Known for its awesome samurai museums and delightful local delicacies, Sendai is the place to immerse yourself in Japan’s shogun era.
1. Stroll Along Matsushima Bay
Matsushima Bay is a stunning seaside town on the outskirts of Sendai but still within Miyagi prefecture. Known as one of the “Three Great Views of Japan,” it is home to countless pine islands spread across a vast body of deep blue sea.
2. Visit a Historic Museum
Okay, it’s not literally a city filled with living samurai, but Sendai has a running theme of cool historic artifacts paying homage to Date Masamune, the “one-eyed dragon of Oshu,” who once ruled from his palace in Sendai Castle.
There are plenty of museums in Sendai displaying awesome samurai armor and weaponry that depict the battles that were fought here just a few hundred years ago.
3. Try an Edamame Bean Shake!
Edamame beans are typically a savory snack enjoyed at Japanese izakayas or as starters at restaurants. Here in Sendai, they are blended and turned into sweet delicious drinks known as “zunda saryo” or edamame shake!
4. Check Out Cool Samurai Souvenirs
Every souvenir shop you visit in Sendai is packed with awesome accessories that typically have some relation to the samurai or shogunate. Of all cities in Japan, you will likely find the best samurai swords or shogunate armor in Sendai, after all, it’s the home of the famous warlord Date Masamune.
5. Say Hi To The Mascots!
In popular areas such as Matsushima Bay, it’s common to see outgoing friendly mascots such as this…reindeer? welcoming you with a cheerful vibe and a youkouso! or “welcome!” flag.
They’re quite friendly and patient, so feel free to take plenty of photos and even converse with them if you so choose! While there’s so much more to do in Sendai, these are the 5 coolest things I could remember from the top of my head, but it certainly won’t be my last piece on this amazing “samurai city!”
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!
