Sendai (Ishinomaki)

Japan

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Sendai (Ishinomaki), Japan

Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Sendai is nicknamed the “City of Trees,” which is easy to see why as you explore this vibrant city. Historic sites and museums dot the cityscape, allowing a glimpse into the region’s storied past. From delicious street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, Sendai offers numerous ways to savor local cuisine as you browse boutique shops. Or journey outside the city to dormant volcanoes, rolling hills and relaxing hot springs to soak in the surrounding natural beauty.

What you NEED TO KNOW

  • Port Name & Location
    Sendai, Japan
  • Time Zone
    Japan Standard Time Zone
  • Language
    Japanese “Konnichiwa” means hello while “sayonara” is goodbye. For please, say “kudasai” and “arigato gozaimas” for thank you.
  • Currency & Shopping
    Yen Visit the covered Ichibancho Arcade in downtown Sendai and browse among a large number of stores, offering everything from local handcrafted goods to high-end fashion.
    • Best Way to Get Around
      Organized Shore Excursions available.
    • Famous For
      As the largest city in the Tōhoku region, Sendai is known for its rich culinary scene and for being a vibrant cultural hub.
    • Important
      There’s no strict dress code for visiting temples and shrines, but modest clothing is preferred. Most do require that you remove your shoes, so consider having a good pair of socks available to wear while touring the locations.
    • Fun Fact #1
      Visit the 17th century ruins of Aoba Castle and tour a museum located on the same site for a glimpse into the city’s past.
      • Fun Fact #2
        The region in which Sendai is located – Miyagi – boasts a large number of hot spring resorts. Feel Free to soak in relaxation with a visit to one of the springs.
      • Fun Fact: Foodies
        If you’d like to savor unique local cuisine, consider sampling three of the city’s most well-known dishes: gyutan (grilled cow tongue), sasakama (fish cake) and zunda (crushed edamame).
      • Fun Fact: Landmarks
        Zuihōden Mausoleum houses the remains of the fierce feudal lord and founder of Sendai, Date Masamune. Tour the grounds and see the structures’ ornate, intricate woodwork and colorful designs.
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