sendai tourist attractions

With roughly one million inhabitants, Sendai (���) is by far the largest city in the Tohoku Region and one of the country's 15 largest cities . The modern city of Sendai was founded around 1600 by Date Masamune, one of feudal Japan 's most powerful lords. Many of Sendai's tourist attractions are related to Masamune and his family.

Sendai was the closest major city to the epicenter of the earthquake of March 11, 2011 . The tremors did not cause major damage in the city center, but the tsunami inundated the city's coastal outskirts and airport. Virtually all tourist spots were able to reopen within a few months of the earthquake.

Less than an hour northeast of the city center lies the town of Matsushima , whose bay is dotted by pine-clad islets and is known for one of Japan's three most scenic views .

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Home » Travel Guides » Japan » 15 Best Things to Do in Sendai (Japan)

15 Best Things to Do in Sendai (Japan)

Sendai is known for being the biggest city in the Tohoku part of Honshu Island in Japan. There are around a million people living in this vibrant city which means that if you are looking for a little bit of everything in Japan then this is the place to come.

When you visit Sendai you will be treated to attractions such as observation towers, museums and galleries, but the city also has more traditional places to visit such as mausoleums of famous families and the ruins of its ancient castle.

As you would expect for a city of this size, you can also enjoy a delicious food scene here and there are several sizable nightlife districts to choose from if you want to let your hair down in the evenings.

Another reason to come to Sendai is that while it is representative of a modern Japanese town, it is also not firmly on the tourist trail which means that you will get an authentic look at life in Japan without being bombarded with overly touristy things to do.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Sendai …

1. Visit Zuihoden

Zuihoden is also known as the Mausoleum of Date Masamune who was the first lord of the Sendai Domain.

He was also known for being a great architect and is known for having designed this building during the Momoyama Period.

Zuihoden is a riot of gorgeous wood carvings and panels as well as some pretty art work and you can also go for a walk around the grounds.

The paths are shaded by beautiful cedar trees which are also mean to be a symbol of the longevity of the Date family.

2. Check out the Sendai Castle Ruins

The Sendai Castle Ruins were the inspiration for a famous Japanese poem called ‘The moon over the desolate castle’ and this tells you all you need to know about their condition now.

The ruins also do include a model of the original gate to give you a feel of how Sendai Castle would have looked in the days of old.

There is also a small museum here that takes you through the history of the castle although don’t expect anything too grand as Sendai is not one of the cities in Japan that is best known for a complete or particularly impressive castle.

If that is what you are looking for then there are plenty of other options in other cities.

3. Tour Miyagi Museum of Art

The Miyagi Museum of Art is a great place to come if you want to check out some modern art in Sendai.

One section of the museum that is well worth stopping by is the gallery that features the world of local artist Juryo Sato who is known for his beautiful sculptures.

Once you have toured the museum you can also stroll through the idyllic grounds which are located next to the river and make an ideal spot for a relaxing walk.

4. Take in the views at SS 30 Observation Lounge

If you want to get the best views in Sendai then you need to head to SS 30 Observation Lounge.

This building is actually an office block so there is not much to check out here except for two observation decks on the 29th and 30th floors.

These are free to visit and give you panoramic vistas across all of Sendai so try to come in the morning or the late afternoon when you will get the best photo opportunities from the decks.

5. Check out the Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth

The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth is dedicated to telling you the story of the stone age in Japan.

On a visit here you can find out all how the Saki Stone Age would have looked in the days of old and learn more about the excavation of the Tomizawa Ruins.

The museum has a huge number of galleries and if you want to know more about the 20,000 year Saki Stone Age then this is the best place to come.

6. Attend Tanabata

Tanabata is one of the most important festivals that takes place in Sendai and begins on August 5 every year when there is an impressive firework display.

The festival then continues from August 6 to August 8 and the whole of Sendai is decorated with opulent decorations which are called kusudama and consist of paper balls adored with decorative flowers.

If you are in town then make sure not to miss this celebration which is an ode to two stars called Vega and Altair although this is also mostly used a reason to party rather than focusing too closely on the actual legend.

7. Tour the Kirin Brewery

If you want to know more about Kirin beer in Japan then consider a trip to the Kirin Brewery.

There are some English language materials in the form of printed pamphlets available to explain how the famous beer here is made and the tour ends with a tasting session so that you can sample the brews in person.

This is a popular attraction however so you will need to make sure you book in advance if you want to be sure of a spot.

There is also an audio tour available in Japanese.

8. Buy some souvenirs

If you want to pick up some souvenirs in Sendai then you will be spoilt for choice.

This part of Japan, in the Tohoku Region, is known for its handmade paper as well as its lacquer ware which is known as tsuishu.

You can also pick up some amazing wooden dolls known as kokeshi which are the ideal gift for young children or you can buy local silk or pottery which helps to support artists and artisans in the Sendai region.

9. Attend the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival

For something a little unexpected in Sendai consider heading to the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival which takes place in September every year.

The festival is well known across Japan as performers come here from all over the country and take to the streets of the city.

There are several stages set up around town and performances go on throughout the day and into the night.

One thing to note however is that people flock to Sendai at this time and hotels are often fully booked so make sure you plan in advance.

10. Try the local food

One of the best local specialties for which Sendai is famous is the gyutan which is a kind of beef tongue which has been grilled.

If that doesn’t appeal then you can also feast on a fish sausage called sasakamaboko or you can try the zundamochi which is a green soybean paste which is made with chewy rice balls.

This part of the country is also known for having a wealth of vegetarian restaurants where you can feast on crisp local produce.

11. Visit the Morning Market

The Morning Market in Sendai runs from Monday to Saturday and has an impressive 40 stalls.

These showcase some of the best produce in the region and you will find crunchy fruits and vegetables here as well as seafood and toothsome sushi.

There are also some stalls that sell dishes like fish soup and noodles and you can also try some of the delicious fried snacks on offer.

They even have a vending machine restaurant that serves up slurpy bowls of noodles.

12. Check out Sendai Mediatheque

Sendai Mediatheque is a sight all of its own as it is located inside a gorgeous building which was built by Ito Toyo who is one of the most famous architects and designers in Japan.

The building is a work of art but it also houses a large library as well as a range of galleries and some performance areas that are used as venues for concerts and other events such as dance recitals.

If you want to catch a performance then make sure to check out the local listings when you are in town.

13. Have a night on the town

If you want to go out for the evening then you will be spoiled for choice in Sendai.

This part of Japan is known for its clubs and bars and there are several nightlife areas to check out.

These include Chuo-dori which usually attracts a young crowd as well as Kokubuncho which is the main center of nightlife in Sendai.

In both of these locations you will find bars and traditional Japanese pubs called izakaya.

14. Attend Sendai Pageant of Starlight

Many people call the Sendai Pageant of Starlight a ‘festival’ but actually it is far mellower than that.

The pageant is more of a light show and over 600,000 orange colored lights are strung across Aoba-dori and Jozenji-dori.

This creates a kind of magical world of illuminations and people stroll here at night to check out the festivities.

The Sendai Pageant of Starlight takes place throughout December.

15. Tour Sendai City Museum

If you want to learn more about the life and family of the famous samurai warrior Masamune then you need to head to the Sendai City Museum.

Here you will find a huge range of family heirlooms and antiques and it is thought that there are more than 13,000 pieces on show.

These are part of the private collection of the Date family so if you are interested in history then this is definitely one attraction not to miss when you are in Sendai.

15 Best Things to Do in Sendai (Japan):

• Visit Zuihoden
• Check out the Sendai Castle Ruins
• Tour Miyagi Museum of Art
• Take in the views at SS 30 Observation Lounge
• Check out the Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth
• Attend Tanabata
• Tour the Kirin Brewery
• Buy some souvenirs
• Attend the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival
• Try the local food
• Visit the Morning Market
• Check out Sendai Mediatheque
• Have a night on the town
• Attend Sendai Pageant of Starlight
• Tour Sendai City Museum

Sendai Bucket List: 40 Things to do in the Japanese City

Looking to explore a lessor know Japanese city? Just an hour and a half ride from Tokyo on Japan’s Shinkansen (the bullet train) you will find the city of Sendai. Founded in 1600 by the famous samurai Date Masamune, Sendai Japan is one of the oldest cities in the country. 

Of course there are plenty of things to do in Tokyo , but don’t miss a side trip to the largest city in the Tōhoku region—Sendai can also let you experience the full extent of what Japan has to offer. From hot springs to distinctive food and drinks to a rich history and more, here are my top picks of things to do in Sendai! 

Sendai Bucket List: Best Attractions & Things to do in the Japanese City

1. aer building view.

A quick stop in Sendai is the 140 meter skyscraper, the AER building . From the 31st floor you can reach the Panorama Terrace where you will get a million dollar view of both the east and west of the city. It’s the perfect place to get a perspective of the vast layout of the city.

AER Building | 1-3-1 Chuo, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan | MAP

2. Akiu Craft Park

Akiu Craft Park is an incredible place where they try to keep the tradition of craftsmanship alive. They have 9 types of crafts in the park including Edo spintops and Sendai tansu (wooden chests). I was fortunate to be able to take a workshop on how to make a traditional Kokeshi doll. The painting was done in a private room that was set up with sample dolls and four colors to choose from; green, black, yellow and red.

I love art projects!!

On the wall was written instructions, plus there was an instructor to make sure the class was headed in the right direction. My masterpiece was a collection of all the samples, taking my favorite painted aspects of each. When the doll was finished I was shown how to write the letter A in Japanese (for the initial of my first name) and the the shopkeeper was so kind to write the date in the most perfect lettering that would have taken me hours!

Akiu Craft Park | Address: 54 Uehara, Akiumachi Yumoto, Taihaku-ku , Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture | Map & Info

3. Akiu Otaki Falls/Akiu Great Falls

A 29 km drive west of Sendai will take you to Akiu Great Falls . With a height of 180 feet and width of 16 feet, it is one of Japan’s most beautiful waterfalls and a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty.

The beauty of the falls is amplified further during the autumn season, surrounded by the orangey-red colors of the trees. And during winter, it is another magical sight to behold.

4. Check out Sendai Castle Ruins/Aoba Castle Ruins

Are you looking for some of the best scenic views on your trip around Sendai? Then a trip to the site of Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle) should be on your list of things to do! The castle that once stood on the plateau overlooking Sendai along with the city itself was founded by none other than Date Masamune around the 1600s.

Though there isn’t any of the castle left, the views from up there are nothing short of magnificent, especially when the weather is nice. You can also see monuments around the area, like the statue of Date Masamune riding a horse, as well as a shrine.

5. Eat at a Local Izakaya

One of my favorite dining experiences in all of Japan was eating at a local izakaya, an informal gastropub, in Sendai. At Tsuda-Sengyoten the ambiance was just as good as the food. They get their fresh seafood straight from Ishinomaki fish port. When we arrived there was a tabletop BBQ already burning on our table. And as soon as we sat down an array of fish started to be delivered — squid, scallops in the shell and octopus. We were in charge of cooking them on our own. Fun! Then the largest and freshest sashimi platter I had ever seen was placed in front of us.

The best part was that at 7:30 a lively fish auction began. Customers wore hats with numbers on them and then bid on their fresh fish which can be served either raw, grilled, boiled or fried. Our table won a flat fish in the battle that the chefs quickly turned into sashimi!

6. Eat Flavorful Grilled Miyagi Oysters

With Miyagi Prefecture being one of the largest producers of oysters in Japan, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get a taste of it on your visit to Sendai.

You can head over to the nearby Matsushima Bay (a couple of kilometers northeast of the city) and have some delicious grilled oysters fresh from the sea at one of their oyster huts (kaki goya). If you are up to it, you can also eat it like how the locals do it, raw with a pinch of lemon!

7. Eat Sasakamaboko

A trip to a new place like Sendai warrants a taste of its local cuisine, one of which is their regional version of kamaboko: sasa kamaboko . It is a grilled fish cake formed in a bamboo leaf’s shape and lightly grilled over charcoal. It is also famous as a gift or souvenir in Sendai.

It is perfect as a side dish or as a snack during tea time, with a rich fish flavor that is crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside.

8. Eat Sendai Gyutan (Beef Tongue)

One of my favorite things to do while traveling is to dine at a local restaurant to try the traditional cuisine of the area ( like worm cakes in Vietnam! ), and that is just what we did in Sendai. Gyutan (beef tongue) is Sendai’s most famous dish and there are dozens of restaurants in the city that sell this delicacy.

We popped into Riyku restaurant , which has several locations, where the specialty of the house was Gyutan. The eatery was a small, homey place where just about every dish featured this very unique ingredient. You could get it grilled, seared or even in a stew. I ordered a 3-piece plate of thinly sliced tongue that was served with cow tail soup, white rice and cabbage. I took just a little nibble for my first bite, because I wasn’t sure what to expect. But, it was really good. It tasted like steak!

For more unique foods from around the world, see our Weird Food Around the World Bucket List .

9. Enjoy a Night in Kokubuncho

Downtown Sendai is home to the largest nightlife district in Tohoku: Kokuboncho. Everywhere you look, you’ll find neon-lit lanes packed with restaurants, izakaya pubs, bars, karaoke rooms, and more.

Kokuboncho is separated into three areas:

• First is where you’ll find small shops, gaming centers, and pachinko parlors.
• The next area is where you’ll find bigger restaurants and bars and is usually where the Japanese salarymen wind down after a day of work.
• Lastly is the so-called pink zone, home to many bars, host and hostess clubs, and the like. Sort of red-lightish.

Whether you are having your fill of some Japanese cuisine or bar hopping and more, a night at Kokubuncho is something you will surely enjoy!

10. Find a Lucky Matsukawa Daruma

Four-leaf clovers are not the only ones bringing good luck! Enter the Matsukawa Daruma, a Sendai paper-mâché known to bring good luck and is usually bought during New Year.

Unlike traditional darumas, where you’ll paint each eye before and after achieving a goal, Matsukawa Darumas have their eyes painted from the beginning. Its big eyes serve to protect from any misfortune in any direction, its ultramarine color depicts the sea, and on its belly is the god of wealth aboard a treasure ship.

You can usually find these cute figures at shrines, especially during festivals. There is also a local handicraft shop that makes this traditional piece of art.

11. Snack on Hyotanage

Another of Sendai’s signature street food, hyotanage is prepared by skewering and then deep-frying two huge, round pieces of kamaboko (baked fish paste). You can say it is somewhat similar to American corndogs, with a crispy bread exterior topped with ketchup.

You’ll often find this delectable street food around Sendai’s shopping arcades and train stations, perfect as a quick bite as you go around Sendai.

