12 Recommended Tourist Spots in Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture! Experience the Great Outdoors!

Shiogama City has long been known as a fishing port town, and as you explore the city, you will often come across shrines where prayers for safe fishing are offered.
The fish market in Shiogama City is always bustling and is very popular not only with locals but also with tourists because you can enjoy delicious seafood. Facing Matsushima Bay, there are many active tourist spots where you can enjoy sightseeing cruises around scenic areas or go hiking while admiring the natural beauty.
Let’s introduce some of the tourist spots in Shiogama City.

1. Shiogama Shrine

Shiogama Shrine is beloved by the residents of Shiogama City, who affectionately call it "Shiogama-sama." It is believed to grant blessings for various prayers, including maritime safety, bountiful catches, safe childbirth, traffic safety, and victory in endeavors.
The Omotesando (main approach) features a staircase with 202 stone steps. Climbing it is said to provide spiritual power, but for those not confident in their physical strength, the Higashi Sando (east approach) is recommended instead.
The shrine grounds, covering a vast 28 hectares, are home to about 300 cherry trees of 35 varieties. In spring, many tourists visit to see the cherry blossoms, including the beautiful double-flowered "Shiogama Sakura," a natural monument, making it a famous spot for flower viewing.
The shrine's founding dates back to the early Heian period, as first recorded in historical texts. Revered as a protector of the Tohoku region, it was worshipped and supported by samurai families like the Oshu Fujiwara clan. Its main hall, worship hall, corridors, and stone torii gate are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. On the grounds, you'll also find Shiwahiko Shrine, whose main hall and worship hall are cultural properties of Shiogama City and worth seeing.
A notable annual event is the "Moshio-yaki Shinto Ritual," which recreates ancient salt-making methods using seaweed and seawater. This ritual has been designated an Intangible Cultural Property of Miyagi Prefecture.
From in front of Shiwahiko Shrine, you can enjoy views of Chiga no Ura Bay, including the islands of Matsushima Bay, the Oshika Peninsula, and even Kinkasan Island on clear days. Be sure not to miss this stunning viewpoint during your visit to Shiogama.

2. Okama Shrine

Okama Shrine, an auxiliary shrine of Shiogama Shrine, is a popular power spot for tourists visiting Shiogama.
Located in a residential area, its grounds house the revered cauldron known as the "Shiogama." This salt cauldron, said to have been used by the deity Shiotsuchi Oji no Kami for salt-making, gave rise to the name of the city, Shiogama. It is also the site of the annual "Moshio-yaki Shinto Ritual."
The Shiogama cauldron is considered one of Japan's three great wonders. Known as the "Four Divine Cauldrons," the water in these cauldrons never overflows or dries up, and it is said that the water changes color before significant events occur. Isn't it intriguing to think about water that foretells changes?
Be sure to include this spot in your Shiogama sightseeing itinerary!

3. Magaki Shrine

Magaki Shrine, one of the subsidiary shrines of Shiogama Shrine, is located on Magaki Island, floating in Chiganoura Bay. It is also written as "Magaki Island," and its name originates from the twisted trees that once covered the island.
The island, with a circumference of just 155 meters, can be seen to the left shortly after departing on a sightseeing boat. Enveloped in lush greenery, the sacred Magaki Island is connected by a red bridge. However, except during the annual festivals or monthly ceremonies held on the 1st of each month, the bridge is locked at its entrance, making access restricted.
Since the Heian period, Magaki Island and Magaki Shrine have been celebrated in poetry. Matsuo Basho even wrote about his deep impression of this place in The Narrow Road to the Deep North. When visiting Shiogama City, try planning your trip to coincide with the festivals and pay a visit.

