Sendai - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Sendai

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Sendai, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Sendai and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Sendai, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Sendai for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Sendai

Sendai is the capital and largest city of the Miyagi Prefecture in the Tohoku region of Japan. It is located on the northeastern coast of Japan's Honshu island and has a population of approximately 1 million people. Sendai is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the famous Aoba Castle ruins, which provide stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The city is also known for its local cuisine, particularly its Gyutan (beef tongue) dishes, as well as its rich history and cultural events, such as the annual Tanabata Festival.

What to visit in Sendai

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Sendai, Japan: 1. Zuihoden Mausoleum: This is the final resting place of the famous feudal lord, Date Masamune. The mausoleum features beautiful sculptures and carvings, and it's a must-visit place for history buffs.
2. Sendai Castle: This castle was built during the Edo period in 1600 and destroyed by fire in 1882. There is a the museum next to the ruins with information about the castle's history.
3. Aoba Castle Ruins: These ruins offer amazing views of the city. High up on the hill, you can see the city below and the surrounding countryside. There is also a small museum and observation deck at the base of the ruins.
4. Sendai Mediatheque: This is a contemporary building with a unique design. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists to take photos and admire the architecture.
5. Jozenji-dori Avenue: This is a popular shopping and dining area in Sendai. It's a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The area is also known for its zelkova trees that turn a beautiful red in autumn.
6. Sendai City Museum: This museum showcases various aspects of Sendai's history and culture, including art, crafts, and artifacts from the Date clan.
7. Osaki Hachiman Shrine: This is a Shinto shrine known for its elaborate festivals and events. The shrine features beautiful gardens, ponds, and a stunning torii gate made of zelkova wood.
These are just a few places to visit in Sendai. Each one offers something unique and interesting to explore and enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Sendai.

When to go on holiday to Sendai

The best time to visit Sendai is during the spring or fall. In spring, from late April to early May, you can enjoy the cherry blossom season. In fall, from late September to early November, you can admire the changing colors of the leaves. The summer season from June to August is also a good time to visit Sendai but it can be hot and humid. Winter season from December to February can get quite cold with snowfall, so if you don't like cold weather, you may want to avoid that season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Sendai

There are several ways to get to Sendai, Japan: 1. By Air: The easiest and fastest way to get to Sendai is by flying into Sendai Airport. It operates international flights from Seoul, Taipei, and Shanghai, and domestic flights from Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, and other major cities in Japan.
2. By Train: The JR Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) connects Tokyo with Sendai in about 90 minutes. Other train routes are also available from other cities in Japan.
3. By Bus: Several long-distance bus companies operate routes to Sendai from various cities in Japan.
4. By Car: It is also possible to drive to Sendai, but the journey time can vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
You can choose the best option based on your budget, time, and preferences.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Sendai, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Sendai

Here are some typical foods of Sendai, Japan, along with a short description of each: 1. Gyutan: Grilled beef tongue that is a popular delicacy in Sendai. It has a soft texture and delicious savory flavor.
2. Zunda mochi: A sweet snack made with pounded mochi (sticky rice cake) and sweetened edamame (soybeans). The green color is from the edamame paste used to flavor the mochi.
3. Sasakamaboko: A fish cake made with whitefish that is steamed and then grilled over an open flame. It has a chewy texture and a light smoky flavor.
4. Higashimatsushima oysters: Oysters that are grown and harvested in the nearby town of Higashimatsushima. They are known for their plump, juicy texture and slightly sweet taste.
5. Sasa-kamaboko: A type of fish cake that is grilled over an open flame using sasa (bamboo grass) as a skewer. The sasa leaves impart a subtle herbal flavor to the fish cake.
6. Shumai: Small steamed dumplings filled with minced pork and vegetables. They are a popular snack or appetizer in Sendai and throughout Japan.
7. Sasa-kamaboko tempura: A dish made by deep-frying sasa-kamaboko fish cakes in tempura batter. This creates a crispy exterior that contrasts with the chewy texture of the fish cake.
8. Zosui: A rice porridge that is often made with leftovers from previous meals. It is typically seasoned with soy sauce and topped with green onion and sometimes an egg. A warm and comforting dish. I hope this helps you plan your Sendai trip!
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Sendai an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other cities in Japan like Tokyo and Kyoto, Sendai can be considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists. However, the cost of traveling to Sendai can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, the type of accommodation and activities you choose, and your personal spending habits. Generally, the cost of accommodation in Sendai can be reasonable, especially if you're willing to stay in budget hotels or hostels. Food and drinks can be affordable if you're willing to try local street food and local restaurants instead of more upscale options.
Transportation in Sendai is relatively affordable as well. Public transportation like buses and subways are priced reasonably, and many of the city's main attractions can also be easily accessed on foot.
Overall, while Sendai may not be the cheapest destination in Japan, it's definitely possible to experience the city without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Sendai

