Sendai in 48: An Epic Weekend Adventure

Discover the natural and cultural beauty of Sendai, Japan.

03 May 2023

A trip to Sendai, Japan will take you to a city steeped in history and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Trees", this destination is famous for its picturesque parks and gardens. As a tourist, you can explore its historic sites, shop for local handicrafts, and enjoy delicious cuisine infused with age-old traditions.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Downtown Sendai

  • Stay at Nine Hours Sendai, a capsule hotel with sleek and futuristic sleeping pods.
  • Start your morning at the bustling Ichibancho Arcade, with shops and eateries galore.
  • Visit Sendai City Museum, with its fascinating exhibits about local history and culture.
  • Head to AER Building's observation deck for stunning views over the city.
  • Lunch at Sushidokoro Takahashi, a hidden gem with some of the best sushi in town.
  • Finish the day at Jozenji Street, lined with shops and illuminated by beautiful streetlights at night.
Day 2

Nature and Traditions

  • Head out to Matsushima, known as one of Japan's three most scenic views.
  • Take a boat cruise around the bay to see the natural beauty up close.
  • Hike up to the Godaido Temple, for stunning views over the picturesque town.
  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at Kameki Soba, with fresh soba noodles made daily.
  • Visit the Zuihoden Mausoleum, the final resting place of Sendai's founder Date Masamune.
  • Finish the day at the historic Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, where you can witness a traditional Shinto ceremony.
  • Sendai is a city with a unique blend of modernity and traditions, with beautiful natural scenery to boot. With this itinerary, you'll experience the best of what Sendai has to offer in just two days.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Sendai, Japan by plane is to fly into Sendai Airport. There are multiple airlines such as Japan Airlines, ANA, and Delta Airlines that offer daily flights to Sendai Airport from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo.

Car

Driving to Sendai from Tokyo is a straightforward route via the Tohoku Expressway. The journey takes around 4-5 hours and offers stunning views of Japanese countryside. However, please note that parking in Sendai can be difficult and expensive.

Train

If you prefer to travel by train, take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Sendai Station. The journey takes around 90 minutes and offers stunning views of Japanese countryside. Once you arrive at Sendai Station, you can take the subway or bus to reach your destination.

Boat

There is no direct boat service to Sendai as it is not a coastal city. However, you can take a ferry from Tokyo to Sendai via the Shinjuku Ferry Terminal in Tokyo. The journey takes around 12 hours but can be a relaxing and unique way to experience Japan's coastline.

Bus

Traveling to Sendai by bus is a cheaper alternative to trains and flights. Major bus providers like Willer Express, JR Bus, and Tobu Bus have daily services from Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities. The journey takes around 5-6 hours depending on where you are coming from and where you are going.

More travel plans

Sendai on a budget: 5 days of adventure!

A trip to Sendai, Japan on a limited budget is still achievable with the abundance of affordable accommodations like capsule hotels and guesthouses. Take advantage of free attractions such as visiting the historic Sendai Castle Ruins and the peaceful Zuihoden Mausoleum. Don't forget to taste the local specialty, gyutan (grilled beef tongue), at affordable prices in the many restaurants around town.

A Day of Romance: Sendai Getaway

A romantic trip to Sendai, Japan promises a beautiful blend of nature and culture. Take a leisurely stroll through the Tsutsujigaoka Park, famous for its picturesque cherry blossom trees. Visit the historic temples and shrines for a glimpse into the city's rich history and enjoy local delicacies at the bustling restaurants.

Fall in love with Sendai: A 5-day romantic getaway

A romantic trip to Sendai, Japan offers a picturesque blend of traditional and modern cultures. The city's dramatic natural scenery of lush green expanses invites visitors to explore tranquil parks, waterfalls and cedar forests. The city also boasts of world-class cuisine, art, and trendy shopping districts, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.

Romantic Long Weekend in Sendai, Japan

Sendai, Japan offers a perfect mix of nature and urban bliss. A romantic getaway here is a must-do adventure for couples as it features stunning scenery, delicious cuisine, and rich culture. A visit to the hot springs or a stroll through the historic sites of Matsushima will be sure to create memories to last forever.