One Day Journey to Matsushima

If you travel by train just 40 minutes from Sendai you can reach Matsushima, known for its scenic beauty as one of the “Three Most Scenic Spots of Japan.” 260 small pine-covered islands rise from the emerald waters of Matsushima Bay, a view which appears much the same today as it did centuries ago.

The best way to experience Matsushima is by boat. Daily sightseeing boats take passengers around Matsushima Bay, passing by islands which have been carved into delicate and intriguing shapes by the wind and water.

Matsushima has a cultural heritage which is as impressive as the natural scenery. Samurai ruler of the Sendai area, Date Masamune, left a legacy which includes Zuiganji Temple (National Treasure), the beautiful gardens of Entsuin Temple, elegant Kanrantei Tea House and much more.

Matsushima is also famous for its seafood, including excellent quality oysters which are at their peak between October and March and anago (salt-water eels) in summer.

Matsushima’s rich culture and enduring beauty have led to worldwide recognition. In 2013, Matsushima became the first bay in Japan to be accepted in the international “Most Beautiful Bays in the World” association, joining well-known bays including Ha Long Bay, Mont Saint-Michel and San Francisco.
For any visitor to Sendai, a trip to Matsushima is a clear must-do.

Recommended course

Estimated cost: 3,920JPY(JR Sendai Station to Matsushima Kaigan Station Round-Trip 820 JPY, Entsuin Temple Entrance Fee 300 JPY, Zuiganji Temple Entrance Fee 700 JPY, Kanrantei Tea House Entry 200 JPY + Matcha Tea Set from 400 JPY, Matsushima Bay Sightseeing Boat 1,500 JPY)

Sendai Station
JR Senseki Line (40 min.)
Matsushima Kaigan Station
Walk (10 min.)
01. Entsuin Temple
Walk (5 min.)
02. Zuiganji Temple
Walk (10 min.)
03. Godaido Temple
Walk (5 min.)
04. Kanrantei Tea House
Walk (3 min.)
05. Sightseeing Boats
Walk (10 min.)
Matsushima Kaigan Station
JR Senseki Line (30 min.)
Sendai Station

01. Entsuin Temple

Entsuin Temple features the mausoleum of the grandson of samurai ruler Date Masamune, who died mysteriously at age 19. It features beautiful moss gardens as well as a rock garden which represents the islands of Matsushima Bay.

Admission fee: Adults 300JPY

02. Zuiganji Temple

Zuiganji Temple, a National Treasure and Important Cultural Property, is one of the most important Zen Buddhist temples in northern Japan. It was originally established in 828AD by the legendary priest Jikaku Daishi who also founded temples in Hiraizumi and Yamadera.

Admission fee: Adults 700 JPY

03. Godaido Temple

With its prominent location overlooking Matsushima Bay, Godaido is a must-see symbol of Matsushima. It was first founded in 807. The building we see today was reconstructed by Date Masamune in 1604. It is named for the five Buddhas of wisdom housed within. The Buddhas inside Godaido are only shown during a special ceremony once every 33 years.

04. Kanrantei Tea House

This tea house of the ruling Date family once served samurai, princesses and royal guests. Today, anyone can enter Kanrantei and enjoy matcha green tea and sweets while viewing the gentle rippling waters of Matsushima Bay.

Admission fee: Adults 200JPY * Matcha Tea Set from 400 JPY

05. Sightseeing Boats

The best way to see the 260 islands in Matsushima Bay is by boat.
Several companies offer sightseeing boat trips around Matsushima Bay.

Fare: Adults 1,500JPY

Matsushima Marubun Kisen Boat
10％ off for online reservations

Getting around Matsushima

Oshima Island: A Serene and Sacred Hideaway in Matsushima

🚶‍♂️ Highlights of the Island
Togetsukyo Bridge (The Bridge of Severing Ties)
This beautiful red bridge leading to the island is also known as the “Engiri-bashi” (Bridge for severing ties). Crossing it symbolically washes away your worldly attachments and bad relationships, preparing your mind to enter the sacred ground.

Hand-Carved Cave Clusters (Gankutsu)
As you step onto the island, you will encounter numerous caves hand-carved directly into the rock faces. Inside these caves, stone Buddhist statues and memorial towers (Gorinto) rest quietly, offering a tangible glimpse into centuries of spiritual devotion.

📌 Travel Information
Admission: Free
Duration: Approx. 20–30 minutes for a leisurely loop around the island.
Access: A 5 to 7-minute walk from JR Matsushima-Kaigandori Station (Senseki Line).

💡 Travel Tip
Since the walking trails involve narrow paths and steps carved out of natural rock, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for your safety!

Fukuurajima Island

Fukuurajima Island is designated as a prefectural natural botanical garden, offering lush greenery and stunning, open views of the sea.
The long, vermilion-painted “Fukuurabashi Bridge” leading to the island is also known as the “Deai-bashi” (Bridge of Encounters). It is believed that crossing this bridge will bless you with good fortunes and wonderful relationships.
As you step onto the island, you will find well-maintained walking trails surrounded by diverse plant life.

Admission: 200 yen for adults (100 yen for children)
Duration: Approx. 40–50 minutes for a leisurely loop around the island.
Access: A 10 to 12-minute walk from JR Matsushima-Kaigandori Station (Senseki Line).

How to Enjoy Matsushima More!

【Moon Viewing】

Captivating Mystical Moonlight Praised by Legends
The sight of the full moon casting a soft, golden path across the calm waters of Matsushima Bay is so breathtaking that it once enchanted legendary figures like Matsuo Basho and Albert Einstein. The contrast of the silhouetted islands against the glittering “moon road” on the sea is a spectacular sight to behold.

【Sunrise & Hot Air Balloon】

A Dramatic Morning Experience as the Sky Turns to Gold
The morning sun rising between the islands creates a dramatic transition, painting the sky and sea from deep purple to shimmering gold. Through the exclusive early-morning Hot Air Balloon Experience, you can float up to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the majestic Japan Scenic Trio bathed in the morning light.

【Uma-no-se (Horse’s Back)】

A Thrilling Natural Pier Sculpted by the Waves
This hidden gem features a narrow rock formation carved by centuries of wave erosion, extending out into the sea like a horse’s back. Why not take a slightly thrilling walk along this unique natural pier and immerse yourself in the dynamic coastal beauty of Matsushima?

📌 Travel Information
By Train & Foot:
Take the JR Senseki Line to Rikuzen-Hamada Station. From the station, it is about a 20-minute walk along the scenic coastal road to the entrance trail.

By Car:
Approx. 10 minutes from the Matsushima-Kaigan Interchange on the Sanriku Expressway, or about 10 minutes by car from Matsushima-Kaigan Station.

Matsushima Area