2025 Miyagi Prefecture Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Miyagi, located in the heart of Japan's Tohoku region, is a prefecture that beautifully blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern attractions. From its stunning coastal landscapes to its historic sites and vibrant city life, Miyagi offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveler. The prefecture's capital, Sendai, known as the "City of Trees," is a bustling metropolis with a rich history. Visitors can explore the Sendai Castle ruins, offering panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into its samurai past. The Zuihoden Mausoleum, the resting place of the famous samurai lord Date Masamune, showcases exquisite Momoyama architecture amidst a tranquil forest setting. Miyagi's coastline, part of the Sanriku Coast, is renowned for its rugged beauty and scenic spots like Matsushima Bay, considered one of Japan's three most scenic views. The bay is dotted with over 260 pine-covered islands, creating a breathtaking landscape that can be enjoyed from observation points, boat tours, or by visiting the historic temples and gardens in the area. Nature lovers will also appreciate the mountainous areas of Miyagi, particularly the Zao Mountain Range. The stunning Okama Crater Lake, with its vibrant blue and green hues, is a must-see, and the Zao Onsen hot springs provide a relaxing retreat with views of the surrounding peaks. Miyagi's cultural heritage is celebrated in its numerous festivals and events. The Sendai Tanabata Festival, one of Japan's largest and most famous festivals, features elaborate paper decorations and lively parades in early August. The prefecture is also known for its traditional crafts, including Sendai tansu (lacquered chests) and kokeshi dolls. Culinary delights in Miyagi include fresh seafood from the Pacific Ocean, such as oysters and sashimi, as well as local specialties like gyutan (grilled beef tongue) and zunda mochi (sweet edamame paste over rice cakes). Sake enthusiasts will find a variety of excellent local brews to enjoy. Whether you're exploring historic sites, savoring local cuisine, or marveling at natural wonders, Miyagi promises a memorable journey filled with rich experiences and beautiful scenery. #japantrip #travelanywhere

The cherry blossoms at Matsune Temple in Miyagi Prefecture usually bloom in mid-April. The temple's most distinguishing feature in spring is the opportunity to enjoy both the Japanese temple architecture and the cherry blossoms blooming around it. Notably, Matsune Temple also offers seating, allowing visitors to comfortably appreciate the beauty of spring in Sendai. In addition, the temple is not far from Tsutsujigaoka Park, making it possible to visit two popular cherry blossom spots in Sendai in one day. Address: 〒984-0051 Miyagi Prefecture, Sendai City, Wakabayashi Ward, Shinmachi 4 Chome-6-28

[Miyagi Prefecture Gokoku Jinja Shrine] This shrine was built on the site of the main shrine of Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle) located on Aobayama in Aoba-ku, Sendai City. Sendai Castle is a castle located in Aobayama, Aoba Ward, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. It is also known as "Aoba Castle" and was designated as a national historic site in 2003. Currently, it enshrines more than 56,000 war dead and martyrs who were related or associated with Miyagi Prefecture in various events during Japan's wars after the Meiji Restoration, a bit like the Martyrs' Shrine in Taiwan. There are restaurants and tourist shops around the shrine, which is a popular stop for group tours. #familytravel #travel #Japantravel

The Shiogama Shrine in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, has been deeply worshipped and revered by people in the Tohoku region since ancient times. Its historic architectural style is designated as an important national cultural property and is worth a visit. There is a statue of a cow in the shrine. You can touch it gently. It is said to bring good luck and prosperity to your business. Don't miss it. #Valentine's Day Places #Japan Travel #New Year's Places #Japan Free Travel

