SENDAI 仙台
Sendai is the capital of Miyagi and the largest city in the Tohoku region. It is known as the "City of Trees," given the large number of Japanese elm trees that line the streets, such as the main thoroughfare of Jozenji-dori and appropriately named Aoba-dori. Consisting of five distinct districts, the city has a population of nearlt 1.1 million people. Sendai has a decently sized foreign population, in part due to the number of students studying at Tohoku University and other universities in the city. Demographically speaking, Sendai is one of the younger cities in Japan. Historically, the city itself isn't too old either - only being founded in the early 1600s. The city is particularly famous for the famous for the "one-eyed dragon", feudal lord Date Masamune. He and his clan relocated to the area which became Sendai in the 1600s and lived at Aoba Castle.
A vibrant city, Sendai is well-known in Japan for its arts - particularly music, and the visual arts are also quite popular here as well. There are numerous events throughout the year that highlight the city's interest in art - whether it be the Jozenji Jazz Festival; Aoba Festival; Michinoku Yosakoi festival; or any of the other events held throughout the city by different organizations. Unlike some cities in Japan, Sendai's municipality extends to the border with Yamagata, meaning you can technically still be in "Sendai" while atop a mountain peak surrounded by nature - so it's important to note some places in the guides might reflect this.
The information below is an introduction to Sendai. There are many more events and locations to discover here!
A vibrant city, Sendai is well-known in Japan for its arts - particularly music, and the visual arts are also quite popular here as well. There are numerous events throughout the year that highlight the city's interest in art - whether it be the Jozenji Jazz Festival; Aoba Festival; Michinoku Yosakoi festival; or any of the other events held throughout the city by different organizations. Unlike some cities in Japan, Sendai's municipality extends to the border with Yamagata, meaning you can technically still be in "Sendai" while atop a mountain peak surrounded by nature - so it's important to note some places in the guides might reflect this.
The information below is an introduction to Sendai. There are many more events and locations to discover here!
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Yearly Events
Dontosai Festival This is the first major festival of the year and it is held on January 14th. It's a traditional New Year's Festival where people bring decorations to be burned in a large bonfire, and pray for good health and good fortune. The most popular venue to hold this festival is at the Osaki Hachiman Shrine, famous for its hadakamairi (men dressed only in loincloths marching to the shrine). Sendai Aoba Matsuri This festival takes place on the 3rd weekend in May. Originally started to celebrate the completion of Sendai Castle back in the day, now it's become the largest festival in Sendai, drawing in vendors and visitors alike. There are big red wagon floats, Date Masamune impersonators, and suzume odori dancers. Most of the festival takes place along Jozenji-dori, though the dancers and floats will occasionally pass through Clis Road. Sendai Tanabata Festival This festival takes place from August 6th to 8th. It celebrates the meeting of the stars Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair). Tanabata is celebrated all over the country, but Sendai's Tanabata Festival is one of the biggest. Enormous paper decorations are hung from bamboo poles along the shopping arcade of Clis Road. There are also fireworks on the evening of August 5th. The Jozenji Street Jazz Festival This festival is held on the 2nd weekend of September. It brings musicians from all over the world to Miyagi. There are stages all over the city where hundreds of musicians play free shows. If you love music, this festival is a must. Sendai Pageant of Starlight In December, thousands of lights illuminate the elm trees along Jozenji-dori. If you manage to get there just as they turn on the lights, it's an unforgettable spectacle. There are also food stalls and an ice rink right around Kotodai-koen. There's also a Christmas Market, offering Sendai themed mugs and western style food stalls. |
Miyagi's Professional Sports Teams
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Rakuten Eagles is the Sendai baseball team. Rakuten became the Pacific League Champions in 2013, and this is the most popular team to cheer for in Miyagi.
They play out of Rakuten Mobile Park in Sendai. It's accessible by a 15 min walk from the east exit of Sendai Station or by taking the Senseki Line to Tsutsujigaoka/ Miyaginohara Stations. 
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Vegalta Sendai is the Japan League Division 1 soccer team. You may recognize this name as a combination of the names of 2 stars that meet for the Tanabata Festival (Vega and Altair). Home games are played at Yurtec Stadium near Izumichuo subway station or at Miyagi Stadium in Rifu. Even if you don't watch soccer, the crowd will inspire you to start!
