Things To Do
in Matsushima
Matsushima is a picturesque coastal region in Japan known for its beautiful bay dotted with numerous small pine-covered islands. The area is famous for its stunning landscapes, with the combination of sea, islands, and pine trees creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Matsushima has long been celebrated as one of Japan's three most scenic views and has been a popular destination for artists and poets seeking inspiration.
Visitors can enjoy boat tours around the islands, explore historic temples and shrines, and savor fresh seafood at local restaurants.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Godaido Hall, a picturesque temple offering spectacular views of Matsushima Bay. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the area, soaking in the natural beauty and serenity of the surroundings.
Have lunch at a local seafood restaurant and sample fresh sashimi or grilled fish, a Matsushima specialty. Explore the nearby Fukuurajima Island, taking the scenic bridge over to enjoy its lush scenery.
As dusk falls, take a sunset cruise around Matsushima Bay to witness the stunning red and orange hues reflecting on the water. Afterward, enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, experiencing authentic Japanese hospitality.
Begin your day by visiting the Matsushima Museum to learn about the history and culture of the area. Browse through the exhibitions to get a deeper appreciation of Matsushima's charm.
Lunch at a nearby café featuring delicious cakes and coffee is a perfect way to recharge. Then, take the time to explore the impressive Zuigan-ji Temple, an important cultural heritage site.
As evening approaches, stroll along the bay and enjoy the picturesque lanterns lighting up the scenery. Cap off your day with a visit to a local izakaya for a casual dinner experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with picturesque islands and scenic views.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites, including temples and shrines.
- Delicious local seafood and cuisine, particularly oysters.
- A peaceful and serene atmosphere ideal for relaxation.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and sightseeing.
- Limited accessibility and transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Potential overcrowding during peak tourist seasons.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with typhoons and heavy rains in summer months.
- Some attractions may require admission fees, affecting budget travel.
- Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
Best Activities in Matsushima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning Matsushima Bay and its numerous islands on a guided boat tour, offering picturesque views and opportunities to learn about the area's natural beauty and historical significance.
Take a hike on Fukuura Island, known for its beautiful walking trails and views of the bay, as well as lush forests and a scenic suspension bridge.
Experience a blend of outdoor exploration and cultural appreciation by visiting Matsushima Zuiganji, a significant Zen temple surrounded by beautiful gardens and scenic views.
Rent a kayak for a unique perspective of Matsushima Bay, paddling through its calm waters and around the islands, perfect for both beginners and experienced kayakers.
Join a photography tour to capture the breathtaking landscapes of Matsushima, including the iconic pine-covered islands, sunsets, and traditional architecture.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, lined with shops, cafes, and scenic spots to take in the beauty of the bay and its surrounding islands.
Engage in fishing in Matsushima Bay, where you can catch a variety of local fish, including flounder and sea bream, while enjoying the serene coastal atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Matsushima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Matsushima
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning views of over 260 tiny islands, Matsushima Bay offers breathtaking panoramic scenes, especially at sunrise and sunset.
This hall is a five-storied pagoda located on an island offering a unique vantage point for photographing the bay and its islands.
Connected by a pedestrian bridge, this island features walking trails and viewpoints that provide stunning photo opportunities of the surrounding scenery.
A popular viewing spot with scenic walking paths, Shidaikan offers beautiful angles of the islands and is perfect for photography.
This island provides hiking trails leading to viewpoints that present some of the most spectacular views of Matsushima Bay.
While primarily a culinary destination, the market also presents vibrant photo ops showcasing the local seafood and lively atmosphere.
Set against a backdrop of Matsushima Bay, this shrine offers a serene setting with traditional architecture, making it a great spot for photos.
The beautifully landscaped gardens provide tranquil spots and aesthetic views of the natural beauty surrounding Matsushima, ideal for photography.
Food in Matsushima
Matsushima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delectable bowl of rice topped with an assortment of fresh seafood such as squid, shrimp, and octopus, all caught from the nearby ocean. It's a must-try dish to experience the town's bountiful seafood offerings. You can enjoy this dish at Matsushima's waterfront restaurants like Umenohana or Matsushima Gyutan.
Must-Try!
Matsushima is renowned for its plump and juicy oysters. Grilled oysters from local vendors are a delectable local specialty that should not be missed. You can find them at various stalls along the Matsushima Bay waterfront or at restaurants like Daikokuya.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Matsushima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Matsushima Fish Market is a bustling hub where you can sample a variety of fresh seafood and local delicacies, including sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish skewers. It's the perfect place to savor the region's ocean offerings and experience the lively market atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Matsushima is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including its famous bay and islands. Visitors should show respect for the environment by not littering, following designated paths, and avoiding damage to plants and wildlife.
