Sendai: Tohoku’s green city
Sendai, the capital of Miyagi Prefecture in the Tohoku region of Japan, is known as mori no miyako (literally “the City of Trees”) for its lush, tree-lined streets and abundant greenery. Blending urban energy with natural beauty, this vibrant city is home to historic landmarks, peaceful parks, and regional culinary favorites like grilled beef tongue and sweet bean paste treats. With easy connections to coastal views and mountain temples, Sendai is an ideal base for exploring northeastern Japan.
Historical and cultural sites
Zuihōden Mausoleum
Zuihōden is the ornate resting place of Date Masamune, the powerful feudal lord who founded Sendai in the early 1600s. Set among tall cedar trees, the site stands out for its bright colors and bold architectural details, which contrast beautifully with the surrounding forest.
Access
Zuihoden is about 15 minutes by bus from Sendai Station. Take the Loople Sendai tourist bus and get off at the Zuihoden-mae stop, then walk about 5 minutes uphill.
Sendai Castle ruins
Also known as Aoba Castle, this mountaintop attraction once served as the stronghold of the prominent Date clan. Though little of the original structure remains, visitors come for panoramic city views and a museum that explores the castle’s history and legacy.
Access
From Sendai Station, take the Loople Sendai bus and get off at the Sendai Castle Site stop. The ride takes about 25 minutes, followed by a short walk uphill.
Nature and parks
Jōzenji-dōri Avenue
With its sweeping canopy of greenery, Jōzenji-dōri exemplifies why Sendai is known as the “City of Trees.” It’s a popular place for a stroll, with cafes, shops, and sculptures lining the route.
Access
Located in central Sendai, Jozenji-dori is a 5-minute walk from Kotodai-Koen Station on the Sendai Subway Namboku Line or a 15-minute walk from Sendai Station (Sendai Subway, North Exit 6).
Photo for illustrative purposes
Nishi Park
Nishi Park is a scenic hilltop park known for its cherry blossoms, historic monuments, and views over the city. It’s a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing) in spring and offers a peaceful atmosphere year-round.
Access
A short distance from Omachi Nishi-koen Station on the Sendai Subway Tozai Line or a 20-minute walk from Sendai Station (Sendai Subway, North Exit 4).
Food: local specialties
Gyūtan
Sendai is especially known for gyutan—grilled slices of beef tongue that are tender and full of flavor. This local delicacy is typically served as a set meal with rice, soup, and pickles, which can be found at specialty restaurants throughout the city.
Zunda
Zunda is a sweet paste made from mashed edamame (young soybeans). It’s used in local desserts like zunda mochi (chewy rice cakes) and zunda shakes, which make great use of the paste’s unique sweet and savory flavor.
Where to try it
Many restaurants near Sendai Station and in the downtown area specialize in gyutan and zunda-based sweets. Look for signs around Ichibanchō shopping street and Sendai Station’s food floors.
Day trip options from Sendai
Matsushima Bay
Matsushima Bay is celebrated for its scenic beauty, dotted with pine-covered islands that have inspired poets and painters for centuries. Visitors can take sightseeing boats to admire the bay and stop at historic landmarks on some of the islands.
Access from Sendai
Take the JR Senseki Line from Sendai Station to Matsushima-Kaigan Station. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes. Sightseeing boats and the bay area are within walking distance from the station.
Yamadera Temple
Formally known as Risshaku-ji Temple, Yamadera is a mountainside temple complex in Yamagata Prefecture renowned for its serene setting, and the climb up its many stone steps is rewarded with striking vistas of the valley below.
Access from Sendai
Take the JR Senzan Line from Sendai Station to Yamadera Station. The journey takes about 1 hour, followed by a 5-minute walk to the temple steps.
Photo for illustrative purposes
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to historic sites, quiet parks, or local food culture, Sendai offers a travel experience that balances adventure and everyday comfort. Beyond the city itself, its location opens the door to some of Tohoku’s must-see sites—from sprawling bays to smaller hillside temples—making it the perfect launchpad for travelers eager to see more of northern Japan.
