- Welcome to the clean, green and sloping city of Sendai in Miyagi prefecture. With its hilly terrain and a cosy atmosphere tucked between the mountains of Miyagi and the Pacific Ocean, it should be on everyone’s itinerary. Known as ‘the city of trees’, it lives up to this with an abundance of trees covering the city and lining roads. With a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, it is a great place for all the family. With an easy-to-use and tourist friendlAy transportation system, which is both in Japanese and English, it makes it incredibly easy to get around. Not forgetting the 2 day pass which includes unlimited travel around the area on train, subway and bus for a very reasonable 2,600yen!
- You can see the image movie of Sendai.
- Have you ever visited this beautiful City, Sendai?
This city is filled with green, fresh foods, shopping spots, hot spring, outdoor activities and great scenery.
Now, let's visit the highlights of Sendai right away!! Depending on each season, you will meet changing scene of nature which attracts you more!
- The origin of the modern Sendai is the summit of mountain 115 meters above the city!
Our first stop was the renowned Sendai Castle (or Aoba Castle). Mount Aoba is one of the city’s main attractions of Sendai that is overlooking the city, which is 115 meters high above the ground. Aoba castle was built by Masamune Date, who is known as the first Lord of Sendai. The foundation of Sendai was established by him also. Aobayama Park, which is surrounded by a quietly wooded area, will allow you to look into the past and recall the memory of the old days that you have held dear in the past. Upon arrival at the entrance, you will be able to witness the stone base where the castle once stood. Other tourist spots that you should not miss out are the spectacularly gorgeous Japanese gardens and beautifully reddish Gokoku shrine.
- Wish a best luck to all the family and hope for the spectacular view!
Why not have prayers of the Japanese traditional way at the shrine? Here is a quick rundown how to do it, which is fairly simple. First of all, walk up to the shrine and ring the rope bell.Next, toss a 10 yen coin into the offertory box. After that, bow twice, clap twice, make a wish and bow once. It’s very easy and quite fascinating. At the premises of Aoba Castle Museum, heritages from the castle and a documentary narrated in English are listenable and viewable. Situated on the edge of the hill is a statue of Lord Masamune Date who is riding a horse, adorned with his armor and with a patch on one eye, which he lost in his childhood due to the smallpox. From the memorial statue, magnificent view overlooking the city, surrounded by mountains and the flat plains to the east towards Matsushima and the sea are clearly visible. Here you can get a sense of the castle’s real purpose of guarding the land all those years ago. 
- The Loople Sight-Seeing Bus, Unquestionably convenient!
The most convenient and economical way to visit Aoba Castle and 11 other main sightseeing spots around the city is by taking the Sendai Loople sight-seeing bus. English translations for the guidance of all the tourist spots and the friendliness of the driver will reassure the full satisfaction and the sense of security. - I recommend you buying a one-day ticket, which is highly reasonable and allows you to take the bus as much as you like all day long. 600yen for adults and 300yen for children, not to mention, you can even receive a discount for entrance fees and beverages!! The bus also offers a local map that represents the major tourist area in English. Sit back relaxingly and let the pleasant journey begin!
- Zelkova trees, as far as the eyes can reach!
Next destination will be the Jozenji Street, which is conveniently accessible by the Loople sight-seeing bus. A tranquil street running through the heart of Sendai is the well-known Jozenji Street. Planted along the center of the street are rows of fully grown Zelkova trees. Not only pleasantly pleasing to the eye but also temperature of the street could be maintained constantly by the mystical trees. There is a resting spot in the center of the street so why not relax on a bench and admire the lush foliage in the central downtown area?
- Greenery, greenery and greenery!
Sendai city is formed in a grid-like construction, so as like other cities in Japan, it is straightforward to get around. - As it can be seen from the magnificent view of Aoba Castle, Sendai city has an abundance of greenery, which is enriched by the Hirose River that runs through and replenishes the town.
- This is the origin of the Sendai’s nickname ‘The City of Trees’.
- Shopping street in the arcade! Just near where you get off along Jozenji Street, you can find Ichibancho Kaimono Kouen district, which is a very popular shopping street. This street has something for everyone, ranging from department stores, fashion shops, restaurants and more. Regardless of the time and weather, shopping is enjoyable anytime!
- Mouth-watering meals at an unbelievably reasonable price!
I am personally a huge fan of the market but this is awesome! Conveniently located, which is just 5 minute walk from the Sendai station. This market is normally open from 9am to 6pm every day except Sundays and national holidays. - A small narrow street with a wealth of stores lining either side, selling an abundance of wares from vegetables, cooking utensils, meats, fish and so much more.
- Fresh local vegetables
- Sendai is highly famous for locally produced and equally fresh vegetables.
- An overwhelming selection of vegetables and fruits are on offer.
- Friendly market shops
Here you can immerse yourself with the locals and experience the exquisite offerings they have on offer. Everyone in the market is friendly, welcoming and market staff do not push you to buy, so take your time and have a pleasant time in Japan!