12. Try Zunda-Mochi Sweets

One of Sendai’s three local specialties (the others being gyutan and sasa kamaboko), zunda mochi is a delicious treat made of sweetened mashed edamame (young soybeans,) and is used to coat mochi rice cakes.

You can enjoy this sweet green paste well-chilled, especially on a hot summer day. Though the gloopy consistency of zunda mochi can be off-putting for others, once you’ve tasted it, you’ll be asking for seconds!

13. Find Your Favorite Sendai Sake

According to history books, Date Masamune has a fondness for sake so much that he bought land just for treating and brewing the drink. It also happens that the Tohoku region is a land where rice is actively grown, which also makes for some good sake brewing during the harsh winter season.

With so many best-tasting sake and sake bars in Sendai, the best way to look for your favorite is to let your taste buds decide! You can check out Maboroshi No Sake for some of the most recommended sakes .

There’s also a spot in downtown Sendai called Sugawara Sake Shop, across the Disney store, so be sure to check that out! Plus, the staff can also recommend some good sake if you are not sure what sake to drink.

14. Get Seasonal Kikufuku

Fans of a certain popular manga/anime will be totally familiar with this sweet treat from Sendai!

Kikufuku is a rice cake stuffed with cream and sweet paste and comes with different flavors such as zunda, maccha, soft cream, and other seasonal varieties. Some go-to places to buy kikufuku are the Igeta Seicha Kikusuian teahouse and Sendai Station.

The softness and stickiness of the rice cake mixed with the sweet and rich taste of the cream and paste are just heavenly, especially when drinking some green tea!

15. Attend the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival

Music lovers, this one’s for you! The Jozenji Street Jazz Festival is a two-day festival of different musical genres (not just jazz!) held around mid-September and one of Sendai’s major annual events.

You can enjoy live musical performances ranging from amateur musicians to big names in the industry at Jozenji Street and the surrounding area. One of the local favorites is the gospel singers in the shopping arcades.

The three main hubs for the festival are Kotaikoen Park, Tsutsujigaoka Park, and Nishikoen Park. Even though each year the location of each performance varies slightly, the best way to go around is to follow your ears.

16. Stroll Down Jozenji-dori Street

Jozenji-Dori Street is Sendai’s symbol, with Japanese zelkova trees lining up the street at the heart of the city. It is home to popular events that happen each year at Sendai, like the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival.

Outside of those events, it’s easy to find yourself unwinding and relaxing at one of the many restaurants and cafes or at a bench under the trees. You will also find sculptures along the way, which adds more to its appeal.

17. Taste at the Miyagikyo Distillery/Nikka Whisky Distillery

I am not typically a whiskey drinker, but you don’t need to be to enjoy touring the  Miyagikyo Distillery where they make what has been called the father of whiskey, Nikka Whisky. The tour of this refinery is fun and educational. When we got there, I was immediately impressed by the well kept grounds, including a pond with the distilleries logo on a barrel displayed in front of it. It is the perfect place to get that souvenir selfie!

The free tour walked a group of us through different stages and buildings of production. Even though it was only about 45 minutes long, it gave a good overview as to how and where they produce their product. My favorite part (besides the sampling at the end of course) was the barrel room where you could see rows and rows or whiskey being aged to perfection.

18. Tour the Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth/Sendai City Tomizawa Site Museum

The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth (or Sendai City Tomizawa Site Museum ) is as epic as its name implies. You’ll find the museum at Sendai’s southernmost ward, Taihaku-ku.

They mainly exhibit a preserved fossilized forest with remains of human activity dating back 20,000 years ago, including an ancient campfire, hundreds of stone tools, and an interpretation of how they theorize it appeared back then via projection.

19. Day Trip to Naruko Gorge

Around 70 kilometers from Sendai at the northwest part of Miyagi Prefecture lies one of the Tohoku region’s most picturesque gorges.

Naruko Gorge stretches about two kilometers east-west and is best viewed at the observation deck near the western end of the gorge near the Narukokyo Resthouse.

Around mid-October to early November, the colors of fall paint the landscape, offering a magnificent view of the gorge along with the Ofukazawa Bridge, another famous view.

20. Visit the Osaki Hachimangu Shrine

Ōsaki Hachimangū is a Shinto shrine in Aoba-ku dedicated to the Shinto god of war, Hachiman, and is one of Japan’s National Treasures. The shrine itself is a feast for the eyes, with black lacquer, gold leaf designs, and other brilliant colors.

Though different festivals take place at the shrine, it is most famous for the Dontosai, which takes place every January 14, and is a must-see for any adventurers visiting Sendai!

21. Participate in Sendai’s Summer Tanabata Festival

The biggest celebration of the Tanabata Festival throughout Japan is in Sendai. It celebrates the meeting of star-crossed lovers Orihime and Hikoboshi, two deities who are only allowed to meet on the 7th day of the 7th month each year (though the actual date varies, so be sure to check in advance).

There are seven types of colorful decorations called Nanatsu Kazari to be seen throughout the city, each with its own meaning and name. The most popular of these is the fukinagashi, which also has a city-wide competition. The designs range from artistic to even popular characters and stuff.

Aside from the decorations, you can also watch traditional dances, and in the evening there is a fireworks display.

22. Play Taiko no Tatsujin

While doing a little shopping at the covered streets of Sunmall Ichibancho there was a rhythmic sound coming from one of the shops and I immediately headed in that direction. The noise led me to a game center where teens were playing the very popular Taiko no Tatsujin . The drumming game, where you try to play two drums in tune with the music, is most similar to the popular American game Guitar Hero. Watching these kids expertly pound their sticks was like being at a concert! Of course I had to give it a try (you should too!)

It’s a lot harder then it sounds!

23. Ride the Loople Sendai Bus

The Loople Sendai is a sightseeing bus that makes a loop around the center of the city, stopping at tourist hotspots along the way. If you make the entire loop in one shot it will take about an hour and fifteen minutes, but you can also buy a one-day pass that makes it easy to hop on and off at your leisure. It’s the easiest and the cheapest way to get around!

24. Take the Kids to the Sendai Anpanman Children’s Museum

On your visit to Sendai, you’ll find a museum dedicated to Japanese children’s’ beloved superhero and his friends, the Sendai Anpanman Children’s Museum !

If you are not familiar with this cute and sweet superhero, Anpanman is the protagonist of the Japanese children’s book (and anime) of the same name. One thing to note about him is that his head is literally made of anpan , a Japanese bread filled with red bean paste.

Inside, your kids will surely love the Anpanman-themed playground, with slides, tubes, and lots more. They will also get to meet Anpanman himself with his friends as they roam around.

There are also tons of Anpanman merchandise inside that you can take home with you, from clothes to toys to cakes and sweets and more.

25. Go to the Sendai City Museum

Located down the northern slope of the Sendai Castle Ruins, the Sendai City Museum offers a vast collection of ancient artifacts, from weapons and armors to pottery and art, as well as exhibits showing Sendai’s history.

One of the museum’s highlights is Date Masamune’s original jet-black suit of armor: the Gomai-do Gusoku, which is available for public viewing on special occasions.

Outside the museum, don’t miss the garden area, where you’ll find an ancient tea house, the castle remains, and more!

26. Sendai Mediatheque

If you are into architecture then make a stop at the Sendai Mediatheque, a place that is the home-base for a variety of cultural activities in the city. The visit can start with admiring the impressive exterior architecture — seven floors of clear glass windows! Make sure to get a glimpse of the buildings outside during the daylight, but also at night when the lights inside will be shining. The interior is just as architecturally beautiful, starting with the ground floor where there was a cafe and cute gift shop filled with unique items.

The 3rd & 4th floor is a library with over half a million books! And at the top there is an area for the locals to read, write or gather for meetings. If I lived in Sendai I would definitely come here on a regular basis to write articles for my blog !

27. Shop at the Sendai Morning Market

If you are looking to buy some grub, then head on over to Sendai Asaichi (Morning Market) near the JR Sendai Station. It is a narrow but vibrant market area selling fresh seafood, meat & vegetables, flowers, and other local specialties.

What’s more, is that they are open until 6 PM daily, so you’ll have plenty of time to grab yourself a bite while exploring!

28. See the Sendai Pageant of Starlight

Sendai’s Pageant of Starlight is the largest winter illumination display in the Tohoku region. Over 600,000 Christmas lights illuminate the zelkova trees lining up Jozenji-dori Street throughout December.

Strolling down this “Tunnel of Illumination” is more than enough to make you feel the festive season in the air, with plenty of Instagrammable displays for your picture-taking pleasure!

There’s also a temporary ice rink across the nearby Kotodai Park during this season. And with lots of restaurants and bars around the street, it’s easy to take a break and warm yourself up with a hot meal or some tea.

29. Shop at Sendai Station Area

If you are heading back to Tokyo by train, leave yourself a little shopping time at Sendai Station . We arrived about an hour and a half early, which gave us plenty of time. We stored our luggage in a conveniently placed locker and perused the souvenir shops, most of which were selling hundreds of different types of food, which is a common gift in Japan to bring to family and friends. It was fun just to look at the varieties of cookies, candies and noodles for sale!

Plus, the station is also located right next to a shopping mall and district, so it’s easy to spend several hours here! After buying a few gifts, we stopped for drinks at one of the many local cafes. When it was time to catch the train, we simply picked up our luggage, grabbed one last Zunda shake  and went to the platform. Super easy!

30. Sleep in a Traditional Ryokan

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn where the floors are typically tatami mats and the rooms are separated with sliding shōji doors. When I opened the door to my room at the  Hotel Sakan , I may have let out a squeal. For one night I would be enjoying this traditional ryokan, and its onsen (see #4) that was over 1,000 years old!

It was not what I expected from an old ryokan, it was so much more luxurious. A short table sat in the middle of the main room which was perfect for my morning cup of tea. I would have never left my room if they didn’t have a delicious restaurant and four onsen on premise, giving me a chance to relax in communal baths that are supplied by natural hot springs. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that would be worth every penny.

31. Snack of Korokke (Croquettes)

A visit to Asaichi Market will make you wish you had a kitchen to cook all the fresh vegetables, fish and meats that is sold in a few dozen shops along the passageway. But, even without an oven you can get a hot and tasty snack without any work at all. The most delicious stop was to a korokke stand where they were frying croquettes right before your eyes. Though they can be filled with a variety of ingredients, it is mostly potato-based.

Better than any hash-brown!

I order one and they handed it to me hot and wrapped in paper. It was perfectly crunchy on the outside and like a soft mashed potato on the inside. It was one of my favorite things I ate in all of Sendai!

32. Try Hagi no Tsuki

Another iconic sweet in Sendai. Hagi no Tsuki is a sponge cake resembling the autumn moon, filled with rich custard cream inside. Kasho Sanzen, a sweets manufacturer in Sendai, makes this delectable treat.

The fluffy soft cake followed by the mild sweetness of the custard cream is sure to make you a fan the more you eat it! It also makes for a perfect souvenir gift and can be bought almost anywhere, like in Sendai Airport , the train stations, general stores, to name a few.

33. Soak in Sendai’s Famous Hot Springs

As Japan is a volcanically active country, you’ll find plenty of hot springs around to unwind and soak yourself into, and Sendai is no exception.

From the mineral-rich waters of the hot springs to the scenic views surrounding them, it will definitely be one of the most relaxing experiences you will get!

The following are some of the best hot springs you should try at least once when in Sendai:

• Sakunami Onsen
• Matsushima Onsen
• Togatta Onsen
• Naruko Hot Springs

34. Tour Miyagi Museum of Art

The Miyagi Museum of Art boasts a collection of works primarily related to Miyagi Prefecture and the Tohoku region. Aside from their permanent collection, they also host special exhibitions which differ each year.

They also hold art ranging from sculptures to paintings (and more) from other Japanese and Western artists, including works by Wassily Kandinsky and Paul Klee and the Miyagi-born, world-famous sculptor Churyo Sato.

Other than viewing the stunning artworks, you can also make your own one at their studio, which is free and open during the museum’s open hours. There is also a stylish café for you to have some drinks, a courtyard with different sculptures, and a rear garden looking down on the Hirosegawa River.

35. Tour the Kirin Brewery

For beer lovers out there, a tour to Kirin Brewery , one of Japan’s top beer brands, will surely be a delight for the taste buds! Their Sendai factory is located at the Miyagino Ward in Sendai.

During the 70-min tour, you will get to see the facilities, smell/taste/touch the malt being used for their beers, as well as how they process it. Of course, the tour is not complete without a tasting session at the end!

There is also a gift shop and a restaurant here, so be sure to check these out too.

36. See Tsutsujigaoka Park During Cherry Blossom Season

If you are planning to visit Sendai during spring (mid-March to early May), then you are in luck! During this season, more than 360 cherry blossom trees are in bloom at Tsutsujigaoka Park in the eastern part of Sendai.

There are also food stalls available during this time where you can grab a bite of some Japanese festival food and some local sake. The view during the evening is something to look forward to as well, with softly-lit lanterns hanging across the trees.

37. Visit an Onsen

Japan is well known for its hot springs and the onsen (public baths) that surround them. The Hotel Sakan  onsen is one of the most famous ones in all of Japan, because they have a variety of baths overlooking the Natori River and have been around for 34 generations. Known to be a source of good health and a healer of many different ailments, the natural warm water is also very relaxing.

Sakan not only has several warm baths to soak in, but it is also a traditional ryokan as well where you can sleep ( see #15 ). It made for a perfect evening for me, a little soaking and then right up to my room for some shut eye!

38. Visit the Daikannon Statue

Some places have iconic statues associated with them, like the Statue of Liberty in New York and Christ the Redeemer in Rio De Janeiro. At Sendai, they have the Daikannon Statue.

Towering at over 100 meters tall (328 feet) in the northern part of Sendai, it is the second tallest Kannon statue in Japan (fifth in the world) and serves as the city’s symbol of peace and protection.

You’ll be able to go inside and up the statue, offering a scenic view of Sendai at the top. The massive statue also makes for some great photos when taken from afar.

39. Visit the Tsunami Devastation

In 2011 a 9.0 earthquake hit the Pacific coast of Tōhoku which triggered a devastating tsunami and deaths of thousands of people.   A tour outside of Sendai’s city center, to the areas of the most devastation, will be heartbreaking, informational and inspiring all rolled into one. Reading about it in a magazine or book can not compare to visiting the sites of the destroyed homes and seeing the ruins first hand.

We were shown the before photos, then walked on the sites where peoples homes and businesses used to be. Our tour driver was also so gracious to share his personal story about helping the victims and searching for his missing brother-in-law, which made you feel even closer to the devastation. There was an inspirational side to the ride too, it was in all the efforts made to rebuild the community that they loved.

