Sendai On a Budget: Cultural & Coastal Charm

Discover the hidden gems of Sendai on a budget-friendly journey through Japan.

21 June 2023

Take a walk through the history of Sendai while visiting the traditional Japanese-style homes and the centuries-old Sendai Castle ruins. On a limited budget, you can enjoy street foods and visit the free parks and gardens, such as the historic Aoba Castle Park. Make sure to hop on the Loople Sendai bus, an affordable way to see prominent landmarks along the way.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Sendai

  • Check in at Hotel Green Park Sendai, a budget option with clean, cozy rooms and friendly staff.
  • Start your day with a visit to Sendai Castle Site, the ruins of the former castle of Date Masamune, with stunning views of the city.
  • Take a stroll in the adjacent Aoba Castle Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city with beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
  • Head to the bustling shopping district of Ichibancho for some retail therapy and local street food delights.
  • Visit the majestic Zuihoden Mausoleum, the final resting place of Date Masamune and one of the most ornate buildings in Sendai.
  • End your day with a relaxing dip in the hot springs of Sakunami Onsen, just a short train ride from the city center.
Day 2

Coastal Charm and Spiritual Sites

  • Start early and take a train to Matsushima, a picturesque bay dotted with over 200 pine-clad islets and one of Japan's Three Scenic Views.
  • Enjoy a scenic boat ride around the bay to fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
  • Visit Zuiganji Temple, a National Treasure with stunning architecture and serene gardens.
  • Head back to Sendai and visit Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, a beautiful shrine with a rich history and a majestic Grand Shrine Gate.
  • Take a walk in the lush and peaceful Mikamine Park, with scenic trails, impressive trees and seasonal flowers.
  • End your day with a dinner at Sasaoka, a local restaurant with traditional fare and affordable prices.
Day 3

Cultural Delights and Foodie Finds

  • Start your day by visiting the beautiful Sendai Mediatheque, a state-of-the-art cultural center designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Toyo Ito.
  • Head to the nearby Miyagi Museum of Art, with a great collection of Japanese and Western art and exhibitions showcasing local artists.
  • Visit Akiu Onsen, a charming hot springs town with a relaxing atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
  • Try the local specialty, gyutan (grilled beef tongue), at one of the many restaurants in the city center.
  • Explore the quirky and fun Retro Game Center Nagoya, with vintage arcade games and a nostalgic atmosphere.
  • End your day with a nightcap at Kenta Sakagushi, a cozy bar with a wide selection of sake and shochu.

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

5 Days of Adventure in Sendai, Japan

A trip to Sendai offers visitors the chance to explore the largest city in the Tohoku region, known for its beautiful scenery and rich history. Popular attractions include the historic castle ruins of Aoba, the scenic Matsushima Bay, and the bustling shopping streets of the city center. Visitors can also indulge in the local food, including specialty dishes such as beef tongue and zunda mochi.

Sendai, Japan: Samurais, Smiles, and Sushi

A trip to Sendai, Japan offers a delightful family-friendly experience. Renowned for its lush greenery and serene landscapes, visitors can explore the picturesque Matsushima Bay, known as one of Japan's three most scenic spots. The city also boasts attractions like the Sendai City Museum, the Akiu Great Falls, and the Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium, ensuring a memorable trip for the entire family.

3-Day Sendai Adventure: Sake, Samurai, and Scenery

A trip to Sendai, Japan offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nature. Visitors can explore the city's historic sites, such as the ornate Osaki Hachimangu Shrine and the imposing Aoba Castle. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Matsushima Bay, with its countless tiny islands, offers breathtaking scenery and delicious seafood.

Sendai in Four: History, Nature, and Cuisine

Visiting Sendai, Japan on a limited budget can still be an enjoyable experience. Opt for inexpensive accommodations such as hostels, capsule hotels, or Airbnb. Explore attractions like the Sendai City Museum, Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, and the Zuihoden Mausoleum, many of which offer free admission. Sample local cuisine at affordable eateries like Gyutan restaurants and food stalls at the Sendai Morning Market.