top things to do in Sendai japan

Introduction : Top Things to Do in Sendai

Hey there, fellow Japan enthusiasts! Looking for your next adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun that’s off the typical Tokyo-Kyoto tourist trail? Let me introduce you to Sendai, the stunning “City of Trees” that completely stole my heart during my three-week exploration of northern Japan. This vibrant city offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and mouth-watering cuisine that’ll have you wondering why it isn’t on more travelers’ radar. Ready to discover some hidden gems? Let’s dive into the best things to do in this underrated Japanese destination!

Explore the Magnificent Zuihoden Mausoleum

Ever wandered through a forest where history and nature create something magical? That’s exactly what you’ll experience at Zuihoden Mausoleum, the ornate final resting place of Date Masamune, the legendary “One-Eyed Dragon” who founded Sendai in 1601.

The approach to this historical treasure takes you through a cedar-lined path that creates an atmosphere of peaceful reverence. I visited on a misty morning, and let me tell you, the combination of ancient cedar trees, colorful pagoda-style buildings, and swirling fog created an almost mystical experience.

The mausoleum itself showcases the elaborate architectural style of the Momoyama period with its brilliant colors and intricate wood carvings. Take your time walking around the main structure and the smaller mausoleums that house other Date clan members.

The modest entrance fee (about 570 yen) is absolutely worth it for the cultural significance and photographic opportunities. Pro tip: visit during autumn when the surrounding maples transform into a canvas of reds and golds against the mausoleum’s vibrant colors.

Discover the History at Sendai Castle Ruins (Aoba Castle)

Perched atop a hill overlooking the entire city, the ruins of Sendai Castle offer the best panoramic views you’ll find anywhere in the region. While the original castle was destroyed during WWII bombing raids, the stone foundation walls, guard towers, and a replica of the iconic statue of Date Masamune on horseback make this site worth visiting.

I spent a good hour just sitting on one of the benches, taking in the spectacular view of the city stretching out to the Pacific Ocean. The way Sendai’s modern skyline contrasts with the surrounding mountains creates a perfect photo opportunity that captures the essence of contemporary Japan rooted in its historical past.

The museum on site provides fascinating insights into the castle’s original design and the strategic brilliance of Masamune’s defensive planning. Seriously, this guy was the medieval equivalent of a military genius with an eye for real estate (pun absolutely intended – he famously had only one eye!).

The hill is accessible by bus, car, or if you’re feeling energetic, a moderately challenging hike from downtown. I opted for the hike and was rewarded with beautiful shrines and garden views along the way.

Stroll Through the Refreshing Greenery of Nishi Park

Need a break from sightseeing? Nishi Park offers a gorgeous escape right in the heart of the city. This spacious urban park showcases why Sendai earned its nickname as the “City of Trees.”

During cherry blossom season (late April in Sendai), this park transforms into one of the region’s most spectacular hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots. I unfortunately missed sakura season, but even in early summer, the park’s 600+ cherry trees created a lush green canopy that provided perfect relief from the June sunshine.

The park includes several smaller gardens, walking paths, and open spaces where locals practice tai chi in the mornings. I spent a delightful afternoon here with a convenience store bento box, people-watching and recharging before my next adventure.

FYI, the park also houses the Sendai City Museum nearby, which contains an impressive collection of Date clan artifacts if you’re hungry for more local history.

Sample the Infamous Gyutan (Beef Tongue)

Okay, I know what you’re thinking – beef tongue doesn’t exactly sound like a culinary delight. But trust me on this one: Sendai’s signature dish of thinly sliced, grilled beef tongue will convert even the most skeptical eaters!

Sendai is the birthplace of gyutan, and the restaurants here have perfected this local specialty. The tongue is usually served with mugi-gohan (barley rice), oxtail soup, and pickled vegetables, creating a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly delicious.

Aji-Tasuke is considered one of the original gyutan restaurants, but I actually preferred Umami Tasuke, where the tongue was perfectly seasoned and grilled to tender, juicy perfection. The slight char combined with the meat’s natural richness created a flavor profile I’m still dreaming about months later.

If you’re really not convinced about the tongue (though you should be!), Sendai offers plenty of other culinary delights, including incredible sushi featuring fresh seafood from the nearby coast.

Get Hands-On at the Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium

Whether you’re traveling with kids or you’re just a marine enthusiast like me, the Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium deserves a spot on your itinerary. Located in the Port of Sendai, this modern facility showcases the rich marine ecosystems of the Sanriku Coast.

What makes this aquarium special is its focus on interactive experiences. The touch pools let you get hands-on with starfish, sea cucumbers, and other tide pool creatures. I spent an embarrassingly long time at these exhibits, channeling my inner child as I gently touched the surprisingly soft skin of a sea urchin.

The dolphin and sea lion shows are entertaining without feeling exploitative, and the massive panoramic tank replicating the Sanriku Coast ecosystem made me appreciate the biodiversity of northern Japan’s waters.

The aquarium also includes sobering but important exhibits about the 2011 tsunami’s impact on marine life and ongoing conservation efforts. It’s a thoughtful touch that connects visitors to the region’s recent history and environmental challenges.

Experience the Spectacular Tanabata Festival

If you can plan your visit for early August, you’ll witness one of Japan’s most impressive festivals. Sendai’s Tanabata Festival transforms the downtown shopping arcades into magical tunnels of vibrant paper decorations that hang from the ceiling like colorful stalactites.

During my visit, I was absolutely blown away by the scale and artistry of these decorations. Local businesses and community groups spend months creating massive origami displays, paper kimonos, and traditional streamers, some reaching nearly 10 meters in length!