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Sendai 89ers are the local basketball team playing in the Eastern Conference of the bj league. You can watch their home games at the Sendai Taiikukan (Sendai Gym) near Tomizawa subway station, or at Xebio Arena in Nagamachi. Their regular season is from October until the end of April.
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Teddy's Diner
A popular hamburger restaurant located close to the prefectural office. The owner works here alone, so each burger is made fresh to order. Hosoya Sandwich A historic hamburger restaurant located in Kokubuncho. Opened in 1950, both the exterior and interior of this restaurant exude a charming, retro vibe. The shop only makes a few hundred per day, and when they sell out, they close the shop. This is actually the first hamburger shop in all of Japan. |
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HEY
This cafe is trendy, stylish, and modern. They're famous for their freshly made donuts, but offer delicious brunch style options as well. It's reputation is a testament to it's outstanding food and atmosphere. Dogenzaka - 道玄坂 This cafe very retro and ecclectic, located in Kokubuncho. The inside is furnished with a mix of natural and kitschy decorations. You can only order coffee here. Flat White Coffee A trendy cafe whose owner lived in New Zealand and Australia for quite some time before returning to Sendai. True to the owner's experience, the cafe serves a variety of New Zealand's dishes alongside its coffee. Victorian Cafe - ヴィクトリアンカフェ This cafe is located near Nigatake station, and delivers on every expectation you could have of a cafe. Superb attention to detail is displayed throughout the restaurant, from the menu's design to the desserts they serve. Keyaki Coffee It's Located in Oroshimachi. This cafe has quite a modern design. They offer siphon coffee, along with delicately balanced sweets as well. |
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Rocco Pizza - ピッツェリアろっこ
A pizzaria located down one of Bunka-dori's many alleyways. Featuring woodfired pizza, the pies served here have thick crusts and generous toppings. |
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Ramen Jiro - ラーメン二郎
The birthplace of Jiro-kei ramen. People come from all over the country to eat here. Bean sprouts are piled high, large slabs of char siu rest atop them, and there's plenty of noodles and broth to fill you up. |
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Eggs n' Things
If you want true American style pancakes, Eggs n' Things has you covered. The pancakes here are served generously, with a tower of whip cream on top. They also offer other Hawaiian dishes, so you can enjoy brunch or dinner here. |
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ITAGAKI DESSERT KITCHEN
This sweets shop offers a wide variety of fruity pastries made with delicate care and attention to detail. This shop is known for the freshness of it's candied desserts that sit atop beautiful, light confections. If you are seeking something sweet in Sendai, look no further than Itagaki. |
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Rikyu - 利久
Rikyu made be a chain accessible across the nation, but it originated in Miyagi Prefecture. It's known for it's succulent beef tongue dishes. |
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Namaskar
One of the oldest Indian restaurants in Sendai, it's been in business for almost forty years. Massive portions, affordable, and masterfully spiced curry speak to it's long-earned reputation. |
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Zuihoden - 瑞鳳殿
The grave of Date Masamune and two of his sons. Incredibly ornate, the mausoleum is opened every so many years so visitors can see the even more elaborate interior. There is also a museum showcasing some artifacts and other items illustrating the life of Date Masamune. Akiu-Otaki Fudoson - 秋保大滝不動尊 This temple is located next to the Akiu Great Falls. It's very picturesque in the fall. Naritasan Temple - 成田山仙台分院 This temple overlooks Sendai city. This quiet temple is a nice place to come and enjoy the city skyline at night. Rinnoji Temple - 輪王寺 This 15th century temple is beautiful and serene, featuring a pagoda, a garden, and a large temple complex. The gardens featuring a large koi pond and various flowers. On weekends it is possible to attend a meditation service. Shifukuji Temple - 資福時 Known regionally for its massive hydrangea garden, this temple is beloved by many locals and visitors alike. Saihoji - 西方寺 Located deep in the mountains of Sendai, this temple was secretly founded by members of the former Taira clan after their defeat in the 12th century. The original scroll which was stashed away to the temple's current location still remains. It can be observed a few times per year. A small town surrounds the temple, famous for fried tofu. There is also a five story pagoda on the grounds, surrounded by a nice garden. Daikanmitsuji Temple - 大観密寺 Built in 1991 and originally intended to be part of a religious compound, at the time this was the tallest statue in the world and still ranks as the sixth. Inside is a fully functional temple full of small statues representing the various ills affecting the human condition. In order to pray at this temple, take the elevator to the top, walk down the stairs to find the appropriate statue for your ill, and pray to it so your symptoms may ease. |
