Sendai on a budget: 5 days of adventure!

Experience traditional Japan on a budget with a trip to Sendai.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Downtown

  • Check-in at Hotel Monterey Sendai
  • Walk around Aoba-dori, the city's main shopping street
  • Visit the Zuihoden Mausoleum of Date Masamune, the city's founder
  • Explore the bohemian atmosphere of Jozenji-dori avenue
  • Have dinner at Gyutan-dori, the famous grilled beef tongue street
Day 2

Mystic Temples and Forests

  • Take a train to the Matsushima Bay area
  • Visit the Zuigan-ji Temple, a national treasure with 400 years of history
  • Rent a bicycle to explore the pine-covered islands of the bay
  • Walk through the serene forests of the Entsuin Temple
  • Have a picnic lunch on the waterfront
Day 3

Samurai Adventures

  • Take a bus to the Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, home to the legendary Soma clan
  • Watch the Yabusame horseback archery show at the shrine's festival grounds
  • Explore the castle ruins and gardens of the Aoba Castle
  • Visit the Sendai City Museum to learn about Masamune's life
  • Have a cold beer at a local izakaya
Day 4

Relaxing Retreats

  • Take a train to the Sakunami Hot Springs area
  • Spend a day in traditional Japanese baths and hot saunas
  • Try the local delicacy of soba noodles with mountain vegetables
  • Take a walk through the serene valley and waterfalls surround the hot springs
  • Have dinner at a traditional ryokan inn
Day 5

Hirosaki Castle and Apple Orchards

  • Take a train to the nearby town of Hirosaki
  • Visit the stunning Hirosaki Castle, a national treasure with pristine gardens
  • Take a bus to the nearby apple orchards to pick your own fruit
  • Have lunch at a local restaurant serving apple-based dishes
  • Return to Sendai for a last night in town

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

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 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.

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.

4-day Adventure Guide to Serene Sendai, Japan

Enjoy the culture and history of Sendai, Japan by visiting Matsumoto Castle, one of the oldest castles in the country. Sample local cuisine such as beef tongue and sasakamaboko at the Sendai Asaichi Market. Take a relaxing stroll through the picturesque Sendai City Park and marvel at the beauty of the Hirose-gawa River.