"Chez Nous" is a French restaurant in Shiogama with a history of 45 years, specializing in dishes made with Miyagi's local ingredients, particularly the seafood from Shiogama Port. The meal begins with three French countryside-style appetizers, offering a delightful introduction to the flavors. The crab roe-filled triangular pastry is especially noteworthy. Next comes the Sanriku seafood salad, featuring a bounty of fresh catches from Miyagi's Sanriku coastline—fish, shrimp, shellfish, abalone, squid, and octopus. The freshness is unparalleled, and the Shiogama-grown vegetables, enhanced with orange, egg yolk, and vinaigrette, create a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Following this is the white wine-steamed abalone and pan-seared scallops, served with a sauce made from shellfish broth and turnip leaves. The layered sweetness and delicate flavors are extraordinary. The pan-seared tilefish with red onion sauce surprises with its crispy skin and the unique taste of the sauce, showcasing the versatility of red onions. The ginger sorbet is intriguing, combining ginger's aroma with floral notes, and its refreshing sweetness makes it disappear in an instant. The Sendai filet mignon with Madeira red wine sauce is lightly seared to perfection, offering a tender and juicy bite. While the foie gras melts in the mouth, it feels slightly less creamy than expected. The strawberry and sake lees sorbet with sauce is so delicious it makes you want to cheer. The subsequent desserts, both large and small, maintain a high standard. Restaurant Name: Chez Nous Location: 7-2 Kaigan-dori, Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture Business Hours: 11:30 AM - 8:30 PM

From Morioka Station to Sendai Station, I took the Hayabusa and arrived in 39 minutes 🚅 ☆ Shiogama Sushi Tetsu S-PAL Sendai Store A sushi restaurant inside the station (S-PAL B1F) The waiting board was probably out about 30 minutes before opening, so I wrote my name and waited while looking at the souvenir shops around. Everything was delicious! Even the strawberry sorbet they served at the end was very delicious. . ☆ Heehee Opens from 4pm. They start with sparkling wine and choose a wine to go with your meal, so you can enjoy it casually. I especially liked the vegetable side dish I ordered at the end, but I didn't get to take a picture of it. . Too bad. ☆ Sendai Outer Market Mori no Ichiba I was satisfied to be able to eat my favorite things, oysters, sea squirt, and sea urchin. On the way back, I walked to Sendai Station for an hour to get some exercise. ☆ Gyutan Cuisine Kaku Hatsukoi Street Branch I checked in around 4:30 and was in on the first round (they open at 5:00). I ordered the grilled tongue set meal and a half portion of seared beef tongue. If you order a la carte dishes like seared beef tongue, it comes with an appetizer of braised pork and balls of konnyaku. I really like grilled beef tongue.

#cherryblossom25 Shibata Senzakura Bridge is straight-up amazing during cherry blossom season. Picture this: a river lined with sakura trees, soft pink petals everywhere, and then, bam..a cute little train rolls through like it's in a movie. It’s honestly kinda magical. The bridge gives you that perfect view of it all, trees, river, and train in one frame. It's the kinda spot where you just stop and go, yep, this is spring. Super chill, not packed with tourists, so you can actually enjoy it without elbowing your way to the front. The combo of nature and that old-school train vibe is super charming. Bring a snack, hang out on the bridge, and just wait for the train to come through while petals float around. Pure serotonin. If you’re into cherry blossoms and trains (and who isn’t?), this spot is a total win. Cozy, quiet, and super photogenic.

#EnjoyJapan Day 1: Arrive at Sendai Station in the morning Rent a car🚗 and head to Akiu Otaki (5th photo) [Recommended spots] 1. Otaki Restaurant House (4th photo) A wide variety of pizzas and pastas made with plenty of locally grown ingredients, including mountain vegetable pizza. Prices are also reasonable. The interior has a log cabin-like atmosphere. There are plates that you can buy from 100 yen and grandma's special pickled plums, so you'll feel happy 😃 If you go by car, there are many day-trip hot springs nearby, so be sure to stop by (note that some require reservations) #AkiuOtaki #OtakiRestaurantHouse #AkiuOnsen Day 2: Matsushima Take the train from Sendai Station to Matsushima (it's best to go in the morning) There are plenty of scenic views and gourmet food in the area 💓 If you want to enjoy the gourmet food, such as curry bread, rice crackers, castella shops, etc., I recommend spending more than half a day ☺️ However, there are a lot of people and you walk a lot, so be careful of your health and avoid heatstroke. There are also sightseeing tours around the island at a reasonable price! -#Matsushima #MatsushimaTourism The air in Sendai is softer and fresher than in Tokyo, and most of all, there are a lot of delicious things to eat! ! ! ! ! (The zunda soy milk was really delicious♪) There is also a famous Neapolitan restaurant (restaurant HACHI) at Sendai Station, so be sure to visit it (there is a line even on weekdays, so it is recommended to go outside of lunch and dinner times #restauranthachi #Sendai

