The Scenic Views of Matsushima


2017.12.18

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

The Scenic Views of Matsushima
  • Located about half an hour out of the center of Sendai, Matsushima is a cluster of stunning islands that has been named as one of the top three most scenic views in all of Japan. To really soak up the scenic beauty of this hidden gem, it’s best to start making your way through the area’s many sightseeing hotspots from which you’ll be privy to some of the best panoramic views you’ll ever experience in your entire life.

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    A well kept Matsushima secret, Ogitani is a must not miss sight for any outdoors lovers or nature photographers visiting the area. This little hidden pocket is one of the best places to get a full view of the 260 islands that are scattered along Matsushima Bay. Sitting 55.8m above the bay, it is located close to the Matsushima Panorama Line giving guests the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in a panoramic view of Matsushima’s undeniable natural beauty. If you’re in the area during autumn season a visit to Ogitani is a must do as it’s one of the area’s most breathtaking koyo (autumn leaves) viewing locations.

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    Ogitani
    place
    Miyagi Miyagi-gun Matsushimamachi Matsushima
    phone
    0223542618
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    Jutting out to the southern point of the Matsushima Waterfront Area sits a cape and on that cape is a small hill known as Sokanzan. In English the name translates to two views mountain and is a reference to the point’s incredible view from which you can see both Shiogama and Matsushima Bays at once. If you make it there be sure to visit the observatory located in the mountaintop park. Inside the observatory is a restaurant also known as "Sokanzan," which boast an impressive panoramic view of the sprawling Matsushima Bay.

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    双観山
    place
    宮城県宮城郡松島町松島字大沢平16-36
    phone
    0223546336
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    If you’re travelling by foot one of the easiest ways to witness the panoramic beauty of Matsushima Bay is by visiting the Shin Tomiyama Overlook. A relaxed 10-minute walk from Matsushima Station the outlook is a safe endeavor for even the most reluctant of hikers. If you don’t want to go too far the best viewing point is on the platform, located on the northern side of Zuiganji Temple, from there you can see Matsushima Bay in all its glory. There’s also a second platform located on the summit of the hill, from there Fukurujima Island is in sight along with the sprawling bay sitting in the island’s forefront.

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    Shintomiyama Observatory
    place
    Matsushima cho Miyagi-gun, Miyagi prefecture
    phone
    0223542618
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    After all the hiking up hills and sightseeing you deserve a break and there’s no better place to grab a bite to eat than Matsushima’s Panorama House café. A meeting house, event space and café all rolled into one, the only thing more impressive than Panorama House’s food is their incredible view of the bay below. Located in Saigyo Modoshi no Matsu Park, the area is even more breathtaking during spring as the park’s cherry blossoms spring into full bloom.

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    The Scenic Views of Matsushima

    Panorama House is a 5 minute drive from Matsushima Kaigan Station, so the best way to get there is by car or taxi. If you do have your own car free parking is available on site. If your legs are up to it, the trek is a little over 20 minutes by foot, which gives you plenty of time to soak up the beauty of the entire Matsushima area.

    ロマン
    place
    宮城県宮城郡松島町松島字犬田10-174 西行戻しの松公園 パノラマハウス
    phone
    0223542778
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