Matsushima has been the subject of poetry since ancient times. Even the haiku master Matsuo Basho mentions “the moon at Matsushima” in the opening of his late seventeenth-century travelogue Oku-no-hosomichi, once translated as Back Roads to Far Towns. Matsushima is considered one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, with spectacular views of 260 or so islands of all sizes. Visitors can stroll around the area of Godaido Hall and feel the ancient history and culture. It is one of the premier sightseeing spots in Tohoku, with many restaurants and souvenir shops by the pier. If you have time, a visit to the famous Zuiganji Temple and Entsuin Temple is also recommended.

Address: 98-1 Aza Chonai, Matsushima Town
Phone: 022-354-2618 (Matsushima Tourism Association)

Special Info

Matsushima Bay Sightseeing and Storyteller (“Kataribe”) Cruise

Take a special cruise around the bay, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, on a sightseeing boat with a storytelling guide who will tell you about Matsushima’s recovery from the tsunami, provide advice on disaster readiness and mitigation, and share stories that emphasize the importance of human connections.
(Reservations required, groups only)
Address: 98-1 Aza Chonai, Matsushima Town
Phone: 022-354-3453 (Marubun Matsushima Kisen)

Communicating Stories

Islands Protected the Town and People from the Tsunami

The Matsushima coastal area suffered less damage from the tsunami than many other areas, and the national treasure Zuiganji Temple was unharmed, as was Godaido Hall, which stands by the sea. The topography of Matsushima Bay had much to do with this, as the many islands lessened the impact of the tsunami.

This commercial facility opened in 2020 next to JR Matsushima Kaigan Station. It features a replica of the three-story, ten-sided tower of the former Matsushima Park Hotel, built in 1913. The complex is built around the Rikyu Garden, modeled after Matsushima Bay, and offers many kinds of facilities, including a tourist information center, restaurants, stores, and a museum. It also offers craftmaking and other participatory events. The view of Matsushima Bay from the rooftop is spectacular, which you can enjoy while having a barbecue.

Address: 18 Namiuchihama, Matsushima, Matsushima Town, Miyagi District
Phone: 022-355-0330

For more information

Shiogama City is known for Shiogama Shrine, one of the major ancient shrines of the Tohoku region, and Shiogama Port, an international hub port. The foods and culture unique to this port town are alive and well. Shiogama City is also famous for its Sanriku Shiogama Higashimono brand of big-eye tuna, as one of Japan’s highest volumes of fresh tuna is landed here. Known as a sushi town, Shiogama City has many sushi restaurants that serve fresh seafood in every season. The Shiogama Seafood Wholesale Market and the Shiogama City Tsunami Disaster Prevention Center are also worth visiting.

Address: 1-20-74 Shinhama-cho, Shiogama City

For more information

Rice has been cultivated in the Tagajo environs since ancient times. In a return to these roots, rice producers today are cultivating ancient rice, known as kodaimai, thought to be similar to the species of rice originally grown in the area. Food products made using this nutrient-rich variety of ancient rice, with its beautiful purple hue when cooked, are sold under the Shiro no Murasaki brand and are great as souvenirs. Visitors can buy vacuum-packed kodaimai or such items as roll cake, sweets or even a fruity sake (Omowakuhime) made with the ancient rice.

Address: 2-7-1 Chuo, Tagajo City(inside JR Tagajo Station)
Phone: 022-364-5901

The community center is a place for learning about the disaster through permanent and special exhibitions, and is a gateway to the eastern coastal area of ​​Sendai, which was severely damaged by the tsunami.

Address: 85-4 Kutsugata, Arai, Wakabayashi Ward, Sendai City (inside Arai Station on the Sendai Subway Tozai Line)
Phone: 022-390-9022

For more information

The school building has been preserved as much as possible in its original state of damage, communicating to future generations the destructive threat and power of a tsunami, aided by a photo exhibition inside the school of pictures taken in the immediate aftermath of the tsunami. Visitors will also get a good idea of the Arahama district and learn its history and culture, with many items on display.

Address: 32-1 Shinborihata, Arahama, Wakabayashi Ward, Sendai City
Phone: 022-355-8517

For more information

The park has orchards for picking fruit all year round. Eight types of fruit and more than 156 varieties are being cultivated, including strawberries, apples, and blueberries. Depending on the season, visitors can even pick more than one type of fruit.

Address: 2-17-1 Arahamashin, Wakabayashi Ward, Sendai City
Phone: 022-390-0770

For more information

Set up on a collective relocation site, this complex was built as a relaxing place for local people to gather and enjoy themselves with the attractions of food, agricultural produce, and hot springs.

Address: 33-3 Matsunonishi, Fujitsuka, Wakabayashi Ward, Sendai City
Phone: 022-355-2181

For more information