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August 8, 2025 Marti Eicholz To make the most of time in Sendai, purchase a "Loople Sendai," sightseeing loop bus pass that connects fifteen of the city’s attractions, an excellent way to experience the city’s essence. Sendai, Japan, a modern city, located on the Pacific coast of Honshu, Japan's largest island, within the Tohoku region with a diverse population of around one million. This coastal city is a mix of urban development and natural beauty, known for its well-preserved samurai history and cultural sites. Sendai treasures its rich history and culture. Sendai boasts a vibrant music scene, hosting a myriad of events, including music festivals. Music enthusiasts revel in a diverse array of events that permeate the city, highlighting genres ranging from jazz and rock to classical music. Sendai has the well-deserved title the “City of Music.” The city experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, including a snowy period in winter. Summers are warm and humid. Sendai is one of Japan’s greenest cities. It is known as the "City of Trees" due to its abundant greenery (green spaces) and lush tree-lined streets like the Zelkova trees gracing Jozenji-dori Avenue. This nickname stems from a history of encouraging tree planting for practical purposes like food production to function as a barrier against famine, dating back to the Edo period when the first lord of the Sendai Domain, Date Masamune, promoted incorporating greenery into the urban landscape and encouraged residents to plant trees in their gardens. The picturesque Hirose River winds through the heart of central Sendai, urban sophistication and natural splendor gives Sendai a distinct identity. Embark on a culinary journey. Near the port area is Shiogama Seafood Market, sample fresh seafood. Sushi restaurants are noted for the freshness of their fish. Matsushima Bay has nutrient-rich waters that yields a bountiful harvest of fresh seafood each morning. Nestled in a rice-producing region, meticulous care is given to perfecting sushi rice. It is crafted from the finest local grains to harmonize seamlessly with the fish. Indulge in a local specialty like beef tongue. Grilled beef tongue, the city’s most famous cuisine, was born in Sendai. In the vibrant culinary landscape of Sendai, there exists a realm of excellence and dedication to the beloved noodle dish, Ramen. The Michelin Guide recognizes Sendai’s ramen restaurants for their distinctive approach to crafting a unique and pure chicken soup. The city of Sendai is a joy to explore by foot, strolling along tree-lined boulevards. Street food and eating on the go is big business. A corn dog-style fried fish cake (kamaboko) can be found in city center. Try the distinctive Zunda shake, which blends a familiar vanilla milkshake with sweet edamame paste, known as zunda. Delicious, refreshing, and unique to Sendai. Japanese alcohol is more than traditional sake. Check out Kirin Beer Sendai Brewery as well as the more craft beer-oriented BATSUJI BREWING. There is something that caters to everyone’s taste. Nikka Whisky Sendai Distillery is a popular spot for whisky lovers. Pensee, a beloved bakery with twelve stores in Sendai City is a local favorite. Their Oyster Curry Bread is a winner. Sendai, Japan, offers a variety of attractions like Sendai Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and where you can explore the ruins of the former castle of the Date clan. Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum, richly decorated, dedicated to Date Masamune and his family. Rinnoji Temple is a Date family temple with a notable garden. Sendai City Museum is where you can learn about the history and culture of Sendai and the Tohoku region. Enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere along Jozenji-dori Avenue with shops, cafes, and cultural attractions. For nature lovers, visit Akiu Onsen and Akiu Great Falls and enjoy a relaxing hot spring experience and admire one of Japan’s top waterfalls. Take a day trip, a short train ride, to scenic Matsushima Bay and surrounding temples. The area is beautiful with more than 250 pine tree-covered islands and islets dotting the bay. The Odyssey is ready to sail. As we leave this city that blends modern urban life with natural beauty, we will remember Sendai in its Japanese meaning, “the hermit on a high ground,” symbolizing a place of wisdom and prosperity. |
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