Check out the 35 recommended sightseeing spots in Miyagi Prefecture!

Did you know that Miyagi Prefecture is actively promoting tourism as it regains its vitality following the earthquake? In addition to the Sanriku Coast, which is still recovering, the central city of Sendai, and the famously scenic Matsushima, the region is filled with many other must-visit destinations. Renting a budget-friendly car in Miyagi is highly recommended for exploring the many drive-worthy attractions.

From globally renowned sites to hidden local gems, we’ve compiled a list of 35 amazing spots for you to discover! Whether you’re traveling with adults or children, and no matter the season, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Miyagi. Check out the irresistible charm of Miyagi’s tourist attractions!

1. Sendai Castle Ruins (Sendai City)

The Sendai Castle Ruins are famous for the equestrian statue of Date Masamune, known as the one-eyed dragon. Overlooking the city of Sendai, this historical site is located on the grounds of the castle built by Masamune, also called Aoba Castle due to its lush green surroundings on Mount Aoba.

Visitors can enjoy a recommended walking route that takes them across the Hirose River and past the restored corner turret, the only reconstructed building on the grounds. For those seeking convenience or traveling with small children, the sightseeing bus “Loople Sendai” provides an easy alternative. There’s also parking available near the main enclosure for those traveling by car.

2. Sendai Tanabata Festival (Sendai City)

The Sendai Tanabata Festival takes place in the arcade streets from the city hall to the station, where merchants compete with elaborate decorations. Staying at a hotel in the Ichibancho area allows you to enjoy the dazzling festival displays from your window. The festival also features a fireworks display at Nishi Park on the eve of the event, lighting up Miyagi's summer nights with a spectacular show.

Unlike many Tanabata festivals held in July, Sendai's is celebrated in August on the 6th, 7th, and 8th, so visitors should plan accordingly.

3. Sendai Anpanman Children’s Museum & Mall (Sendai City)

Located just a 10-minute walk from Sendai Station, the Anpanman Children’s Museum & Mall is a newer attraction celebrating its 5th anniversary. It’s the only Anpanman-themed destination in the Tohoku region, offering children the opportunity to experience the world of Anpanman firsthand.

This spot is highly recommended for families with young children. The nearby area around Sendai Station’s east exit is undergoing redevelopment, with parking facilities for tourists, making it easy to visit as part of your trip to Sendai or Miyagi.

4. Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium (Sendai City)

Opened in 2015, the Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium showcases marine life from Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, and around the world. A highlight is the local-themed section, "Japan’s Sea – Tohoku’s Sea," featuring a massive tank called "The Shimmering Sea," where around 50 species of fish swim together in a breathtaking display.

The dolphin and sea lion shows are especially popular with families, offering thrilling, up-close performances.

5. SENDAI Pageant of Starlight (Sendai City)

The SENDAI Pageant of Starlight is a winter illumination event that decorates the zelkova tree-lined streets of Jozenji-dori and Aoba-dori from early December to New Year’s Eve. The spectacle of hundreds of thousands of LED lights creates a magical and romantic atmosphere, making it a popular winter date spot.

Legend has it that among the monochromatic LEDs, there is a single pink lightbulb, and finding it is said to bring good luck. Nearby bars and restaurants offer great views of the illuminations, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in your own unique way.

6. Mount Zao and Okama Crater (Zao Town)

Straddling Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures, the Zao Mountain Range is home to the Okama Crater Lake, also known as the "Goshiki-numa" (Five Color Pond) due to its ever-changing water color. This volcanic lake is safe and stable enough for visitors to approach closely.

Both Miyagi and Yamagata sides are accessible by car via the Zao Echo Line. For those on the Yamagata side, a ropeway and a short hike to Kumano-dake make it possible to enjoy the sights on foot.

7. Zao Heartland (Zao Town)

Part of the Zao Dairy Center, Zao Heartland is a family-friendly ranch open to the public. Spanning a vast area equivalent to 20 Tokyo Domes, it features fields with grazing goats, sheep, and cows, offering interactive animal experiences.

The site also includes campgrounds and barbecue facilities, making it perfect for family outings. Pets on leashes are welcome, so you can bring them along as well.

8. Zao Echo Line (Shiroishi City)

The Zao Echo Line is a scenic road crossing the Zao Mountain Range, connecting Miyagi and Yamagata Prefectures. On clear days, you can enjoy breathtaking views stretching as far as the Pacific Ocean.

In autumn, the Miyagi side transforms into a tunnel of red and yellow foliage, making it a romantic spot for a drive or date. Most sections of the road are toll-free, except for areas near the summit.

