Dongurimatsu-chan, Matsushima's PR character!
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At a Glance
One of the iconic "Three Views of Japan", Matsushima is world renowned for it's natural beauty. Comprised of 260 pine covered islands, this bay is said to be one of the most beautiful sights in the entire country - and was even immortalized in one of Matsuo Basho's haiku.
Being a tourist town, there's plenty to do and see around Matsushima. From festivals to tours, you can even enjoy illuminations at certain points of the year. |
A former CIR named Roger did a stellar job at promoting the area, and you can find out more about what's happening in Matsushima the Facebook page he created, Visit Matsushima. To get to Matushima from Sendai, take the Senseki line to Matsushima-Kaigan (松島海岸) station. Be careful, there's also a Matsushima Station off the Tohoku line, but it's rather far from the seaside. Matsushima is also accessible by ferry, which is highly recommended if it's a nice day. There are several that leave from Marine Gate in Shiogama fairly frequently and offer a scenic view around the islands before arriving in Matsushima. There are a couple of temples, the most notable being Zuigan-ji Temple. This Zen temple was originally founded in 828 by Jikaku Daishi, but was rebuilt by the feudal lord Date Masamune from 1604 onwards. During autumn when the leaves change colours, there is a festival called Matushima Light Up Illumination. It's definitely worth a visit!
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Kanrantei Tea House - 観瀾亭
If you continue walking down the road from Matsushima Kaigan Station, you will come across Kanrantei Tea House. Kanrantei means "a place to view ripples on water", which makes it a very fitting name for this teahouse. Kanrantei was originally built in Kyoto by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who gave it to Date Masamune for his service as a Daimyo . Date's son eventually moved it to its current position by the water. You can enjoy tea in an incredibly historic building for 600 yen while enjoying a stunning view of Matsushima Bay. Pensee Matsushima - パンセ松島店 Located near the waterfront, you can enjoy many freshly baked goods at this bread stand. Pensee is a locally owned chain bakery, with the flagship store being located in Sendai. The Matsushima location is famous for it's oyster curry bun, cooked fresh and served warm in a an iconic paper bag. Akapiman Fast Food - ファストフード 赤ピーマン This cute red fast food stand serves a variety of fried favorites as well as a wide assortment of soft serve ice creams. Their freshly cut daily and fried to order french fries are incredibly popular, especially paired with a classic hot dog. As for the soft serve, there is an impressive list of flavors to choose from - from Sendai's famous zunda to blueberry yogurt. Both the ice cream and french fries are popular choices for frequent visitors to the bay. |
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Entsuin Temple Sankeiden - 円通院 三慧殿
Near Zuigan-ji is Entsu-in, a famous Rinzai Zen Buddhist Temple. On one side it has a delicate Zen garden, and on the other there's a beautiful Western rose garden. The temple is devoted to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Far back into the temple grounds stands the mausoleum. The mausoleum's interior is decorated in small Western symbols of crosses, hearts, spades, diamonds, and clubs. These symbols were included in the design to signify the Date Clan's voyage to Rome. During autumn when the leaves change colors, there is a festival called "Matushima Light Up". It's a locally famous event! Godaido of Zuiganji Temple - 瑞巌寺 五大堂 Near the ferry dock is Godai-do Temple Hall. To access this island temple, you walk up the stone steps and cross three small red bridges to get to it. It's free of charge and it gives you a spectacular view of Matsushima Bay. Around the outside of the hall you can find all 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac engraved in the wooden trim. Fukuurajima - 福浦島 From Godai-do you can see Fukuura-jima, a small island that can be accessed by a long red bridge. It costs 200 yen to cross, but it's a beautiful stroll, especially around sunset. You can walk around the island and visit the beach. |
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Matsushima Ichinobo - 松島一の坊
If you're looking to relax in an onsen while admiring Matsushima Bay, then look no further than Matsushima Ichinobo Onsen. Ichinobo is a hotel complex, but visitors are allowed to enjoy the facilities during restricted hours. There are 2 spa packages available. For the main onsen package, during the hours of 12-3 pm, you can enjoy 2 onsen which overlook the bay for 1500 yen. This also includes access to the lounge and drinks. There's usually tea, coffee, and juice. The view alone is worth the trip! The other spa package is from 12-4 pm and for 1600 yen you can enjoy a hot stone room, an onsen inside the hotel, and a couple of other amenities. You can get to Ichinobo from either Matsushima Station or Matsushima Kaigan Station. It's about a 15 minute walk from either. |