It’s not any easy location to get to, but you can either rent a car to explore the tsunami devastated area or find a tour.

40. Visit Zuihoden

Visiting the mausoleum of the feudal lord Date Masamune is quite surreal. Known as Zuihōden , the dreamlike feeling of a visit could be from the giant cedar trees surrounding the walkways or the moss covered stone statues or the ornate buildings that depict the Momoyama cultural traditions. My favorite part of the buildings were the intricate woodwork and gold trimming.

Zuihōden is also a peaceful place where some come to just stroll through the lush grounds on the weekend. I don’t blame them! Plus, at the base of the hill there is a stunning temple that is a must visit before ascending to the mausoleum.

41. Wine Tasting at Akiu Winery

I am not afraid to admit that I absolutely adore wine, so it was thrilling to hear about Sendai’s Akiu Winery , a trendy tasting room that can compete with many in the Napa Valley . This winery was created because the architect-owner wanted to help rebuild Sendai after the earthquake and tsunami disaster in 2011. His idea was to create a place that paired wine with oysters.

Wine + Oysters = The Perfect Pair

They are still testing many different varietals and techniques for the future, but they are on a great path with the wine that they already have. We were even taken into the attic to see drying grapes hanging from the ceilings, an Italian technique that the winemaker had brought over.

Even if wine isn’t your jam, you should stop by to shop at their little gift shop that has some of the cutest products.

Truly one of the hidden gems in the country, Sendai Japan is the ideal city for a perfect holiday adventure, from the many festivals to delicious specialty cuisine to scenic Instagram-worthy views and so much more.

If you are thinking of visiting someplace new in Japan, I hope this list has enticed you to a fun-filled trip to the City of Trees. So pack your bags and be ready for a fantastic adventure in Sendai!

Essential Tips for Visiting Sendai Getting There: Sendai Airport has flights to and from several domestic airports in Japan including Narita (Tokyo) and Itami (Osaka) to name a few. Sendai Airport also has a few international flight connections from China, South Korea, and Taiwan.You can easily check for the best fare deals at Skyscanner , which also has the option to choose ‘cheapest month’ as the departure to find the lowest priced dates to fly to your destination. From the airport to the city center, you can use the train, which is connected to central Sendai and Sendai Station by the Sendai Airport Line. You can also take a bus, take a shuttle, catch a taxi or purchase a private shuttle in advance . If you’re traveling from Tokyo, you can get to Sendai in an hour and a half by Japan’s Shinkansen (the bullet train). Where to Stay in Sendai: It’s best to stay near the city center, public transportation or the area that you will be spending the most time in. Hotel Metropolitan Sendai East (moderate) is a great choice in the Aoba Ward. The Daiwa Roynet Hotel Sendai (moderate) is also a great option close to the city center. For something on the less expensive side, try Nine Hours Sendai , a unique capsule hotel experience located in Aoba Ward. For a hotel with a little more extravagance, book a room at the Westin Hotel Sendai . Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com . If you’re looking for more of a home atmosphere (or are traveling with a group of people), head over to VRBO that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range. Getting Around: Driving in Sendai can be a bit of a challenge and parking fees can be expensive, but if you choose to rent a car, RentalCars.com has great deals. If you are not renting a car, there are plenty of options. The best way to travel around Sendai is by Loople Sendai , a loop bus connecting the top attractions. Taxis are also available all over the city City Transportation Passes: The Sendai Area Pass is valid for one calendar day. This pass provides unlimited use of the Loople Bus, the subway, most of Sendai City’s busses, and JR trains in and around Sendai. The Sendai Area Pass costs ¥1300 for 1 day. Best Tours in Sendai : You can find some of the top tours at Get Your Guide or Viator, and here are some of the top ones: Explore and Taste Japanese Sake with a Sommelier Insurance: It’s always a good idea to travel fully insured so you are protected in case of trip cancellations or medical emergencies. You can check out pricing at Travelex Insurance . Universal Adapter: Your American plugged equipment will need an adapter. I use the Celtic Universal Adapter , which has brought me around the world with no problems. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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Japanese Culture, Traditions and Customs: 15 Lifestyle Facts to Know Captivating Chaos: Tokyo’s Robot Restaurant Show Watch Wrestling Practice at a Sumo Stable in Japan Visit Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market Play with Felines at a Cat Cafe in Tokyo Eat at a Themed Restaurant in Tokyo

15 thoughts on “Sendai Bucket List: 40 Things to do in the Japanese City”

Annette, Sendai looks very interesting with lots of places to check out! I have always wanted to take a trip to Japan.

Japan is an amazing country and sometimes Sendai gets overlooked, but it’s worth a side-trip from Tokyo!

Sorry I am so late to check this out, but great stuff. Your writing and pictures make me feel like I was almost there with you. Hope you’re doing well!

Thanks Wendell!! It certainly was a trip that created some incredible memories :)

Hello! I’ll be in Sendai for a week and I so want to see the Distillery and Winery but I know only a few words in Japanese. Are these things that should, or rather, can only be done by those who can understand/speak Japanese?

Hello! Even though the distillery tour is guided in Japanese, you can ask for an English translation box so you can hear recorded information along the way. I would recommend getting a translator app for your phone or find a website and have a few sentences ready to go that you can just show them (like “I’d like two tickets, please”), just in case. But, there have been many cases that I made my way through Japan by just using simple hand gestures, like pointing :)

Have always thought of traveling to Japan, but seemed to get scared away by all the Earthquakes and such. Your article and photos certainly a great inspiration to visit this beautiful country one day! :)

Natural disasters are definitely a tragedy, but I hope it won’t let it keep you from going to Sendai! It’s a beautiful part of a beautiful country.

Earthquakes are rare. And most of them aren’t damaging. Lived here for 2 years and I’ve only seen one or two that did more than shake the windows a bit.

Thank you for the information. I live in Tochigi Prefecture and I’m planing a trip to Sendai during summer vacation. Your article gave me a good amount of info on things to do. I did not know they did a tour of the tsunami affected areas. That is definitely something I’ll do when I go up there. Everyone else goes to the typical tourist cities but from what I’ve heard about Sendai, it’s like an unsung hero. I only passed through Sendai on my way to Ishinomaki and it looked like a great place to visit.

It is definitely nice to get out of the popular places in a country to explore some of the lessor visited ones. Sendai is filled with incredible things to see and do, so have a great time!

Hi your whole blog is fab and very informative. I am going on the 9th February and suspect it will be cold then. Can you recommend a hotel not too fancy but it would have to be a nice place to stay.

When I first arrived to Sendai, I stayed at Hotel Metropolitan. It is a nice place, reasonably priced and conveniently right next door to the train station.

Hi. I’m from Miyagi prefecture and lived in Sendai for many years still yet so many things so many places I didn’t know. Your blog reminds me how beautiful and wonderful place it is. I’m feeling very blessed. Thank you. PS I’m living in New Zealand at this moment. It’s a very nice place to be, TOO.

Sendai was definitely a beautiful place to visit and I feel fortunate that I was able to do it. I’ve never been to New Zealand, but I heard it was spectacular!

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35 things to do in Sendai: Festivals, nature, and attractions

Matsushima (Live Japan)

Sendai City in Miyagi Prefecture is a city rich in culture and nature, where you can enjoy sightseeing and gourmet food all year round. It is home to Sendai Castle, which was built by warlord Date Masamune, and Zuihoden Temple, his mausoleum.

Additionally, here you can find Matsushima, one of Japan’s three most scenic spots, Okama Crater on the Zao Echo Line, Naruko Gorge, Sendai Morning Market, and many other attractions and things to do.

Surrounded by the sea and mountains, the area is blessed with a wide variety of delicious foods and exciting events, including the Sendai Tanabata Festival, Sendai Pageant of Starlight, and the Ogawara Cherry Blossom Festival, which are held throughout the spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Read on to find out about Sendai and things to do there.

What Kind of Places are Miyagi & Sendai?

(Live Japan)

Miyagi Prefecture is located on the Pacific side of the Tohoku Region of northern Japan. There are many great sightseeing spots in addition to the gourmet town of Sendai, including the beautiful scenery of Matsushima, Japan’s most popular hot springs resort, Naruko Onsen, and Zao, with its emerald green sparkling Crater Lake Okama.

Sendai is the Tohoku region’s largest city, with a population of over 1 million, and Miyagi Prefecture’s tourism gateway. Natural beauty is abundant throughout the metropolis, which, consequently, has been dubbed “The City of Trees.”

Additionally, there are popular tourist attractions and historical sites related to Date Masamune (the legendary Japanese military commander of the Warring States period who laid the foundations for Sendai City), such as Sendai Castle Ruins and Zuihoden. There are also two hot springs located about 30 minutes by car from the center of the city.

Things to do in Miyagi Japan - LIVE JAPAN

How to get to Sendai from Tokyo

Sendai Station (Live Japan)

By Shinkansen

From Tokyo Station, it takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to Sendai Station via the Tohoku Shinkansen Hayabusa and Hayate.

To Sendai, it takes about 25 minutes from the Sendai Airport Station connected to the Terminal Building of Sendai International Airport via regular train service, and about 17 minutes via express.

Some of the main tourist attractions in Sendai are a bit of a distance away from Sendai Station, so it is recommended to use the subway, bus, or taxi from there. However there are also many restaurants around Sendai Station known for their famous gourmet dishes such as beef tongue and zunda-mochi, so you may want to go by foot and walk around.

To get to the various tourist attractions of Miyagi Prefecture from Sendai, such as Matsushima and Lake Okama, you may find it most convenient to use the railway. There are also buses and trains available that travel to the other areas, however, they may have limited availability so be sure to check the schedule ahead of time.

1. Get a Panoramic View from Sendai Castle Ruins

Date Masamune statue (Live Japan)

Sendai Castle, also known as Aoba Castle, was built in 1602 by Date Masamune, the first lord of the Sendai domain, a warlord known for his stylishness. Even today, the term “Date Otoko” refers to a stylish man.

The castle tower of Sendai Castle is known for its panoramic view of the city, and on a clear day, you can see the center of Sendai, the Sendai Plain, and the Pacific Ocean from the Honmaru (inner bailey) Ruins, where an equestrian statue of Date Masamune also stands.

Sendai Castle was designated as one of the “100 best castles in Japan” in 2006 by the Japan Castle Association even though much of the original structure was destroyed by fire in an air raid during World War II, and only the stone walls and restored side turrets remain.

If you want to know what it was like during its prime, visit the Aoba Castle Museum, where you can experience a virtual tour of the interior of Sendai Castle using computer graphics.

Sendai Castle Ruins 仙台城跡

Address: 1 Kawauchi, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, 980-0862

Nearest Station: Kokusai Center Station (Tozai Line), 15 minutes on foot

Phone Number: 022-214-8259

2. Visit Colorful Zuihoden, A Shrine Dedicated to Date Masamune

The Zuihoden was built in 1637 to enshrine Date Masamune, the founder of the Sendai clan, and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, with cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas during the rainy season, colorful fall foliage in autumn, and snowy scenery in winter. It is especially stunning during the Tanabata Festival when traditional Tanabata decorations and about 1,200 bamboo lanterns are displayed to create a fantastic atmosphere.

The Zuihoden Hall was destroyed by fire in an air raid but was rebuilt in 1979 and restored to its original delicate and colorful appearance in 2001. The Kansenden Hall, the mausoleum of the second feudal lord Tadamune, and the Zennoden Hall, the mausoleum of the third feudal lord Tsunamune, are located on the premises. In the museum, you can see valuable materials such as burial accessories.

There are also many annual events, such as “Mini Ohinasama with Lord Masamune,” an exhibition of Hina dolls in late February and early March, “Fantasy Light Night: Zuihoden Tanabata Night,” a lighting event during the Sendai Tanabata Festival, and “Autumn Noh Play” by the Sendai Nohgaku Promotion Association in October (All events were canceled in 2021).

Zuihoden 瑞鳳殿

Address: 23-2, Otamayashita, Sendai Shi Aoba Ku, Miyagi Ken, 980-0814, Japan

Phone Number: 022-262-6250

-December 1 - January 31: 9:00 a.m. - 4:20 p.m. (Reception closes at 4:00 p.m.)

*Closed on New Year’s Eve (December 31), On New Year’s Day (January 1), Zuihoden Hall is open, but the Museum and other facilities are closed.

-February 1 - November 30: 9:00 a.m. - 4:50 p.m. (Reception closes at 4:30 p.m.)

Admission: 570 yen (adults)

3. Enjoy the spectacular views of Matsushima Bay, one of Japan’s three most scenic spots

Matsushima Bay (Live Japan)

About 40 minutes from Sendai on the JR Senseki Line, Matsushima is another of Miyagi’s sightseeing opportunities you can’t overlook.

Matsushima Bay, dotted with a staggering 260 islands, is one of Japan’s three most scenic bays along with Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture and Amanohashidate in Kyoto Prefecture. Not limited to scenic walks along the shore, the surrounding areas also offer great views from overlooks like Otakamori and Tamonzan.

You can take in the scenery as you walk along the coast, or enjoy one of the many other view spots that overlook the beautiful landscape that dot the suburbs, such as Mount Otakamori and Mount Tamonzan. There is also a boat dock from which you can get a closer look at the islands, located only a seven-minute walk away from Matsushima-Kaigan Station.

There are many other attractions around the station as well, including the national treasure Zuiganji Temple and important cultural assets Entsu-in Temple and Godaido Temple. Along the coast lie various eateries that specialize in local seafood such as oysters, and are also popular with tourists.

4. Go See the Okama Crater and Towering Snow Walls

The Zao Echo Line is a mountain road that crosses the Zao Mountain Range and is known as a driving route where you can enjoy lush greenery in the summer, autumn leaves in the fall, and a corridor of snow in the spring. The crown jewel of the Zao Echo Line is the Okama Crater in Zao Town, Miyagi Prefecture.

Okama is a crater with a lake inside; it has a circumference of about 1 km and a diameter of about 330 m. The emerald green surface of the lake is surrounded by the walls of the crater and looks like a type of Japanese cooking pot, hence its name. It is on the summit where Mt. Zao-Karita, Mt. Kumano, and Mt. Goshiki overlap. It is about a 1.5-hour drive from Sendai City to Okama Crater by car or bus.

From early November to late April, the Echo Line is closed for the winter, but after the closure, in late April and May, you can see a wall of snow up to 9 meters high that has accumulated during the winter.

Okama Crater 御釜

Address: Mt. Kuraishi National Forest, Togatta Onsen, Zao-cho, Katta-gun, Miyagi Prefecture

Access: By Car or Bus.