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Osaki Hachimangu Shrine - 大崎八幡宮
The most well-known shrine in Sendai, it has been featured in not only different travel pamphlets but all kinds of shows and anime. Registered as a national treasure due to its unique architecture, it is a sight you won't soon forget. In January, the annual Dontosai Festival draws in a massive crowd. Sakuragaoka Shrine - 櫻岡大神宮 Located in Nishi Park, this shrine was moved to its current location in the mid 1920s. In spring it is surrounded by many cherry trees, and is quite a relaxing place in the bustling city. Atago Shrine - 仙台愛宕神社 Located atop one of the small mountains surrounding Sendai, the shrine has a spectacular view of downtown. Not only this, it's also home to the largest tengu statues in Japan. Sendai Toshogu Shrine - 仙台東照宮 Founded by Date Masamune himself, this shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. Famous for its stone lanterns and massive staircase leading to the main shrine, the grounds are also covered with cherry trees which draw quite the crowd in spring. Aoba Shrine - 青葉神社 Dedicated to the founder of Sendai himself, Date Masamune. The object of worship is taken out and paraded through the city during the Aoba Festival, and in autumn the grounds are covered with brilliant crimson trees. Kamo Shrine - 賀茂神社 What makes this shrine stand out are the two massive maple trees flanking the approach to the main shrine. Both are well over two hundred years old, and are designated natural treasures of Miyagi; come autumn, they erupt in glorious crimson splendor. Akiu Shrine - 秋保神社 Famous for its striking white banners leading to the main shrine, each banner has the name of various famous golfers and skaters (plus many other athletes) from around the country in the hopes that the enshrined god will bestow victory upon them in their competitions. Yuzuru Hanyu was known to visit here quite often. Tsubonuma Hachiman Shrine - 坪沼八幡神社 A very old shrine perched atop a hill surrounded by rice fields. In early summer it is one of the spots in the prefecture for firefly watching, and in autumn a place to behold the laden tassels of golden rice in the fields below. The stamps given out at the shrine are also unique, featuring different anime style characters the priest draws - they change once a month, so there's always something new! There's even a domesticated boar on site. Futahashira Shrine - 二柱神社 Dedicated to Izanami and Izanagi, this shrine is said to be good for relationships and marriage. If you're not into looking for love, there are different shrine seals on offer depending on the time of year. |
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Nishi Park - 西公園
As the name suggests, this park is on the western side of Sendai, bordered by the Hirose River. A popular spot for joggers, cyclists, skateboarders, and parents with their children. There's an old train here, along with a viewpoint for the old sewer system of the city. There are many cherry blossom trees in this park, so visitors come from all over to enjoy hanami. Castle Tower Nature Park - 天守閣自然公園 Located in Akiu, this park is known mostly for its world-famous illumination in autumn. There is also a campground and a famous onsen located here. Akiu Otaki Botanical Garden - 秋保大滝植物園 Next to Akiu Great Falls is a botanical garden. Featuring local plants, the garden is designed so that there is something blooming in season each month. Rairai Gorge and Momiji Path - 磊々峡と紅葉の小道 Running through Akiu is Rairai Gorge - a large chasm carved out over hundreds of years by the Natori River as it runs towards the Pacific. Along the river are countless Japanese maples, which are illuminated in autumn, making for a magical experience. Nishikicho Park - 錦町公園 Located in central Sendai, in spring this park comes to life with cherry trees in full bloom. When the leaves change in autumn, Sendai's Oktoberfest is held here. Other events are held throughout the year as well. Nanakita Park - 七北田公園 In Izumi-cho is Nanakita Park, home to Yurtec Stadium and the Velgalta Eagles. It's a very spacious park. Yasoen Garden - 仙台市野草園 Located near the "sky candles" (the three radio/television towers overlooking the city), this natural garden is home to all kinds of flowers and other plants. There is a cafe located on the premises. In autumn the trees turn all shades of red and gold. Kaigan Park In Arahama is Kaigan Park, where you can feed and ride horses! |
