City of the One-Eyed Dragon: A Complete Guide to Sendai's History, Scenery, Hot Springs, and Cuisine

Transportation Guide The most convenient way to reach Sendai is by taking the Tohoku Shinkansen "Hayabusa" from Tokyo, which takes approximately 1.5 hours to arrive at Sendai Station. For sightseeing within Sendai city, it is recommended to purchase the "Loople Sendai" sightseeing bus day pass, which costs only a few hundred yen and allows unlimited rides. The route covers major attractions such as Aoba Castle Ruins, Zuihoden, and Jozenji-dori Avenue, making it ideal for first-time visitors. If you wish to visit Matsushima, you can take the JR Senseki Line from Sendai Station, which takes about 40 minutes to reach Matsushima-Kaigan Station, where you can start your bay tour on foot. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Statue of Date Masamune and Aoba Castle Ruins The most iconic attraction in Sendai is the Aoba Castle Ruins located on Mount Aoba. From here, you can overlook the entire city of Sendai. The highlight is undoubtedly the equestrian statue of Date Masamune, symbolizing the "One-Eyed Dragon's" charisma and historical significance. Standing before the statue, you can feel the spirit of the Sengoku warrior and reflect on Sendai's glory as the capital of the Date clan. 2. Matsushima Renowned as one of Japan's "Three Most Scenic Spots," Matsushima is famous for its bay dotted with over 260 islands of varying sizes. A boat tour offers views reminiscent of ukiyo-e paintings, with scenery that changes with the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter. A stroll near Godaido and Zuiganji Temple provides a serene experience imbued with Zen and historical depth. 3. Jozenji-dori Avenue and the Pageant of Starlight (Winter Exclusive) If visiting in winter, don't miss Sendai's "Pageant of Starlight," where the entire Jozenji-dori Avenue is illuminated with a sea of lights. The romantic atmosphere attracts countless couples and photography enthusiasts. Recommended Hotels Onyado Nono Sendai Part of the Dormy Inn chain, this Japanese-style hot spring hotel features tatami flooring throughout, allowing guests to walk around comfortably without shoes. The hotel offers a large public bath with natural hot springs and serves complimentary late-night "Yonaki Soba" noodles, a service eagerly anticipated by many travelers. Located about a 10-minute walk from Sendai Station, it is convenient for both sightseeing and business. Highly recommended for those looking to experience traditional Japanese hospitality. Must-Try Local Cuisine 1. Sendai Gyutan (Beef Tongue) One of Sendai's specialties is thick-cut beef tongue. Recommended restaurants include "Rikyu" and "Zenjiro," where the smoky aroma from charcoal grilling and the chewy texture, paired with barley rice and oxtail soup, leave a lasting impression. 2. Sasakama (Bamboo Leaf Fish Cake) A local fish paste product shaped like a bamboo leaf, commonly found in souvenir shops. Freshly grilled sasakama is aromatic and has a firm texture. 3. Zunda Shake A sweet drink made from edamame, "zunda" is a Sendai specialty. The zunda shake from "Zunda Saryo" is particularly popular, offering a sweet yet refreshing taste. 4. Oyster Dishes Being close to Matsushima Bay, Sendai is also known for its oysters. Whether grilled, in hot pots, or served over rice, the oysters are plump and flavorful. Shopping Guide Shopping in Sendai is mainly concentrated around Sendai Station. The underground shopping streets "S-PAL" and "EBeanS" offer a wide range of options, from fashion to local souvenirs. Must-buy items include: • Hagi no Tsuki: Soft sponge cake filled with custard cream, with a delicate texture. • Vacuum-packed Gyutan: Convenient for sharing back home. • Zunda Mochi: A traditional treat combining sweet edamame paste and mochi. For a larger shopping experience, head to "Ichibancho Shopping Street," a bustling area in downtown Sendai filled with restaurants, clothing stores, and general merchandise shops. Summary Sendai is a city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. From the historical weight of the Date Masamune statue to the majestic Matsushima Bay and the relaxing hot spring experience at Onyado Nono, every step reveals the city's diverse charm. Coupled with delicacies like gyutan, zunda, and oysters, as well as a convenient shopping environment, Sendai offers a rich experience whether for a short visit or an in-depth exploration. For your next trip to the Tohoku region, consider starting your journey in Sendai for a memorable adventure filled with surprises and inspiration.