SENDAI & MATSUSHIMA
Miyagi is the heart of Japan’s Tohoku region, defined by Sendai’s status as the “City of Forests” and the ethereal beauty of Matsushima Bay. It is a region steeped in the legacy of the samurai lord Date Masamune.
This area combines vibrant urban life with serene nature. The historic capital offers modern amenities and lush avenues, while the coast showcases one of Japan’s three most famous and beautiful scenic views.
Most Popular Attractions
Samurai History & Sacred Sites:
Zuihoden: The opulent and vividly decorated mausoleum of Date Masamune, founder of the Sendai domain, rebuilt in the Momoyama style.
Sendai Castle Ruins (Aoba Castle): The hilltop site of Date Masamune’s former castle, offering panoramic views of the modern city and featuring his iconic equestrian statue.
Osaki Hachiman Shrine: A magnificent National Treasure and Shinto shrine, renowned for its ornate Momoyama-style architecture.
Zuiganji Temple: One of the most important Zen Buddhist temples in the Tohoku region, restored by Date Masamune.
Entsūin Temple: A beautiful temple next to Zuiganji featuring elaborate mausoleum art and famous moss gardens that are illuminated in autumn.
Kanrantei Tea House: A historic tea house used by the Date clan, overlooking Matsushima Bay, perfect for enjoying matcha.
Godaido Temple: An iconic small temple hall on its own islet, accessible via the Sukashibashi (latticed bridge), a symbol of Matsushima.
Shiogama Shrine: An important Shinto shrine overlooking Shiogama Port, which is the gateway to Matsushima Bay.
Sendai City Museum: A facility showcasing the history, art, and culture of Sendai, with a focus on the Date family’s artifacts.
Matsushima Bay Panorama & Islands:
Matsushima Bay Sightseeing Cruise: The quintessential way to experience the bay’s approximately 260 pine-clad islands from the water.
Fukuurajima Island: A tranquil island accessible by the picturesque 250-meter-long vermilion Fukuurabashi Bridge.
Oshima Island: A smaller island historically used for ascetic training by Zen monks, accessible by a bridge.
Ōtakamori (Sōkan View): One of the four main panoramic views (Shidaikan), famous for the “Magnificent View” of the bay resembling a miniature garden.
Tomiyama (Reikan View): One of the Shidaikan, the highest viewpoint, offering the “Beautiful View” from the grounds of Daigyoji Temple.
Tamonzan (Ikan View): One of the Shidaikan, providing the “Grand View” that dynamically includes the bay and Shiogama Port.
Ogidani (Yūkan View): One of the Shidaikan, offering the “Enchanting View” of the bay spreading out like a folding fan.
Sendai City Center & Modern Life:
Jozenji Dori: Sendai’s central, tree-lined avenue, famous as the heart of the “City of Forests” and a main venue for festivals.
Rakuten Mobile Park Miyagi: The unique home stadium of the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles baseball team, known for its Ferris wheel and entertainment complex.
Sendai Uminomori Aquarium: A large modern aquarium that highlights the marine life of the Sanriku Coast and features a massive tank and live shows.
Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery: A scenic whisky brewery founded by Masataka Taketsuru, offering tours and tastings.
Sendai Daikannon: A towering, 100-meter-tall statue of the Buddhist Bodhisattva Kannon, a striking modern landmark.
Regional Nature & Memorials:
Akiu Great Falls: A 55-meter tall waterfall considered one of the three most famous waterfalls in Japan.
Ruins of the Great East Japan Earthquake Sendai Arahama Elementary School: A preserved school building that now serves as a memorial to the 2011 disaster.
Akiu Onsen / Sakunami Onsen: Famous hot spring towns near Sendai offering traditional relaxation and beautiful natural surroundings.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Sightseeing Cruise of Matsushima Bay: Experience one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Spots up close. Cruise around the bay’s 260 pine-clad islands on a pleasure boat, with the Niohmaru Course being the most popular.
Walk in the Footsteps of Date Masamune: Explore the Sendai Castle Ruins (Aoba Castle), admire the iconic equestrian statue of the city’s founder, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean.
Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum: Discover the richly decorated and colorful final resting place of Date Masamune and his descendants, known for its Momoyama-style architecture.
Meditate at Zuiganji Temple: Tour the main temple of the Date clan and one of the most important Zen temples in the Tohoku region. Explore its ornate main hall and the historical meditation caves carved into the cliffs along the approach.
Try Your Hand at Sasa Kamaboko Making: Participate in a hands-on workshop to create your own sasa kamaboko (bamboo leaf-shaped fish cake), a famous local specialty of Miyagi Prefecture.