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TOHO Cinemas Sendai
A popular movie theater in Sendai. This theater shows both English and Japanese movies, so many people can enjoy going here. They serve food and drinks here as well, including icees in unique flavors. Forum Sendai - フォーラム仙台 Forum shows independent, old, or relatively esoteric films - all for reasonable prices, too. You have to reserve tickets online if you want to attend a showing, and parking is quite limited; however, it's quite the intimate experience. |
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Ice Rink Sendai - アイスリンク仙台
A quite large skating rink in Izumi-cho. A perfect venue for hanging out with friends. Yagiyama Benyland - 八木山ベニーランド A small amusement park located next to Yagiyama Zoo. There's a few roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, arcade, and a few other rides. Yagiyama Zoo - 八木山動物公園 A local zoo sitting on top of a hill. There's quite a few animals available to see - polar bears, red pandas, and rhinos are among the most popular. There's also a Babe Ruth statue here, as the zoo was the original location of a baseball stadium - The one where Babe hit the first home run ever in Japan. Umino-Mori Aquarium - うみの杜水族館 Located right next to Tagajo is Uminomori Aquarium. You can walk from Nakanosakae Station, but there is also a free shuttle bus from the station that takes you directly to the aquarium. Check the internet for the bus schedule before you go. This is the biggest aquarium in Tohoku area, and there are many highlights. Also, they have petting hours called "Friendly Times" where you can enjoy interacting with adorable penguins and South America sea lions. You can also enjoy a dolphin and sea lion show, a behind the scenes tour, interacting with starfish and sea cucumber; and much more. Aqua Terrace Nishigaoka A small aquarium in Nishigaoka mall. The aquarium focuses on water installments that exhibit small fish. There are also a few hands-on experiences here. |
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Sendai Macana
A popular live music venue, this time right outside Ichibancho station. Live Studio Ripple Located just outside of Nagamachi Ichome station, this is another popular music venue. Tokyo Electron Hall Not only a music venue, other events are held here as well - from comedy to ballet. Sendai Mediatheque An all-in-one stop for the arts. Sendai City Library is inside, as is an art gallery and a theater. Talk Net Hall Formerly Sendai's civic center, this building is currently a concert hall holding various musical performances throughout the year. Sendai Darwin Located along Clis Road, this surprisingly spacious live music venue has an extensive line-up rolling through it at any point in time. Sendai Gigs In Arai is Sendai Gigs, another live music venue. It's located very close to the station, making it easily accessible. |
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Mount Taihaku - 太白山
A steep mountain located near Yagiyama Zoo. It's a quick hike which offers some nice views of Mount Zao and Sendai city. Futakuchi Pass - 二口峠 Located in Akiu, this pass will take you to Yamagata's famous Yamadera. In the olden days it was one of the main routes over the mountains into Yamagata, before eventually becoming obsolete once rail became an option in the 19th century. In the 1960s, the pass was reconstructed for motor traffic, however there are still plenty of people who hike it today. Izumigatake - 泉ヶ丘山 Part of Mount Funagata, this mountain is well known among Sendai residents. Nearly everyone has hiked it at some point, whether as a child or in their later years. It offers just enough challenge for all but the most hardcore, and the view from the top is really impressive. Also located here are the relatively rare skeleton flowers which bloom in spring. Arahama Kaigan - 荒浜海岸 After the massive seawall was built, it became a bit of a haven for hikers given it allows easy walking/running/biking. |
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Miyagi International Association
Located in north Sendai, the International Association organizes all kinds of events. There are Japanese language classes, cultural exchange events, and much more! Nikka Miyagikyo Distillery Deep in the hills of Sakunami is Nikka Whiskey's Miyagikyo distillery. Here you can not only take a tour to learn more about how whiskey is produced and the steps which are taken to age it, but also sample various kinds of whiskey made at the facility. |
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Sendai Literature Museum