Some of the best areas to find accommodation in Sendai are: 1. Aoba Ward: This area is located in the heart of Sendai and is home to many restaurants and shopping centers.
2. Izumi Ward: This area is located in the southern part of Sendai and is known for its beautiful parks and the famous Izumi Zoo.
3. Miyagino Ward: This area is located in the eastern part of Sendai and is home to several popular tourist attractions including the Sendai City Museum and Sendai Castle.
4. Taihaku Ward: This area is located in the northern part of Sendai and is known for its hot springs and scenic views.
5. Wakabayashi Ward: This area is located in the western part of Sendai and is popular for its outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
Overall, choosing an accommodation in any of these areas would be a great option to explore Sendai and its attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Sendai here:
Booking.com

Is Sendai a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Sendai is generally a safe place for tourists. Japan, in general, is known for its low crime rates and high levels of public safety. However, travelers should still exercise caution and common sense, such as keeping valuable belongings secure and not leaving personal items unattended. It's also a good idea to be aware of any potential scams or pickpocketing in crowded areas, much like any other tourist destination. Overall, Sendai is a beautiful and safe city to visit!
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Sendai.

What type of travelers will enjoy Sendai the most?

Sendai, Japan is a wonderful destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Here are a few ideas for who might enjoy Sendai the most: - Couples: Sendai's charm is well-suited for romantic getaways. The city is known for its relaxing hot springs, picturesque gardens, historic temples, and upscale restaurants and bars.
- Young people looking for fun: Sendai is a lively city with plenty of activities for adventurous young travelers. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and surfing, or check out some of the city's more upbeat attractions like bars, clubs, and concerts.
- Families: Sendai is also a great destination for families with children. There are plenty of kid-friendly attractions like Yoshiro Mori Museum, the Sendai Aquarium, and the Akiu Otaki Falls. You can also explore the city's parks, gardens, and museums.
Overall, Sendai offers plenty of diversity in terms of things to do and see, so it's a great destination for a wide range of travelers.

How to get around Sendai

In Sendai, you can move around using various forms of transportation such as trains, buses, taxis, and rental cars. The train system is particularly convenient and efficient, with multiple lines that cover the city and its suburbs. The subway system in Sendai has only one line which is not extensive but it's convenient and reliable too. Buses are also a viable option, with routes that cover most parts of the city. Taxis are available but can be quite expensive compared to other options. If you prefer to have more flexibility in your travels, you can rent a car as well. However, it's important to note that Japan has strict driving laws, and road signs are often written in Japanese.

What to see around Sendai

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Sendai, Japan: 1. Matsushima Bay: This scenic bay is just a short train ride from Sendai and is known for its picturesque islands and beautiful views.
2. Yamadera Temple: This historic temple is about an hour away by train and is famous for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
3. Akiu Onsen: This hot spring resort town is just a short drive from Sendai and is a great place to relax and soak in natural hot springs.
4. Shiogama Shrine: This historic shrine is about a 30-minute train ride from Sendai and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
5. Zao Onsen Ski Resort: This ski resort is about an hour and a half away from Sendai and is a great place to go skiing or snowboarding in the winter.
6. Sendai Castle: This historic castle is located in the heart of Sendai and is a great spot to learn about the region's history and culture.
7. Yamagata City: This city is about an hour and a half away from Sendai and is known for its beautiful scenery, hot springs, and delicious cuisine.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Japan you can click here.

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