From Sendai Station, take the Miyagi Kotsu Highway Bus to “Active Resorts Miyagi Zao” (about 1 hour), transfer to the Miyagi Kotsu Bus for “Katsuta Summit” and get off the bus at the last stop, “Katsuta Summit” (about 40 minutes). Walk 5 minutes to the Okama Crater.

・Phone: 0224-34-2725（Zao Town Tourist Information Center)

・Available Season & Hours: Late April - early November, free to visit

5. Soak in Sendai’s famous hot springs at Akiu Onsen

Miyagi boasts one of the largest numbers of hot spring resorts in Japan and a variety that includes examples like Naruko Onsenkyo, with eight types of hot spring, and Tokarida Onsen, with a 400-year history.

Among them, Akiu Onsen in Sendai is easily accessible, about 30 minutes from JR Sendai Station by car. It’s an attractive area for tourists since there are other points of interest nearby like Akiu Otaki, ranked as one of the “100 Best Waterfalls in Japan,” and Akiu Traditional Craft Village, where guests can try their hand at making traditional crafts, as well as a multitude of hot spring inns perfect for day trips so you can easily enjoy more than one popular bath.

6. Enjoy Cherry Blossoms in Spring: “Hitome Senbon Zakura”

(Photo courtesy of Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Division)

If you want to see cherry blossoms in Miyagi Prefecture, you should visit the Shiroishi riverside to view the “Hitome Senbon Zakura” (1,000 Cherry Trees at a glance), which has been selected as one of the 100 best places to view cherry blossoms in Japan.

1,200 Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom along the 8 km Shiroishi River, and after the sun goes down, the sakura trees are lit up, making it a popular option for a nighttime stroll. The cherry blossoms in Miyagi Prefecture bloom in mid-April, a little later than in Tokyo, so you can enjoy them after the cherry blossoms in Tokyo have finished.

During the Ogawara Cherry Blossom Festival , which is held in Ogawara Town at this time of year, it is possible to take a yakatabune, or traditional Japanese “home-style boat.” The interior is decorated with tatami mats and low tables, just like a classic Japanese home. The boat will take you from the festival site to Niragami-zeki, a 2.3-kilometer round trip that takes about 30 minutes, making it a very luxurious experience.

Shiroishigawa Tsutsumi Hitome Senbonzakura 白石川堤一目千本桜

Address: Ogawara-cho and Shibata-cho, Miyagi Prefecture

Nearest Station

Access: From JR Sendai Station, take the Tohoku Line bound for Shiroishi (34 minutes), get off at JR Okawara Station, and walk for 3 minutes.

・TEL: 0224-53-2659 (Ogawara-cho Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division)

・Hours: Early to late April, Free to visit

7. Step into the Sendai Tanabata Festival in Summer

The Sendai Tanabata Festival is a major summer event held for three days from August 6 to 8 every year. The festival’s highlights are the gorgeous bamboo decorations called Sasa-kazari, which are handmade by shopkeepers in the arcade that stretches from the west exit of JR Sendai Station.

The vivid colors and delicacy of the decorations are astonishing, and a fireworks display is held on August 5, the eve of the festival. Many Japanese people wear colorful Yukata, light summer Kimono, during festivals, why not don one and join in on the fun?

Because Sendai is a famous rice-producing area, people prayed to the god of rice fields for a good harvest. It is said that Date Masamune, the lord of Sendai, looked forward to this festival.

There is a story passed down that the reason why Tanabata became especially popular in Sendai is that Masamune was a loving husband, and his wife Megohime arranged and tailored wonderful kimonos for each seasonal event so that Masamune would not be embarrassed in the social circle of warlords. Thus, Masamune likened his wife to the weaving princess Orihime, the main character of the Tanabata story.

There are a few types of decorations that you will encounter while attending Sendai’s Tanabata festival. The streamers (Fukinagashi) that are a major part of Tanabata decorations are 5 to 10 meters long.

Tanzaku are strips of colorful paper on which people write their wishes. There is also origami paper that is folded to pray for good health, longevity, improvement in work, and prosperity.

The Orizuru, or paper crane decorations, which began the year after the Great East Japan Earthquake, are made every year by children in Sendai who work together to pray for recovery.

Sendai Tanabata Festival 仙台七夕まつり

Address: Sendai-shi, Miyagi center and neighboring malls, 980-0000

Nearest Station: Sendai Station (Namboku Line)

Phone Number: 022-265-8185

8. Hike the Impressive Autumn Colors of Naruko Gorge

The Naruko Gorge is located in Naruko Onsen, Miyagi Prefecture, and is famous for its red and yellow leaves. If you want to enjoy Naruko Gorge, the Naruko Gorge Rest House is famous for its viewing platform. For hiking, we recommend the Naruko Gorge Trail.

At present, there are two walking routes along the Naruko Gorge Trail. One is the route from the Narukokyo Rest House west entrance to Mikaeribashi Bridge, which is about 350m one way, and an easy walking course to the Mikaeribashi Bridge Observation Deck. The Ofukazawa Walking Trail, newly constructed in 2008, is a 2.2km walking course starting from Naruko Gorge Rest House.

The Naruko side entrance (Otani Bridge) near Naruko Onsen Station is about 230m one way, and the course is a bit hilly, so it is recommended for those who are confident in their physical strength. You can enjoy a great view of Naruko Hot Spring Resort from Naruko Park, where you can also visit the Kokeshi Dolls Museum.

As the name implies, Naruko Onsen is a hot spring village, so feel free to soak away your muscle aches after your adventurous hike.

Naruko Gorge 鳴子峡

Address: Narukoonsen, Osaki-shi, Miyagi, 989-6100

Nearest Station: Naruko-goten-yu Station (Rikuuto Line), 5 minutes by car

Phone Number: 0229-83-3441

9. Be Enchanted by Illumination at the Sendai Pageant of Starlight in Winter

(Photo courtesy of: Sendai Pageant of Starlight Executive Committee)

If you’re planning a winter trip to Sendai, don’t miss the Sendai Pageant of Light, held from mid-December to the end of the year in Sendai City. 420,000 LED bulbs light up the zelkova trees along Jozenji-dori, one of Sendai’s main streets, creating a beautiful tunnel of light, and the central promenade makes you feel as if you’re surrounded by light.

Check the official website before you visit, as the content of the festival changes from year to year, with concerts, live music on the street, and even a skating rink.

This event has been held since 1986 and is one of the first illumination events in Japan to be organized by citizen volunteers. Additionally, all the electricity for the illumination is provided by green power generated by biomass.

Sendai Pageant of Starlight SENDAI光のページェント

Address: Jozenji-dori, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture (Umehara Kagami - Jozenji Garden Hills Wedding House)

Phone: 022-261-6515 (Sendai Pageant of Starlight Executive Committee)

10. Sample the local delicacy: Sendai Gyutan (Beef Tongue)

Beef tongue is the main specialty of Sendai. Each shop offers thickly cut beef tongue seasoned with their own original flavors. Gyutan-yaki is a grilled beef tongue dish, soaked with flavoring before being fully cooked over a charcoal fire. Gyutan-yaki is well-known for its soft, tender texture and delicious flavor in each bite.

Sendai beef tongue is generally served as a set meal that includes pickled vegetables, oxtail soup, and rice. Two of the most famous spots are Umami Tasuke, the shop established by the “father of gyutan-yaki,” Keishiro Sano, as well the popular, nation-wide shop Gyutan Sumiyaki Rikyu.

11. Savor the finest Sendai beef

Beef tongue branded as “Sendai Beef” is a point of pride in Miyagi. Only beef produced in Miyagi with a quality rating of A5 or B5 may be called Sendai Beef. Having passed such a strict assessment, it’s an exquisite balance of rich marbling and delicious lean meat.

Around JR Sendai Station, there are plenty of steak and yakiniku shops where you can dine on Sendai Beef. Steak House Iseya in the basement of the S-PAL Sendai complex connected to the station and nearby Yakiniku Gyujin Ichibancho are recommended.

12. Enjoy Zunda-mochi Sweets

Zunda is a local dish of Miyagi, made from boiled and crushed soybeans formed into a paste. You can try it at Murakamiya Mochiten, a long-standing shop in Sendai, or at specialty sweets shop, Hikoichi. Zunda Shake EXPRESS is a specialty zunda shop located in Sendai Station, well known for generating long lines.

They have a menu of popular arrangement dishes that combine zunda and Western sweets, and even Zunda Shakes! Zunda is also a popular souvenir, and can be purchased at Sendai Station, as well as at the S-PAL Sendai Shopping Center connected to the station.

13. Eat flavorful grilled Miyagi oysters in fall and winter

Part of the Sanriku region, Miyagi is also a great place for fresh seafood. You can enjoy a variety of sushi and seafood bowls, but the oysters in Matsushima, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, are particularly exciting for foodies.

Harvesting begins in October, and the colder it gets, the more delicious they become. Along the main street in front of JR Matsushimakaigan Station, there are numerous restaurants offering oyster dishes ranging from raw or fried oysters to oyster bowls.

Matsushima’s specialty, however, is grilled oysters. It’s interesting to see restaurant staff carry oysters in a shovel and grill a huge pile of them all at once. At Matsushima Fish Market Yakigaki House, about a 10-minute walk from JR Matsushimakaigan Station, you can enjoy grilled oysters year-round, so be sure to visit.

14. Order Shiogama tuna from markets and shops

If you like fish, you have to try Miyagi tuna at least once. The tuna from Shiogama City, which boasts one of the largest catches in Japan, is some of the best in the country and is treasured by connoisseurs for its rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor.

Shiogama City, about 30 minutes by train from Sendai and known as a sushi town, is highly recommended for anyone who wants to revel in high-quality tuna sushi. There are many shops in Sendai that purchase Shiogama tuna, and Tuna Yamamoto near Jozenji-dori is a good place to enjoy a bowl of Shiogama tuna.

15. Take out fried snacks

“Hyotanage” is perfect if you get hungry while sightseeing. This take-out snack is made of steamed kamaboko (pureed fish) wrapped in sweet, crispy fried batter. Long-loved as one of Sendai’s signature foods, some shops will sell more than 4,000 in a single day.

At the long-established Abe Kamaboko Main Store, the crispy texture and full flavor are a product of years of practice and perfection. The shop is easily accessible, about a 10-minute walk from JR Sendai Station.

16. Taste High-Quality Whitefish Kamaboko

(Photo courtesy of Shiraken Kamaboko)

This kamaboko has a chewy texture and is lightly sweet, with the delicate taste of the sea. They are individually wrapped and easy to eat. This item must be refrigerated.

17. Snack on Kasho Sanzen “Hagi no Tsuki”

Hagi no Tsuki is a signature souvenir of Sendai, a fluffy sponge cake dough filled with mellow custard cream. Its round shape is made to resemble the full moon in the sky. It can be stored at room temperature.

18. Savor Zunda Mochi from Zunda Saryo at home

You can not only taste the local Zunda Mochi sweets at the store but also take them home with you! Zunda Mochi from Zunda Saryo is freshly made and then flash-frozen, so it remains delicious even after thawing at home. The fragrant and crushed texture of edamame bean paste and the chewy mochi will make a delicious memory for you.

19. Get seasonal kikufuku from Igeta Seicha Kikusuian

(Photo courtesy of Igeta Seicha Kikusuian)

Fresh cream kikufuku is made by wrapping fresh cream in a layer of sweet red bean paste and then an outer layer of soft mochi (soft rice cake). In addition to standard bean paste flavors like matcha, zunda, and hojicha, seasonal varieties are also available. Fans of all ages enjoy its elegant taste, soft texture, and ample size that fits in the palm of your hand.

20. Find your favorite Sendai sake

Miyagi is also known for its sake breweries, so a bottle makes an excellent souvenir. Produced by Sendai’s Izawa Family Katsuyama Sake Brewery, Katsuyama Junmai Ginjo Sake was the 2019 top prize winner in the International Wine Challenge’s (IWC) sake category.

21. Pick up a souvenir “Hagoromo” from Sakurai Kokeshi

(Photo courtesy of Sakurai Kokeshi)

These kokeshi dolls were created by a kokeshi craftsman of Naruko Onsen and said to be kokeshi to “suit the modern lifestyle.”

These are more slender than traditional kokeshi, with the torso painted in pastel color gradations and border prints. You can purchase them in the workshop at the hot springs area, as well as at the Sendai Parco 2 Shopping Center in front of Sendai Station.

22. Enjoy colorful Matsukawa Daruma

The Matsukawa Daruma is a traditional Sendai Hariko (papier-mâché) craft. A treasure ship and the god of good fortune are painted on the body, while bright ultramarine blue represents the sky and sea. Despite being handcrafted, these souvenirs can be purchased for the reasonable price of 1,000 yen each.

23. Shop for Sendai Souvenirs and Eat Sushi at S-PAL Sendai

S-PAL Sendai is a shopping facility directly connected to JR Sendai Station, offering a wide variety of souvenirs such as Sendai beef tongue, Sasa-kamaboko (fish cake shaped like bamboo leaves), Japanese confectionery, clothing, and sundries. The name “S-PAL” comes from the first letter of “Station” and “Pal” which you might recognize as another word for “friend” in English.

You can find local specialties at Ekichika Omiyage Dori on the first basement floor of the main building, such as sushi and beef tongue at Ekichika Kitchen, which is easily accessible from the station platform.

Many shops here accept electronic payments, such as transportation IC, Alipay, and WeChat Pay, which are also a big attraction for travelers.

S-PAL Sendai 仙台

Address: 1-1-1, Chuo, Aoba Ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-0021 Japan

Phone Number: 022-267-2111

・Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. (the restaurant area is open until 11:00 p.m.)

・Closed: Not fixed

24. Shop for gadgets and more around the Sendai Station Area

Near the Sendai Station East Exit are Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Sendai and Yamada Denki LAVI Sendai, which offer various goods. Additionally, the Sofmap Sendai Ekimae Branch near the West Exit has many used video games for sale and is a great spot to find some rare items. Some shopping centers around the station also offer duty-free shopping, another great deal.

25. Get Fresh Seafood at the Sendai Morning Market

(DISCOVER SENDAI)

Sendai Morning Market is a five-minute walk from Sendai Station, where you can find about 60 shops selling local vegetables and seafood, as well as restaurants offering reasonably priced seafood bowls and take-out salads.

Although it is called a morning market, it is a permanent market open from morning to evening on weekdays.

