The Kurikoma-Yakeishi Hot Line is a scenic 33 km-long rural road connecting Kurihara City in Miyagi Prefecture with Ōshū City in Iwate Prefecture.
Sandwiched between two famous Tōhoku mountains—Mount Kurikoma and Mount Yakeishi—this road offers stunning mountain views, peaceful highlands, and calm countryside landscapes.
With light traffic and gentle curves, the route is ideal for relaxing drives or motorcycle tours, especially from spring through autumn. It’s a perfect road for those looking for calm, “healing” scenery.
Recommended Section
From Hanayama (Kurihara) to Isawa (Ōshū), near Route 397
- Smooth rolling hills and gentle curves make for easy, scenic riding.
- On clear days, both Mt. Kurikoma and Mt. Yakeishi can be seen towering in the distance.
- Fields and pastures line the road, creating a colorful patchwork of green in early summer and gold in autumn.
Road Conditions & Safety
- Fully paved, with many two-lane sections and good surface conditions.
- Curves are generally mild and visibility is good—great for beginner riders too.
- Some steep or narrow sections exist—watch your speed and drive with care.
- Closed during winter (around December to April) due to heavy snow.
Recommended Stops
- Hanayama Onsen: A quiet hot spring area at the base of Mt. Kurikoma, perfect for a post-ride soak.
- Yakeishi Trailhead (Nakanuma): Starting point for hiking Mt. Yakeishi, rich with alpine flowers in summer.
- Isawa Dam & Lake Ōshū: Lakeside camping, a visitor center, and nature trails are available.
Local Food
- Around Kurikoma and Hanayama: Known for wild mountain vegetables (sansai) and soba noodles. Try tempura in spring and mushroom rice in autumn.
- In Ōshū (Isawa area): Enjoy Iwate wagyu beef, including grilled meat and beef curry.
Best Season & Climate
- May to October is the best time to visit.
- Spring brings fresh green scenery, summer is cool and breezy, and autumn features beautiful fall colors.
- Higher elevations can get chilly in the morning or evening, so bring a light jacket.
Touring Plan Example
Day Trip from Sendai
Sendai → Route 457 → Hanayama Onsen → Kurikoma-Yakeishi Hot Line → Isawa Dam → Continue to Mizusawa or Ichinoseki
(Time required: about 6–7 hours)