Miyagi Prefecture is the gateway to the Tohoku region — a place of extraordinary natural beauty, resilient culture, and exceptional food. Its crown jewel is Matsushima Bay, one of Japan’s three most celebrated views, dotted with over 260 pine-covered islands.
Top Attractions
1. Matsushima Bay
Ranked among Japan’s top three scenic views, Matsushima Bay is a dreamlike seascape of pine-clad islands rising from calm waters. Take a sightseeing boat cruise, visit the 17th-century Zuiganji Temple, and sample freshly grilled oysters at the waterfront.
2. Sendai City
Miyagi’s vibrant capital is known as the “City of Trees.” Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum — the ornate resting place of feudal lord Date Masamune — and experience the spectacular Tanabata Festival each August, when the city center fills with enormous hanging decorations.
3. Zao Onsen & Fox Village
The Zao mountain area offers skiing in winter and dramatic volcanic crater views in summer. Nearby, the famous Fox Village (Zao Fox Village) is home to over 100 free-roaming foxes — a truly unique experience.
Food & Drink
Miyagi is famous for Sendai beef (among Japan’s finest wagyu), Gyutan (grilled beef tongue — a Sendai specialty unlike anywhere else), and the freshest Pacific oysters. Don’t miss Zunda mochi — soft rice cakes topped with sweet edamame paste.
Getting There
From Tokyo, the Tohoku Shinkansen reaches Sendai in about 90 minutes.
