7 Must-See Tourist Spots in Minamisanriku, Miyagi – Enjoy Breathtaking Views and Gourmet Delights

Minamisanriku, Miyagi Prefecture, still bears the fresh memory of the Great East Japan Earthquake. Although the unprecedented disaster destroyed most of its beautiful scenery, many local residents and others have been working tirelessly on the reconstruction projects.

Here, we introduce 7 must-visit tourist spots in Minamisanriku, a town that is continually evolving towards the future. With plenty of gourmet options and new attractions, why not travel to Minamisanriku and interact with the locals? We hope this guide serves as a useful reference for your upcoming trip to Minamisanriku.

1. Minamisanriku Sansan Shopping Street

Designed under the supervision of architect Kengo Kuma, the Minamisanriku Sansan Shopping Street (Minamisanriku Shizugawa Sansan Shōtenkai) is located in the elevated Shizugawa area. This shopping street comprises six single-story buildings constructed from Minamisanriku cedar, housing 8 restaurants, 5 seafood stores, 2 beauty salons, and about 30 other shops.

Various events are held on weekends, and the bustling atmosphere, along with local gourmet offerings, makes this a must-visit spot.

2. Minamisanriku Sparkling Donburi "Sōna Shun'gyo Hashimoto"

To pray for the town’s recovery, Minamisanriku created the “Minamisanriku Sparkling Donburi,” offering a luxurious seafood donburi at an affordable price. It has garnered nationwide attention and is beloved by many visitors. The seafood available varies with the season, attracting many guests who look forward to its flavors.

While the dish is available at 5 outlets in Sansan Shopping Street, "Sōna Shun'gyo Hashimoto" is known for serving a truly dazzling donburi packed with abundant ingredients. The photo on display shows the “Aki Uma-don” – a gorgeous donburi that you don’t see every day.

3. Hikoro no Sato

In the Iraya district of Minamisanriku, once a thriving center for sericulture, lies “Hikoro no Sato,” the former residence of the Sudo family who once served as the village head of old Iraya. From the tatami room, you can catch a distant view of Horowa Mountain, making this a spot to admire beautiful scenery.

The staff at the facility offer programs where you can learn about traditional crafts, weaving, and local cuisine. Try your hand at experiences such as soba-making, tofu making, or zunda mochi, which are very popular among visitors.

4. Tatsugane Mountain

Tatsugane Mountain is a sacred peak with a long history of mountain worship and one of the top scenic spots in the town, attracting many tourists. The breathtaking view there will make you want to take a photo as a travel souvenir. From May to June, azaleas burst into bloom, and the mountain is enveloped in a stunning, almost fiery array of colors. If you have the chance, it’s definitely worth climbing during that period.

You can even drive to the summit, making it an easily accessible tourist destination.

5. Kamiwari-zaki

Kamiwari-zaki, a renowned scenic spot in Minamisanriku, is included in the National Park of Kinkasan, and is a popular attraction. Here, rocks jutting out into the sea are split in two by the erosive force of the waves, with turbulent breakers creating magnificent splashes. From this cape, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of the Pacific Ocean and witness the beauty of the ria coastline.

There are also walking paths, campgrounds, and rest houses in the vicinity, allowing you to take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

6. Minamisanriku Hotel Kanyō

Minamisanriku Hotel Kanyō is one of the largest, long-established tourist hotels in Minamisanriku. Its open-air bath, which offers views of the vast Pacific Ocean, provides an exceptionally refreshing experience, and you can fully savor a dinner featuring fresh seafood such as abalone and sea urchin caught in Minamisanriku.

The hotel is also famous as an “Umineko Ryokan” (inn for seabirds); you can even call in seagulls to your room. The recommended bait for them is the Kappa Ebisenn available at the shop. Once you start feeding them, more seagulls will join, creating one of the most memorable experiences in Minamisanriku tourism.

Conveniently located near Kesennuma and Matsushima, this hotel serves as a great base for sightseeing.

7. Nōgyōka Minshuku・Miki no Ie

Nōgyōka Minshuku “Miki no Ie” is a rural guesthouse that gives you a nostalgic yet familiar feeling despite it being your first stay. Located in the Iraya district of Minamisanriku, where Japan’s traditional rural scenery unfolds as if from folklore, and in the Shizugawa area facing the beautiful sea, an exchange program for rural guesthouses is held.

At Miki no Ie, a local fishing couple warmly welcomes you. In this laid-back inn, you can relax and have heartfelt conversations with the hosts, which will help soothe the fatigue of everyday life.

The stories you hear from the husband about fishing are invaluable, as they are rarely heard in daily life. The wife’s exquisite home-cooked meals perfectly capture the local flavors. Enjoy Minamisanriku at its best by staying at this guesthouse.

◎Summary

We have introduced 7 recommended tourist spots in Minamisanriku, Miyagi Prefecture. Minamisanriku, still in the process of recovery along with its people, offers a wealth of experiences that are sure to inspire and energize you.

By exploring Minamisanriku, you will not only receive a boost from the local residents' spirit but also help support the community by enjoying its local gourmet dishes. A trip to Minamisanriku is more than just a sightseeing tour—it's an experience that leaves a lasting impact. Be sure to embark on a journey to Minamisanriku and create unforgettable memories.

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7 Must-See Tourist Spots in Minamisanriku, Miyagi – Enjoy Breathtaking Views and Gourmet Delights