- Beef tongue (Gyutan). Sendai’s delectable speciality! Sendai is highly famous for Gyutan, which translates into cow tongue in English. With a range of Gyutan restaurants well-placed around the city, you will be able to find something suitable based on your preference After we became overwhelmingly starved, we stopped off at a well-known restaurant called Rikyu. We were impeccably looked after with a typically exceptional Japanese customer service. I ordered a set meal which comes with 3 dishes. The Gyutan was perfectly grilled and accompanied with a bowl of wheat rice (known as Mugimeshi). Complimenting this, it also came with a beef tail soup. A perfect balance to each other, washed down with Japanese tea, topped up on your behalf by the very affable staff. Don’t worry if you are not such a big admirer of this cuisine. There are many other cuisines to choose from, such as typical Japanese, Italian and even pub food. There is something for everyone in Sendai!
- Fresh Seafood
Vast selection of locally caught fresh seafood on sale, at a remarkable price is available in the local market! - There are assortment of seafood such as sea urchins, shellfish, shrimps,tunas, squids and much more!
- 5 large fresh oysters (known as Kaki) for an amazing 900yen will undoubtedly make the cooking fans get the sense of the cheapness. All the fish available had deep black eyes, which is a great way to tell their freshness. Walking around these markets is real fun to see the various selections of fresh fish the Japanese market can offer.
- A tranquil hot spring getaway nestled in the mountains A short serene train ride from Sendai, nestled in between stunning mountains, you can find an area well-known for its hot springs, called Sakunami. In need of recuperating, we headed for the popular Iwamatsu Ryokan, which is a long-established Japanese style hotel and hot spring. From the station there is a free pick-up to the hotel with no need of making a reservation. With a 200 year history and set in an idyllic location between the mountains, it holds a rather mystical and healing atmosphere.
- With English speaking staff and a warm welcome, we felt right at home. We were given full instructions on the premise and how to use the hot spring and equipped with our towel we eagerly made our way. Walking down a long wooden rustic stair corridor deep into a tranquil crevice to get to the spring, there is a clear blue stream running from the mountains. Feel free to enjoy the scenery at a viewing point on the way down over a glass of ice cold water. There are several types of hot-springs to relax the mind, body and senses. Sit back in the bath and take in the peacefulness is a way of having fun in a traditional Japanese-style! Iced water after the hot bath is indeed refreshing and recovering! All amenities are supplied such as shower, towels, shavers,toothbrush and more. With a deep love for hot springs, I can safely say this onsen comes on top for its attractiveness, usability and dazzling setting.
- Charming countryside, waterfalls and even a local whiskey brewery! Deep in the heart of the mountains, you will arrive at Sakunami station, where you will be welcomed by a very idyllic and charming setting. The station is very small and picturesque with mountains high in the background and a beautifully designed wooden station, which makes a great photo spot. As you enter through the station, you will be welcomed by two Kokeshi, which are a traditional wooden doll. Inside the ticket station is a small shop, where you can relax and buy some real wooden dolls and souvenirs. This is a great area to enjoy the mountain air and is only a short distance from Sendai. On the way to Sakunami, you pass through lush rice fields and cross a stunning deep 54 metre gouge. A stones through away from Sakunami station, you can visit Nikka Whiskey Factory that is open to tours, Jogi Nyorai temple and the seductive Homei-shijuhattaki waterfalls. This area has breath-taking scenery and offers many great sight-seeing spots and activities.
- Overnight Stay at the Onsen Ryokan (Hot-Spring Japanese-style Hotel)
If you have time, why not stay overnight at Onsen Ryokan? - Not only can you enjoy their spectacular onsen for your relaxation, the hotel also has other convenient facilitates such as a restaurant, pub and shop selling local products and souvenirs.
- Finest woods, your stay will be a pleasure to interact with the real attractiveness of trip in Japan. With excellent amenities and exquisite traditional cuisine using local production, it is a great place to get away and clear the mind, secluded deep in the heart of the mountains.
- Mysterious temple, ancient caves and 260 bay islands! Have fun and explore!
A small train ride from Sendai and you can reach the stunningly breath-taking area of Matshushima. Located along the calm waters of Matsushima bay, it offers magnificent scenery, great food and many sight-seeing spots. Even though Matsushima is transportable by walk, renting a bicycle is strongly recommended. Near to the main station, there is a very reasonably priced bicycle rental shop, with a wide variety of bikes for all the family. Our first stop was Zuiganji Temple, which is the most famous attraction in Matsushuma. It is set in a beautiful wooded surrounding, which makes a peaceful stroll. Inside the temple, see exquisite carpentry and golden walls which were restored in 1995. Within the grounds outside the temple, there are the Zuiganji temple caves that are hollowed into a high natural stone cliff face, known as Unagi Zuka, which means ‘rest of sea eel’. Here, they used it for memorial services and a cinerarium, laying ashes of the deceased to rest and. Each cave, meant for different purposes, is differentiated by different religions, which evokes a sense of mysteriousness. Scattered around the bay are 260 small and large islands, which is a site not to be missed. Many islands could be seen from the land and accessible due to the connection of the bridges. As long as the time allows you, cruise trip around the islands will be highly recommended, which have various routes to choose from. Alternatively, there is a great view point on the Matsusima hills, where you can sit and enjoy a remarkable view over the bay and islands. Watching the sun set over the bay and islands, will be a perfect finish to your day!
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