Cross the Red Bridge to Fukuura Island: Take a leisurely walk across the 252-meter-long red bridge to explore the forested island’s paths and enjoy stunning views of the bay.
Enjoy a Tea Ceremony with a View at Kanrantei: Sip on matcha green tea and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets at this historic teahouse, which offers a secluded view of Matsushima Bay.
Go on a Local Food & Bar Hop in Sendai’s Yokocho: Dive into the retro atmosphere of Sendai’s narrow side-street alleys (yokocho), like Iroha Yokocho or Bunka Yokocho, for a true local dining and drinking experience.
Visit the Shiogama Fish Market & Try Fresh Sushi: Travel to the nearby port town of Shiogama, known as the Sushi Capital of Japan, to see the tuna auction or sample some of the freshest sushi in the country.
Paint a Kokeshi Doll: Experience a traditional craft by painting your own miniature Kokeshi doll, the simple wooden dolls originating from the Tohoku region, in a local workshop.
Take a Day Trip to Akiu Onsen: Easily accessible by bus from Sendai, this historic hot spring town offers a chance to relax in a traditional onsen (hot spring bath) and visit the powerful Akiu Otaki Falls.
Local Tips & Transport
Local Rail is Essential: The JR Senseki Line is the key connection, linking Sendai Station to the coastal area, including the conveniently located Matsushima Kaigan Station. Be sure to use the Kaigan (Coast) station, as the main Matsushima Station is further from the main attractions.
The Loople Sendai Bus: This is the most convenient way to explore Sendai’s main tourist spots, like the Castle Ruins and Zuihoden. It’s a loop bus that runs a circular route, and a one-day pass offers unlimited rides for a great value.
Sendai Subway: The city has two subway lines (Namboku and Tozai) that are useful for quickly covering longer distances within the city and reaching areas outside the central core.
Matsushima is Walkable: Once you arrive at Matsushima Kaigan Station, all major sights—the cruise pier, temples, and islands with bridges—are within a comfortable walking distance of each other.
Value Passes: Consider purchasing the Sendai Area Pass or the Sendai Marugoto Pass (for two days) if you plan on using the local JR lines and buses extensively around the area, including Matsushima.
Samurai Heritage: Sendai is intrinsically linked to the legendary one-eyed samurai lord, Date Masamune. You’ll see his crescent moon emblem everywhere. Visiting the historical sites offers insight into his powerful legacy and the city’s role as the historical capital of the Tohoku region.
Culinary Delights: Miyagi is a foodie destination. You must try Gyūtan (Grilled Beef Tongue), which Sendai is famous for. Also, take advantage of the coastal proximity to enjoy incredibly fresh oysters and seafood, especially around Matsushima and Shiogama.
Avenue of Light and Seasonal Events: Sendai is known as the “City of Trees.” Don’t miss the famous Sendai Pageant of Starlight in December, when the Jōzenji-dori avenue is beautifully illuminated. If you visit in early August, the Sendai Tanabata Festival is one of the most spectacular star festivals in Japan.
Disaster Awareness: The coastal areas were significantly impacted by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami. Sites like the Sendai Arahama Elementary School Ruins are preserved as memorials and educational centers, offering an important opportunity to learn about the history and recovery of the region.
Hidden Gems:
- Oshima Island: A smaller, quieter island in Matsushima Bay accessible by a free bridge, which served as a place of retreat and meditation for monks. It’s a peaceful alternative to the main tourist islands.
- Entsuin Temple: Located right next to Zuiganji, this temple has a beautiful Japanese-style and Western-style rose garden and a mausoleum for Date Masamune’s son, with unique Western-influenced decorations.
- Kokubuncho: Sendai’s premier nightlife district, packed with thousands of small bars and restaurants, offering a lively evening atmosphere.
Best Photo Spots: For a stunning view of Matsushima Bay, seek out one of the Matsushima Shidaikan (Four Great Views) observation decks: Ogitani, Tomiyama, Otakamori, and Tamonzan.
Top Restaurants
Umami Tasuke [$25-$45] – Widely considered the originator of Sendai’s famous Gyūtan (grilled beef tongue) delicacy. They stick to a traditional salt seasoning and hand-slicing method, making it an essential, non-chain experience in the city center.
Aji Tasuke (Honten/Main Store) [$25-$45] – Another legendary establishment and competitor for the title of the original Gyūtan restaurant, located near the busy Kokubuncho area. It offers an equally traditional and authentic experience of this local specialty.
Jogi Tofu Shop [$10-$20] – A famous, historic shop in the hidden mountain village of Jogi (near Sendai), known for its massive, uniquely-prepared Jogi-no-Agedofu (fried tofu), a local favorite even of Olympic figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu.
