Things To Do
in Sendai
Sendai, Japan, known as the 'City of Trees', is the capital of Miyagi Prefecture and the largest city in the Tohoku region. It is famous for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Sendai is also renowned for its culinary delights, particularly beef tongue (gyutan) and zunda mochi.
The city serves as a gateway to exploring the scenic beauty of northern Japan, including hot springs and mountains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Zuihoden Mausoleum, the resting place of Date Masamune, where you can admire the intricate architecture and serene gardens.
Visit the Sendai City Museum to learn about the region's history, followed by a stroll through the beautiful Sendai Castle ruins for panoramic views of the city.
Head to the Kokubuncho district for dinner, where you can try local specialties at various izakayas.
Take a morning trip to Matsushima Bay, one of Japan's Three Great Views, to explore its stunning islands and enjoy a boat tour.
Return to Sendai and visit the Akiu Onsen area for a relaxing soak in an onsen hot spring.
Conclude your trip with a visit to the Sendai Tanabata Festival (if in August) or enjoy the illuminated trees in Jozenji-dori Avenue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍣Sushi Meal | $15 |
| 🍜Ramen Bowl | $8 |
| 🍵Matcha Latte | $4 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $6 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Delicious local cuisine, especially beef tongue.
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
- Limited English signage in some areas.
- Public transportation may be confusing for first-time visitors.
- Higher costs for accommodation during peak seasons.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "はい" - Yes
- "いいえ" - No
Places to Visit in Sendai
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing natural beauty in every season.
The historic castle ruins provide a panoramic view of Sendai city, ideal for sunset photography.
Famous for its beautiful tree-lined street, especially enchanting during the winter illuminations.
Food in Sendai
Sendai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled beef tongue, a specialty of Sendai, typically served with rice, miso soup, and pickles.
Must-Try!
Sweet rice cake topped with a paste made from edamame, offering a unique flavor that captures the essence of the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A morning market where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional snacks. A great place to sample street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain a respectful distance during conversations and avoid loud speaking in public spaces.
Remove your shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments, like ryokan.
Use polite greetings such as 'Konnichiwa' (hello) and 'Arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you) to show respect.
Safety
Tipping in Sendai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude. Exceptional service is included in the bill.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring brings cherry blossoms, especially at the Sendai Castle ruins and along the riversides, creating a picturesque setting.
Summer is warm and lively, with festivals like the Sendai Tanabata Festival featuring colorful decorations and events.
The city transforms with stunning autumn foliage, particularly in Akiu and around local parks.
Winters can be cold and snowy, but the city lights up with illuminations and offers winter sports opportunities in nearby mountains.
Sendai at Night
Hiking in Sendai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An easy trail along the Shiroishi River, great for leisurely hikes and family outings with beautiful views of the river.
A moderate hike that rewards with stunning views of Sendai and the surrounding mountains, especially beautiful in autumn.
Airports
How to reach Sendai by plane.
Located approximately 13 km from downtown Sendai, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it easily accessible for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A growing demographic in Sendai, often attracted by the city's educational institutions and job opportunities.
The senior population is significant, contributing to the city's cultural richness and community activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Sendai, with the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles being the local professional team.
Football has a growing fan base, with the Vegalta Sendai team representing the city in Japan's J.League.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sendai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Japanese cuisine often includes fish and meat, there are vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Sendai. Be sure to ask for 'yasai' (vegetables).
Gluten-free options are limited, but some restaurants offer rice dishes that do not contain gluten. Always check with the staff.