Sendai

Enhance Your Travel Experience in Sendai, Japan

When visiting Sendai, Japan, there are several recommendations for sightseeing, dining, lodging, hot springs, activities, souvenirs, and more. Here are some suggestions to enhance your travel experience:

Sightseeing:

1. Sendai Castle Site: Explore the remains of Sendai Castle and visit the adjacent Aoba Castle Museum, where you can learn about the history of the city and enjoy panoramic views of Sendai.
2. Zuihoden Mausoleum: Visit Zuihoden, the final resting place of Date Masamune, a prominent samurai lord who played a significant role in Sendai's history. The mausoleum features intricate architectural details and beautiful gardens.
3. Matsushima Bay: Take a short trip from Sendai to Matsushima Bay, known for its scenic beauty and collection of small islands covered in pine trees. Enjoy a boat cruise or visit the Zuiganji Temple in the area.

Dining:

1. Sendai Beef Tongue: Indulge in Sendai's famous beef tongue, a local delicacy known for its tenderness and rich flavor. Many restaurants in Sendai specialize in preparing this delicious dish.
2. Gyutan: Try gyutan, grilled beef tongue, served in various styles such as steak, yakiniku (grilled meat), or in a hot pot.
3. Zunda: Taste zunda, a local specialty made from sweetened edamame (green soybeans), often served as a paste or used as a topping for desserts.

Lodging:

• Hotels: Choose from a range of hotels in Sendai, offering comfortable accommodations with various amenities and convenient locations.

Hot Springs:

• Sakunami Onsen: Relax in the hot springs of Sakunami Onsen, located in the outskirts of Sendai. Enjoy the rejuvenating waters and tranquil surroundings.

Activities:

1. Explore Sendai City Museum: Visit the Sendai City Museum, showcasing the history, culture, and traditions of Sendai and its surrounding regions through exhibits and artifacts.
2. Shopping at Sendai Station: Explore the shopping arcades around Sendai Station, such as Clis Road and S-Pal, offering a wide range of shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
3. Visit Osaki Hachimangu Shrine: Pay a visit to Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, a historical Shinto shrine known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.

Souvenirs:

1. Kokeshi Dolls: Look for kokeshi dolls, traditional wooden dolls with a simple design, as unique and traditional souvenirs.
2. Sendai Sweets: Purchase local sweets and snacks such as zunda mochi (sweet rice cakes with edamame paste), sasakama (fish-shaped cookies), or castella (sponge cake) as sweet treats to bring back home.
3. Tanabata-themed Items: Sendai is famous for its Tanabata festival, so look for Tanabata-themed decorations, ornaments, or paper crafts as memorable souvenirs.

Remember to check the latest travel advisories and opening hours of attractions and restaurants before your visit, as some information might have changed. Enjoy your trip to Sendai!

Exploring Sendai's Culinary Delights and Souvenirs

Sendai, the capital city of Miyagi Prefecture in Japan, is known for its rich culinary culture and local specialties. From delicious seafood dishes to traditional snacks and sweets, Sendai offers a variety of flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some specialties, popular restaurants, and souvenirs to explore during your visit:

Specialties and Local Foods:

• Gyutan (Grilled Beef Tongue): Sendai is famous for its mouthwatering grilled beef tongue, known as gyutan. It is often served with a savory sauce and pairs well with rice or in a hotpot.
• Zunda: Zunda is a sweet green soybean paste that is widely used in Sendai's cuisine. You can find zunda-flavored desserts, ice cream, pancakes, and traditional wagashi (Japanese confectionery) throughout the city.
• Sasa Kamaboko: This is a local fish cake made with a mixture of fish paste and green bamboo leaves. It is shaped like a bamboo leaf and has a unique texture and flavor. Sasa Kamaboko is often enjoyed as a snack or added to hot pots.
• Hagi no Tsuki: These delicate, bite-sized sweets are made with a combination of sweet bean paste and a thin layer of mochi (glutinous rice cake). They are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea and make for great edible souvenirs.
• Sendai beef: Known for its marbling and tenderness, Sendai beef is a must-try for meat lovers. You can savor the melt-in-your-mouth goodness at high-end yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurants or upscale steak houses in the city.

Popular Restaurants for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner:

• Sasaya Honten: This historic restaurant specializes in gyutan dishes, offering a wide range of grilled beef tongue options, including set meals, yakiniku-style cuts, and hot pots.
• Nanakawa: Located in the bustling Sendai Station, Nanakawa is a popular restaurant that serves various Sendai specialties such as gyutan, zunda, and sasa kamaboko. They offer a comprehensive menu for lunch and dinner, including set meals and a la carte options.
• Sakanaya Dojo: If you're a seafood lover, head to Sakanaya Dojo for a delightful dining experience. They serve fresh seafood caught off the coast of Miyagi Prefecture, including sashimi, sushi, and grilled fish.
• Hidaka: This cozy restaurant specializes in traditional Sendai cuisine, featuring seasonal ingredients and flavors. They offer lunch and dinner courses that showcase the region's culinary heritage.
• Rikyu: For a taste of Japanese fine dining, Rikyu is a top choice in Sendai. The restaurant offers kaiseki, a multi-course meal that highlights the seasonality of ingredients, presented beautifully and thoughtfully.