Located in Dainohara Park, this museum collects and features books from local authors along with different historical works in order to preserve them for future generations. The building itself has a unique design as well. Miyagi University of Education Library Looking to improve your Japanese and/or update your knowledge on teaching? The Miyagi University of Education's library is open to the public and will lend books for up to two weeks. Sendai City Library Located along Jozenji-dori, the city library is inside the Mediatheque. Open until 20:00, it's a decent place to stop after work or in the evening if you're looking for a place to relax. Tohoku University Library Much like Miyagi University of Education's library, Tohoku University's library is open to the public to browse and rent books from. |
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Given Sendai's wide perimeter, the towns of Akiu and Sakunami are both parts of the city. This means both onsen areas are readily accessible! Some notable onsen are;
Sakan Located in Akiu, this inn has been operating for nearly a century. They offer one-day hot spring trips as well as overnight stays for luxurious natural spring baths. Hotel Crescent For another Akiu Onsen hotel option, this modern hotel also offers one-day hot spring trips or overnight stays for an affordable price. Ichinobo Located in the mountains of Sakunami, this upscale onsen provides typical amenities alongside a luxurious buffet featuring gourmet dishes. This multi-floor onsen comes equipped with a cafe and private onsen at the top, offering a unique experience with unforgettable views of the natural scenery. |
Clis Road
One of Sendai's covered roads, this shopping arcade boasts many of the classic shops. There are delicious restaurants, fun stores, and game centers here. Exploring the long lane of establishments is a fun way to spend your time, rain or shine.
AER Sendai
A large skyscraper located next to Sendai Station. Inside you'll find UNIQLO, Maruzen bookstore, Office Vender, and countless other stores.
PARCO Sendai
Located right next to AER is PARCO. Home to a number of clothing stores in addition to restaurants, the building also features Sendai's Pokemon center. The Jump Store is also here, where you can get Shonen Jump series goods.
EBeanS
Across the road from Sendai Station is EbeanS. There's a cosplay supplier, model shops, a dollfie, and alternative fashion stores inside. There is even an Animate. They hold occasional flea markets on the seventh floor! Even more surprising, there's an outdoor restaurant and beer garden on the fifth floor.
LOFT
Located just across from Sendai Station, this large store has multiple levels selling everything from cosmetics to watches.
Sendai Morning Market
Sendai has its own morning market. Here you can get all kinds of fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and fish for reasonable prices.
Sendai Izumi Premium Outlets
An outlet shopping mall located in the north of Sendai. It's a relaxing mall with open-air walkways, plenty of seating, and cafes to recharge in.
THE MALL Nagamachi
A large mall standing near Nagamachiminami station. There is a wide variety of shops here. There's also quite a few restaurants and play centers for children.
IKEA Sendai
The Sendai IKEA is located in Nagamachi. A world-renowned furniture store, this shop draws in locals and vistors alike. The prices are affordable, so if you're looking for furniture this IKEA is a great option.
Ario Sendai + Selva
A shopping mall complex located in Izumi, conveniently located next to the subway station.
Nishigaoka Hillside Mall
A cute, local mall featuring many amenities for children. This mall caters primarily to family units.
Sendai Station S-Pal
A mall inside the main station. There are many well known stores and services here.
Matatabido Cat Goods - またたび堂
A unique gallery featuring art of cats. You can buy many cat goods here, making it a popular stop among cat lovers in Miyagi.
Koseki - コセキ
Opened in 1948, this camera store has built quite the reputation in Sendai. If you're curious about photography, looking to get pictures printed, or maybe your camera repaired, they have you covered here.
One of Sendai's covered roads, this shopping arcade boasts many of the classic shops. There are delicious restaurants, fun stores, and game centers here. Exploring the long lane of establishments is a fun way to spend your time, rain or shine.
AER Sendai
A large skyscraper located next to Sendai Station. Inside you'll find UNIQLO, Maruzen bookstore, Office Vender, and countless other stores.
PARCO Sendai
Located right next to AER is PARCO. Home to a number of clothing stores in addition to restaurants, the building also features Sendai's Pokemon center. The Jump Store is also here, where you can get Shonen Jump series goods.
EBeanS
Across the road from Sendai Station is EbeanS. There's a cosplay supplier, model shops, a dollfie, and alternative fashion stores inside. There is even an Animate. They hold occasional flea markets on the seventh floor! Even more surprising, there's an outdoor restaurant and beer garden on the fifth floor.
