Sendai Samurai Adventure: Sake, Sushi, and Soulful Memories

Experience a playful blend of tradition and modernity in family-friendly Sendai, Japan!

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Sendai, Japan would be a delightful experience filled with cultural immersion and exciting adventures. Explore the famous Sendai Castle, where kids can dress up as samurais while learning about the city's history. Take a scenic boat ride along the Matsushima Bay, dotted with picturesque islands, and indulge in the delicious local cuisine, including mouthwatering seafood and delectable street food.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Samurais, Sushi, and Serenity

  • Start the day with a mesmerizing visit to Sendai Castle, once home to brave samurais and now offering breathtaking views of the city.
  • Fill your belly with scrumptious sushi at Shiogama Fish Market, where you can find everything from traditional favorites to unique seafood creations.
  • Discover peace at Rinnoji Temple, a serene oasis in the heart of the city, where the enchanting beauty of the gardens and intricate architecture will leave you feeling tranquil.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Jozenji-dori Avenue, lined with beautiful maple trees and fascinating sculptures, including a bronze statue of John Lennon. It's "Imagine" come to life!
  • End your day by indulging in a bowl of piping hot gyutan, grilled beef tongue, at a cozy local restaurant. Trust us, it's a melt-in-your-mouth delight!
Day 2

Nature's Embrace and Mystical Beauties

  • Embark on an adventure to Matsushima Bay, renowned for its ethereal beauty and mystical islands. Take a boat tour and allow the sea breeze to transport you to a world of wonder.
  • Wander through Zuiganji Temple, nestled amidst serene pine trees, and revel in the intricate craftsmanship of its ancient wooden structures.
  • Visit the Oceanic Culture Museum, where you can learn about the region's fascinating maritime history and admire an intriguing collection of seashells that'll make any beachcomber envious.
  • Savor a delicious lunch at a local seafood restaurant, showcasing the freshest catches from the bay. The flavors will dance on your taste buds like a ballet of sea creatures!
  • Immerse yourself in nature's embrace at Shiki no Mori Park, famous for its cherry blossom trees in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Bring a picnic and bask in the beauty.
Day 3

Feasts for the Senses

  • Begin your day with a visit to Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, a majestic Shinto shrine adorned with intricate gold decorations. Feel the spiritual energy and marvel at the craftsmanship.
  • Explore the Sendai City Museum, where history comes to life through fascinating artifacts, interactive exhibits, and even a replica of a traditional Edo-period town.
  • Indulge in retail therapy at Sunmall Ichibancho, the bustling shopping district of Sendai. From trendy fashion boutiques to quirky souvenir shops, it's a shopaholic's paradise!
  • Take a break and feast on mouthwatering karaage (Japanese fried chicken) at a local street food stall. The crispy golden exterior and juicy meat will make you want to do a happy dance!
  • In the evening, catch a performance at the magnificent Sendai Mediatheque, a unique architectural masterpiece. Whether it's music, theater, or dance, you'll be enthralled by the talent on display.
Day 4

Sake, Samurai, and Soulful Goodbyes

  • Embark on a sake brewery tour at a local brewery in Miyagikyo. Witness the artistry of sake making firsthand and sample the fragrant elixir that warms both body and spirit.
  • Unleash your inner samurai at Date Masamune Historical Museum, where you can try on armor, wield a sword, and learn about this legendary figure who shaped Sendai's history.
  • Delve into the charming streets of Aoba-dori Avenue, filled with quaint shops, trendy cafes, and distinctive architecture. It's the perfect place for souvenir hunting and people-watching.
  • Savor a delectable lunch of Sendai's specialty, zunda mochi, a sweet treat made from pounded sticky rice and rich green soybean paste. It's a little ball of heaven!
  • Bid farewell to Sendai with a heartwarming visit to the Akiu Great Falls, where the cascading waters and lush surroundings will leave you feeling serenely nostalgic.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Sendai

Welcome to the land of delicious sushi, picturesque landscapes, and home to the world-famous statue of a giant samurai that will leave you feeling rather inadequate about your own height. Come explore Sendai, a city that promises to leave you mesmerized and your stomach full.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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Escape to Romantic Sendai: A 3-Day Getaway

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4-day Adventure Guide to Serene Sendai, Japan

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Sendai Splendors: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

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