Sendai, Japan: Samurais, Smiles, and Sushi

Unveil the tranquility of Sendai, Japan, where captivating culture meets family-friendly adventures.

19 July 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Samurais, Smiles, and Sushi

  • Start the day with a visit to Aoba Castle, an ancient fortress atop a lush green hill, offering breathtaking views of Sendai. Channel your inner samurai and relish in the history!
  • Meander through Zuihoden, the resting place of Date Masamune, a legendary samurai lord. Adorned with gold leaf and vibrant colors, it's like stepping into a fairytale.
  • Time for a stroll at Sendai Mediatheque, a quirky building resembling stacked Swiss cheese slices. Explore its unique library and unleash your creativity.
  • Lunch break at Yokocho Ichibancho, a charming alley bursting with local eateries. Savor a bowl of piping hot ramen, dotted with succulent slices of pork and springy noodles.
  • Dive into the buzzing world of Izumi-ku Pokemon Center, where Pikachu reigns supreme. Stock up on Pikachu merch or challenge your family to a Pokemon battle!
  • Finish the day at Kohan Sendai-Minami Park, where you'll find the beloved statue of "Michinoku no Misaki," a giant dog who welcomes visitors with a wagging tail. Grab a picnic blanket and indulge in sushi from the nearby market. Perfect end to a memorable day!

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

Sendai On a Budget: Cultural & Coastal Charm

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.

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, 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.

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.