Sendai Morning Market was founded after the end of the war in 1945. The market has been loved as the “kitchen” of Sendai and has continued to convey the food culture of the Tohoku region ever since. Even after the Great East Japan Earthquake in March 2011, the market reopened within a few days, showing the strength of the Tohoku people.

Sendai Morning Market 仙台朝市

Address: 3-8-5 Chuo, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi-ken

Phone Number: 022-262-7173

26. Osaki Hachimangu Shrine

This shrine was constructed in 1607 by order of Date Masamune, the founder of Sendai, and conveys the prestige of the powerful Date clan.

It has been designated a National Treasure for its gorgeous construction style, a style rooted in the Azuchi-Momoyama period of the 16th century. Every year on January 14, Osaki Hachimangu is the site of the biggest Donto Festival in the region, when worshippers bring their New Year’s decorations to throw into a huge bonfire and pray for health and good fortune in the coming year.

27. Jozenji-dori Street

This wide avenue in downtown Sendai is lined with Japanese zelkova trees, adding beautiful greenery to the capital of Miyagi prefecture and giving Sendai its nickname of “City of Trees.”

Jozenji Street is the location for many annual festivals and other events, and here you will also find the bronze statues Memories of Summer by Emilio Greco and A Bathing Woman by Venanzo Crocetti.

(Courtesy of Sendai Tourism International Association)

Jozenji Street 定禅寺通り

Address: Aoba Ward, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, 980-0000

Nearest Station: Kotodaikoen Station (Namboku Line), 1 minute on foot

28. Hirose River

(Courtesy of Sendai City Tourism Division)

The Hirose River flows through the center of Sendai, providing some natural scenery and habitat in this modern midsize city.

Local environmental protection and restoration efforts have paid off in recent years, and as many as 5000 salmon have been seen returning upstream, more than in any other rivers in major metropolitan areas of Japan.

In the annual “Tōrō Nagashi” event, close to 3000 lanterns are floated down the river, a tradition that dates back to the feudal era, and fireworks light up the sky to the delight of viewers.

29. Mediatheque

Designed by Toyo Ito, Sendai Mediatheque is a stylish and modern building built for learning and devotion to the arts.

It has multiple uses, mainly for showcasing art, presentations, or lectures.

Inside there are several organized facilities, including workshops, exhibition halls, libraries, a cinema, and even a cafe. It has gained world recognition for its architecture as well, winning the “World Architecture Awards 2002 Best Building in East Asia.”

30. Akiu Otaki Falls

Selected as one of Japan’s best 100 waterfalls, 55m high Akiu Ōtaki Falls is beautiful in all seasons, but is especially scenic in the fall, when brilliant foliage frames the roaring white water.

Walk down to the bottom of the falls along the river, bathe in the negative ion energy, and take a moment to appreciate this gem of a waterfall.

31. Ski and Snowboard at Spring Valley Sendai Izumi Ski Resort

Spring Valley Sendai Izumi Ski Resort is a ski resort that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced skiers. It is 40 minutes by bus from Sendai City and on a clear day you can see the Sendai Plain and the Pacific Ocean.

From January to early March, night skiing is available every night until 10:30 p.m. (until 11:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays) with a view of Sendai at night.

The snow in this ski resort is usually crusty on top and in good condition. The maximum run length is 1400m and the maximum slope angle is 36 degrees. There are 4 lifts and 12 courses, and the ski area is relatively popular with intermediate and advanced skiers, but there is also a children’s area, “Snow Adventure Kingdom,” where you can enjoy sledding and snow tubing. Lessons for beginners are also available. The snowboard park, “Rhythm Fun Park,” is one of the largest in Miyagi Prefecture and has kickers and jib items.

Spring Valley Ski Resort スプリングバレー仙台泉スキー場

Address: 981-3225 14-2 Takeyama, Fukuoka, Izumi-Ku, Sendai-Shi, Miyagi-Ken, 981-3225

Nearest Station: Sakunami Station (Senzan Line), 32 minutes by car

Phone Number: 022-379-3755

32. Akiu Traditional Crafts Village

(Courtesy of Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Division)

The Sendai area is rich in traditional crafts, and nine skilled artisans have their workshops right here in the Akiu Traditional Crafts Village, making this a highly recommended destination for visitors interested in Japanese indigo dyeing, lacquerware, kokeshi dolls, traditional spinning tops (koma), bog-wood art, and other Japanese crafts.

Many of the artisans offer hands-on workshops, so you can learn directly from a master and also have a unique souvenir to bring home.

Kokeshi doll painting and other hands-on workshops require reservations.

33. Sendai Aoba Festival

(Courtesy of Sendai Aoba Festival Sponsorship Association)

A tradition going back 350 years, this spectacular event celebrates the history of the Sendai domain and also signifies the coming of spring.

The eve of the festival is called “Yoi Matsuri,” and citizen groups all over the city dance the “Sendai Suzume Odori” (sparrow dance).

On the main day of the festival, huge, lavishly decorated festival floats called “Yamaboko” parade the streets, together with a procession of actors dressed in authentic samurai costumes.

34. Check out the Sendai Daikannon - One of the world’s tallest statues!

On the outskirts of Miyagi Prefecture’s Sendai City looms the massive Sendai Daikannon (Huge Statue of the Goddess of Kannon), the main building of Daikanmitsuji Temple.

Standing at an impressive height of 100 meters (328 feet) and situated on top of a small hill, the statue can be easily seen from many places within Sendai City itself, including some residential estates!

While the giant statue is the most prominent landmark on temple grounds, there are other curious spots visitors may be interested in as well, such as areas that promote fulfillment in romantic relationships and more.

35. Shopping at AEON MALL Natori Before You Return Home

Aeon Mall (Live Japan)

Aeon Mall Natori is one of the largest shopping malls in the Tohoku area. With a wide variety of stores and restaurants, it is a great place to spend a day, even a rainy one.

If you take the Sendai Airport Access Line, you can get to the nearest station, Morisekinoshita Station, in just 18 minutes from Sendai Station and only 7 minutes from Sendai Airport Station! The station is directly connected to the mall, so it is easy to get around.

Large coin lockers (cart lockers) for suitcases are available on every floor, making it a convenient place to spend some time before your flight. The information center provides multilingual support using a translator machine, so anyone can shop with ease.

The “Gourmet Garden” restaurant area on the first floor offers local delicacies such as Sendai’s famous Gyutan (grilled beef tongue) and ramen noodles. On the other hand, the “Food Forest” food court on the second floor offers mainly fast food such as Udon noodles and fried chicken. All the restaurants have pictures on their menus so that you can order by simply pointing.

AEON MALL Natori offers free playgrounds for families (Mokumoku Hiroba, Aozora Hiroba, etc.) and shopping carts decorated with characters that children can ride while their parents shop. Finally, trying some popular crane games at Namco, a game center (arcade) where the whole family can play together, is also a great way to remember your trip.

AEON MALL Natori イオンモール名取

Address: 5-3-1 Morisekinoshita, Natori City, Miyagi Prefecture, 981-1294

Nearest Station: Morisekinoshita Station (Sendai Airport Access Line), 1 minute on foot

Phone Number: 022-381-1515

Shop for great deals! Japan’s largest-scale shopping mall

With So Many Things to Do in Sendai, Check Out Seasonal Events and Excursion Options!

Sendai is a great place to visit all year round with so many things to do, but you can enjoy it even more if you schedule your trip to coincide with one of the city’s many seasonal events. In the suburbs, you can enjoy the magnificent nature of the Okama Crater and Naruko Gorge, and the thrill of night skiing. If you are going to Sendai, why don’t you plan to visit the surrounding area and take in the abundant natural beauty of Miyagi Prefecture?

If you are a repeat visitor to Sendai, you can enjoy walking around the city and feeling the memory of Date Masamune in the cultural assets and the city itself. It is said that the people of Sendai still love Date Masamune and call him “Lord Masamune” with respect. It may be fun to walk with the legend of Masamune, who is said to have been a loving husband and caring father.

*Due to the spread of Covid-19, shops may make changes to the hours and services available as well as close temporarily. For details, please refer to each official website or social media account.

Via Live Japan

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Tohoku region's largest city and the capital of Miyagi

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About Sendai

Ask any resident of Sendai about their city and they will tell you it is sumiyasui, meaning easy to live. This capital city of Miyagi Prefecture and the largest city in the Tohoku region is not too big, not too small, not too hot, and not too cold as you’ll often hear. You can enjoy every season in Sendai without the snowy winters of nearby Akita or Iwate , while also staying a bit cooler during the summer thanks to its location near the sea. The city is compact, making shopping and dining just a leisurely stroll downtown. At the same time, you can take a break from this modern mini metropolis of a million people for a weekend in the nearby mountains for trips to hot springs, skiing, or a round of golf in less than an hour by bus, train, or car. There are many reasons Sendai is an ‘’easy-to-live’’ city, but it is just as easy to travel to and enjoy.

Sendai was founded by the powerful samurai feudal lord Date Masamune in the year 1600. Often called the ‘’One-eyed Dragon’’ by both his allies and enemies, his presence can still be felt throughout his old domain. Of particular interest is the site of the former mountain top castle overlooking the city, and his final resting place Zuihoden, a mausoleum showcasing rare Momoyama architecture.

Today Sendai is just as well known for being the City of Trees. Thanks to beautification efforts encouraged by the local government, you’ll see green almost everywhere you look should you come spring or summer. Make sure to view Jozenji and Aoba Avenues which are lined with towering zelkova trees that change colors with the seasons and light up the night each December in a month long illumination .

Those looking for a day or night out on the town will feel right at home in the capital. Within walking distance of JR Sendai Station is the region’s largest shopping arcade and Kokubuncho, the biggest entertainment district north of Tokyo. You’ll be in good company here as this academic city with its many universities has a sizeable student population. Looking for a bit more adventure? We have that too. How about a temple and shrine district centered on the picturesque Rinnoji Temple ? Or check out our guardian on the hill Daikannon , one of the top ten tallest statues in the world! Don’t forget to sample the famous grilled beef tongue , seafood from Matsushima and Shiogama, or experience robata style cooking where it started. Otherwise just relax away from busy Tokyo in a hidden café or restaurant, perhaps snuggling alongside a pretty kitty .

If festivals are more your thing, you’ll be pleased to know there a few during every season. Spring welcomes you with gorgeous cherry blossoms in several parks and the Aoba Festival takes you back in time to samurai parading in armor, floats heaved through the streets, and citizen groups performing the traditional sparrow dance. Meanwhile, athletes and spectators eagerly await Sendai’s 10,000 runner half marathon. Summer is the time to enjoy a cold drink on a hot night as several department store roofs are transformed into beer gardens. The highlight of the season though is of course Tanabata where colorful streamers decorate the streets and a 16,000 fireworks display awes you at Hirose River. In autumn the streets come alive with the sound of music during the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival . The massive festival literally highjacks the city with over forty stages and upwards of 650 bands—and it’s not just jazz music. The rhythm continues in October with dance troupes from around Tohoku and beyond in the Michinoku Yosakoi Festival. Winter in Sendai brings cold and some snow, but in addition to the Pageant of Starlight , you can see the half-naked (oh my!) pilgrimage of Dontosai .

Sendai is the gateway to the entire Tohoku region. Take a bullet train or arrive via the Sendai airport , then let the adventure begin. Sendai’s central northern location allows easy day trips to Matsushima , one of the three most beautiful scenes in Japan, the mountain temple complex of Yamadera , and the Kyoto of the East Hiraizumi . With something for everyone, this could be the best part of Japan you never knew about. Come enjoy the north with us. Rediscover Japan with Sendai!

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Where is Sendai Located?

The Best Things to Do in Sendai

Sendai is the largest city of the Tohoku Region , an area of Japan that may not be as well-known as other parts of Japan, however, is worth a visit. Sendai is the gateway to this beautiful area and also the capital of Miyagi prefecture . The city is not only an ideal base for exploring the region, it offers fascinating places to visit, one of the most famous summer festivals in the country, and popular local specialties. In this article, we introduce the best things to do in Sendai. 

Traveling to Sendai from Tokyo

Getting around in sendai, 6. try local specialties , japan wonder travel tours, other articles you might like, what is sendai famous for.

As mentioned above, Senday operates as the gateway to the Tohoku region. The city is only 1.5 hrs away from Tokyo by Shinkansen. So you can easily travel to Sendai for a weekend trip of even a day trip. Today, there are about one million people living in Sendai, also known as the City of Trees or Forest City. Major streets are lined with towering green trees which change to a beautiful golden color in autumn and are magnificently illuminated in winter. 

The modern-day city of Sendai was founded in 1600 by Date Masamune , who was one of the most powerful feudal lords of the Edo period (1603-1867) . Date Masamune was called One-eye Dragon because of his childhood illness that resulted in the loss of his right eye. In the Sendai City Museum , you can see his impressive black armor and helmet. This iconic black armor is said to be the inspiration for Darth Vader’s armor in the Star Wars movies.

Sendai was the closest major city to the epicenter of the great earthquake of March 11, 2011. Despite this, the tsunami ‘only’ devastated the city’s coastal outskirts. Luckily, it did not cause major damage in the city center. 

Sendai Station can be easily accessed from Tokyo Station and Ueno Station by Shinkansen (about 1.5 hours). There are also daytime and overnight highway bus services from Tokyo Station and Shinjuku Station (between 5 and 7 hours).

For getting around the city, take advantage of Loople sightseeing bus for hop-on, hop-off access to major tourist spots. Buses run from 9am to 4pm, every 15 to 20 minutes, and offer multilingual announcements with information along the route. You can take the Loople from Sendai Station west exit bus terminal #16. One day passes cost ¥630. 

1. Aoba Castle Ruins (Sendai Castle)

Aoba Castle was built in 1600 by the powerful feudal lord Date Masamune. The castle was located on Mount Aoba, 100 meters above the town. Currently the castle is almost completely gone after a fire left only its stone walls as a reminder to what once must have been a majestic castle. The inner citadel houses the Gokoku Shrine , a shrine built to defend the country and frequently visited by military personnel.

Part of the castle ground has become Aoba Castle Park, and a famous statue of Date Masamune on a horse overlooks the city of Sendai, giving an idea of the panoramic view of the city Date Masamune once looked over. Additionally at the former site of the inner citadel there is Aoba Materials exhibition hall and shop. In the exhibition hall you can see a CG replica of Aoba Castle and other documentation. The statue of Date Masamune and several of the stone walls are lit up every day from sunset until 11pm, and it is known among locals as a spot you can enjoy during both day and night.

Take the Loople sightseeing bus from Sendai Station, get off at Site of Sendai Castle (about 20 min).

