As the capital of Miyagi Prefecture and the largest city in the northeast of Japan, Sendai is an ideal base for exploring the Tohoku or North East Japan area. Sendai is a green city by the sea, surrounded by mountains. Famous for the Sendai Tanabata Festival when colorful streamers take over the city and every wishes a wish that will hopefully come true.
With in Sendai City, you must learn a little about Date Masamune Samurai War Lord. You can easily visit the exquisite 16th century black and gold Azuchi-Momoyama-style architecture at Osaki Hachimangu Shrine and at Date Masamune’s final resting place, Zuihoden Mausoleum. These buildings embody the samurai leader’s luxurious style.
A simple 40 minutes from Sendai City on the JR Senseki Line will take you to the natural beauty of Matsushima. The 260 islands of Matsushima Bay, also famous for Matsushima Bay Cruise are collectively considered one of the “Three Most Scenic Spots of Japan.” Three of the islands can be accessed by footbridges from the mainland. Visit mysterious Oshima with caves carved out by ancient meditating monks; pray at Godaido, a tiny island next to the ferry port considered to be the symbol of Matsushima. Another must is the Zuiganji Temple, the most important Zen temple in the Tohoku region. The grand but simple buildings enclosed by cedar trees evoke a sense of spiritual calm.
Highlights: Sendai City • Date Masamune Statue • Osaki Hachimangu Shrine • Zuihoden Mausoleum • Tanabata Museum • Matsushima Bay • Matsushima Bay Cruise • Zuiganji Temple
Recommended length of stay: 1-2 Nights