Why I Hiked This Classic Japanese Long Trail in Winter

What to Bring on the Michinoku Coastal Trail

Depending on if you are thru-hiking or section hiking, your loadout will be radically different. The MCT passes through a wide variety of topographies including mountainous areas, seaside cliffs, sandy beaches, paved roads, and remote towns so you’ll want to be prepared depending on the season. Good news is, you’re passing through Tokyo or other large cities prior to your hike, there are a good number of really exciting Japanese outdoor brands to get kitted out with beforehand. That said, keeping things light never hurts if you are planning on putting in a lot of miles. Below, what I brought with me this January.

Outer layer(s): I hike warm so I brought a simple Montbell U.L. wind jacket to block the coastal winds as my outer layer. I also brought a Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer down jacket to throw on when I stopped for a break.

Midlayer: Since I was going light with my outer layer, I chose an ultralight fleece from Farpointe to wear underneath. It kept me warm and helped me regulate my temperature between the climbing and descending sections of the trail.

Baselayer: I went with a Merino short sleeve from Yamatomichi, a local Japanese brand, as my base layer. It didn’t overheat me but kept my midlayer from getting soaked in sweat when climbing certain sections. While I did not need it, you may want to consider a bottom baselayer if you’re planning on being out after dark as it gets considerably colder. I usually grab a pair of Icebreaker merino leggings that I have.

Pants: No need to get too technical here—the MCT isn’t as tough as a 14er—but you still want to wear something that helps regulate heat as you walk but keeps you warm enough when standing still. I went with some Merino pants from Yamatomichi, which also felt nice enough to wear around the towns along the trail.

Source: https://www.fieldmag.com/articles/michinoku-coastal-trail-winter-hiking-guide