2. Tanabata Festival 

Sendai is known for Sendai Tanabata Festival in early August. Tanabata is an ancient Japanese tradition based on a legend about the doomed romance between the weaving princess Orihime and the cow-herding Hikoboshi. When the lovers pay more attention to their relationship than their responsibility, Hikoboshi’s cows escaped, wreaking havoc among the heavens. The father of Orihime decided to only allow the couple to meet on the seventh day of the seventh month once a year if they work hard. And this day became Tanabata. 

Tanabata is celebrated in many Asian countries but Japanese tradition on Tanabata is that people write their wishes on colorful strips of paper (tanzaku) and tie them to a bamboo tree. 

During Sendai Tanabata Festival, the city is filled with Tanabata decorations. All designs feature a large paper ball with sturdy streamers hanging low enough to touch and walk through. These decorations have wishes for good health and business prosperity, and there is a competition to decide the best design of all! There are countless bamboo trees throughout the city for people to hang tanzaku with their wishes written on them. 

5 minute walk from Sendai Station. 

3. Pageant of Starlight

The Sendai Pageant of Starlight is the largest winter illumination in the Tohoku region. Every December, beautiful avenues in downtown Sendai called Jozenji-dori and Aoba-dori lined with 160 zelkova trees are illuminated with over 600,000 lights. The beautiful lights and magical atmosphere attract many people to the city. In addition to enjoying the scenery while strolling down the street, you can also have some tasty food and drinks, listen to a concert, or even go ice skating. A good starting point is Kotodai Station at the eastern end of Jozenji-dori.

From Sendai Station, take Namboku Subway Line, get off at Kotodai Station (3 min).

4. Zuihoden

Zuihoden is the mausoleum of Date Masamune built after his death in 1636. Zuihoden was completed in 1637, four years after the death of Date Masamune. The design of the Zuihoden is in the ornate style of the Azuchi-Momoyama Period (1573-1603). It has gorgeous wood carvings and decorations with various vivid colors. The son and grandson of Date Masamune are entombed in nearby mausoleums. 

Huge cedar trees which surround the paths in the area are meant to symbolize the long history of the Date clan. A museum next to the Zuihoden main building shows some of the personal artifacts of the Date family.

Zuihoden 9am – 4.50pm Admission fee ¥570 (¥460 for Loople day pass holders)

From Sendai Station, take the Loople Sendai bus, get of at bus stop #4 (about 15 minutes). 

5. Matsushima

A 40 minute train ride will take you to Matsushima , one of Japan’s most scenic views. The Matsushima Bay is dotted with over 200 small islands covered with pine trees. The view appears much the same today as it did centuries ago. 

The best way to experience Matsushima is by boat. Daily sightseeing boats take passengers around Matsushima Bay, passing by islands which have been carved into delicate and intriguing shapes by the wind and water.

Cruises depart from Matsushima Pier, a 5 to 10 minute walk from Matsushima Kaigan Station. To get to Matsushima Kaigan Station, take the JR Senseki Line from Sendai Station (about 40 min). 

While you are in Sendai, you cannot miss out on the local specialties which are famous nationwide. 

Gyutan-yaki is said to have been born in Sendai after WWII. Gyutan means beef tongue and yaki is grilled. It is a representative of local gourmet which has grown rapidly in popularity and spread throughout Japan. In general, all shops have thick slices, and the seasoning of the meat is different depending on the restaurants, and you can enjoy a variety of flavors at many restaurants in Sendai.

Zunda-mochi is a traditional Japanese dessert. Zunda is a vibrant green sweet paste consisting of mashed edamame beans, and mochi is a boiled rice cake. In Sendai, you can find some cafes specialized in zunda, where you can enjoy a variety of zunda sweets such as zunda shake and zunda ice cream. 

Sendai & Matsushima 1–Day Highlight Private Walking Tour (7 Hours) We can arrange your tour according to your request, e.g. Zuihoden (the Mausoleum of a Shogun), Osaki Hachimangu Shrine (a Shinto shrine and one of the National Treasures of Japan), Matsushima (One of the three most scenic spots of Japan), a Whiskey distillery, a Sake brewery, a Winery, the Shiogama Shrine, and so on. Let’s explore the city together!

Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Visit 2-Day Tour from Tokyo

This tour gives you an opportunity to visit Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. If you want to know the real situation of Fukushima after the Great East Japan Earthquake and interact with locals and hear some stories of how they get through the difficult situation, please join this tour. Let’s think together with how to revitalize the area.

What did you think about Sendai? Sendai has good access from Tokyo and you can visit major spots in the city conveniently with sightseeing buses. You can enjoy the city any time of the year but especially during the seasonal events such as Tanabata and winter light illuminations will be extra good!

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Happy travelling!

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11月 21, 2017

Top 10 Tourist Attractions & Best Things to Do in Sendai, Miyagi

Tohoku area is located north of Tokyo. In this area, there are lots of sightseeing spots or food places that north country has. Sendai, Miyagi is located west of Tohoku area and famous for beef tongue. Today, we would like to introduce sightseeing spots in Sendai, top 10. Please enjoy!

1. Osaki hachimangu

“Osaki hachimangu” is a famous sightseeing spot in Sendai. It is a shrine that is located at 15 minutes from Kunimi station by foot. It is selected for national treasure. You can see the building that shows history and can enjoy the nature around the shrine.

If you go through a big gate and walk the side walk that is made by stone, you will see the beautiful main shrine. At this shrine, they have lots of events through a year, so if you visit, you should check what event they have at that time. How about visiting them?

2. Sendaishi Yagiyama zoo

If you want to meet cute animals in Sendai, we suggest you to go this place. “ Sendaishi Yagiyama zoo” is a zoo that is in Sendai city. You can see animals like giraffe, rhino, gorilla.

They have activity that you can feed rabbit, hippo and African elephant. It is popular activity for especially small kids. Also you can touch marmot. If you want to see animals in Sendai, please visit!

3. Kokuei Michinoku morinokohan park

Kokuei Michinoku morinokohan park is popular as you can learn culture of Tohoku and nature. They have space that you can see seasonal flowers and big lake inside the park.

Also they have where you can learn and experience life of old days of Tohoku. They sometimes hold events. Please visit!

4. Nanakita park

“Nanakita park” is located at 5 minutes from Sendai-no-izumichuo station by foot where has lots of nature. They have about 3000 trees in this park.

Their famous spot is water fountain. The water fountain is located at center of the park and it matches the view around the water fountain. If you want to go where you can see nature in Sendai, please visit!

5. Akiho otaki

“Akiho otaki” is where you can see beautiful waterfall. The side walk that goes to the waterfall is along the river, so you can walk enjoying watching the river.

“Akiho otaki” is 6m wide and 55m high. There are lots of nature around the waterfall too. If you go to Sendai, please visit!

6. Sasakama-kan

Do you know “Sasakama” which is famous food from Sendai? You can learn about Sasakama, make it and eat at Sasakama-kan. There are stores that sell sasakama, so you can eat good sasakama.

Also you can experience making sasakama which is popular to kids. This event is reserved only, so don’t forget to call them before you go. Please enjoy sasakama at sasakama-kan!

7. Sendai mangekyo museum

If you look through a tube, you can see beautiful design. That is what kaleidoscope is. They put paper and mirror inside the tube, you can enjoy the design when you turn it around.

“Sendai mangekyo museum” is where you can enjoy kaleidoscope. It is one of the art. Please enjoy!

8. Sendai asaichi

“Sendai asaichi” is a market where is located at Sendai station. It is called kitchen of Sendai, and it is always crowded with local people who want to get fresh and good food.

It is called asaichi which means morning market but most of the stores open from afternoon to evening. There are fish market and vegetable market too. Please visit!

9. Sendai uminomori aquarium

“Sendai uminomori aquarium” is an aquarium in Sendai. It is located at 15 minutes from Nakanosakae station by foot and you can meet many kinds of sea animals at this place. There are separated to some areas. You can see sea animals from Asia, Oceania, Europe, Africa, and America at world sea area.

You can meet sea animals that live in Japanese sea at Tohoku-no-umi area. You can enjoy dolphin show at Uminomori stadium. You won’t get tired even if you spend all day at this place. It is a good sightseeing spot!

10. Yagiyama Benyland

If you want to be active during the trip, we suggest you to go this place. “Yagiyama Benyland” is said one of the three biggest amusement park in Tohoku. They have about 30 rides. They have like roller coaster and merry go round.

They have tea cup ride too, so they have almost everything that basic amusement park has. This is a place where both adults and kids can enjoy. If you come to Sendai for sightseeing, please visit Yagiyama Benyland!

Let’s go to sightseeing spots in Sendai!

Today, we introduced where we would like you to go in Sendai, Top 10. Have you found the one you want to visit? Sendai is a big city in Tohoku, so there are lots of restaurants near the station. If you go to Sendai, please enjoy their food too! Let’s enjoy Sendai!

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The Best Things To Do in Sendai

Sendai is a city that sits at the doorstep of the nation’s more wild side. It’s a day trip from secluded mountain retreats, rugged coastlines, and remote islands. At the same time, it’s one of Japan’s most modern and sophisticated cities with a culinary scene that will challenge and surprise. Located in the northern prefecture of Miyagi, to say the city offers everything wouldn’t be an overstatement; major city attractions, history, culinary diversity and even a neighboring cat island.

The largest city in Japan’s second largest region ( Tohoku ), Sendai is a city with a lot going for it but has a surprisingly modest number of tourists compared to many other corners of the country. The lack of tourism overpopulation, and its excellent position by the mountains and along the coast make it the perfect place for more intrepid visitors looking to see a more diverse side of Japan.

Whether you want a city adventure without the crowds of Tokyo, a culinary destination that will challenge and delight, untamed landscapes, or you want to visit an island run by cats, Sendai has it all, no question.

1. Pay your respects at Zuihoden

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Flanked by cedar trees towers and decorated in vivid colours, Zuihoden , the mausoleum of Date Masamune is fascinating for both its architecture and history. During the Edo period (1603 – 1868), Date Masamune was one of the most powerful feudal lords of the land. During his reign, he garnered a reputation for being a great warrior and leader. His mythology was magnified thanks to the fact he was missing an eye, which legends report he plucked out himself after a senior member of his clan said an enemy could snatch it during a fight. He and his heirs ruled over Sendai and were laid to rest at Zuihoden mausoleum.

2. Dine on 'gyutan' (beef tongue) at Riyku

Restaurant, Japanese

Ask any Sendai local what the city’s most iconic dish is, and there’s a very high chance they’ll name gyutan , which in English is beef tongue. The origin of the recipe can be traced back to the post-war period. In 1948, yakitori chef Sano Keishiro, on a mission to minimize food wastage, figured out a perfect way to grill the leftover meat to create a dish that was both economical and delicious. Rikyu is a restaurant that specializes in gyutan and offers a variety of ways to enjoy the dish including grilled and deep-fried options, alongside other options such as sushi.

3. Visit the snow monsters in winter

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4. Make a Kokeshi doll at Wagatsuma Workshop

Scattered around craft stores, museum and gift shops all over Sendai and the surrounding area, you’ll find delicately painted little limbless dolls known as Kokeshi dolls. While their exact origins are unclear, we do know that they did hail from this northern corner of Japan and were originally created as simple, easy-to-make children’s toys. Sign up for a class at Wagatsuma Kokeshi Wooden Toy Shop. Run by a third-generation Kokeshi doll maker, the workshop will both give you a chance to explore your creative side, and also at the end, you’ll have your own little authentic Sendai omiyage ( souvenir ) to take back home.

5. Take a day trip to the Sanriku Coast

Natural Feature

With its sharp grey cliffs, dark sand coast and entirely blue water, the Sanriku Coast is a dramatic landscape that looks worlds away from the Japan most people imagine. It stretches 300km (186 miles) along the Pacific Coast including Sendai’s home prefecture of Miyagi . In 2011, this was one of the major locations devastated by the tsunami, but is safe to visit today. It’s an excellent place to escape the city, see a new side of the country’s diverse landscape and marvel at the power, beauty and magnificence of Mother Nature.

6. Cruise on over to Tashirojima Cat Island

Just off Miyagi’s Sanriku Coast – a 45-60 minute cruise from Ajishima Line ferry terminal – sits Tashirojima, more colloquially known as Japan’s ‘cat island.’ Initially, the cats were brought over to help with pest control around Tashirojima’s silkworm farms, but now the population of felines outnumbers humans at a ratio of four to one. In the middle of the island sits a cat-sized shrine (Nekokamisama) which was built in dedication to one of the island’s furry residents who was killed by a falling rock. Beyond the cats, there aren’t many tourist attractions and there are no restaurants, so bring a packed lunch and maybe a can of tuna or two for your new friends.

7. Party at Sendai Tanabata

Tanabata is a summer festival that typically kicks off in the first week of July. But while the celebrations take place across the nation, the event is taken most seriously up north. Here many vendors across the city start working on their Tanabata streamer displays months prior to the event. The origin of the festival has roots in Chinese folklore, which recounts the meeting of the deities Orihime and Hikoboshi – two lovers separated by the Milky Way who can only meet on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunisolar calendar. All the excitement culminates with the Sendai Tanabata Fireworks Display, which is set along Hirosegawa River, on 5 August the night before the city’s major festivities.

8. Drink an edamame shake

Restaurant, Dessert

Edamame (salted green beans) are a popular izakaya beer snack – in Sendai, however, they’ve turned this savoury little treat into something that sounds like it shouldn’t be delicious, but really is. Known as a ‘zunda shake’, this lime-green blend of milk, green unmatured soybeans and cream tastes sweet and a little nutty. You can pick it up from Zunda Saryo at JR Sendai Station, which is jampacked with food stores and snack shops – making it an excellent culinary destination in its own right.

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This is the mausoleum of the incredibly powerful Date clan (pronounced da-tay ) who ruled over Sendai during the Edo period (1603-1868). History buffs will enjoy learning about the most famous patriarch of the clan, Date Masamune. He was the one-eyed military master who founded Sendai and won himself a place as one of Japan’s favorite historical figures. He even had a Game of Thrones worthy nickname: "The One-eyed Dragon of the North."

If you’re not so into history, you’ll still be able to enjoy the gorgeously colorful wooden carvings of this temple. Fall is probably the best time to visit, as the temple grounds enjoy some amazing autumnal foliage, but it’s worth a visit all year round.

2. Try Unusual Japanese Raw Foods

You’re probably familiar with sushi , but did you know that Japan’s raw food culture extends way past fish? Here you can try everything from raw chicken to horse sashimi! This 2.5 hour food tour is an excellent way to push your culinary boundaries, and try some authentic raw Japanese dishes.