The festival commemorates the legend of two star-crossed lovers (represented by the stars Vega and Altair) who can meet only once a year. Throughout the city, you’ll find food stalls selling festival treats, traditional dance performances, and a parade that shows off the most impressive decorations.

Even if you miss the main festival dates, smaller Tanabata celebrations occur throughout summer, and some shopping areas display decorations year-round.

Hike the Scenic Trails of Matsushima Bay

Just a 30-minute train ride from Sendai lies one of Japan’s “Three Great Views” – the pine-covered islands of Matsushima Bay. This scenic area features over 260 small islands dotted across a calm blue bay, creating a landscape that has inspired poets and artists for centuries.

The best way to experience Matsushima is to combine a cruise around the islands with hiking the network of coastal trails that offer different perspectives of this natural wonder. I recommend starting with the 50-minute sightseeing cruise to get oriented, then spending the afternoon exploring on foot.

Don’t miss Godaido Temple, accessible by a small red bridge, and Zuiganji Temple with its fascinating meditation caves carved into the cliff face. The path connecting these temples is lined with centuries-old cedar trees that create a serene atmosphere.

For the best views, hike up to the Saigyo Modoshi no Matsu Park viewpoint. The uphill climb takes about 15-20 minutes, but the panoramic vista of the entire bay is absolutely worth the effort. I timed my visit for sunset and watched the islands transform into silhouettes against the golden sky – easily one of my top Japan memories.

Shop and Snack Along the Covered Arcades

Sendai’s downtown area features several covered shopping arcades that stretch for blocks, offering protection from rain or summer heat while you explore local shops and eateries.

Ichibancho and Clis Road are the main shopping streets, hosting everything from major Japanese department stores to quirky local boutiques. I spent a rainy afternoon happily browsing through shops selling traditional crafts, modern Japanese fashion, and specialty food items that make perfect souvenirs.

The arcades also house dozens of small restaurants and food stalls where you can sample local specialties. Beyond the famous gyutan, try zunda mochi (sweet mochi with edamame paste) for a tasty treat unique to the region. My personal addiction became zunda milkshakes – creamy vanilla blended with sweet edamame. Sounds weird, tastes amazing!

Visit the Impressive Sendai City Museum

History buffs, this one’s for you! The Sendai City Museum houses an impressive collection that traces the city’s development from ancient times through the Date clan era to the present day.

The star attractions are original artifacts from Date Masamune’s life, including his famous crescent-moon helmet and armor. Seeing these items up close gives you a real appreciation for the craftsmanship of the era and the imposing figure Masamune must have cut on the battlefield.

The museum also displays beautiful screens depicting Sendai in the Edo period, ancient pottery from the region, and fascinating exhibits on daily life throughout different eras. English explanations are somewhat limited, but the visual displays communicate across language barriers.

I recommend visiting the museum before exploring other historical sites in Sendai, as it provides valuable context that enhances the rest of your sightseeing.

Soak in Akiu Onsen

After days of urban exploration, treat yourself to a relaxing retreat at Akiu Onsen, just 30 minutes from central Sendai by bus. This hot spring resort area is beloved by locals but often overlooked by foreign tourists.

The mineral-rich waters here are said to help with everything from skin conditions to muscle pain, but honestly, I just enjoyed the blissful experience of soaking in outdoor pools while surrounded by forested hills. The combination of hot water and cool forest air creates a sensory experience that epitomizes relaxation.

Many of the ryokan (traditional inns) offer day-use packages if you’re not staying overnight, allowing you to enjoy their baths and often including a meal. I spent half a day at Sakan, one of the oldest ryokan in the area, where the outdoor stone baths offered beautiful views of the changing autumn leaves.

If you have time, the nearby Rairaikyo Gorge offers a scenic hiking trail along the river with impressive rock formations and small waterfalls – perfect for working up an appetite before a traditional kaiseki dinner.

Enjoy Local Sake Tasting

The Miyagi Prefecture surrounding Sendai produces some of Japan’s finest sake, thanks to its clean water sources and high-quality rice. No visit to the region would be complete without sampling some of these local brews!

Sake bars in downtown Sendai offer tasting flights that let you compare different styles, from light and fragrant to rich and full-bodied. I particularly enjoyed Tsukinowa Shuzo, a small bar where the knowledgeable staff provided English explanations of the brewing process and flavor profiles.

For a more immersive experience, take a short trip to the Urakasumi Sake Brewery in nearby Shiogama. Their guided tours show the traditional brewing methods, and yes, they conclude with tastings of their award-winning products. IMO, their junmai daiginjo is worth buying an extra suitcase to bring home!

Whether you’re a sake connoisseur or a curious beginner, Sendai offers a perfect introduction to Japan’s national beverage in a region where quality and tradition remain paramount.

Sendai might not have the international fame of Tokyo or Kyoto, but that’s precisely what makes it special. This vibrant city offers authentic experiences, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage without the overwhelming crowds of Japan’s major tourist hubs.

From the historical legacy of Date Masamune to the natural splendor of Matsushima Bay, from culinary adventures with gyutan to peaceful moments in tree-lined parks, Sendai rewards travelers who venture beyond the standard Japanese itinerary. The next time you’re planning a trip to Japan, give yourself at least three days to explore this northeastern gem – you won’t regret it!

Have you visited Sendai or are you planning a trip to Tohoku region? What aspects of this green city intrigue you most? Whatever your interests, I guarantee Sendai has something special waiting for you to discover!