Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Sendai, Japan

Sendai is recognized as the largest city in the Tohoku region of Honshu Island, Japan, with a population of approximately one million residents. This vibrant city offers a diverse array of experiences, making it a prime destination for those seeking a comprehensive glimpse of Japanese culture.

Upon visiting Sendai, one can explore a variety of attractions ranging from observation towers to museums and galleries. Moreover, the city also boasts traditional sites such as the mausoleums of prominent families and the remnants of its historic castle.

As is typical for a city of this magnitude, Sendai features a rich culinary landscape and several prominent nightlife districts, providing ample opportunity for evening entertainment.

Another compelling aspect of Sendai is that, while modern, it remains somewhat off the well-trodden tourist pathways, offering visitors an authentic experience of life in Japan without the usual tourist trappings.

1. Visit Zuihoden

Zuihoden serves as the mausoleum of Date Masamune, the inaugural lord of the Sendai Domain, renowned for his architectural prowess and credited with designing this magnificent structure during the Momoyama Period.

This site is adorned with exquisite wood carvings and art, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the beautifully landscaped grounds, which are complemented by picturesque cedar trees, symbolizing the longevity of the Date family.

2. Check out the Sendai Castle Ruins

The Sendai Castle Ruins inspired the famous Japanese poem titled ‘The moon over the desolate castle,’ reflecting their current state. The remains site features a model of the original gate, providing visitors with insight into the historical appearance of Sendai Castle.

Additionally, a small museum on-site shares the castle’s history, though it is worth noting that Sendai is not widely recognized for having a particularly remarkable castle compared to other cities in Japan.

3. Tour Miyagi Museum of Art

The Miyagi Museum of Art provides an excellent opportunity to explore modern art in Sendai. Notably, one of the museum’s sections showcases the works of local artist Juryo Sato, celebrated for his captivating sculptures.

After touring the museum, visitors can unwind in the scenic grounds adjacent to the river, which serve as an ideal setting for a relaxing stroll.

4. Take in the views at SS 30 Observation Lounge

For breathtaking vistas of Sendai, the SS 30 Observation Lounge is a must-visit destination. This site occupies an office building that houses observation decks on the 29th and 30th floors, which are free for public access.

To capture stunning photographs, it is recommended to visit during the morning or late afternoon when the lighting is most favorable.

5. Check out the Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth

The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth provides insightful narratives surrounding Japan’s Stone Age. Visitors can discover the Saki Stone Age and learn about the excavation of the Tomizawa Ruins.

The museum boasts numerous galleries, making it an ideal destination for those interested in delving deeper into the 20,000-year history of the Saki Stone Age.

6. Attend Tanabata

Tanabata is a significant festival in Sendai, commencing on August 5 each year with a spectacular fireworks display. The festivities continue from August 6 to August 8, during which the entirety of Sendai is adorned with luxurious decorations known as kusudama, composed of beautifully crafted paper balls embellished with decorative flowers.

This celebration honors two stars, Vega and Altair, although it predominantly serves as a festive occasion rather than a focus on the associated legend.

7. Tour the Kirin Brewery

For those interested in learning more about Kirin beer, a visit to the Kirin Brewery is highly recommended. The facility provides materials in English that describe the brewing process, and the tour concludes with a tasting session, allowing visitors to sample the local brews.

As this is a popular attraction, advance planning is advisable to secure a spot for the tour. An audio tour is also available in Japanese.

8. Buy some souvenirs

Sendai offers an extensive selection of souvenirs for visitors. This region of Tohoku is renowned for its handmade paper and lacquer ware, known as tsuishu. Additionally, delightful wooden dolls called kokeshi are available, making ideal gifts for children, alongside local silk and pottery that support artisans in Sendai.

9. Attend the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival

For a distinctive experience, consider attending the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival, held annually in September. This renowned event attracts performers from across Japan, who take to the streets of Sendai for a lively celebration of jazz.

Numerous performance stages are set up throughout the city, offering entertainment from day into night. It is important to note that during this period, hotels tend to be fully booked, so planning is essential.

10. Try the local food

Among the local delicacies that Sendai is famed for is gyutan, a grilled beef tongue dish. Those seeking other culinary experiences can sample sasakamaboko, a fish sausage, or zundamochi, a chewy rice ball made with green soybean paste.

This region is also distinguished by numerous vegetarian restaurants offering fresh, local produce.

11. Visit the Morning Market

The Morning Market in Sendai operates from Monday to Saturday, featuring around 40 stalls showcasing some of the region’s finest produce. Visitors will encounter fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and delectable sushi.

Additionally, various stalls offer dishes such as fish soup and noodles, along with tempting fried snacks, including a vending machine restaurant serving flavorful noodle bowls.

12. Check out Sendai Mediatheque

Sendai Mediatheque is a remarkable site housed within a stunning building designed by renowned architect Ito Toyo. The structure itself is an architectural masterpiece and accommodates a large library alongside various galleries and performance spaces for concerts and other events, including dance recitals.

Visitors interested in cultural performances should check local listings during their stay.

13. Have a night on the town

For a vibrant evening out, Sendai offers a plethora of options. This region is known for its lively clubs and bars, with several nightlife districts worthy of exploring.

Notable areas include Chuo-dori, which typically attracts a youthful crowd, and Kokubuncho, the primary hub for nightlife in Sendai. Both locations feature a variety of bars and traditional Japanese pubs, known as izakaya.

14. Attend Sendai Pageant of Starlight

The Sendai Pageant of Starlight is often referred to as a ‘festival,’ though it is more accurately described as a serene light display. Over 600,000 orange lights grace Aoba-dori and Jozenji-dori, transforming the area into a magical spectacle that attracts night-time strolls.

This enchanting event takes place throughout December.

15. Tour Sendai City Museum

To gain further insight into the life and lineage of the renowned samurai Masamune, a visit to the Sendai City Museum is essential. The museum showcases an extensive collection of family heirlooms and antique artifacts, with over 13,000 pieces attributed to the Date family’s private collection.

This attraction is especially significant for history enthusiasts during their stay in Sendai.