9. Miyagi Zao Fox Village (Shiroishi City)

Located in the foothills of the Zao Mountain Range, the Miyagi Zao Fox Village is a rare fox-themed park. It houses over 100 foxes from six different species, many of which roam freely in the park. Visitors can interact and take photos with these adorable creatures.

Admission is free for children under elementary school age, making it a great destination for families. While driving is the main way to access the park, buses are also available from Sendai or Shiroishi stations under certain conditions.

10. Akiu Onsen (Sendai City)

Known as one of Japan’s Three Famous Hot Springs, Akiu Onsen is a popular getaway due to its proximity to Sendai City. It’s perfect for a day trip or overnight stay, featuring renowned hotels and ryokans like Hotel Zuiho and Iwanumaya.

While visiting Akiu, don’t miss the local specialty, Saichi’s Ohagi (rice cakes), a simple yet delicious treat loved by both locals and tourists.

11. Akiu Great Falls (Sendai City)

The Akiu Great Falls, located upstream on the Natori River in central Miyagi, is one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls and among the nation's three most renowned waterfalls. Visitors can walk up close to the plunge pool, making it a popular spot, especially during the fall foliage season. Nearby attractions include the Akiu Great Falls Botanical Garden and the Akiu Great Falls Fudo Shrine, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Akiu in Miyagi.

Keep in mind that the falls are a bit distant from Akiu Onsen, so driving is the most convenient way to visit, with free parking available for tourists. Alternatively, you can reach the falls by bus from the onsen area.

12. Sendai Kaleidoscope Museum (Sendai City)

Located near the entrance of Akiu Onsen, the Sendai Kaleidoscope Museum offers more than just displays of beautiful kaleidoscopes. Visitors can look through unique kaleidoscopes and even make their own, making it a favorite stop for tourists.

Buses frequently run to the onsen area, making the museum easily accessible. If you're planning a visit to Akiu Onsen, this is a delightful spot to explore. Plus, you can use a coupon from the museum's official website to get 10% off admission fees.

13. Sendai Yagiyama Benny Land (Sendai City)

Located southwest of Aobayama, Yagiyama Benny Land is a beloved amusement park in Sendai. Its theme song is considered "soul music" by locals, and the park bustles with visitors on holidays. With great group discounts for students, it’s also a popular destination for school trips and graduation tours.

Thanks to the nearby Yagiyama Zoological Park Station, the terminal of the Sendai Subway Tozai Line that opened in 2015, access is now even easier. Parking is also available, making it a great spot for families and couples alike.

14. Tashirojima (Ishinomaki City)

Located southwest of the Oshika Peninsula in Ishinomaki City, Tashirojima is a small island only accessible by ferry from Ishinomaki Port. Known as the “Cat Island,” it features a shrine dedicated to cats, considered sacred animals by the locals. In fact, the island has more cats than people.

Visitors can stay at local inns or the Manga Island accommodations to enjoy plenty of time interacting with the island’s feline residents. Tashirojima is a must-visit paradise for cat lovers.

15. Sakunami Onsen (Sendai City)

Situated near the source of the Hirose River on the border of Miyagi and Yamagata Prefectures, Sakunami Onsen is one of Sendai’s two major hot spring resorts alongside Akiu Onsen. It was discovered in 721 AD and became a popular hot spring area in the mid-Edo period.

The Takasenkaku Ryokan, with its historic rock bath, is one of Japan’s oldest open-air baths attached to a ryokan. Visitors can also enjoy day-use facilities at nearby hotels, such as Hotel Green Green, which offers hot springs and stone saunas. Sakunami Onsen is accessible by city bus from Sendai Station or via free shuttle buses provided by the ryokans.

16. Naruko Onsen (Osaki City)

Located in northwest Miyagi, Naruko Onsen is one of Japan's top three historic hot springs, known for its variety. With over 300 hot spring sources across nine different types of mineral compositions, each inn and bathhouse offers a unique experience.

Options range from the historic Naruko Kanko Hotel, established over 400 years ago, to Shiki-no-Yado Masuya, part of the Ooedo Onsen Monogatari group. For day visitors, the Taki-no-Yu communal bathhouse and free footbaths near Naruko Onsen Station are excellent choices.

17. Naruko Gorge (Osaki City)

A top autumn destination in Miyagi, Naruko Gorge features stunning cliffs and a vibrant canopy of red and yellow leaves in the fall. The view from Ofukazawa Bridge, near the Naruko Gorge Rest House, is particularly breathtaking.

Visitors can also explore walking trails along the Otani River, where they’ll encounter fascinating rock formations. The trails are enjoyable not only in autumn but also in summer, offering scenic and serene views.