Due to the effects of the Great East Japan Earthquake, some sections of the Kesennuma Line and Ofunato Line are being replaced by bus services. Traveling around Sanriku by bus, the signs of reconstruction were more clearly visible. You could get a good view of the reclaimed land, rivers, and sea. There are times when there are fewer buses, so it's a good idea to check in advance. #DomesticTransportation #0YenTravel

📍Miyagi Prefecture I went sightseeing in Miyagi Prefecture for 2 days and 1 night I will introduce the tourist spots in Sendai that I learned about during this trip, as they are must-see spots for fans. 【Tourist Spots】 🚉Kokusai Center Station on the Sendai Subway Tozai Line ⚫︎Goshikinuma Pond ⚫︎Monument of Hanyu and Arakawa In fact, Goshikinuma Pond in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, is said to be the birthplace of figure skating in Japan. It seems that it started around 1890 (Meiji 23), when a foreigner living in Sendai city started skating there⛸️ The monument is made of glass and features the signatures of Yuzuru Hanyu, who is from Sendai City, and Shizuka Arakawa, who has ties to Sendai City✨ If you are a fan, be sure to visit it as one of your sightseeing spots🔖 #Miyagi Prefecture #Sendai City #Domestic Travel #Spring 0 Yen Trip

This time, I will introduce a beautiful spot in Miyagi Prefecture where you can see the ocean! There is a temple just across the bridge from here! The view is also very beautiful and it is a popular tourist spot, so please go and check it out! 📍Godaido Address: 111 Matsushima-cho, Matsushima-machi, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture 981-0213 Opening hours: 8:30am to 4:30pm #0yentripFebruary2025

📍Location: Gyutan Ichifuku This is the beef tongue restaurant that Ryo-kun and Shibayu visited during the Tokai On Air Travel Trip in Miyagi🐮 It was about a 15-minute walk from Sendai Station! The restaurant is two stories tall, with table seats and a counter on the first floor and a tatami room on the second floor! The restaurant isn't that big⚠️ This time I ordered a set that allows you to enjoy two different flavors: miso-marinated and salt-grilled! The beef tongue was thick but soft and very delicious☺️ This restaurant is recommended for beef tongue lovers and those who want to visit the holy land of Tokai On Air❕ #0 yen trip February 2025

#FebruaryGoodPlaces2025 #2025Spring #Japan #Miyagi #Shiogama The JR Sengoku Line runs roughly parallel to the Tohoku Main Line, but runs closer to the coast, stopping at popular tourist destinations including Hon-Shiogama and Matsushima Coast. The main attractions near Shiogama Station include Shiogama Shrine, the Marine Gate Pier for sightseeing boats, and a large shopping mall. There is also a tourist center in the station, which is a small station with complete facilities.

Miyagi Prefecture is located in the Tohoku region and is an area that is attractive for its rich nature, history, and culture. Sendai City is the prefecture's central city, and is a city with beautiful greenery that is called the City of Forests 🏙️ The view from the ruins of Sendai Castle is spectacular, and you can feel the history ✨ Miyagi's food culture is also rich, and "beef tongue" is especially famous. Sendai's grilled beef tongue is characterized by its soft and juicy taste and is loved by many people ♥️ In addition, there is an abundance of fresh seafood, and Matsushima's oysters and Shiogama's seafood are exquisite 🐠 The natural attractions are also diverse, and Matsushima is counted as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, and the landscape dotted with beautiful islands attracts visitors. In addition, you can enjoy the great nature and hot springs of Mt. Zao 👍🏻 In terms of culture, there are many traditional festivals and events, and the Sendai Tanabata Festival in particular is gorgeous and attracts many tourists. Please come and visit! #0 yen travel February 2025 #Miyagi Prefecture