Kuranosho Sohonten [$30-$50] – A traditional izakaya (Japanese-style pub) near Sendai Station, famous for its large irori (traditional fireplace) counter where you can watch seafood and local vegetables being charcoal-grilled (iro-yaki).
Izakaya Chocho [$40-$60] – Located near Kotodai-Koen Station and highly-rated by locals, this is an excellent izakaya known for its fresh seafood, expertly prepared sashimi, and a curated selection of regional sake.
SANTORI-CHAYA Restaurant [$20-$40] – A family-run spot facing Matsushima Bay, popular with locals for its fresh seafood donburi (rice bowls) during lunch, especially the limited-quantity Matsushima Anago Don (conger eel bowl).
Shiogama-ko Sushi (Shiogama Port Area) [$30-$55] – An area for top-quality sushi where locals go, as the city of Shiogama (part of Matsushima Bay) is known for having an abundance of high-end sushi shops due to its proximity to the fishing grounds.
Maguro Chaya (Shiogama Port Area) [$20-$40] – Located in the Shiogama Fish Wholesale Market area, this no-frills spot is highly-regarded for its heaping portions of fresh seafood, particularly high-quality tuna (maguro).
Tanya Zenjiro (Sendai Area) [$20-$40] – A popular, locally-focused chain that specializes in Gyūtan, often praised for its premium extra-thick-cut tongue set meals. Look for the branches outside the busiest station areas.
Sushi Shirahata (Matsushima/Shiogama Area) [$40-$70] – Considered one of the top spots for high-quality sushi in the Matsushima/Shiogama area, focusing on the freshest seasonal catch from the nearby Sanriku Coast.
Kappo Tempura Santaro [$50-$80] – A long-established kappo (traditional Japanese fine-dining) restaurant in Sendai, renowned for its tempura, often featuring live shrimp and seasonal ingredients.
Datehan Nagaya Sakaba [$30-$50] – A rustic, homey izakaya in the city center offering a wide variety of regional cuisine from Miyagi and Tohoku, including local-style hot pots and dishes beyond the typical tourist fare.
Wagyu Ryori Ban [$50-$80] – A stylish and modern Japanese restaurant on Jozenji Street that features a different A5-grade Wagyu brand from across Japan each week, offering both grilled meat and unique wagyu-based Western dishes.
Yakiniku Taizan Kokubuncho Sohon Ten [$45-$75] – A classic yakiniku (BBQ beef) restaurant in the Kokubuncho area dedicated to serving hand-cut Sendai Beef in a refined, relaxing space, with private rooms available.
Yakiniku and Wine Ushi HAJIME [$50-$80] – A stylish yakiniku and wine bar near Hirose-dori Station that specializes in offering rare cuts of local Sendai Beef, with an intimate counter-bar atmosphere perfect for dates.
Sendai Yakiniku Rere-Re: [$40-$65] – A well-regarded local yakiniku spot that is popular for its high-quality meats, including local wagyu, offering a more contemporary and less tourist-driven BBQ experience.
Yakiniku Sansuien East Entrance [$45-$70] – A long-established yakiniku spot near the east exit of Sendai Station that focuses on exquisite Sendai beef and Miyagi wagyu, famous for a secret, 50-year-old traditional dipping sauce.
Al-che-cciano Ishinomaki (Matsushima Bay Area) [$40-$70] – An acclaimed Italian restaurant in the nearby Ishinomaki area that is known for its innovative cuisine, utilizing the abundant fresh seafood and local produce of the Sanriku Coast.
Akiu-sha Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located near Akiu Onsen in Western Sendai, this restaurant is housed in a renovated historic building and offers traditional Japanese dining with a focus on local ingredients in a beautiful, rustic setting.
n-bistro [$35-$60] – An off-street bistro in Sendai offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious, homey French cuisine and wines, popular with local couples and smaller groups.
Matsushima Petit Hotel Bistro Abalon [$50-$80] – Located in a small hotel, this bistro offers high-quality cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, often featuring fresh abalone and other Matsushima seafood in a refined, European-influenced style.
Shiogama Fish Wholesale Market [$15-$35] – Not a single restaurant, but a bustling wholesale market where you can buy fresh seafood and then create your own Kaisen-don (seafood rice bowl) by selecting toppings to put over a bowl of rice purchased at a special counter—a favorite local experience.
Matsushima Fish Market [$15-$35] – A large market offering over 1,500 types of seafood, where you can buy prepared dishes like shucked oysters, sushi bowls, and a popular oyster burger for a casual meal.
Yakigaki House (Matsushima Bay) [$20-$40] – Located near the bay, this simple shack is a must-visit during oyster season, famous for its all-you-can-eat grilled oysters, served fresh from the local Matsushima Bay oyster farms.