Don’t worry, it’s all totally safe! The trick is serving the ingredients so fresh that they’re 100% good to eat. This Sendai food tour will take you to three different local izakaya gastropubs, and your English-speaking guide will introduce you to a different drink and raw dish at each. Expect raw beef, chicken, and maybe even raw shark heart (depending on the daily availability).

Book the “Rare” Raw Japan Food Tour >>  

3. Visit the Sendai City Museum

With a healthy stock of over 9000 historical treasures in their vault, the Sendai City Museum is a great place to discover the history and culture of the city. The collection mainly focuses on the Date clan and their treasures, with the centerpiece being the armor of Date Masamune, crafted over 400 years ago. 

The museum stands upon the grounds which used to be occupied by the third ring of the Sendai Castle complex. Inside, you’ll find a stylish, modern museum with some interactive elements; it’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon before wandering around the castle ruins.

4. Go Bar Hopping in Sendai and Meet Locals 

Finding your feet in the nightlife of a new city is a real gamble. You could end up having the best night your life, or just wandering around aimlessly without a clue. You don’t want take that risk in Sendai, a city famous for its excellent drinking and dining culture.

To get to grips with the local bar scene while trying some delicious delicacies on the way, join this 2.5 hour bar hopping tour in Sendai. You’ll be guided through the alleys of Iroha Yokocho and Bunka Yokocho, both teeming with retro little izakaya pubs which are favorites among locals. Such places can seem intimidating to foreigners, but with your local guide you’ll be able to make the most of three different bars and experience the true local dining culture, like a local yourself. Joining a food tour is one of the best things to do in Sendai if you want to experience the local food culture while rubbing elbows with locals.

Book the Sendai Izakaya Bar Hopping Tour >>

5. Visit the Aoba Castle Ruins 

Also known as Sendai Castle, this was once the seat of the aforementioned Date clan who ruled over Sendai. As leader of the most powerful clan in the north, Date Masamune needed a strong fort from which to rule. He build his castle on Mt. Aoba, high above the city of Sendai. This means you can get great views of the area from the site.

What you won’t be able to see are the original buildings themselves. They unfortunately perished as a result of accidental fires and Allied bombings during the war. The site still boasts an impressive statue of the castle’s constructor, the original foundations, a museum, and shrine. It’s also extremely well-placed near some other key Sendai attractions, like the city museum and zoo.

6. Try Gyutan and Zunda, Local Sendai Dishes

Each city of Japan has its culinary specialties, and Sendai is no different. During your time in the city, you have to try their most famous food: gyutan . Some people will no doubt be put off by the fact that it’s beef tongue, but if you can get over that fact then you’re in for a tender, juicy treat. The standard is gyutan grilled in the yakiniku style, usually served in a set with rice and oxtail soup. 

For dessert, try zunda — a unique local favorite made from mashed soybeans sweetened with sugar. It’s typically used as an ingredient in traditional sweets or cakes, but in its hometown you’ll find it in hundreds of different forms. If you’re a fan of anko red bean paste, you’ll love this too.

7. Shop at Asaichi Morning Market

When in Sendai, be sure to visit Sendai Asaichi Morning Market. Here you’ll see all sorts of fresh local foods on sale, and get a chance to try some for breakfast. The number of choices is huge, so why not join a food tour to get expert tips from a local tour guide?

During the Green Sendai Morning Market Tour, you can first explore the beautiful natural scenery of Mt. Aobayama, just a short trip from the city center. It’s quite a relaxed hike, during which you’ll get a chance to take in the views and enjoy the sounds of the forest. Sendai is a lovely green city with a nickname to match — often referred to as the "City of Trees" — so it's the perfect getaway for nature lovers.

Afterwards, your guide will show you around Sendai's Asaichi Market, where you'll fuel up with brunch at the market or a local cafe. Probably the best choice is a bowl of fresh seafood donburi — a local favorite.

Book the Green Sendai Morning Market Tour >>

8. Take Part in Local Festivals

Sendai loves to party. Throughout the year, you’ll find a great range of traditional and modern festivals going on, so if you find yourself in the city at the same time, be sure not to miss out. August sees the celebration of the Tanabata Matsuri, when colored decorations hang for miles in the shopping arcades. Aoba Matsuri in spring is a great chance to see a riotous parade, with the local traditional Sparrow Dance. 

For a more contemporary vibe, come to Sendai during the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival, which runs over one weekend in September. With over 90 outdoor stages showcasing loads of different musical performances, the city takes on a real party atmosphere. And if you want to do away with tradition altogether and just get drunk on German beer; the city has two Oktoberfest celebrations — one in June and one in September!

9. Visit Sendai’s Only Winery

Enjoy all the fruits of countryside living — fine wine, fresh local food, and peaceful surroundings — on this Sendai wine tour. It starts with a trip to Rairai Gorge to the southwest of the city. After that, you’ll check out the vineyards of a local winery (with a tasting of their wine included, of course).

The climax is an idyllic picnic, spread out for you in the vineyard. You can enjoy a seasonal meal using fresh countryside ingredients, with another glass of wine alongside. If a vineyard picnic doesn’t sound like a perfect way to spend an afternoon, we don’t know what does.

Book the Sendai Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch >>

10. Marvel at Akiu Great Falls (and Bathe in Hot Springs)

One of the best things to do in Sendai for nature lovers, consider heading along to Akiu Great Falls, a 55-meter waterfall that is easily accessible from the city center. You’ll just need to take a 40-minute bus from the Ayashi Station bus stop and you'll be treated to some lovely scenery, especially in the fall. The walk around the falls themselves can be completed comfortably in around 90-120 minutes. 

If your legs are feeling a bit sore after that, you might want to consider heading to one of the onsen (natural hot springs) in the valley. Hop off the return bus at the Akiu Sato Center stop and take your pick from a number of spa hotels that have baths looking out over the river!

11. Tour the Kirin Beer Factory

If you’re partial to a beer or five in the evening, then there’s perhaps no better place to be in the city than the Kirin Beer Factory. Japanese beer is some of the best in the world, and the brewing culture has been thriving here for centuries. 

This particular brewery in Sendai has been running since 1923, producing one of the country’s most famous beers. It’s located by the sea, around a 30 minute walk from Rikuzen-Takasago Station. Remember to factor the walk into your timings, or jump on the J200 bus from the station instead. 

Tours last around 70 minutes, and include the chance to get a look at the raw materials, production areas, and some historical paraphernalia. Oh, and of course, there’s plenty of tasting involved too!

12. Visit Nikka Whisky Distillery

Japan has enjoyed something of a whisky awakening over recent years, with its products winning global awards for the best varieties in the world. One of the companies at the forefront of this new wave of premium Japanese whisky is Nikka. 

Their charming red-brick distillery in the foothills to the west of Sendai has been running since 1967, drawing its natural spring water from rivers there. It’s the second distillery opened by the company, and it’s still filled with much of the original equipment that the founder imported from Scotland. 

Tours last around an hour, and include tastings at the conclusion. Although it’s a little bit of a trek out of the city center to get here, if you visit on a weekend or public holiday, you can take a free shuttle bus from JR Sakunami Station straight to the door of the distillery.

How many days do you need in Sendai?

With so much to see and do in Sendai, it’s the perfect city for anything from a weekend break to a longer vacation. The city is a great place to try some unique Japanese foods and nightlife while soaking in centuries of history and tradition. With flights from Tokyo taking just around 90 minutes to get there, you should definitely consider making Sendai one of the essential stops on your Japan journey. Travelers can find accommodations in Sendai on  JAPANiCAN .

• Published on : 31/08/2020
• by : G.L. / I.D.O.
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Sendai City

Sendai Zuiho-den Mausoleum

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Tanabata Matsuri Sendai

A samurai statue in Sendai.

Le festival Aoba matsuri à Sendai

Aoba Matsuri

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The capital of Tôhoku and a must-see city in northern Japan

With around one million citizens, Sendai is the largest city in Tohoku (the northeastern region of Honshu Island). Sendai is an old, historical castle town developed by the samurai warlord Masamune Date . It is one of Japan's fastest-growing and most charming cities.

Sendai - A Medieval History Linked to Lord Masamune Date

His helmet decorated with a half-moon, his black horse, his castle: people in Sendai is familiar  Date Masamune  (1567-1636), the great lord who made ​​this small port town a prosperous and open city, from its founding in 1604. Renowned as angry and vengeful, Masamune was also a connoisseur of  Noh theater  and calligraphy. The history and influence of the " One-Eyed Dragon " (the nickname of Masamune, who lost an eye as a child) can be discovered to the west of Sendai, nestled on Kyogamine Hill.

The ancient castle, Aobajô , conceals beautiful period pieces behind its formidable watchtower and offers a spectacular view in addition to ancient ruins. Furthermore, there is the Gokoku Shrine , which is connected to the Yasukuni-jinja shrine in Tokyo, which has a small museum dedicated to the military history of modern Japan.

Things to see and do in Sendai

Sendai is blessed with a cooler climate during Japan's notoriously hot and humid summers, making it a great place for visitors to stay for an adventure in Japan's north.

Sendai  is the gateway to the Tohoku region of northern Japan with the shinkansen connections to  Tokyo  to the south and onwards to  Aomori  and Akita further north.

Things to see and do in and around Sendai include the  Sendai City Museum ; Masamune's elaborate mausoleum -  Zuihoden ; Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle) ruins, the sculpture-lined  Jozenji street , and the scenic island-dotted  bay at Matsushima  on the coast as well as the beautiful Zao Onsen in the nearby mountains. Both offer hot-springs & spectacular views. Shiroishi Castle is around 50 minutes by train to the south.

Miyagi Stadium in Rifu was a World Cup 2002 venue and is a planned venue for 2020 Olympic football (soccer).

Sendai Attractions

Zuihoden is the mausoleum of the powerful daimyo, Masamune Date, (pronounced Dah-teh, 1567-1636, known as the "One-Eyed Dragon"). Zuihoden is reminiscent of the Tokugawa mausoleum in Nikko in its elaborate beauty.

The original, ornate 17th-century buildings were destroyed in World War II but completely restored in 1979.

Set at the top of a flight of steep stone steps within a forest, the site also includes the mausoleums of Date Tadamune and Date Tsunamune , the second and third successors to the patriarch of the Date clan.

Sendai Castle, aka Aoba-jo , dated from 1602 but nothing remains today of the buildings except for the impressive stone walls and a reconstructed watchtower. The castle grounds do have fine views of the city and an iconic statue of Masamune on a horseback. The  Aoba Castle Exhibition Hall  has computer-generated displays of the castle resembling in its glory days.

The  Toshogu Shrine  near Toshogu Station on the JR Senzan Line was built by Date Tadamune to honor Ieyasu Tokugawa, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, and his great ally.

Rinno-ji Temple  has a three story pagoda and a strolling garden, which are the highlights of the visit here. Rinnoji was founded in the 1440s but moved to its present location in the early 17th century. The temple is a family temple of the Date clan.

Osaki Hachimangu Shrine  was established by Date Masamune in 1607 and is designated as a National Treasure. The Main Hall is decorated using a distinctive black lacquer and gold leaf. Hachiman is considered a deity of warfare.

Komyoji Temple  near Kita-Sendai Station on the Senzan Line contains the grave of Tsunenaga Hasekura (1571-1622), who was Masamune Date's ambassador to Mexico and Spain. Hasekura sailed in the Date Maru to Acapulco via Luzon in The Philippines in 1613 and went on to visit Spain, Switzerland, and Rome. Hasekura's vessel of 150-180 men was one of the first Japanese ships to cross the Pacific. Hasekura returned to Japan in 1620 having been baptized as Christian, but by this time Christianity was out of favor with the Tokugawa regime, and Hasekura's son (the head priest of Komyoji) and some of his servants were executed for their faith.

Northwest of Sendai city center adjacent to the Best Western Hotel Sendai and the Sendai Hills Golf Club is a modern statue of Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) standing 100m tall.

Ryuun-in Temple , 5km northwest of Sendai Station contains the tomb of Shihei Hayashi (1738-1793), a prominent military scholar whose writings helped to inspire the movement that led to the end of the Shogunate ( Meiji Restoration ) in 1867. There is a statue of Hayashi in Kotodai Park and a plaque commemorating his life in Aoba Castle.

Nishi Park or Sakuragaoka Park was formerly the residential quarters of the  samurai  retainers of the Date clan. Tsutsujigaoka Park is known for its ancient cherry trees, some approaching 300 years of age.

Sendai Zuihô-den Mausoleum

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Sendai Shopping & Museum Information

Other sites included on the Loople Sendai bus tour, which departs from the west side of Sendai Station, are Sendai's two major shopping streets of  Aoba Dori  and  Ichibancho  and the  Bansuisodo  - the preserved house of local minor poet and composer, Bansui Doi.

Just north of Sendai Station, the  AER Building  at 145.5 meters is the tallest building in Sendai and the entire Tohoku region. There's a branch of Maruzen bookstore with writings in English, a Starbucks, the Tohoku Pokemon Center, and on the 31st floor The Panorama Terrace , with great views out over Sendai on a clear day.

The  Sendai City Museum  introduces the history of the city and displays Date family treasures including Masamune Date's suit of armor and relics from the fascinating journey to Mexico and Europe by his retainer, Hasekura Tsunenaga (1613 - 1620). This epic voyage, Japan's first embassy to the Americas and Europe, is described in Shusako Endo's novel The Samurai.

Other museums in Sendai include the  Miyagi Museum of Art  and  Tohoku University's Museum of Natural History . Of the temples and shrines in the city,  Osaki Hachimangu Shrine  dates from 1607 and is a good example of Momoyama Period architecture. The shrine houses the guardian deity of the Date family and is the site of the Donto fire festival in January. Nearby  Rinnoji Temple  has a Japanese-style garden noted for its irises in June.

Sendai Mediatheque  is a modern art and film center on Jozenji Dori . Exhibitions, film screenings, and workshops are available in the library.

Facade of Sendai Mediatheque.

Festivals in Sendai

Sendai's major festivals are the  Aoba Festival  on the third weekend of May with processions of colorful floats accompanied by people in samurai dress and taiko music. The Saturday is known as Yoi Matsuri and features the colorful "Sparrow Dance" ( suzume-odori ). Sunday is Hon matsuri and features the main pageant and procession and more "Sparrow Dances."

In August  Sendai's Tanabata Festival  is one of the biggest matsuri in the Tohoku region drawing thousands of spectators. Bamboo poles are decorated with paper streamers and there are parades along Jozenji Dori and firework displays. The  Jozenji Jazz Festival  in September sees hundreds of street musicians performing throughout the city.

