Things To Do
in Sendai
Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku region of Japan, known for its beautiful parks and green spaces. The city is famous for its delicious beef tongue dishes and traditional Japanese sweets. Sendai is also home to the historic Aoba Castle, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
The city is a hub for education and technology, with several universities and research institutions located there.
- "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): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Sendai Castle, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Explore the surrounding park and learn about the history of the area.
Visit the Sendai City Museum to gain insights into the rich heritage of Sendai. Afterward, stroll through Jozenji-dori Avenue, lined with beautiful trees and shops.
Dine at a local restaurant to savor Sendai's famous gyutan (beef tongue). Take a leisurely walk along the Natori River and enjoy the tranquil evening atmosphere.
Take a short train ride to Matsushima, known for its stunning coastal scenery. Begin your visit with a boat tour around the picturesque islands.
Visit Zuigan-ji Temple, an ancient Zen temple that showcases exquisite architecture. Enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants overlooking the bay.
Wrap up your day by watching the sunset over Matsushima Bay, a truly magical experience. Return to Sendai and relax at your accommodation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history with numerous festivals and events.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including proximity to mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
- A well-developed transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city and surrounding areas.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to larger Japanese cities like Tokyo or Osaka.
- Resilience and rapid recovery from the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, showcasing the city's strength and community spirit.
- Risk of natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and tsunamis due to its geographical location.
- Somewhat limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas.
- Harsh winters with cold temperatures and snowfall, which some may find difficult.
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers, as English is not widely spoken.
- Fewer job opportunities in specialized fields compared to major metropolitan areas.
Best Activities in Sendai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the ruins of Aoba Castle and enjoy the surrounding scenic views.
Take a boat cruise or kayak to explore the beautiful Matsushima Bay.
Explore the historic and serene Zuihoden Mausoleum in a peaceful outdoor setting.
Stroll along the tree-lined Jozenji Street, known for its art installations and vibrant atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sendai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sendai
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, including seasonal cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.
A bustling street with multiple vantage points for capturing cityscape and street scenes, especially during festivals and events.
Situated in a serene and picturesque setting, providing opportunities for capturing traditional architecture and serene landscapes.
Featuring numerous islands and scenic spots along the coast, renowned for its beauty and considered one of the Three Views of Japan.
Food in Sendai
Sendai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Gyutan is a specialty of Sendai, known for its tender, flavorful beef tongue. It can be enjoyed grilled, in hot pots, or even in bentos. Try it at Rikyu, a renowned restaurant in Sendai.
Must-Try!
Zunda Mochi is a traditional sweet made of pounded rice cakes topped with sweetened edamame paste. This delectable treat can be found at numerous confectionery shops and cafes around the city.
Sasa Kamaboko is a local specialty featuring fish cake wrapped in bamboo leaves, imparting a unique aroma. Visit the Shiogama Fish Market to savor this delicacy.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sendai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A visit to Shiogama Fish Market is a must for seafood enthusiasts. It offers an array of fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, and unique local specialties like Sasa Kamaboko.
This vibrant market is perfect for experiencing local street food such as yakisoba, grilled seafood, and vegetable skewers. It's a great place to immerse in the local food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sendai, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when waiting in line or on public transportation.
When entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments, it's customary to remove your shoes before stepping inside.
It's important to be aware of and respect local customs, such as bowing as a form of greeting, and to practice polite manners while interacting with locals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sendai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sendai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Sendai, Japan. It is not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Sendai, Japan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment. Credit and debit cards are also commonly accepted, especially in larger establishments. Some smaller shops and restaurants may only accept cash, so it's always good to carry some yen with you.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sendai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms and mild temperatures. Expect crowded tourist spots and higher hotel prices.
Warm and humid weather with occasional typhoons. Good time to explore outdoor activities and enjoy summer festivals.
Cool and pleasant weather with colorful foliage. Ideal for sightseeing and enjoying local cuisine.
Cold and snowy weather. Perfect for winter sports in nearby mountains and experiencing traditional winter festivals.
Sendai at Night
Hiking in Sendai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful waterfall located in Akiu, near Sendai, surrounded by hiking trails that offer scenic views of the falls and the surrounding nature.
The mausoleum of Date Masamune, surrounded by forested hills. There are hiking trails that connect to the scenic spots around Zuihoden.
Famous for its stunning bay with numerous islands, Matsushima offers various walking and hiking paths with views of the coastline and the islands.
A popular hiking destination that provides a moderate trek and rewarding views of the Sendai area and the Pacific Ocean from the summit.
A historic temple located on a mountain, known for its steep stone steps and picturesque views. The hike includes many interesting sights along the way.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sendai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sendai by plane.
Located approximately 60 kilometers east of Tokyo, Narita is one of Japan's primary international airports. It serves as a major gateway for international flights to and from Japan.
Also known as Tokyo International Airport, Haneda is located closer to central Tokyo than Narita and is primarily used for domestic flights but has a significant number of international flights.
Situated on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, Kansai International Airport serves the Kansai region of Japan, including Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
Located on an island in Ise Bay, this airport serves the Nagoya region and is a hub for flights to various international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Sendai, comprising the majority of the population.
Includes individuals from various countries, such as South Korea, China, and the United States, living in Sendai for work, study, and other purposes.
An indigenous people of Japan, with some presence in the region, although their numbers are relatively small.
A significant demographic group due to the presence of multiple universities and educational institutions in Sendai.
An increasing demographic group as Japan faces an aging population, with a notable portion of Sendai's residents being elderly.
The Soul of Sendai
Discover the essence of Sendai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Sendai, with a strong local following and several professional teams, including the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles.
Football has a significant following in Sendai, with local teams competing in national leagues and a passionate fan base supporting J-League club Vegalta Sendai.
Basketball is growing in popularity in Sendai, with local teams participating in various leagues and community events promoting the sport.
Rugby has a strong presence in Sendai, with various clubs and schools developing talent and promoting the sport throughout the region.
Sendai has a rich tradition of martial arts, particularly judo and karate, with many schools and clubs dedicated to training practitioners of all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sendai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Sendai cuisine predominantly features seafood and meat, many modern restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options. Places like Wanoba Cafe and Sandaime Torimasa provide tasty plant-based choices.
Individuals with gluten restrictions can find suitable dishes like rice-based sushi, sashimi, and grilled skewers at various restaurants and food stalls in Sendai, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sendai with these cultural adventures.
