The center of Tohoku: 5 recommended spots in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture that you can enjoy even on Rainy Days

Miyagi Prefecture is well known as the historical, political, and economic center of Tohoku. As a result, it offers many tourist attractions. This time, we have carefully selected and introduced places in Miyagi that you can enjoy even on rainy days. Even if your trip happens to coincide with rainy weather—or perhaps precisely because of the rain—you should know about these sightseeing spots in Miyagi that can still provide a great experience.

1. Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium

Opened in 2015 in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium is a stylish and spacious facility featuring multiple dynamic tanks, making it a great sightseeing spot even on rainy days.

The highlight of the aquarium is a massive tank that replicates the ocean of Sanriku, offering an awe-inspiring view. Visitors can also interact with penguins, one of the aquarium's most beloved animals. The stadium, where dolphins and sea lions perform thrilling shows, accommodates up to 1,000 people and has a roof, ensuring that guests stay dry even in the rain. In addition, the facility features a food court and a museum shop, allowing visitors to enjoy meals and shopping. There are various interactive programs, such as penguin feeding, behind-the-scenes tours, and dolphin encounters, ensuring a full day of entertainment even on a rainy day. If you visit Miyagi, this modern aquarium is a must-see destination.

2. Matsushima

Matsushima is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Miyagi Prefecture, known for its stunning bay dotted with islands of various shapes and sizes. Recognized as one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views, Matsushima Bay is a mesmerizing natural wonder featuring uniquely shaped rock formations. Even in rainy weather, visitors can enjoy Matsushima’s beauty by taking a sightseeing cruise. The gentle rain falling on the rocks and islands creates a picturesque and enchanting atmosphere that captivates tourists.

Most sightseeing boats are two-story passenger vessels, allowing visitors to take in the breathtaking scenery without getting wet. Cruise durations vary depending on the course, so it's recommended to research and select your preferred route in advance. Formed by crustal movements about 5,000 years ago after the Ice Age, Matsushima continues to impress visitors with its stunning natural landscape, enhanced by the mystical contrast of rain and scenery.

3. Ishinomori Manga Museum

Located in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, Ishinomori Manga Museum is a must-visit destination that can be enjoyed even on rainy days. This museum is dedicated to renowned manga artist Shotaro Ishinomori, who was born in the Nakada district of Tome, Miyagi Prefecture. Featuring a unique spaceship-like exterior and creative exhibits, the museum attracts many visitors regardless of the weather.

One of the most impressive attractions is the Kamen Rider exhibit, showcasing the hero’s evolution from the first-generation Rider to the latest version, making it enjoyable for both younger visitors and nostalgic fans. Beyond exhibits, the museum features interactive zones where visitors can read thousands of manga volumes or create their own animations from drawings. Offering a full day of entertainment, Ishinomori Manga Museum is a top sightseeing spot in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture. Visitors can also find exclusive anime-themed souvenirs that are only available at this museum, making it a great place for unique gifts.

4. Sendai City Museum

Sendai City Museum is located at the site of the San-no-Maru of Sendai Castle, a place closely associated with Date Masamune, the famous warlord representing Miyagi Prefecture. Since the museum is indoors, visitors can enjoy it without any issues even on rainy days. The museum displays cultural artifacts donated by the Date family, making it a great destination for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. One of the most famous exhibits is the armor of Date Masamune, known for its distinct crescent-moon-shaped ornament on the helmet.

Even in the rain, the scenery around Sendai Castle remains breathtaking. A particularly grand attraction is Zuihoden, the lavishly decorated mausoleum of Date Masamune, which many visitors enjoy exploring. If you plan to tour historical sites related to Date Masamune in Sendai, the Loople Sendai, a city loop bus, is a highly convenient way to get around. Near Sendai City Museum, you can also visit the Sendai Castle Ruins and admire the statue of Date Masamune. After sunset, the illuminated scenery creates a stunningly mystical atmosphere, making it a popular attraction for tourists visiting Miyagi.

5. Sendai City Astronomical Observatory

Located in Aoba-ku, the heart of Sendai City, Sendai Astronomical Observatory is a magical destination and a great sightseeing spot even on rainy days. The facility features numerous exhibits about space and Earth, including Kon-ten-gi (Armillary Sphere), Celestial Globes (Large & Small), and Quadrants, all of which were used for astronomical observations during the Sendai Domain period. This makes the observatory a fascinating place to learn about the history of astronomy in Sendai. It is a beloved facility not only among locals but also among tourists looking for an engaging indoor experience.

One of the most popular attractions among visitors is the wide selection of unique souvenirs. From space food to creatively designed Earth and Moon-shaped candies (Earth Candy & Moon Candy), there is a great variety of interesting gifts to choose from. The observatory's planetarium is another must-see highlight. Even on a rainy day, visitors can marvel at a star-filled sky, making for an unforgettable experience. This planetarium is the largest in the Tohoku region, offering an immersive journey through space using models and high-quality video projections.

◎ Summary

Miyagi offers plenty of sightseeing spots that can be enjoyed even on rainy days. In addition to natural sites that become even more picturesque in the rain, there are also locations related to Date Masamune, one of Miyagi’s most famous historical figures. The many museums and historical sites ensure that visitors can still experience an enriching trip even when the weather isn’t ideal. From culinary hotspots to hands-on activity centers, Miyagi has a wide variety of places where you can have a memorable experience, even if your trip unexpectedly coincides with rain.

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The center of Tohoku: 5 recommended spots in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture that you can enjoy even on Rainy Days