When interacting with locals, it is important to be polite and maintain a level of formality. Bowing is a common greeting, and using honorific language is appreciated. Additionally, avoid using overly casual language until you are familiar with the individuals you are interacting with.
When dining in Matsushima, follow local dining customs. It is customary to say 'Itadakimasu' before eating and 'Gochisousama deshita' after finishing a meal. Also, use chopsticks properly and avoid sticking them upright in rice, as this resembles a funeral rite.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Matsushima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Matsushima
Ensure a smooth experience
In Matsushima, like much of Japan, tipping is generally not practiced and can even be considered rude. Service staff in restaurants, hotels, and other establishments typically take pride in providing excellent service without expecting additional compensation. Instead of tipping, it is customary to express gratitude verbally.
Payment practices in Matsushima align with common Japanese customs. It is typical to pay for services in cash, although credit cards are increasingly accepted at many establishments. When paying, it is polite to place the money in a tray provided by the service staff rather than handing it directly. Many restaurants may also offer a 'nomihoudai' or 'tabehoudai' option, allowing customers to enjoy unlimited drinks or food for a set price.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Matsushima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is considered one of the best times to visit Matsushima as cherry blossoms bloom around late March to early April, creating picturesque landscapes. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer in Matsushima can be warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. This season is great for enjoying water activities around the bay, but be prepared for occasional rain. Festivals and events are common during this time, offering a vibrant local culture.
Autumn is another beautiful season to visit Matsushima, especially in late October to early November when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange. The weather is typically clear and cool, perfect for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the islands.
Winter in Matsushima is cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C. Although there may be some snow, the beauty of the frost-covered islands adds a unique charm. This season is less crowded, offering a quieter experience, and winter festivals may provide cultural insights.
Matsushima at Night
Hiking in Matsushima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking route along the coast of Matsushima Bay, offering stunning views of the islands and the Pacific Ocean.
Features well-maintained trails with views of Matsushima and the surrounding nature, making it ideal for a day hike.
A mountain located near Matsushima with various hiking paths that lead to picturesque vistas overlooking the bay.
Offers hiking trails that are suitable for all levels and provide panoramic views of Matsushima and the surrounding area.
A bit further out, but features extensive hiking trails with breathtaking landscape views and a variety of flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Matsushima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Matsushima by plane.
The primary airport serving Sendai and the surrounding region, located approximately 35 km northeast of Matsushima.
One of the main international airports in Japan, located approximately 70 km east of Tokyo and about 350 km from Matsushima.
Another major international airport serving Tokyo, located approximately 60 km from Matsushima.
International airport located in Osaka, about 700 km southwest of Matsushima, serving as a hub for international flights.
An international airport located near Nagoya, approximately 600 km southwest of Matsushima.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, primarily of Japanese ethnicity, encompassing various age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Elderly residents, particularly those over the age of 65, making up a significant portion of the population due to higher life expectancy.
Adults aged 15-64, constituting the workforce and contributing to the local economy.
Individuals aged 0-14, including school-aged children, reflecting the demographic support for education and family structures.
A small but growing population of expatriates and immigrants from various countries, contributing diversity to the community.
The Soul of Matsushima
Discover the essence of Matsushima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Matsushima, with local teams and youth leagues actively participating in competitions.
Soccer enjoys a strong following in Matsushima, with community clubs and schools fostering young talent and competing at various levels.
Tennis is a favored sport in Matsushima, with multiple courts available for both recreational and competitive play.
Basketball is played at various levels in Matsushima, from school competitions to local leagues, drawing enthusiastic participation.
Sports such as Sumo and Kendo are practiced and celebrated in Matsushima, reflecting the cultural heritage of Japan.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matsushima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Matsushima's cuisine predominantly features seafood, some restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options such as vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and fresh salads. It's advisable to communicate your dietary preferences clearly when dining out, and many establishments are accommodating to dietary restrictions.
Finding gluten-free options in Matsushima may require some communication with the restaurant staff, as traditional Japanese cuisine often incorporates soy sauce and other ingredients containing gluten. However, some places may offer rice-based dishes or have the flexibility to customize meals to accommodate gluten-free requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Matsushima with these cultural adventures.