Godaido Mae No Kakiage [$10-$20] – A casual vendor near the Godaido Temple known for quick, savory fried oyster items, including kakiage (fritters) and perfectly grilled oysters, ideal for a snack while sightseeing.
Endo Mochi Ten [$10-$20] – A humble shop famous for Zunda Mochi (rice cake covered in sweetened mashed green soybeans), the quintessential local Sendai sweet, perfect for a non-touristy, authentic taste of the region.
Canton Hanten Bikouen [$15-$30] – Located near Kotodai Koen Station, this local favorite is famous for its Sendai Mabo Yakisoba—crispy noodles topped with a savory and spicy mapo tofu sauce, a beloved local “B-kyu gourmet” (casual comfort food).
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
HIGHBALL BAR Mori no Miyako 1923: Located centrally in the bustling Kokubuncho area, this stylish bar specializes in highballs, including unique twists on the classic drink. It has a modern, elegant atmosphere perfect for a refined evening.
Bar Andy: A well-known, established bar located in the Kokubuncho/Ichibancho area of Sendai, popular for its wide selection of whiskies and expertly crafted cocktails. It often attracts a mixed crowd of locals and foreigners.
bar OBORO: Found in the heart of the Kokubuncho entertainment district, this cozy spot focuses on highballs and whisky, offering a sophisticated late-night destination that stays open until the early morning hours.
CADIZ: Situated in the vibrant Kokubuncho/Ichibancho area, this bar offers a European-style ambiance and a selection of classic cocktails, often providing a welcoming environment until late.
Dining & Bar Jazz-Villeban Sendai: Located near Kokubuncho, this spot combines a dining experience with a bar, featuring a jazz-inspired atmosphere and offering a relaxed setting for dinner and drinks.
BAR Rondo: A highly-rated bar in the lively Kokubuncho district known for its good ambiance and selection of drinks, making it a great spot for a sophisticated, relaxed drink.
CRAFTSMAN Sendai: While known for its craft beer selection, this spot in central Sendai near the Mediatheque also offers a variety of craft cocktails and a chic dining bar atmosphere.
Ernie’s Bar: A local legend in Sendai, owned by an expat and known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for foreigners and locals alike to enjoy a casual drink.
Hub (Kokubuncho): Part of a popular chain of British-style pubs found in the Kokubuncho area and elsewhere, offering a lively, casual atmosphere, cheap drinks, and a place to socialize.
GLADIO: More of a bar and grill, but a popular foreign-friendly spot near Kotodai Koen Station (close to Kokubuncho), known for delicious food and a friendly staff that engages with patrons.
Bee: Dining and Darts Bar: A chain bar in Sendai offering a unique combination of dining, darts, and a full bar, providing a great pre-party spot or an alternative to traditional clubs.
The Ha’penny Bridge: A cozy, authentic Irish pub in Sendai near the east exit of the station (Miyagino Ward), a comfortable and welcoming spot for classic pub drinks and a relaxing atmosphere.
Bang BAR SENDAI: Found in Sendai’s downtown area, this bar is known for its comfortable, open atmosphere, making it a pleasant spot to enjoy a drink with friends.
Oden Sankichi: A long-established oden restaurant in Kokubuncho that also serves as a popular izakaya (Japanese pub) with a great selection of local sake, offering a traditional Japanese nightlife experience.
Nipponshu Dokoro Sanichi Maru San: A sake bar and izakaya in Kokubuncho where you can enjoy local Japanese sake from across the country with seasonal side dishes.
Rensa: One of Sendai’s largest live music venues, located in the Ichibancho shopping district, often featuring famous artists and providing a lively concert experience.
Kento’s: A live music venue in Sendai specializing in “Oldies but Goodies”—50s and 60s American pop music—offering a unique, themed dancing experience.
Ceskoya Beer Pub and Live House: Located in Sendai, this spot combines a beer pub with a live music venue, featuring an international and friendly atmosphere, often a hub for foreign residents and visitors.
Nelson’s: An established bar and club in Sendai that occasionally hosts live events or DJ nights, known to be a foreigner-friendly spot.
MACANA: A prominent live music club in Sendai (often not a traditional dance club but a venue for rock/alternative bands), a key part of the local music scene.
Shaft: A well-known club in the Kokubuncho area, typically catering to electronic, house, and hip-hop music enthusiasts, offering a more dedicated dance floor experience.
ADD: A contemporary nightclub in the bustling Kokubuncho district, known for its focus on electronic dance music and a modern party atmosphere.
Neo BrotherZ: A centrally located club in Sendai offering a mix of music genres and events, popular for a high-energy late night out.