4. Marine Gate Shiogama

As the maritime gateway to Matsushima, "Marine Gate Shiogama" has developed as a roadside station and is now a popular sightseeing spot in Shiogama even for those who don’t board sightseeing boats.
The spacious first floor of the facility is a shopping area where local specialties such as sake, sasa-kamaboko, and zunda mochi from Miyagi Prefecture are on display. For dining, both the first and second floors offer various options, ranging from light meals like bread and soba to Shiogama's renowned seafood, authentic Chinese cuisine, and Italian fare. Visitors can enjoy a quick bite before boarding a boat or savor a leisurely meal while exploring the port town.
Marine Gate Shiogama is ideal as a base for exploring Matsushima Bay, with sightseeing boats departing from Shiogama. It also serves as a great resting spot during a visit to Shiogama, thanks to its dining facilities.

5. Matsushima Bay Sightseeing Cruises

After sightseeing in Shiogama City, which faces Matsushima Bay, a recommended activity is the Matsushima Bay Cruise on a sightseeing boat.
Sightseeing boats departing from Marine Gate Shiogama offer two main courses: a one-way route from Shiogama to Matsushima Kaigan and a round-trip route exploring Matsushima Bay. A particularly recommended option for Shiogama visitors is the "Shiogama Departure and Arrival Matsushima Bay Cruise." However, note that this service operates only on weekends and requires reservations.
Additionally, from December to March, you can enjoy the unique “Oyster Hotpot Cruise.” This operates daily in December and on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from January to March. Savoring hot oyster stew while viewing Matsushima, one of Japan’s Three Great Scenic Spots, from the water is a delightful experience.
When visiting Shiogama, a leisurely sightseeing boat ride to observe the serene beauty of Matsushima Bay is highly recommended!

6. Urato Islands

The Urato Islands are a group of islands floating in Matsushima Bay, consisting of Katsurajima, Nonoshima, Sabusawa, and Hohojima. These islands are home to a variety of historical sites, legends, and related landmarks. The view of Matsushima from the Urato Islands offers a hidden perspective different from the usual angles, making it a secret tourist spot in Shiogama.
Since the islands are surrounded by the sea, you can enjoy seasonal seafood delicacies. Although there are no restaurants on the islands, you can make reservations at inns to savor local cuisine made with plenty of seafood while exploring the islands.
Ferries operate eight trips daily from Marine Gate Shiogama, so why not extend your visit while sightseeing in Shiogama?

7. Shiogama Wholesale Fish Market

Known as the “largest in the East,” the Shiogama Wholesale Fish Market boasts an impressive number of stores and variety. Not only is it frequented by professionals, but it’s also open to the general public, making it a shopping destination for tourists and Shiogama locals alike—a true kitchen of the city.
Inside the market, there are six dining spots, all serving prideful seafood dishes that are highly popular. You can enjoy the local delicacies while sightseeing, creating a blissful moment of indulgence.
If you visit Shiogama between autumn and winter, don’t miss the seasonal specialty, Sanriku Shiogama Higashimono. Shiogama leads in the landing of fresh tuna, cod, and bonito, with the highest volume of fresh tuna landed in Japan. Higashimono refers to fresh bigeye tuna caught between September and December in the Sanriku area, which meets the high standards of expert brokers and is offered as a premium treat.
Plan your visit to the Shiogama Wholesale Fish Market around the Higashimono season to experience this special delight.

8. Shiogama Sushi Tour

When visiting Shiogama, a port town, enjoying fresh and delicious seafood is a must.
Shiogama City offers a program called “Miyagi Sushi Kaido Shiogama Sushi Tour,” which includes a map of participating restaurants, inviting tourists to savor the city’s proud bounty of seafood.
As Miyagi Prefecture is also a rice-producing region, you can enjoy sushi made with Miyagi’s premium Sasanishiki rice, perfectly paired with fresh seafood. This sushi tour is a delightful experience for visitors. Each restaurant has its own unique style, so if you have time, why not try hopping between several to fully enjoy the distinctive sushi offerings?
Visiting several restaurants on the “Miyagi Sushi Kaido Shiogama Sushi Tour” and enjoying delicious sushi to your heart’s content will surely create unforgettable memories of your visit to Shiogama.