LOFT
Located just across from Sendai Station, this large store has multiple levels selling everything from cosmetics to watches.
Sendai Morning Market
Sendai has its own morning market. Here you can get all kinds of fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and fish for reasonable prices.
Sendai Izumi Premium Outlets
An outlet shopping mall located in the north of Sendai. It's a relaxing mall with open-air walkways, plenty of seating, and cafes to recharge in.
THE MALL Nagamachi
A large mall standing near Nagamachiminami station. There is a wide variety of shops here. There's also quite a few restaurants and play centers for children.
IKEA Sendai
The Sendai IKEA is located in Nagamachi. A world-renowned furniture store, this shop draws in locals and vistors alike. The prices are affordable, so if you're looking for furniture this IKEA is a great option.
Ario Sendai + Selva
A shopping mall complex located in Izumi, conveniently located next to the subway station.
Nishigaoka Hillside Mall
A cute, local mall featuring many amenities for children. This mall caters primarily to family units.
Sendai Station S-Pal
A mall inside the main station. There are many well known stores and services here.
Matatabido Cat Goods - またたび堂
A unique gallery featuring art of cats. You can buy many cat goods here, making it a popular stop among cat lovers in Miyagi.
Koseki - コセキ
Opened in 1948, this camera store has built quite the reputation in Sendai. If you're curious about photography, looking to get pictures printed, or maybe your camera repaired, they have you covered here.
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Miyagi Museum of Art
The most notable museum of art in Miyagi. It opened in the 80's and It's collection focuses primarily on works associated with Miyagi prefecture and the Tohoku region. It's most prestigious works include those from artists Kandinsky and Klee. The museum has a variety of exhibitions and events, so there is often something new to see here. Shimakawa Art Museum Located in a modernist building, this museum has a variety of artworks on display from artists around the country. It's recommended viewing order is taking the elevator and starting from the top, working your way down through the musuem. Sendai Kaleidoscope Museum This whimsical museum is well renowned by artists and guests alike. The museum specializes in detailing different aspects of how kaleidoscopes are made and what effects they have. Not only are there various hands-on displays, but there are also different visual installations to observe that inspire a playful, inquisitive atmosphere. Sasaki Art and Doll Gallery - 佐々木美術館・人形館 A surreal private museum in Akiu featuring the works from a local artist. The works on display include paintings and hand crafted dolls. |
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3M Sendai City Science Museum
A scientific museum featuring a number of interactive exhibits, making it a perfect location for children to enjoy learning. There are a number of fossils on display as well, creating a spectacle for young and old alike. Sendai City Museum of History & Folklore Located in Tsutsujigaoka Park, this was once the home to the 4th Infantry's 4th Regiment before it was disbanded after WW2. Here you can find exhibits detailing life from the Edo Period to modern times, including some things about the occupational forces in Japan at the end of WW2. Sendai City Museum This museum focuses on Sendai's history from the late Edo Period to modern times. Inside you can find exhibits on Date Masamune and his family, along with a number of registered cultural treasures. There's even a section on the first Japanese envoy to Rome, who was commissioned by Masamune and sent there from Miyagi. War Reconstruction and Memorial Hall Dedicated to remembering the effects of the Second World War, this museum documents the firebombing raids which occurred across Japan and the eventual rebuilding and city planning that followed. Tohoku University Natural History Museum Detailing both living creatures past and present, this museum has a collection with a broad range inside. There are also various geological artifacts on display. Tanabata Museum The Tanabata decorations in Sendai are famous for their grand display and ornate details. Each year the Tanabata festival draws millions of vistors, coming to marvel at the decoration's elaborate designs. This museum displays these decorations and explains the history of Tanabata in Sendai. Kamei Musuem For those interested in entomology, this museum is a must visit spot. There are countless butterflies and other insects on display, including works of art made entirely from butterfly wings. Anpanman Musuem Japan's beloved and delectable bad-guy-fighting hero has his own museum right here in Sendai! Primarily aimed at young children who adore this bread based character. Sendai Observatory Located on the outskirts of the city, in Nishigaoka, is Sendai's own observatory. Here you can learn about the planets, their rotation around the sun, and more celestial information. |
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