
By planting a tree, we leave something meaningful behind — and begin a lasting connection with Sanriku.
OPTION: It is possible to add on a hike along the Michinoku Coastal Trail in Kesennuma Oshima Island. In that case the finishing spot will be Kesennuma station. Cost is plus 6000JPY per person and would include lunch and transfer to Kesennuma Oshima area.
FINISH Rikuzentakata Station
（Meals: B:〇 / L:X / D:X）
Information
Price
2 PAX 380,000JPY
4 PAX 300,000JPY
6 PAX 250,000JPY
per person・twin share
Tour type
Guided
Inclusions
✔ Some meals during the tour (Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 2 Dinner x 2)
✔ 2 nights accommodation, twin share
✔ Transfers as listed in the course
✔ Luggage transfer each day between accommodation
✔ English speaking guide
✔ Ebike and helmet rental
Exclusions
✖ Transportation to and from the listed starting/finishing points
✖ Drinks or extra dishes and any meals not listed
✖ Costs of a personal nature
Notes
The weather can change quite a lot depending on the day, and even within the same day, so please ensure you have good quality rain-wear, as we hike in the rain as well (provided it is deemed safe).
Please advise of any dietary restrictions beforehand. Please note, vegan diet is not able to be catered for at this time.
Please ensure you have a good physical ability so you are able to participate in all activities.