Miyagi Prefecture's "Fox Village" is known as a place where many foxes live. At Fox Village, you can directly interact with free-roaming foxes! Tourists can observe and feed the foxes, providing a valuable experience. It is located in a natural environment, and you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the seasons. By taking a stroll, you can observe not only foxes, but also other animals and plants. There is also an opportunity to learn about the ecology and habits of foxes, making it a place where children and adults can learn while having fun. Please come and visit! ◎ #0 yen trip February 2025 #Miyagi Prefecture

The cat island in Miyagi Prefecture, especially "Tashirojima", is a must-see spot for cat lovers 🐈 Many cats live on the island and roam freely. Many cats are kept by locals and tourists can interact with them. Tashirojima is surrounded by beautiful sea and nature, making it perfect for strolling and hiking. You can spend time with cats in a peaceful environment 🐈♥️ The island also has cat-themed art works and cat-related events. 🎨 Come and visit us 🎶 #0yentravelFebruary2025 #MiyagiPrefecture

When I went to Sendai, I took a day trip to Matsushima Coast. It's an itinerary that can be enjoyed in about 6 hours. Schedule🗓️ 10:00 Enjoy the scenery on a train journey ・It's a relatively long ride, so it's recommended to line up early. Ride section🚃Sendai Station to Matsushima Kaigan Station (about 40 minutes) Fare🚃420 yen 11:00 Speaking of Matsushima sightseeing, this is the place to go ・Zuiganji Temple, designated as a national treasure, is a must-see tourist spot when visiting Matsushima! The straight rows of cedar trees on the approach to the temple are also a must-see. Facility name: Zuiganji Temple Address: 9-1 Matsushimacho, Matsushima-machi, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture Access: 10 minutes on foot from JR Matsushima-kaigan Station on the Senseki Line Admission fee: 700 yen for adults / 400 yen for elementary and junior high school students Opening hours: Varies by season *Last admission 30 minutes before closing 12:00 Enjoy popular Matsushima gourmet ・Local gourmet is a must-try when traveling This time, we had Matsushima's local gourmet "conger eel bowl". The fluffy conger eel placed on top of shredded egg was delicious. We also had fried oysters, a winter specialty. Facility name: Santori Chaya Address: 24-1 Senzui, Matsushima, Matsushima-cho, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture Business hours: Lunch: 11:30-15:00 Dinner: 17:00-21:00 (last orders 20:00) Access: 10-minute walk from JR Matsushima Kaigan Station on the Senseki Line Closed: Tuesday (dinner) and Wednesday Reference budget: approx. 3,000 yen 13:30 Enjoy sightseeing in Matsushima - Matsushima has many restaurants and souvenir shops where you can eat while walking around. Among them, Fukuura Island on the east side of Matsushima Coast is a recommended spot where you can see Matsushima from a high vantage point. The vermilion-painted Fukuura Bridge, 252 meters long and commonly known as the "Encounter Bridge," was also very atmospheric and lovely. Facility name: Fukuura Bridge Address: 39-1 Senzui, Matsushima, Matsushima-cho, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture Business hours: 8:30-17:00 (8:30-16:30 from November to February) Closed days: Open everyday Price: 200 yen for adults (junior high school students and above), 100 yen for children (elementary and junior high school students) 14:30 Is the doneness the key to deliciousness? Enjoy the experience of hand-baking sasa kamaboko ・This is the only place in the Matsushima Godaido area where you can experience hand-baking! You can easily experience it without making a reservation. It only takes about 10 minutes, so please enjoy it! (Reservation required for handmade kamaboko) Name of facility: Matsushima Kamaboko Honpo Address: 120 Matsushimacho, Matsushima-machi, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture Business hours: 9:30-17:00 Closed days: None Reference budget: 300 yen Access: 9 minutes walk from JR Matsushima Kaigan Station on the Senseki Line 15:00 Eat winter gourmet food ・There were many shops in the Matsushima Kaigan area where you can enjoy the winter delicacy of oysters. They also offer oysters that are grilled on the spot and other arranged dishes. This time, we enjoyed grilled oysters. #Domestic travel strategy #Matsushima Kaigan #Solo trip #Girls trip #Miyagi sightseeing #Matsushima, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan #Domestic travel #japan #Day trip