9. Shiogama’s Mosio (Seaweed Salt)

When it comes to Shiogama City, the "salt" in its name is famous. Among its notable salts is "Shiogama’s Mosio." This product is a symbol of Shiogama City and is widely recognized.
Shiogama’s Mosio is often served at small restaurants alongside tofu or tempura and is used as an alternative to soy sauce at sushi restaurants. It can also be purchased at souvenir shops in Shiogama City or throughout Miyagi Prefecture. It makes an excellent souvenir from Shiogama.
At the factory of "Ganbare Shiogama" (the company producing Shiogama’s Mosio), visitors can experience salt-making by making a reservation. If you’re visiting Shiogama, the home of Mosio, why not try a salt-making experience? This activity is promoted as a key tourism attraction. Create memorable experiences in Shiogama by trying this unique salt-making activity.

10. “Kaisho no Yakata” Old Kamei Residence

The Old Kamei Residence is a mixed Japanese-Western style house built during the Taisho era by the first president of Kamei Shoten.
This style of architecture, known as "mixed Japanese-Western," was used for residences of the upper class among commoners. High-quality materials were used, and the house features intricate craftsmanship and fashionable designs of the time. Even the handles of the fittings are handmade, with some adorned with cloisonné enamel or shaped like bats, inspired by the emblem of Japan Petroleum, which had close ties with the Kamei family. The residence exudes a Taisho romantic vibe.
From the Kamei Residence, visitors can glimpse the history of Kamei Shoten and Shiogama Port. It is a recommended spot for history and architecture enthusiasts visiting Shiogama.

11. Urakasumi Sake Gallery

For those who love sake, visiting a sake brewery in Shiogama City is a must. If you hear about a brewery where you can taste sake, you’re bound to want to go!
At the “Urakasumi Sake Gallery,” you can enjoy sake tastings, purchase Urakasumi available only within Miyagi Prefecture, and shop for various sake-related items, including Salt-exclusive Shiogama products. Beyond sake, the gallery serves as a hub for sharing information and charm about Shiogama and Miyagi Prefecture, acting as a tourism information center. You can also inquire about hidden gems in Shiogama.
For sake lovers, the popular “Urakasumi” is a renowned sake born in Shiogama. If you purchase a sake tasting cup, you can sample the monthly rotating sake selection.
Although you can’t tour the production site, you can book a reservation for an explanation about the brewery’s building and history from the outside. This is held only twice a day, so make a reservation and include it in your Shiogama sightseeing itinerary!

12. Tanrokuen

The historic Japanese confectionery shop "Tanrokuen" is a cultural gem and a must-visit destination in Shiogama.
Situated just outside the gates of Shiogama Shrine, it naturally draws visitors stopping by before or after their pilgrimage. Its traditional and picturesque architecture also attracts many tourists exploring Shiogama City, inviting them to pause and savor its charm.
Established in 1720, Tanrokuen’s wooden townhouse-style building has stood the test of time, even surviving the great earthquake unscathed. Today, it stands as a historic monument and is recognized as a National Tangible Cultural Property, further enhancing its status as a landmark in Shiogama.
The shop’s renowned confectionery, "Shihogama," once a favorite of the Date clan, is crafted with locally sourced ingredients, including Shiogama’s signature seaweed salt and glutinous rice flour from Osaki, Miyagi Prefecture. The delicate balance of sugar's sweetness and the gentle salinity of the seaweed salt, paired with the aromatic hint of green perilla, creates a sophisticated Japanese treat. It’s a perfect souvenir for visitors. The confectionery features embossed designs inspired by the "Shiogama Sakura," a rare cherry blossom that blooms at Shiogama Shrine and is also a designated natural monument. This beautiful sakura also adorns the shrine’s crest.

Summary

Shiogama City, bustling with people in the past and present, is a place of power spots, seasonal delicacies, and scenic beauty! It makes you want to visit Shiogama right away.
The tourist spots introduced here include some limited-time attractions and places that require prior reservations, so it is recommended to check in advance before your visit.