Sendai

Discover Sendai: The City of Trees – A Travel Guide

Explore the vibrant city of Sendai, Japan, known as the “City of Trees” for its lush greenery and rich history. Nestled in the heart of Miyagi Prefecture, Sendai offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. From serene gardens to bustling shopping streets, prepare for an unforgettable journey. Discover the best things to do, what to eat, and where to stay in Sendai.

  • Country and State: Japan, Miyagi Prefecture
  • Timezone: GMT +9
  • Languages Spoken: Japanese
  • Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
  • Weather/Climate Snapshot:
    • Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, cherry blossoms. Perfect time to visit for cherry blossom viewing.
    • Summer (June-August): Warm and humid, occasional rain. Expect comfortable weather.
    • Autumn (September-November): Cool and pleasant, colorful foliage. Best for fall foliage viewing.
    • Winter (December-February): Cold, with occasional snow. Experience snow.

Planning Your Trip to Sendai

City Overview: Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture

Sendai, the capital of Miyagi Prefecture, is often called the “City of Trees” due to its abundance of green spaces. A modern metropolis with a relaxed atmosphere, Sendai boasts a fascinating history dating back to the Edo period, when it was ruled by the powerful Date clan. Today, the city is a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and education. Visitors can explore well-preserved historical sites, enjoy world-class cuisine, and immerse themselves in the warmth and hospitality of the local people. The Hirosegawa River meanders through the city, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities. The city’s efficient transportation system makes it easy to explore all that Sendai has to offer, from its vibrant downtown core to its peaceful surrounding hills. Find Hotels, Restaurants, Activities and more.

Best Time to Visit Sendai for Sightseeing

  • Spring (March-May):
    • Pros: Cherry blossoms in full bloom, mild temperatures, pleasant atmosphere.
    • Cons: Can be crowded during peak cherry blossom season, occasional rainfall.
  • Autumn (September-November):
    • Pros: Beautiful autumn foliage, comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds than spring.
    • Cons: Typhoon season can bring heavy rain and wind.

How to Get to Sendai & Visa Requirements

  • Flights: Sendai Airport (SDJ) serves domestic and international flights. Direct flights are available from several Asian cities. Check flight prices and book your flights online.
  • Trains: The JR Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) connects Sendai to Tokyo in approximately 1.5 – 2 hours. Book your Japan Rail Pass for cost-effective travel.
  • Visa Details: Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. Check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.
  • Airport Transfers: Airport Limousine buses and trains provide convenient transportation to Sendai Station. Taxis are also available. Pre-book your airport transfer for a hassle-free arrival.

Explore Sendai’s History & Culture

Fun/Historical Fact or Story

Legend says that Date Masamune, the founder of Sendai, strategically planted trees around the city to provide a natural defense and to enhance its beauty, contributing to its enduring nickname, “The City of Trees.”

Famous Personalities from this city

Yuzuru Hanyu, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in figure skating, hails from Sendai. His achievements have brought immense pride to the city.

Top Attractions & Things to Do in Sendai

Top 10 Attractions

  • Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle): Historic castle ruins offering panoramic city views. Address: 1 Kawauchi, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0862, Japan
  • Zuihoden Mausoleum: Ornate mausoleum complex dedicated to Date Masamune and his successors. Address: 23-2 Sakashita, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0814, Japan
  • Rinno-ji Temple: Serene temple with a beautiful Japanese garden. Address: 14-1 Kitayama, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 981-0908, Japan
  • Sendai Mediatheque: Modern architectural marvel housing a library, gallery, and media center. Address: 2-1 Kasuga-cho, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0821, Japan
  • Jozenji-dori Avenue: Tree-lined boulevard perfect for strolling and enjoying the city’s atmosphere. Address: Jozenji-dori, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
  • Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium): Amazing aquarium showcasing the aquatic life of the Tohoku region. Address: 4-6 Nakano, Miyagino Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 983-0013, Japan
  • Hirosegawa River: Scenic river offering walking paths and recreational opportunities. Address: Varies, runs through Sendai City
  • Osaki Hachiman Shrine: National Treasure shrine with intricate architectural details. Address: 4-6-1 Hachiman, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0871, Japan
  • Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port: Large outlet mall with a variety of international and domestic brands. Address: 3-7-155 Nakano, Miyagino Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 983-0013, Japan
  • Sendai City Museum: Museum showcasing the history and culture of Sendai. Address: 26-2 Kawauchi, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0862, Japan

Hidden Gems in Sendai

  • Kotodai Park: A large park with beautiful flower gardens and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a picnic. Address: 3-9 Honcho, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0014, Japan
  • Sakunami Onsen: A hot spring resort town located a short distance from Sendai, offering a relaxing escape from the city. Address: Sakunami, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan (Specific ryokan addresses vary). Book your onsen experience in advance.

Local Festivals & Events in Sendai

  • Sendai Tanabata Festival (August 6-8): A vibrant festival with colorful paper decorations adorning the city.
  • Sendai Pageant of Starlight (December): Illuminations transforming Jozenji-dori Avenue into a winter wonderland.