#newyearnewtrip Kamakura Shrine in the Miyama area. While there isn’t a shrine by that exact name in the Miyama region, you might be referring to Miyama Kamakura Shrine, a small but picturesque shrine in the Miyama village of Kyoto Prefecture. Miyama is known for its traditional thatched-roof houses and serene rural atmosphere, and the Kamakura Shrine in this area adds to the peaceful charm of the village. Here’s a general idea of what visitors can expect from this location: Miyama Kamakura Shrine Overview: • Atmosphere: The shrine is surrounded by natural beauty, with lush forests and a quiet, tranquil environment. It’s less crowded compared to more famous shrines in Japan, so you can enjoy a more intimate experience with nature and history. • Architecture: As with many rural shrines in Japan, the structure of the shrine is simple but elegant, blending well with its natural surroundings. It’s a great place for peaceful reflection and quiet walks. • Access: Miyama is a bit off the beaten path, which makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the busy city life and experience rural Japan. The shrine is accessible by car, but public transport can be less frequent, so it’s advisable to plan ahead. • Attractions Nearby: Besides the shrine itself, the Miyama area is famous for its well-preserved traditional thatched-roof houses (known as kayabuki no sato) and scenic hiking trails. The area gives off an authentic, historical vibe that makes it a hidden gem for visitors. Review Highlights: • Peaceful and picturesque setting: Ideal for those who love nature and rural landscapes. • Not tourist-heavy: It’s not overrun with visitors, which adds to its charm for anyone seeking a more laid-back experience. • Great for photography: The natural beauty of the area, combined with the shrine’s quiet aura, makes it perfect for those who enjoy capturing serene, off-the-beaten-path locations. #village #kyoto #japan

#DomesticTravelRecord Record of castle tours in Miyagi Prefecture ✈︎ ────⟢⋮✈︎ ────⟢⋮✈︎ ────⟢⋮✈︎ ──── ◼︎Shiroishi Castle Ruins A castle located in Shiroishi City, Miyagi Prefecture It is said that the castle was built by Karita Sahyoe-no-jo Tsunemoto, who distinguished himself in the Gosannen War in 1088 (Kanji 2), under the name of the Karita clan ◼︎Sendai Castle Ruins A castle located in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture It was built by Date Masamune in 1600 (Keicho 5). For about 270 years from its construction until the "Castle Abolition Order" was issued in the Meiji era, it was the castle of the Date clan for generations ◼︎Taga Castle Ruins An ancient castle fence located in Tagajo City, Miyagi Prefecture It is one of the three major historic sites in Japan, and is a special historic site along with the Heijo Palace Ruins in Nara and the Dazaifu Ruins in Kyushu #Miyagi #Miyagi Tourism #Miyagi Trip #Castle Tour #Domestic Travel #Solo Travel #Girls Trip

📍cafe Sonohi no Kibun As the name suggests, the menu changes depending on the owner's mood that day, and you can enjoy limited menus whenever you visit! 【INFORMATION】 cafe Sonohi no Kibun 📮981-0135 3-24-4 Sugayadai, Rifu-cho, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture 🕑13:00-17:00 🗓️Open Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays #0 Yen Trip January 2025

#DomesticTravelRecord Be careful not to sell out at the supermarket "Saichi" in Akiu Onsen town. There are three types of ohagi: red bean paste, kinako, and sesame. #Onsen #AkiuOnsen #MiyagiPrefecture #Ohagi

