Are you looking for a two-day trip that combines natural beauty with a bustling city? Look no further than Matsushima and Sendai in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. This video by japan-guide.com takes you on an exciting journey, starting with an overnight bus ride from Narita Airport to Matsushima. On the first day, you’ll explore the Shiogama area, known for its fish market and shrine, take a scenic cruise through Matsushima Bay, and explore the charming port town of Matsushima. The second day will take you to Sendai, where you’ll visit famous spots like Zuihoden and Sendai Castle ruins, and indulge in the local specialties of this vibrant city. Join Raina Ong, the host and narrator, as she shares her experiences and discoveries on this captivating two-day adventure.
Miyagi Prefecture offers visitors the perfect combination of natural beauty and culinary delights. From the stunning views of Matsushima Bay, one of the top three scenic views in Japan, to the bustling city of Sendai, there is something for everyone in this two-day trip. Raina Ong, a staff writer for japan-guide.com, takes you on a journey starting from Narita Airport, where she boards an overnight bus to Matsushima. From there, she explores the Shiogama area, visits the Shiogama Fish Market and Shrine, takes a sightseeing cruise through Matsushima Bay, and discovers the historic Zuiganji Temple. On the second day, Raina travels to Sendai, where she visits the Zuihoden Mausoleum, explores the Sendai Castle ruins, and enjoys the vibrant downtown shopping district. Join Raina as she immerses herself in the beauty and culture of Matsushima and Sendai.
2 Day Trip to Matsushima & Sendai
Welcome to your comprehensive guide on a two-day trip to Matsushima and Sendai! In this article, we will explore the picturesque coastal town of Matsushima and the bustling city of Sendai. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, savor delicious seafood, and explore historical landmarks. So grab your bags and let’s begin!
Day 1
Arrival at Narita Airport
Your journey begins at Narita Airport, where you have arrived after a long flight. Take a moment to stretch your legs and prepare for an exciting adventure in Miyagi Prefecture.
Overnight bus to Matsushima
To make the most of your time, you will take an overnight bus from Narita Airport to Matsushima. This convenient and comfortable option allows you to rest during the journey and arrive in Matsushima ready to explore.
Train to Shiogama
Upon your arrival in Matsushima, hop on a train to Shiogama, a charming coastal town known for its fish market and shrine. The train ride offers scenic views of the beautiful coastline, setting the stage for the wonders you are about to experience.
Breakfast at Shiogama Fish Market
Start your day with a visit to Shiogama Fish Market, which opens early in the morning. Here, you can savor the freshest seafood and create your own seafood bowl. Explore the market stalls and indulge in the abundance of flavors from the sea.
Visit Shiogama Shrine
After breakfast, make your way to Shiogama Shrine, a significant shrine in the region with over 1000 years of history. Marvel at the beautiful architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this popular sightseeing spot.
Sightseeing cruise from Shiogama to Matsushima
Embark on a scenic sightseeing cruise from Shiogama back to Matsushima. This pleasant cruise takes you through Matsushima Bay, allowing you to admire the numerous pine-covered islands that dot the bay. Take in the breathtaking views and feel the gentle sea breeze on your face.
Explore Zuiganji Temple
Upon arrival in Matsushima, head straight to Zuiganji Temple, one of the area’s most important and famous zen temples. Originally established in the 9th century, the buildings you see today were built in 1609 by the feudal lord Date Masamune. Explore the temple grounds, including the main hall, museum, and caves, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.
Lunch at a seafood restaurant
Treat yourself to a delicious seafood lunch at a popular restaurant in Matsushima. Sample two of Matsushima’s seafood specialties: Anago (saltwater eel) served on rice and oysters, both grilled and raw. Indulge in the rich flavors and savor the freshness of the local seafood.
Visit Godaido Hall
Next, visit Godaido Hall, which holds the symbol of Matsushima Bay due to its prime location. This small hall offers a stunning view of the bay and is a well-visited attraction in the area. Take some time to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings and capture memorable photos.
Explore Fukuura Island
Conclude your day of exploration by visiting Fukuura Island, one of the few islands connected to the mainland by a bridge. Follow the walking trails and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this island. Take in the serene atmosphere and enjoy the peacefulness of your surroundings.
Day 2
Travel to Sendai by train
On the second day of your trip, travel to Sendai, the largest city in Miyagi Prefecture, by train. Relax and enjoy the journey as you make your way to this bustling urban destination.
Take the Loople Sendai bus
Upon arrival in Sendai, hop on the sightseeing Loople bus, a convenient way to explore the city. This bus takes you to many famous spots, allowing you to easily navigate and experience the highlights of Sendai.
Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum
The first stop on your bus tour is Zuihoden, the mausoleum of Date Masamune, the first feudal lord of Sendai. Marvel at the magnificent architecture and explore the spacious grounds. Discover other buildings and pay respect to the tombs of Date Masamune’s descendants, who were also feudal lords of Sendai.
Explore Sendai Castle ruins
Next, continue your exploration by visiting the Sendai Castle ruins. While the castle itself is no longer standing, the foundations remain, offering a glimpse into the historical significance of this site. Take a peaceful stroll across the grounds and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Shopping in downtown Sendai
After immersing yourself in history, head to downtown Sendai, the heart of the city. Explore the many shopping streets, including one of the largest shopping arcades in the Tohoku Region. Indulge in some retail therapy and discover unique souvenirs to take home.
Try Sendai’s local specialties
No trip to Sendai is complete without tasting the city’s local specialties. Sample Zunda, a sweet edamame paste that is a Sendai delicacy. Enjoy it in various forms, such as with mochi, and savor the unique flavors. Another must-try is Gyutan, or grilled cow’s tongue, a famous dish in Sendai. Experience the rich flavors of this sliced beef dish, typically served with beef soup and a bowl of rice.
Conclusion
As your two-day trip to Matsushima and Sendai comes to an end, reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you have made. Whether it was exploring historical temples, savoring fresh seafood, or immersing yourself in the vibrant city life of Sendai, this journey showcased the best of both coastal beauty and city charm. From here, you can continue your stay in Sendai, return to Narita Airport by the overnight bus, or embark on further adventures in other parts of Japan. Thank you for joining us on this trip, and we hope you had a delightful and fulfilling experience in Matsushima and Sendai.