Souvenirs:

1. Zunda-related products: Look for zunda-flavored snacks, spreads, and sweets, such as zunda mochi, zunda manju, and zunda senbei (rice crackers). These can be found in specialty shops or department stores.
2. Traditional crafts: Sendai is known for its craftsmanship. Consider purchasing items like kokeshi dolls (wooden dolls), Edo-kiriko glassware, or hand-painted ceramics as unique souvenirs.
3. Sasa Kamaboko: Bring home some sasa kamaboko, either fresh or vacuum-sealed, to enjoy as a snack or to add to your homemade dishes.
4. Sake: Miyagi Prefecture is renowned for its sake production. Visit local sake breweries and select a bottle or two of premium sake as a souvenir.
5. Sendai Tansu (Chest): If you're looking for a larger, more distinctive souvenir, consider a Sendai tansu, a traditional Japanese chest of drawers. These beautifully crafted pieces of furniture can be found in antique stores or specialty shops.

Remember to explore the local markets, such as Sendai Morning Market and Asaichi Market, where you can find an array of fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties, allowing you to experience the vibrant local food scene firsthand.

Festivals and Events in Sendai Throughout the Year

Sendai, the capital city of Miyagi Prefecture in Japan, hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some notable celebrations in each season, along with their special features:

Spring:

• Sendai Pageant of Starlight (December to mid-January): Although held during the winter season, this event is a must-see in Sendai. Zelkova trees along Jozenji-dori Avenue are illuminated with thousands of LED lights, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the beautifully lit streets and participate in the festive mood.

Summer:

• Tanabata Festival (August 6-8): Sendai's most famous festival, the Tanabata Festival celebrates the reunion of two celestial lovers, represented by the stars Vega and Altair. The city is adorned with colorful paper decorations, and there are parades, music performances, traditional dances, and street food stalls. The festival atmosphere is lively and joyous, attracting both locals and visitors.

Fall:

• Sendai Aoba Festival (late May to early June): This festival commemorates the founder of Sendai, Date Masamune. The highlight of the festival is a grand parade featuring participants dressed in traditional samurai armor. There are also performances of traditional music, dances, and martial arts demonstrations. The festival offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Sendai's rich history and culture.

Winter:

• Sendai Pageant of Starlight (December to mid-January): As mentioned before, the Pageant of Starlight is a prominent winter event in Sendai. The dazzling illumination of the Zelkova trees along Jozenji-dori Avenue creates a dreamlike ambiance, especially during the winter nights. The event is perfect for enjoying the beauty of Sendai's winter scenery.

Aside from these festivals, Sendai offers several attractions for sightseeing. The city is home to the picturesque Matsushima Bay, known for its numerous small islands and breathtaking views. Visit the scenic Zuiganji Temple, one of Japan's most important Zen Buddhist temples, and explore the ruins of Sendai Castle. Additionally, the bustling shopping streets of Ichibancho and Kokubuncho are perfect for shopping and experiencing the vibrant city life.

Please note that festival dates and details may vary slightly from year to year, so it's recommended to check specific dates and schedules closer to your visit for accurate planning. Enjoy your sightseeing in Sendai!

Climate and Seasons in Sendai

Sendai, the capital city of Miyagi Prefecture in Japan, offers a vibrant urban experience with a mix of modern amenities and historical attractions. Here's an overview of the climate and temperature in Sendai throughout the different seasons:

Spring (March to May):

• March: Temperatures range from 2°C to 11°C (36°F to 52°F).
• April: Temperatures range from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F).
• May: Temperatures range from 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F). Springtime brings cherry blossoms, and you can enjoy hanami (flower viewing) in parks and along the Hirose River.

Rainy Season (June and July):

• The rainy season in Sendai typically occurs from late June to early July. During this period, the region experiences increased rainfall and higher humidity.
• June: Temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F).
• July: Temperatures range from 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 81°F). It's advisable to bring rain gear or an umbrella when visiting during this time.

Summer (August to September):

• Summer in Sendai can be warm and humid.
• August: Temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F).
• September: Temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F).
• The city offers various summer festivals and events, including the Tanabata Festival, where vibrant decorations adorn the streets.

Fall (October to November):

• Fall in Sendai brings cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage.
• October: Temperatures range from 13°C to 19°C (55°F to 66°F).
• November: Temperatures range from 7°C to 14°C (45°F to 57°F).
• The city and its surrounding parks and gardens transform into a beautiful tapestry of red, orange, and yellow leaves, providing picturesque views and photo opportunities.

Winter (December to February):

• Winter in Sendai is cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
• December: Temperatures range from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
• January and February: Temperatures range from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). The region experiences snowfall, creating a winter wonderland. Winter illuminations adorn the city, particularly at attractions like Zuihoden Mausoleum and Sendai Pageant of Starlight.

Special Features in Sendai

1. Zuihoden Mausoleum: Visit Zuihoden, the final resting place of Date Masamune, a prominent samurai lord. The mausoleum features intricate architecture and beautiful gardens.
2. Sendai Castle Site: Explore the remains of Sendai Castle, which was once the residence of Date Masamune. The site offers panoramic views of the city.
3. Aoba-dori Avenue: Take a stroll along Aoba-dori Avenue, a bustling street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great place for shopping and enjoying local cuisine.
4. Sendai Tanabata Festival: If you visit in August, don't miss the Sendai Tanabata Festival, one of the largest Tanabata festivals in Japan. Colorful decorations, parades, and lively events take place throughout the city.
5. Matsushima Bay: Located near Sendai, Matsushima Bay is known for its scenic beauty and collection of islands. Take a boat tour to explore the islands and enjoy the picturesque landscape.

Please note that it's always advisable to check weather forecasts and local travel advisories before your trip to Sendai.