• Zuihoden - Also known as the Mausoleum of Date Masamune, the first lord of the Sendai Domain, Zuihoden is a testament to his architectural prowess, designed during the Momoyama Period. The site features stunning wood carvings and artwork, and visitors can enjoy a stroll through the grounds shaded by beautiful cedar trees, symbolizing the Date family’s longevity.

• Sendai Castle Guidance House - The ruins of Sendai Castle inspired the famous Japanese poem ‘The Moon Over the Desolate Castle,’ reflecting their current state. A model of the original gate offers a glimpse into the castle’s past. A small museum provides insights into the castle’s history, though Sendai is not renowned for having a complete or grand castle. Other cities may offer more impressive options.

• SS30 - For the best views in Sendai, visit the SS 30 Observation Lounge. This office building features two observation decks on the 29th and 30th floors, offering free panoramic views of Sendai. Visit in the morning or late afternoon for optimal photo opportunities.

• Chiteinomori Museum - The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth explores Japan’s Stone Age. Visitors can learn about the Saki Stone Age and the excavation of the Tomizawa Ruins. With numerous galleries, it’s the ideal place to delve into the 20,000-year history of the Saki Stone Age.

• Kirin Beer Sendai Factory - Discover Kirin’s unique production methods and the secret to its delicious taste on the KIRIN ICHIBAN brewery tour. Reservations are required, so please ask your guide to book in advance.

• Matsushima Bay - Just 30 minutes from Sendai, Matsushima (松島) is renowned for its bay, dotted with pine-clad islets, and is one of Japan’s three most scenic views. The town is also home to Zuiganji, a significant Zen temple in the Tohoku Region. Despite the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, Matsushima’s protected location spared it from major damage, and most attractions reopened shortly after.

• Zuiganji - Zuiganji (瑞巌寺) is a prominent Zen temple in the Tohoku Region, famous for its gilded and painted sliding doors (fusuma). Founded in 828 as a Tendai sect temple, it became a Zen temple during the Kamakura Period. Restored by Date Masamune in 1609, it serves as his family temple.

• Fukuurajima - Fukuura Island (福浦島, Fukuurajima) is one of the few publicly accessible pine-covered islands in Matsushima Bay. A 252-meter-long red bridge, costing 200 yen round trip, connects the island. The bridge was repaired after the 2011 tsunami.

• Entsu-in Temple - Built in 1647 next to Zuiganji Temple, Entsuin Temple (円通院, Entsūin) houses the mausoleum of Date Mitsumune, son of feudal lord Date Terumune. Dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, the temple mourns Mitsumune’s untimely death at 19.

• Kanrantei - Kanrantei (観瀾亭) is a Momoyama-style tea house originally built in Kyoto by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and gifted to Date Masamune. It was later moved to its current location overlooking Matsushima Bay. “Kanrantei” means “place to view ripples on water,” reflecting its scenic views.

• Godaido - Godaido (五大堂, Godaidō) is a small temple hall on an islet near the pier, symbolizing Matsushima. Built in 807, it houses five statues enshrined by the founder of nearby Zuiganji. The statues are displayed to the public every 33 years, last shown in 2006.

• Oshima - Matsushima - Oshima (雄島) is a small, pine-covered island near Matsushima’s pier, accessible via a short, free bridge. The island offers pleasant walks, small shrines, and viewpoints. Once a monk retreat, it features decorated meditation caves. The bridge was rebuilt after the 2011 tsunami.

• Sendai City Museum - Located in the Sannomaru enclosure on Sendai Castle’s site, the Sendai City Museum preserves and exhibits cultural assets donated by the Date family. It houses documents from the Keicho mission to Europe, including a national treasure portrait of Hasekura Tsunenaga, and Edo period collections related to Sendai.

• Shiogama Shrine - Shiogama Jinja (鹽竈神社) is a Shinto shrine in Shiogama, Miyagi Prefecture. Known since the ninth century, fifteen of its buildings are Important Cultural Properties. It is the head shrine of hundreds of Shiogama shrines across Japan.

• Shiogama City Fish Market - Established in 1965, this large market features over 100 seafood stalls offering fresh fish, processed marine products, and salted and dried seafood. Located next to Shiogama Port, it receives daily fresh fish hauls. (Closed on Wednesdays)

• Shiogama - Situated in Miyagi Prefecture, Shiogama is near the Tohoku region’s center, about 16 km from Sendai. The city includes Chiganoura (Shiogama Bay), part of Matsushima’s scenic bay. The Urakasumi brewery, famous for sake, is in the Motomachi area. The Former Kamei Residence, with its historical architecture, is worth a visit.

• Osaki Hachiman Shrine - Osaki Hachimangū, a National Treasure in Sendai, showcases stunning Momoyama-style architecture with intricate wood carvings and vibrant lacquer. Built by warlord Date Masamune in 1607, it is a significant historical site and a designated National Treasure of Japan.

• Mitakisan Fudoin - Mitakisan Fudoin is a Buddhist temple in Sendai, Japan, founded in 1865 by nun Kato Tane to pray for healing eye diseases. It enshrines Fudo Myo-o, a deity believed to protect eyesight and offer spiritual support. Located in a bustling shopping area, it attracts visitors seeking good fortune, safety, and success.

• Tohoku History Museum - Located in Tagajō City, Miyagi Prefecture, the Tohoku History Museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s history from the Paleolithic era to modern times. Its main exhibition hall is divided into nine chronological sections, showcasing artifacts and cultural materials that highlight the region’s unique heritage.

• Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Sendai
• Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 2-3 sites from ‘What to expect’ list

• Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
• Private transportation
• You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
• Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

Experience the best of Sendai and Matsushima with this exciting tour, conducted by a knowledgeable, multilingual guide licensed by the government.

Sendai is not just a gateway to the country’s untamed landscapes – secluded mountains, rugged coasts, and isolated islands; it’s also one of Japan’s most modern, sophisticated cities boasting an unexpected, challenging culinary scene.

Let us know your interests, and we’ll tailor a four-hour tour to perfectly fit your preferences!

Note1: Choose your must-visit places from the list provided in the tour details to customize your tour plan.
Note2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter is a credential delivered by the Japanese government, warranting the recipient’s substantial understanding and knowledge of Japanese culture and history.

• This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.