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Sitting just half an hour from the heart of Sendai is Matsushima a small but bustling city with plenty to offer. From stunning panoramic views of the coast to historic Zen temples and fantastic local shopping, no matter the length of your stay in this bayside city you’ll always find something to see and do. Though in March 2011 the area was hit by the by the earthquake and tsunami that ravaged Japan, the central area of Matsushima managed to avoid any major damage thanks to its naturally protected location within the central section of the island. Showing great resilience and an admirable ability to move forward Matsushima was able to overcome the damage it did face during 2011 and since has continued to grow and prosper into the stunning city it is today.
One of the first things you’ll hear about when bringing up the name Matsushima is the area’s reputation for having some of the most incredible coastal views in all of Japan. For over a century now the area has been regarded as one of the country’s three most scenic views, alongside the equally stunning areas of Miyajima and Amanohashidate. Dotted with over 200 small islands across its coastline, the natural beauty of Matsushima Bay quite simply has to be seen to be believed.
There are two ideal ways to explore the bay’s abundant beauty, the first being by boat. There are a variety of companies that offer different sightseeing routes across the waterfront, including journeys to Shiogama or round trips to and from Matsushima Bay. Depending on your itinerary and what you want to see there’s surely something for everyone. The other way to really see Matsushima is by lookout. The city offers a number of panoramic sightseeing locations, including a easy hike up to Shin Tomiyama Overlook situated a relaxed 10-minute walk from Matsushima Station.
Beyond incredible views the city is also home to some important historic landmarks including the Zuiganji Temple which is commonly considered one of the Tohoku Region's most iconic Zen temples. Originally founded in 828 as a site of worship for followers of the Tendai sect, 1609 saw local legend Date Masamune rebuild Zuiganji to make it his family temple following its years of slow architectural decline. Flanked by towering cedar trees and surrounded by a number of hidden caves that were once used for meditation, Zuiganji Temple is a site of complete serenity and heavy spiritual significance for the people of Miyagi Prefecture. The temple is currently undergoing an exterior renovation (expected to be completed in 2018), however the main hall is open to guests and worshippers.
Given its close proximity to Sendai, Matsushima is relatively easy to access by both private car and public transport. If you’re hearing to the area from Sendai by public transport, ride the JR Senseki Line to Matsushima Kaigan Station, the trip takes only 40 minutes and costs 410 yen each way. A more unique way to get to Matsushima is by one of the many sightseeing cruises, which travel between Matsushima Bay and Shiogama. If you want to go by boat take the JR Senseki Line from Sendai and get off at Hon-Shiogama Station, from there you can take a boat across to Matsushima Bay.- Godaido Temple
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- Miyagi Pref. Miyagigunmatsushimamachi Matsushima Chounai
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