The  Dondo Matsuri  at Osaki Hachimangu Shrine takes place on January 14 and is an annual Fire Festival where New Year straw decorations are ceremoniously burnt in a large bonfire.

Sendai Nightlife & Eating Out

The  Kokubuncho  area in central Sendai is the place to go to sample Sendai's nightlife. There is a variety of great bars, clubs, and restaurants and you can sample Sendai's specialties - gyu-tan  (calf tongue) and Matsushima oysters (when in season).

Near Sendai Station is Gyutan-dori  (gyutan-street) with many restaurants serving the local specialty.

Getting Around Sendai

Sendai has two subway lines, intersecting at Sendai Station. The Namboku Line runs roughly north from Izumi Chuo to Tomizawa in the south. The  Tozai Line  runs east-west, from Yagiyama Zoological Park in the west to Arai in the east.

The  Loople Sendai Tour Bus  (630 yen for a one-day pass; 260 yen for a single ride, 920 yen for a One-day Pass for Loople Sendai and Subway) allows visitors to hop on and off on a circular tour of the city's main sites of interest.

The first Loople Sendai bus departing Sendai Station is at 9 am and the last at 4 pm. Buses arrive every 20 minutes on weekdays, 15 minutes on weekends and public holidays. The tour of Sendai's tourist attractions takes about 1 hr and 10 min in total, comprising 16 stops. Be warned, the bus, while unique and inviting, does not offer enough room for the crowded visitors trying to cram into it on the weekends and public holidays.

Sendai Station Platform on the Tozai Line of the Sendai Municipal Subway

Wikimedia Commons, MaedaAkihiko

Sendai Station

Wikimedia Commons, Suicasmo

The Loople Sendai Bus stops at:

• bus stop number 1 Sendai Station,
• 2 Aoba-dori/Ichibancho Subway Station,
• 3 Bansuisodo, a literary museum (near the Sendai City War Reconstruction Memorial Hall),
• 4 Zuihoden Mausoleum,
• 5 Sendai City Museum / Sendai International Center (get off here for Tohoku University Botanical Gardens, not at the "Tohoku University Botanical Gardens" bus stop),
• 6 Site of Sendai Castle (near Aoba Castle Museum),
• 7 Tohoku University Botanical Gardens (is the name of the bus stop,

but the bus stop to get off at for the gardens themselves is actually:

• 5. Sendai City Museum / Sendai International Center"),
• 8 Aobayama Subway Station (near Tohoku University Aobayama Campus & Miyagi University of Education),
• 9 Tohoku University Museum of Natural History,
• 10 International Center Subway Station / Miyagi Museum of Art,
• 11 Traffic Park / Sankyozawa Water Power Plant (near the Sankyozawa 100 Year Electric Historical Center),
• 12 Osaki Hachimangu Shrine,
• 13 Nikoh-Miyagi-ken Bijutsukan-mae (Miyagiken Sendai Daini Koto School & the Miyagi Prefectural Museum of Art),
• 14 Sendai Mediatheque,
• 15 Jozenji-dori Ave/Sendai City Hall (near Kotodai Park),
• 16 Hirose Dori Subway Station and back to 1. Sendai Station.

Sendai City Bus

Wikimedia Commons, 七厩拓

Access to Sendai

Flight connections from Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Beijing, Seoul, and other Asian destinations. Sendai Airport is 18km south of the city center and connected by bus (40 min) and train (17 min by express service).

From Tokyo JR Tohoku Shinkansen super-express to Sendai Station (1 hr 36 min to 2 hr 32 min) is a frequent service running on to Morioka. Sendai is also connected by train with Yamagata, Matsushima, and Sendai Airport.

There are daily bus services to Shinjuku in Tokyo and Niigata and night buses to Tokyo, Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Osaka. Sendai is the major hub for buses in the Tohoku region with departures to most destinations including Morioka, Akita, Aomori, and Hachinohe.

Book highway buses to Sendai from Tokyo including the routes Hamamatsucho-Shinjuku-Sendai (day) and Shinjuku-Akihabara-Sendai (night). Book the Sendai to Shinjuku night bus leaving Sendai at 12.10am and arriving in Shinjuku at 5.35am.

By Ferry 

There are overnight ferry services to Nagoya and Tomakomai on Hokkaido from Sendai-ko (local JR train to Tagajo station on the Senseki Line then a taxi, bus (15-20 min walk), or a bus from Sendai Station. The ferries are operated by Taiheiyo Ferry company. 

Both Sendai Airport and Sendai Port were damaged in the March 2011 earthquake and subsequent tsunami but are both now fully repaired and functional.

Visit around Sendai

Sendai is a great place to stay to explore the rest of Miyagi Prefecture and to head north into Tohoku.

• Picturesque  Matsushima Bay  and  Oku-Matsushima , the peninsula that separates Matsushima Bay from Ishinomaki Bay, is an easy day or half-day excursion from Sendai. Oku-Matsushima is best known for its imposing craggy Sagakei cliffs that form a memorable contrast with the tranquility of Matsushima Bay. Reasonably priced cruises of the cliffs leave from a jetty on Oku-Matsushima, accessible from Route 27, near the Ohtakamori Kanko Hotel. Oku-Matsushima is reached from Nobiru Station, 15 min north from Matsushima on the JR Senseki Line.
• Shiroishi  to the south has a restored castle and some beautiful Edo Period streets to wander.
• There are a variety of onsen resorts accessible from Sendai. Naruko Onsen is about one hour by train from Sendai (JR Tohoku Line to Furukawa and then JR Rikuu-Tosen Line to Naruko Onsen). The waters at Naruko are known for their healing properties. Scenic Narujo Gorge is close by and reached by local bus.
• Akui Onsen  is best reached by bus from Sendai Station and hiking trails from this delightful onsen resort lead to Akui Otaki, a 55m-high waterfall and Futakuchi Gorge. The 1,366 meters high Mt. Daito-dake can also be hiked in about 3 hrs.
• Sakunami  has a number of hot springs and is just 38 min on the Sanzen Line from Sendai Station.
• Hiraizumi  is a UNESCO World Heritage Listed site about 120 km north of Sendai. Hiraizumi is known for its beautiful temples and gardens including the incredible Konjikido or Golden Hall. Built in 1124, the 5.5 meters square Buddhist altar with four pillars is coated with black lacquer plated with gold leaf and mother-of-pearl inlay.
• Yamadera  (Risshaku-ji) in neighboring Yamagata Prefecture dates back to 860 but was in its heyday during the Kamakura Period (1192-1333) of Japanese history. A number of temples and sub-temples lie in a majestic cedar forest on Mt. Hoju. Among the approximately 40 temple buildings, Kompon Chudo Temple supposedly still burns a flame brought from Enryakuji Temple in Kyoto over 1,000 years ago.
• Okuno-in  is the highest temple on the mountain, a climb of 1,100 steps! Godai-do offers wonderful views over the valley below. The Hihokan is the temple treasury and the admission point (300 yen) up the mountain.
• From Sendai Station take a JR Senzan train to Yamadera Station (just under an hour). The haiku master Basho was a famous visitor and composed a famous haiku poem here, which is inscribed in a rock memorial. The  Basho Kinenkan  (Basho Memorial Museum) is close to Yamadera Station.

Our tours in Sendai

Tohoku: Traditional Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 18 days
• Locations : Kyoto, Tokyo, Nikko, Sendai, Tohoku, Aomori

Northern trains: from the Sea of Japan to the Pacific Our excursions in Japan

• Duration : 5 days
• Locations : Tôhoku

All the themes of the city

Markets in Japan

Onsen, Hot Springs and Public Baths

Family Travel

Nightlife in Japan: Going out, exploring and drinking

Temples and Shrines

Parks and Gardens

Outdoor Activities

Museums and Galleries

Restaurants and Cafes

Shopping and souvenirs

Japanese Pop Culture

Events and Festivals

Interested by Sendai

Discover other cities to explore

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Miyajima Island

Oki Islands

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13 Things Sendai Is Famous For That You Didn’t Realize

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Most people know Sendai as the largest city in Japan’s Tohoku region and the capital of Miyagi Prefecture.

What they might not know is that it’s also one of the most famous and historically significant cities in all of Japan.

From its centuries-old temples and shrines to its modern skyscrapers and nightlife, Sendai has something for everyone.

Table of Contents

1. Akiu Otaki Falls

The Akiu Otaki Falls are a beautiful set of waterfalls located in Sendai, Japan.

They are known for their stunning natural beauty and for the many legends that surround them.

The falls are said to be the site of a great battle between the gods Susano-o and his sister Amaterasu.

In the Legend – Susano-o was banished from heaven for causing trouble and came to live in Akiu.

One day, he saw Amaterasu bathing in a nearby river and became enraged. He took her clothes and hid them in the Falls, preventing her from leaving.

Amaterasu was so angry that she caused the sun to go dark, plunging the world into darkness.

Susano-o eventually relented and returned Amaterasu’s clothes, and she forgave him.

As a sign of reconciliation, she is said to have created the rainbow which can be seen arcing over the falls to this day.

2. Aoba Castle Ruins

The Aoba Castle ruins are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sendai.

The castle was built in the early 1600s and served as the home of the Date clan, one of the most powerful families in the Tohoku region.

Date Masamune was one of the most famous and successful samurai lords in Japanese history.

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He ruled the Sendai domain for over fifty years and was known for his military prowess and shrewd political skills.

He was also a patron of the arts, and his castle was home to many famous artists and craftsmen.

Date Masamune is said to have been a great lover of tea, and the castle ruins now house a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

The castle was destroyed by an earthquake in 2011, but the ruins are still a beautiful sight.

3. Jozenji Street Jazz Festival

The Jozenji Street Jazz festival is a three-day music festival that takes place in the heart of Sendai, Japan.

The festival features some of the best jazz musicians from all over the world and attracts tens of thousands of music fans each year.

Even Better – In addition to the incredible jazz performances, the festival also features food and wine vendors, making it the perfect place to spend a summer weekend.

4. Sendai City Tomizawa Site Museum

The Sendai City Tomizawa Site Museum displays the fossilized remains of a forest that existed in the area during the Mesozoic era.

The forest was preserved due to the eruption of Mount Tomizawa, which covered the area in lava. The museum also has exhibits on the history and culture of Sendai.

Archaeologists discovered the 20,000-year-old fossilized forest when they were surveyed in 1988.

They discovered signs of human habitation in the forest as well, which indicates that people have been living in the area for a long time.

The Sendai City Tomizawa Site Museum was built to house the fossilized forest and opened in 1996.

The fossilized forest is thought to be a part of the reason why Sendai is known as the “City of Trees”.

5. Osaki Hachimangu Shrine

Osaki Hachimangu Shrine is one of the most popular shrines in Sendai.

It was built in the early 1600s and is dedicated to the God of War, Hachiman.

The shrine is known for its stunning contrast of colors. The black lacquer paired with gold leaf on the front gate is particularly striking.

The shrine is also known for the many festivals and events that are held there throughout the year.

6. Sendai Pageant of Starlight

The Sendai Pageant of Starlight is an annual event that takes place in Sendai, Japan.

The event celebrates the arrival of autumn and features a parade of illuminated floats and costumes.

The floats are decorated with lights and mirrors, which create a beautiful spectacle as they move down the street.

The parade also features dancers and musicians, who add to the festive atmosphere.

What to Expect? In addition to the lights that move through the city, there are thousands of trees decorated from top to bottom with lights that create a magical scene at night.

7. Hot Springs

Hot springs are natural pools of water that occur when water is heated by the earth’s heat.

The water then rises to the surface and is used for bathing or other purposes.

There are several hot springs located in Sendai, Japan.

Some of the most famous ones are:

• Matsushima Onsen
• Naruko Hot Springs
• Sakunami Onsen
• Togatta Onsen

The hot springs vary in temperature, with some reaching up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are many benefits to soaking in hot springs.

The hot water can help to relax muscles, improve circulation, and relieve stress. It can also help to ease pain and stiffness in joints.

8. Daikannon Statue

The Daikannon Statue is a massive statue of the Buddhist goddess of mercy located in Sendai.

It is the largest statue of its kind in Japan, and it stands at a height of over 100 feet.

Visitors can enter the statue and use the elevator to explore the twelve different levels or take the elevator straight to the top.

At the top, you’ll have panoramic views of Sendai and the Pacific Ocean.

Less-known Fact – The Daikannon Statue is 23 feet taller than the Statue of Liberty, making it one of the tallest statues in the world.

If you’re looking to try a local delicacy, give gyūtan a try.

Gyūtan is a grilled beef tongue, a dish that originated in Sendai.

The top of the tongue is scored and then seasoned before being placed on the grill.

Scoring the tongue gives more surface area to season and get crispy, giving the gyūtan a nice texture and even more flavor.

10. Okama Crater

The Okama Crater is a volcanic crater that is 1066 feet across, and 90 feet deep.

The crater is filled with a lake, but before you think this is a good place for a swim, the water is so acidic that there is no wildlife surviving in the lake.

Access to the crater is closed from November until April because the snow on the mountain makes the path difficult to climb, but you should check it out as soon as it opens in April.

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• Does it snow in Japan?

If You’re Lucky – You’ll be able to see a wall of snow that built up over the winter.

11. Sendai Tanabata Mitsuri

The Sendai Tanabata Festival is one of Japan’s most popular summer festivals.

It takes place every year on August 6 and 7 and features hundreds of decorated bamboo trees and Paper streamers.

The Sendai Tanabata Festival celebrates the reunion of the stars Vega and Altair.

In Chinese mythology, these stars are represented by two lovers who are only able to meet once a year.

The Sendai Tanabata Festival is based on this legend and celebrates the reunion of these lovers.

12. Sendai International Music Competition

The Sendai International Music Competition is an annual international music competition that takes place in Sendai, Japan.

It is open to musicians of all ages and nationalities and features both solo and ensemble categories.

The competition has been held annually since 1978 and has attracted piano and violin players from all over the world.

13. Birthplace of Japanese Figure Skating

Sendai is the birthplace of Japanese figure skating.

The first official figure skating club in Japan was founded in Sendai in 1892, and the first official competition was held there in 1896.

In 2019 – A monument was installed in Sendai to honor the Olympic world champion figure skater, Yuzuru Hanyu.

Sendai was his hometown, only fitting that it was the birthplace of Japanese figure skating, and he is an Olympic gold medalist.

Final Thoughts

Sendai is a city in Japan that is known for many things, from its hot springs, and crater, to the Daikannon Statue, and even for cooking beef tongue.

It is also the birthplace of Japanese figure skating and home to an annual international music competition.

No matter what you’re interested in, there’s something for everyone in Sendai!

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