Discover Sendai: A Day of Culture & Cuisine

Discover the beauty and tranquility of Sendai, Japan.

22 April 2023

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.

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Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring the City

  • Sendai may be considered a hub for business and politics, but there’s more to the city than meets the eye. Let’s dive into what makes Sendai unique through this itinerary:
  • Start the day with breakfast at the Ichibancho shopping arcade. Grab yourself some onigiri or a bento box, and sip on some matcha tea while taking in the old-fashioned charm of the area.
  • Visit the exquisite Zuihoden Mausoleum, a resting place for one of Japan’s most beloved historical figures, Date Masamune. The architecture and craftsmanship of this site is awe-inspiring, and definitely a must-see.
  • Stop by Miyagi Museum of Art, home to traditional Japanese art and contemporary art from local and international artists. It’s open till 5 pm, so make sure to allocate enough time to appreciate the range of exhibits.
  • For lunch, head to Rikyu, located in the heart of downtown Sendai. They serve up the city’s famous dish, gyutan (grilled beef tongue) and it’s a must-try!
  • Stroll through Jozenji-dori Avenue, a narrow street lined with zelkova trees, and head towards Sendai Station for some shopping. You’ll find everything from trendy Japanese fashion to classy souvenirs.
  • End the day with a hearty meal at Watami, a popular izakaya chain known for its affordable and yummy Japanese dishes.
  • This itinerary is perfect for those who want to experience a mix of Sendai’s history, art, and modern city-life.

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.

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 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.

Sendai: Unleash Your Inner Adventurer

A family-friendly trip to Sendai, Japan offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and outdoor adventures. Explore the historic sites such as the stunning Sendai Castle and marvel at the beautiful cherry blossoms in Nishi Park. Take your children to the Sendai City Museum to learn about the region's history, followed by a visit to the sprawling Yagiyama Zoological Park to see a wide range of animals and enjoy fun-filled attractions.