Things to do in Matsushima

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Miyagi Prefecture

Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium

Sendai Ocean Forest Aquarium is located in the coastal area in the east of Sendai City, where many commercial facilities are gathered. It is equipped with a large tank that reproduces the abundant seawater resources of Sanriku, and about 100 tanks are filled with various types of fish from all over the world. Among them are the larger dolphins and sea lions in the northeast, performing wonderful shows for tourists. In addition, there are various activities to experience interaction with penguins and sea lions, which are fascinating.

Matsushima

Matsushima is an archipelago consisting of more than 260 large and small islands scattered around Matsushima Bay in the central part of Miyagi Prefecture. On the gray-white rocks stand dense pine trees. Here, you can see the representative bay features of Japan, which are produced according to the seasons. Various changes. After arriving at JR Matsushima Kaigan Station, walk about 5 minutes to the Matsushima Tourism Association, where you can get some tourist brochures such as maps. Taking a cruise on Songdao Bay is the main way to visit, not only can you easily enjoy the beautiful scenery of many islands under the blue sky and white clouds, but also see many vibrant seagulls. In addition to the cruise, there are also many temples near JR Matsushima Kaigan Station, which you can visit on foot or by bicycle. Zuigan-ji Temple is designated as a National Treasure of Japan, and its doors, lintel windows, Japanese sliding doors, and ornate paintings of alcoves are all worth admiring. There are also historical sites exuding the cultural flavor of Date, such as the Five Halls, Guanlan Pavilion, Yuantong Courtyard, and Tianlin Courtyard. To the northeast of Zuigan Temple is the Shintoyama Mountain. The observation deck on the top of the mountain has a panoramic view of Matsushima Bay from the front, so don't miss it. If you come to Matsushima during the cherry blossom season, you can go to the westbound Matsushima Park on the west side of JR Matsushima Kaigan Station. This is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Matsushima. From the observation deck of the park, you can enjoy the superb view of cherry blossoms and the beauty of Matsushima Bay, which is very emotional. There are also "four major landscapes" in the east, south, west and north of Matsushima Bay - Otakamori, Tamon Mountain, Fangu, and Toyama. From these four places, you can see the scenery of Matsushima with different expressions. These four places are far apart, and if you have enough time, you can arrange to go to one or more of them for viewing. Oysters are a specialty of Matsushima, so don't forget to try them when you come to Matsushima. Every year from October to March of the following year is the season when Matsushima oysters are more delicious. During this period, there will be an oyster hut (かき hut) restaurant open for all you can eat.

Shiogama Shrine

Shiogama Shrine is located on Mt. Ichimoriyama in Shiogama, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, and is a grand Edo-period shrine complex in the Tohoku region. The shrine grounds also house Shiwahiko Shrine, with both shrines sharing the same sacred precinct. The vermilion shrine buildings feature copper roofs and intricate, elaborate gold ornamentation. Ascending the long stone approach to the high ground within the precinct, you can overlook the waters of Matsushima Bay on a clear day, where the mountains, sea, and ancient shrine create a harmonious scene. The grounds are home to the Shiogama cherry tree, a natural monument known for its numerous petals. It blooms later than ordinary cherry blossoms, reaching full bloom every April, making it a popular local spot for cherry blossom viewing. As an important ancient shrine in Tohoku, Shiogama Shrine integrates Edo-period samurai architecture, marine beliefs, and the seascape of Matsushima Bay. It served as a center of faith in the ancient Mutsu region, preserves complete shrine architecture from the feudal era, and continues local ritual traditions. Visitors can admire the solemn and magnificent ancient architecture while experiencing the unique Shinto culture facing the sea, making it a must-visit cultural landmark when touring the Matsushima area.

Zuiganji Temple

Zuiganji Temple, fully named Matsushima Seiryu-zan Zuigan Enfuku Zenji, is a renowned Buddhist temple in Japan's Tohoku region and one of the representative structures showcasing the Momoyama architectural style. Its predecessor, Enfuku-ji Temple, was originally established in 828 AD by the great monk Jikaku Daishi Ennin. However, over time, Enfuku-ji fell into disrepair. In 1609, Date Masamune, the feudal lord of Sendai, decided to rebuild the temple, dedicating four years to its meticulous restoration before renaming it Zuiganji Temple. This revival not only breathed new life into the temple but also established it as a cultural gem of the Tohoku region. Zuiganji embodies the opulent Azuchi-Momoyama architectural style, celebrated for its lavish decorations, distinctive forms, and profound cultural significance. The temple's 1609-built main hall, featuring an "irimoya" gabled roof with traditional tile roofing, stands as one of its iconic structures and is designated a National Treasure. Its exquisite roof tiles and unique framework capture the essence of Momoyama architecture. Adjacent to the main hall is the Chinese-style "Onarimon" gate, also a National Treasure, adorned with intricate vine patterns and floral bracket carvings—another masterpiece of Zuiganji's architectural artistry. The temple's kuri (monks' quarters) corridor, similarly decorated with delicate vine and floral carvings, holds National Treasure status as well. Other structures, including the Onarimon and Chumon gates, are recognized as Important Cultural Properties, underscoring Zuiganji's pivotal role in Japanese architectural history. Nestled against verdant mountains and surrounded by towering cedar forests, Zuiganji exudes a serene atmosphere far removed from worldly distractions. The approach from the sanmon (mountain gate) to the main hall, lined with ancient cedars, feels like a pathway to spiritual reflection. This tranquil, solemn ambiance makes the temple an ideal destination for worship and inner purification. Here, visitors can momentarily set aside life's burdens and immerse themselves in the temple's peaceful grandeur, experiencing the profound allure of Buddhist culture.

Godaido of Zuiganji Temple

Godaido of Zuiganji Temple was originally built in 807, and the current structure was rebuilt in 1604 by Date Masamune, the first lord of the Sendai Domain, to revive Buddhism atZuiganji. It is said to be one of the oldest Momoyama-style buildings in the Tohoku region and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. The Godaido of Zuiganji Temple is located onGodaido Island, which is connected to Honshu by a red bridge. There are 15 cm gaps between the wooden planks of the bridge, allowing you to see the sea beneath your feet. It is said that the bridge was designed this way to make you watch your step as you cross, helping you focus your attention before arriving at the temple hall.

Marine Gate Shiogama

Entsuin

Kazenooka Paraglider

Sekisui Heim Super Arena

Sekisui Heim Super Arena is conveniently located and spacious, hosting music festivals, sporting events, and other activities from time to time.

Saigyo Modoshi no Matsu Park