📍 Shiogama [PLATHOME] Open sandwich with prosciutto and cream cheese Gorgonzola and apple toast Pumpkin Mont Blanc Religieuse A cafe in a house that opened on August 23rd 🍀🍀 I liked the exterior, but I also loved the interior! ️ The owner with an impressive smile welcomes you The arch entrance to the toilet is cute! ️ The food and sweets were delicious, so I hope you go hungry~💞 It's a one-man operation, so please bring plenty of time [Shop Information] PLATHOME 2-8 Minaminishikicho, Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture About a 5-minute walk from Shimouma Station Takeout baked goods available Reservations accepted◎ #FuritabiWinter

#traveldiaries #japan #japantrip #sendai #miyagi Miyagi Prefecture offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and vibrant culture, making it an exciting destination in Japan's Tohoku region. Its capital, Sendai, known as the "City of Trees," balances modern city life with a deep sense of history, thanks to landmarks like the Zuihoden Mausoleum and Sendai Castle, linked to the famed samurai Date Masamune. What makes Miyagi truly special for me is its striking natural scenery. Matsushima Bay, with its picturesque islands and tranquil waters, is one of Japan’s Three Great Views, offering a peaceful escape from the bustle of urban life. The prefecture is also rich in hot springs, rugged coastlines, and mountains, giving outdoor enthusiasts plenty to explore. Miyagi’s resilience following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami has also deepened my appreciation for the spirit of its people, who have rebuilt with strength and optimism. Visiting Miyagi is both a visually rewarding experience and a chance to engage with Japan's history and enduring culture.

I went to Miyagi, Japan! The recommended spots are seafood and Umanose!!

📌Joe&Joe Joe&Joe is an Italian restaurant famous for its stone oven-baked aged meat and pizza, which go well with alcohol. The stone oven-baked aged meat has a fragrant surface, which locks in the flavor of the meat! And the pizza, which is quickly baked at high temperature, is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, and it was delicious! The atmosphere inside the restaurant was very nice and comfortable! If you're visiting Miyagi Prefecture, why not try it out? #Fritabi #Miyagi #Italian

📌Beef Tongue Keyaki "Beef Tongue Keyaki" is a restaurant that specializes in thickly sliced ​​beef tongue. The beef tongue was softer than I expected, and very easy to eat and delicious! It was the most delicious beef tongue I've ever eaten🫶🏻 In addition, it comes with grated yam and wasabi to change the flavor, so it's an attractive point that you can enjoy it in various ways! The volume is perfect and it's very satisfying to eat🩵 If you're visiting Sendai, why not try it out! #FuriTabi #Sendai #BeefTan

#JapanTravel Located in the Tohoku region of northeastern Japan, Miyagi Prefecture combines beautiful natural scenery with a rich cultural heritage. The prefecture is famous for its charming beaches, magnificent mountains, and Lake Matsushima, one of Japan’s three most beautiful natural landscapes. **Matsushima** consists of over 260 small islands covered in pine trees, offering stunning views and unforgettable boating experiences. Visit **Zuiganji Temple**, a famous Buddhist temple, to admire its architecture and peaceful gardens. Sendai City, Miyagi’s vibrant capital, is also a cultural and economic center. Here, you can visit **Joyoji Shrine**, home to the shrine of Daiichi Masamune, one of the most famous samurai warriors in Japanese history. Miyagi Prefecture is a perfect blend of nature and culture, making it a great travel destination to explore the beauty of Japan from a new perspective. 🌸

Monsieur Masuno Alpajon Ogawara Branch A baked confectionery shop in Miyagi Prefecture There is a Santa and a figurine sitting in front of the cafe, so the kids were delighted! These melting cookies have apparently been given out in JAL first class, so they are a popular souvenir for anyone✨ They also have a cafe and a kids' space, so it's great for bringing kids! They also sell whole cakes, and I'd like to buy one for a birthday cake someday! 📍39-19 Hiroomote, Ogawara-cho, Shibata-gun, Miyagi Prefecture, 989-1225 #0 yen trip