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions from Sendai

  • Matsushima Bay (approx. 30 minutes by train): Scenic bay dotted with pine-covered islands, considered one of Japan’s three most scenic views. Book a boat tour of Matsushima Bay.
  • Yamagata City (approx. 1 hour by train): Home to Yamadera Temple, perched on a mountainside with stunning views.
  • Hiraizumi (approx. 1 hour by train): UNESCO World Heritage site featuring temples and gardens from the Heian period.

Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places in Sendai

  • Sendai Castle Ruins: Panoramic city views, especially beautiful during sunset.
  • Zuihoden Mausoleum: Ornate architectural details and serene garden settings.
  • Jozenji-dori Avenue: Tree-lined avenue with seasonal illuminations.
  • Matsushima Bay: Scenic views of pine-covered islands from observation points or boat cruises.

Plan Your Stay: Hotels & Transportation in Sendai

Recommended no of days of stay

3-4 days is ideal to experience Sendai’s main attractions and surrounding areas.

Top Places to Stay in Sendai

Budget Hotels in Sendai

  • Khaosan Sendai Station Hostel: 2-2-11, Tsutsujigaoka, Miyagino Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 983-0852, Japan.
  • Guest House Umebachi: 1-13-18, Itsutsubashi, Wakabayashi Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 984-0032, Japan.
  • Hotel Bellino Sendai: 4-7-28, Tsutsujigaoka, Miyagino Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 983-0852, Japan.

Mid-Range Hotels in Sendai

  • Hotel Metropolitan Sendai: 1-1-1 Chuo, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8477, Japan.
  • Mitsui Garden Hotel Sendai: 2-1-10 Chuo, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0021, Japan.
  • Daiwa Roynet Hotel Sendai: 1-1-10 Chuo, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0021, Japan.
  • Richmond Hotel Premier Sendai Ekimae: 1-1-3 Chuo, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0021, Japan.

Luxury Hotels in Sendai

  • Sendai Royal Park Hotel: 6-2-1 Tsurugaya, Izumi Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 981-3224, Japan.
  • Park Westin Sendai: 1-8-1 Ichibancho, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8487, Japan.

Getting Around Sendai: Transportation Options

  • Public Transport: Sendai Subway and city buses provide comprehensive coverage. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel. Suica and Pasmo cards are also accepted.
  • Taxis: Readily available, but can be more expensive than public transport. Use a ride-hailing app for convenience.
  • Bikes: Rental bikes are a great way to explore the city’s parks and riverside paths.
  • Walking Tips: Many attractions are within walking distance of Sendai Station.

Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Sendai

What to Pack for Your Trip to Sendai

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for exploring the city’s attractions.
  • Appropriate clothing: Layers are recommended, as the weather can change quickly. Check the weather forecast before you pack!
  • Rain gear: Especially during the rainy season (June-July) and typhoon season (September-October).
  • Universal adapter: Japan uses Type A and B plugs.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card: For staying connected. Rent a pocket wifi.

Useful Apps for Your Trip to Sendai

  • Google Maps: For navigation.
  • Japan Official Travel App: Comprehensive travel guide.
  • NAVITIME: Public transport navigation.
  • Google Translate: For language assistance.

Local Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquettes in Sendai

  • Do’s:
    • Learn a few basic Japanese phrases (hello, thank you, excuse me).
    • Remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants.
    • Bow as a sign of respect.
    • Slurping noodles is acceptable and even encouraged.
  • Don’ts:
    • Talk loudly on public transportation.
    • Tip in restaurants or taxis (it’s not expected).
    • Litter.
    • Cross your chopsticks when not using them.

Food, Fun & Finds: What to Eat & Buy in Sendai

Top Restaurants in Sendai

  • Gyutan Sumiyaki Rikyū: Famous for its grilled beef tongue (gyutan), a Sendai specialty. Address: Multiple locations throughout Sendai.
  • Kisuke: Another popular gyutan restaurant. Address: Multiple locations throughout Sendai.
  • Sushi Tetsu: Fresh and delicious sushi. Address: 2-11-10 Ichibancho, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0811, Japan

Must-Try Dishes in Sendai

  • Gyutan (Grilled Beef Tongue): A Sendai specialty, often served with barley rice and oxtail soup.
  • Zunda Mochi (Sweet Soybean Paste Mochi): Mochi covered in a sweet green soybean paste.
  • Harako Meshi (Salmon Roe and Rice): A local dish made with salmon and salmon roe served over rice.
  • Kaki (Oysters): Miyagi Prefecture is known for its delicious oysters, especially during the winter months.

Nightlife & Entertainment in Sendai

  • Kokubuncho: Sendai’s main entertainment district, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. Address: Kokubuncho, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
  • Live Music Venues: Several venues throughout the city host local and international artists.

What to Buy in Sendai: Souvenirs & Local Products

  • Kokeshi Dolls: Traditional wooden dolls from the Tohoku region. Available at souvenir shops throughout Sendai.
  • Shiogama Oysters: Fresh oysters from the nearby Shiogama Bay. Available at local markets.
  • Zunda Sweets: Sweets made with the local zunda (sweet soybean paste) – cookies, cakes, and more!

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