Ishinomaki Riverside Visitor Center
Opened in April 2018, the Ishinomaki Riverside Visitor Center is a great place to take a break from walking the Michinoku Coastal Trail and learn about the natural wonders of the Sanriku region. Created as part of Sanriku Fukko (Reconstruction) National Park, the center provides a wealth of information about the area’s sights, wildlife, ocean, forests, hiking routes and more and organizes seasonal outdoor activities for visitors.
Built from local materials, the facility features a main hall—where visitors can peruse helpful multilingual pamphlets and family-friendly educational exhibits—and includes a lounge area, restrooms, shower rooms, and a garden with a pond.
From the parking lot, visitors can begin the hike to Obandaira, a mountaintop grassland which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
For anyone interested in taking home treats or crafts, the gift shop next door sells local specialty goods that make excellent souvenirs.