Romantic Long Weekend in Sendai, Japan

Experience a truly enchanting romantic escape in Sendai, Japan.

23 April 2023

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.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Sendai!

  • Stay at Hotel Metropolitan Sendai, a sleek and modern hotel with great city views.
  • Visit Sendai Castle ruins, home to a rich historical past and a panoramic view over the city.
  • Stroll through Aobayama Park, a colorful spot for cherry blossom viewing.
  • Enjoy a homemade ramen at Rikyu, a local favorite with a warm and cozy vibe.
  • Take a romantic walk along Jozenji-dori, aka Tree-lined Street, filled with street performers, cafes, and shops.
Day 2

Discover the City's Culture

  • Start the morning at Zuihoden, a Shogun tomb with ornate, colorful carvings and tombstones.
  • Wander around the Miyagikencho Musubi no Hiroba, a creative café and gallery space to admire local arts and crafts.
  • Learn about the city's history at the Sendai City Museum, where you can use virtual reality goggles to explore ancient Japan.
  • Tuck into sizzling yakitori and Suntory whiskey at Sasakura, a lively izakaya run by friendly locals.
  • Test your agility and hand-to-hand combat skills with a Kendo lesson at Sendai Kendo Dojo.
Day 3

Day Trip to Matsushima

  • Take the train to Matsushima, one of Japan's most scenic spots with a cluster of small islands and ancient temples.
  • Experience the height of Zen tranquility at Zuiganji, a stunningly beautiful temple with leafy gardens and a serene teahouse.
  • Go for a boat ride or walk across Fukuura Island, a peaceful oasis with ancient pine trees and secret caves.
  • Pick up souvenirs at Matsushimakan with a huge range of seafood, confectionery, and green tea.
  • Indulge in French cuisine at LaToile, an elegant restaurant showcasing the chefs’ creative culinary skills.
Day 4

Nature and Relaxation

  • Hear the morning sounds of Monkeys at Miyagi Zao Eboshi Resort, a ryokan-style onsen guesthouse nestled in the mountains.
  • Hike to the Okama crater, a slimy greenish-blue lake and sacred for the local people, set in the midst of mountain peaks.
  • Refresh your mind and body with a therapeutic bath at Yumoto Itaya Onsen, known for its sauna and outdoor hot springs.
  • Taste the local cuisines of Miyagi and sake pairing from the freshest seafood at Aburiya Kappa.
  • Enjoy a sunset view of the city from the observation deck located on the 31st floor of the AER building.

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.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Sendai in Two Days: Family Fun and Budget Adventures

A trip to Sendai, Japan offers a delightful family-friendly experience. Known for its rich history and breathtaking scenery, Sendai boasts attractions suitable for all ages. From exploring the historic Sendai Castle to enjoying a boat ride along the beautiful Matsushima Bay and savouring traditional delicacies at the bustling Sendai Market, families are sure to create unforgettable memories.

Discover Sendai: A Day of Culture & Cuisine

As a tourist in Sendai, Japan, you can explore a blend of traditional and modern culture. Visit the famous Sendai Castle and the Zuiganji Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also indulge in the local cuisine, such as the beef tongue dish called "gyutan" and slurp on some of the best "ramen" in the country.

Sendai on a Budget: Culture, Nature, and Food

Despite being one of the largest cities in Japan, Sendai can be explored inexpensively by using the city's efficient public transportation system to visit historic sites such as Sendai Castle and the Osaki Hachiman Shrine. For affordable meals, visit Sendai's bustling street food markets or try the local specialty, gyutan (grilled beef tongue), at one of the city's budget-friendly restaurants. For lodging, consider staying at a capsule hotel or a budget-friendly business hotel near the city center.

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.