18. Matsushima (Matsushima Town)

One of Japan's Three Most Scenic Views, Matsushima is a picturesque bay dotted with over 260 islands. Easily accessible by train from Sendai Station to Matsushima-Kaigan Station, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood lunches while admiring the stunning scenery or take a sightseeing boat to nearby Shiogama Port.

For the best views, visit the Four Great Views of Matsushima around the bay. Staying at accommodations like Hotel Ichinobo, near JR Matsushima Station, allows visitors to take in the beauty of Matsushima from a prime vantage point.

19. Matsushima Toro Nagashi Fireworks Festival (Matsushima Town)

Held annually on August 16, this festival features lanterns floating in Matsushima Bay alongside fireworks as part of the Zuiganji Temple’s O-Bon event. The combination of the illuminated bay and dazzling fireworks creates a magical summer evening.

Due to frequent traffic congestion in the area, it’s best to use the JR Senseki Line and get off at Matsushima-Kaigan Station when visiting.

20. Entsuin Temple (Matsushima Town)

Entsuin Temple is one of Matsushima’s most popular sightseeing spots. Known for its seasonal beauty, visitors can enjoy roses in summer and illuminated autumn foliage in fall. One unique activity here is making your own prayer beads (juzu), where you select beautiful beads and tie them with a wish for good fortune and love.

21. Zuiganji Temple (Matsushima Town)

Zuiganji Temple, established by Date Masamune, is one of Matsushima's premier attractions. Masamune intended it to serve as a final stronghold in times of emergency. Interestingly, the area’s topography closely resembles that of Kamakura.

Highlights include the main hall (a National Treasure), the cedar-lined pathway, the mausoleum of Masamune’s wife, Megohime, and the red and white plum trees known as Garyu Bai. Don’t miss the Dendrobium, a rare species designated as a natural monument of Miyagi Prefecture, which blooms in late May with delicate flowers about 5 cm in diameter.

22. Godaido (Matsushima Town)

A symbol of Matsushima's landscape, Godaido derives its name from the five Myo-o statues it enshrines. Visitors cross a “see-through bridge” with gaps in its planks, leading to the elegant temple rebuilt by Date Masamune. Although there’s no admission fee, note that there are no parking facilities for tourists. From Godaido, the stunning view of Matsushima Bay inspires poetic admiration, just as it once did for the famed poet Matsuo Basho.

23. Shiogama Shrine (Shiogama City)

Located in Shiogama City, between Sendai and Matsushima, Shiogama Shrine is a sacred site dedicated to the god of salt production. It features two main halls side by side and several structures designated as Important Cultural Properties.

The shrine is also home to the Shiogama-zakura, a National Natural Monument. Every spring, this cherry tree with large, double-petaled blossoms draws visitors from across and beyond Miyagi Prefecture.

24. Hitome Senbonzakura (Ogawara Town)

The Hitome Senbonzakura, a stretch of cherry trees along the Shiroishi River spanning about 8 km, is Miyagi’s only site listed in Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. On clear days, the reflection of the cherry blossoms and the Zao Mountain Range on the water creates an indescribable view.

The site is easily accessible, with a Cherry Blossom Festival held in mid-April. Visitors can take a traditional yakata boat for blossom viewing or enjoy the nightly illuminations, which provide a different atmosphere.

25. Sanriku Coast

Although most of the Sanriku Coast is associated with Iwate Prefecture, about one-third lies in Miyagi. The Oshika Peninsula, at the southern end, offers particularly intricate landscapes. Driving along the Oshika Cobalt Line, visitors can enjoy an ever-changing scenic view.

This region, famous for its rias coastlines, has nurtured some of Japan’s best fishing ports, such as Onagawa and Kesennuma, which have recovered remarkably since the earthquake. Sampling fresh seafood while touring these ports is a must. For accommodation, stay at Hotel Kanyo in Minamisanriku Town, where you can watch the sunrise over the horizon from the hot springs.

26. Oogama and Hanzo (Kesennuma City)

Located near the border of Miyagi and Iwate, Oogama and Hanzo are two capes on the Karakuwa Peninsula. These unique rock formations, designated as scenic spots of Miyagi Prefecture, are believed to have been formed by meteorite impacts.

The area features fascinating landmarks like the Oriteishi marble pillar and rocks containing translucent magnesite. A parking area is available between the two sites, but visitors must walk about 300 meters to each location.

27. Togatta Onsen (Zao Town)

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Zao, Togatta Onsen is the most popular hot spring resort in Miyagi Zao. Located about an hour’s bus ride from Shiroishi Zao Station or JR Shiroishi Station, the quaint onsen town offers nostalgic charm.

Known for its highland setting, the area is home to numerous farms and poultry producers, offering fresh ingredients that define Zao’s gourmet delights. For day visitors, the Kami-no-Yu public bath, opened in 2006, is highly recommended.

