5 reasons why you should visit Sendai and Matsushima

Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture is one of the "Three Views of Japan," alongside Amanohashidate in Kyoto and Miyajima in Hiroshima. Its picturesque landscape, dotted with over 260 islands of various sizes, has captivated visitors. Easily accessible by train—about 40 minutes from Sendai—it's also a popular day trip destination.

Five Charms of Matsushima
1. Sightseeing Boat Cruises for Spectacular Island Views
A classic Matsushima sightseeing experience is the pleasure boat cruise around the bay. The approximately 50-minute cruise offers up-close views of the uniquely shaped rock formations, such as Niojima and Kanejima. The scenery, bathed in the morning light and sunset, offers a different beauty depending on the time of day.
2. Zuiganji Temple, Associated with Date Masamune
Zuiganji Temple, Matsushima's signature temple, was built by Date Masamune, the feudal lord of the Sendai domain. The main hall, a designated National Treasure, and the beautiful corridor garden are must-sees. Recommended for history buffs and those seeking peace of mind in tranquil surroundings.
3. Scenic Spots Overlooking Matsushima Bay
To view Matsushima from atop a hill, head to one of the four great viewpoints (Otakamori, Ogiya, Tamonzan, and Toyama). The view from Otakamori in particular is known as "spectacular" and is one of Japan's three most scenic views.
4. Enjoy Seafood
Matsushima is known for its fresh oyster dishes. Enjoying all-you-can-eat oysters at oyster huts in winter is also popular. You can also sample Sendai specialties such as sasa-kamaboko (fish cake) and beef tongue.
5. Easy Access from Sendai
One of Matsushima's attractions is its convenient access, about 40 minutes from Sendai Station on the JR Senseki Line. It's easy to visit between sightseeing trips. By car, it's also perfect for a 30-minute drive via the Sanriku Expressway.

History of Matsushima
Its beauty has been widely known since the Edo period, so much so that Matsuo Basho wrote in his "Oku no Hosomichi" (The Narrow Road to the Deep North): "Matsushima, oh Matsushima, Matsushima." While the actual poem is said to be a legend, there's no doubt that the scenery of Matsushima touched the heart of the master haiku poet.
The islands also served as a breakwater against tsunamis, and Matsushima Bay is said to have protected the town during the Great East Japan Earthquake. It's truly a "living landscape" where natural beauty and people's lives intertwine.

Matsushima Sightseeing Summary
* Sights: Pleasure Boat, Zuiganji Temple, Four Great Views
* Cuisine: Oyster dishes, sasa-kamaboko (bamboo-shaped fish cake), beef tongue
* Access: 40 minutes by train from Sendai
Matsushima, where you can enjoy history, nature, and cuisine all in one place, is an absolute must-see spot for any Sendai visitor.

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