Exploring Sendai & Surrounds

#Sendai.

Perhaps not as lively as Tokyo or Osaka, still the city of Sendai has plenty to keep one occupied without being inundated by massive crowds. It is also an ideal base for exploring not only the Miyagi Prefecture but also the neighbouring Yamagata and Iwate Prefectures, making it an excellent place to spend a few days.

Highlights: Aoba Castle Ruins, Osaki Hachiman Shrine, Zuihoden (pictured), Sendai Toshogu Shrine, Tsutsujigaoka Tenmangu Shrine, SS30 Observation Lobby (free observation deck in the SS30 Building), AER Observation Terrace (free observation tower in the AER building - take lift to level 31).

#Daytrips from Sendai.

Looking to get out of the city for a while? The following places may appeal to you.

1. Matsushima:

Increasingly popular with day-trippers, Matsushima is best visited in the early morning when early risers can enjoy the bay and its many islands bathed in the glow of the early morning sun.

Journey Duration: From Sendai Station take the train to Matsushimakaigan Station. The trip will take around 40 minutes and there is no need to transfer.
Highlights: Matsushima Shoreline, Oshima Island (via Togetsukyo Bridge), Godaido of Zuiganji Temple, Fukuurajima Island (via Fukuurabashi Bridge), Zuiganji Temple, Entsuin (pictured), and Matsushima Retro Museum.
Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass can be used for this journey.
Sightseeing cruises: The following website offers reservations in English
https://www.marubun-kisen.com/english/reservations/index.html

2. Hiraizumi.

If temples and teahouses set within picturesque landscapes sound appealing, the town of Hiraizumi will not disappoint. Accessible within one hour by train, Hiraizumi is an ideal place to decompress. The city of Morioka, known for its cherry blossoms and Autumn colours, can be reached in under an hour from Hiraizumi.

Journey Duration: From Sendai Station to Ichinoseki Station the Shinkansen takes around 30 minutes then just under ten minutes onto Hiraizumi.
Highlights - Hiraizumi: Motsuji Temple, Kumanosansha, Muryoko-in Ato, Chūsonji Temple (pictured), and Hiraizumi Rest House.
Highlights - Morioka: Morioka-jo Castle Park, Sakurayama Shrine, Ishiwashizakura (Rock-Splitting Cherry Tree), Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building, Morioka Tenmangu Shrine, and Morioka Hachimangu Shrine.
Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is valid for the entire journey between Sendai, Hiraizumi, and Morioka.

3. Yamagata.

The city of Yamagata, offering plenty of sightseeing opportunities, is another excellent day trip option for those staying in Sendai.

Journey Duration: Local trains run between Sendai and Yamagata Stations taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Those headed to Yonezawa can ride the Shinkansen (change at Fukushima) which will take just over an hour.
Highlights - JR Yamagata Station: Old Saiseikan Hospital Building, Kajo Park, Yamagata Castle Ruins, Water Town Shop Nanukamachi 5 Stores (pictured), Yamagata Folk Museum Bunshokan, Yudonosan Shrine, Yamagata prefecture Gokoku shrine, Momiji Park.
Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is valid for travel between Sendai and Yamagata.

4. Yonezawa.

Home of the world renowned Yonezawa Beef, the historic castle town of Yonezawa makes for the perfect escape from the bustling city of Sendai.

Journey Duration: Yonezawa Station can be reached by Shinkansen from Sendai in just over an hour (change at Fukushima).
Highlights - JR Minami-Yonezawa Station: Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum, Toko Sake Museum, Yonezawa Castle Ruins, Uesugi Shrine, Mausoleum of the Uesugi Family, Sasano Mingeikan, Sasanodera Temple (pictured), Yamagata University Engineering Department.
Rail Pass: The JR Rail Pass is valid for travel on this journey.