28. Shiroishi Castle (Shiroishi City)

Shiroishi Castle was the residence of Katakura Kojuro Kageshige, a trusted vassal of Date Masamune. Recently restored with a three-story white keep, the castle is now one of Miyagi’s most popular attractions.

The surrounding Masuoka Park is renowned for its cherry blossoms, drawing visitors during the annual festival in April. Throughout the year, events like musket demonstrations and the Oni Kojuro Festival are held. Free parking is available, making it a great stop during a Zao sightseeing drive.

29. Funaoka Castle Ruins Park (Shibata Town)

Funaoka Castle Ruins Park is known as one of Miyagi’s top cherry blossom spots, alongside Hitome Senbonzakura along the Shiroishi River. Although little remains of the original castle, the hilly park is covered with blooming cherry trees each spring.

A charming slope car takes visitors to the mountaintop, where a large Peace Kannon statue stands, offering beautiful views through a cherry blossom tunnel.

30. Mount Kurikoma (Kurihara City)

Straddling Miyagi, Iwate, and Akita, Mount Kurikoma is famous for its expansive foothills and vibrant fall foliage. The mountain offers a variety of trails, from challenging climbs to leisurely treks through primeval forests, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts.

The area is also known for its excellent hot springs, such as the Kurikoma Sanso Inn at Sukawa Onsen, where visitors can relax and enjoy stunning views of the sunset.

31. Tagajo Ruins (Tagajo City)

The Tagajo Ruins, known from history textbooks as an ancient fortress of the Yamato Court, is a popular historical site. While no buildings remain, the area around the former government office on the hill has been transformed into a grassy plaza where families and couples often spend their weekends relaxing.

The site is also a famous flower-viewing spot, featuring cherry blossoms in April and irises in June. Interestingly, it is also regarded as one of Miyagi's most well-known haunted locations, attracting young visitors even at night. Free tourist parking makes it convenient to visit at any time.

32. Michinoku Park (Kawasaki Town)

The National Michinoku Park is a sprawling natural park located along the shores of Lake Kamafusa in central Miyagi. The park is divided into three areas: the North, South, and Satoyama Districts, each with unique features.

The South District, with its seasonal displays of over 100,000 flowers, and the North District, featuring a large campground and the expansive 8-hectare "Field of Wind," are especially popular with visitors. Easily accessible by car, the park is just a five-minute drive from the Miyagi Kawasaki IC on the Yamagata Expressway, with free parking available.

33. Marble Beach (Kesennuma City)

Near the border of Miyagi and Iwate Prefectures, Marble Beach is a unique coastal area where marble deposits are exposed. Historically, marble from this site was quarried and used in iconic structures like the lion statues at Mitsukoshi Nihombashi in Tokyo.

Some square-shaped quarry marks remain, but today, the site is preserved as a rare scenic attraction. Free parking is available, and the beach is accessible by bus, about 20 minutes from Shishiori-Karakuwa Station on the Ofunato Line.

34. Ishinomaki River Opening Festival (Ishinomaki City)

Originally a Buddhist memorial service for drowning victims called Kawasegaki, the Ishinomaki River Opening Festival has grown into one of Miyagi’s largest events, featuring a wide range of activities.

The highlight is the fireworks display, which draws large crowds, leading to traffic restrictions in the city. During the day, visitors can enjoy aerial demonstrations by the Blue Impulse team from the Matsushima Air Base, with a photo session afterward, making it a popular event for tourists.

35. Kinkasan (Ishinomaki City)

Despite its name, Kinkasan (Golden Flower Mountain) is an island off the Oshika Peninsula in Ishinomaki City. A 35-minute ferry ride from Onagawa Port takes visitors to this lush island, home to the sacred grounds of Koganeyama Shrine.

Legend has it that visiting the shrine three years in a row ensures a lifetime of financial prosperity, making it a popular destination for pilgrims and hikers. Recently, Kinka Saba (mackerel) caught near Kinkasan has become a local delicacy, known for its rich flavor and thick, fatty texture, making it a must-try when visiting Miyagi.

◎Summary

Miyagi Prefecture, with the Ou Mountains to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east, offers abundant natural attractions. Historical towns like Sendai and Matsushima, built by Date Masamune, are rich in cultural heritage. Additionally, new attractions and vibrant festivals born out of post-earthquake reconstruction efforts have added to Miyagi’s charm. Don’t forget to indulge in the region’s culinary delights, such as gyutan (beef tongue), oysters, and fresh seafood from Sanriku, during your journey!

Check out the 35 recommended sightseeing spots in Miyagi Prefecture!