TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Sendai is known as the city of trees. The capital of Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, also offers cultural heritage and traditions, culinary delights, and vibrant festivals. Founded in the 1600s by the samurai warlord Date Masamune, Sendai has developed into a bustling regional center.
Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku area. It is accessible by air, Shinkansen bullet train, or more affordable bus services. The best time to visit the city depends on one’s purpose. Spring and autumn are the best times for nature enthusiasts to visit, while several interesting festivals offer a deep cultural experience.
Oldest Festivals in Sendai
Two of the most interesting festivals for tourists are the Aoba Matsuri at the end of spring and the lively Tanabata Matsuri in the summer, when the whole city rejoices. Another interesting festival is the Sendai Pageant of Starlight in December. One of the oldest festivals is the Aoba Festival, held on the third Saturday and Sunday of every May.
Quoted from Japan Travel, the Aoba Festival, originally known as the Sendai Festival, began 350 years ago after the Toshogu Shrine in the city was completed by the leader of the Date Tadamune clan. Like all other Toshogu Shrines, these shrines were built to honor the legendary leader who united the country: Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Years later, when Aoba Shrine was built to commemorate Sendai’s founder, Date Masamune, people slowly began referring to the celebration as the Aoba Festival. At this festival, visitors will experience history and tradition, as well as a touch of magic from colorful characters.
Tourist Attractions in Sendai
The following are some interesting tourist attractions to visit in Sendai, as reported by Travel and Leisure Asia.
1. Sendai Castle
This castle was built in the 1600s by the samurai warlord Date Masamune. Although the original castle building was destroyed due to natural disasters, fires, and air raids during World War II, visitors can still see stone walls, castle ruins, Gokoku Shrine, beautiful city views, and a statue of Date Masamune.
2. Nikka Whisky Sendai Factory
Whisky enthusiasts must visit the Nikka Whisky Sendai Factory to take a free guided tour. Here, visitors can witness the whisky-making process, coffee distilling equipment, and enjoy a whisky tasting session at the end of the tour. Although the tour is in Japanese, foreign tourists will be provided with audio guide headsets in English, Korean, and Mandarin.
3. Sendai City Museum
At the Sendai City Museum, visitors can see cultural artifacts, Date Masamune’s armor, samurai heritage, paintings, artworks, and calligraphy. The museum is located in Aoba Castle Park, which is surrounded by lush green trees, castle ruins, a bust of Date Masamune, and a sculpture of the literary figure Lu Xun.
4. Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium
There are about 50,000 sea creatures in this aquarium. This aquarium offers many activities, including viewing educational exhibitions, interactive experiences with marine animals, spending time in the jellyfish gallery, and watching entertaining dolphin shows. There are about 50,000 sea creatures in this aquarium.
5. Zuihoden Mausoleum
This is the remaining residence of the samurai warlord Date Masamune, which was built by his son, Date Tadamune, in 1637. Although the site was largely destroyed during World War II air raids, it was rebuilt and renovated in 2001. Currently, visitors can explore the mausoleum, visit the on-site museum to learn about the Date family and their burial practices, and enjoy strolls along the beautiful grounds.
6. Akiu Hot Springs and Akiu Great Waterfall
For hot spring and nature enthusiasts, Akiu Onsen is the perfect destination. The Akiu Great Waterfall is also recognized as one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls. In addition, visitors can enjoy observation decks, hiking trails, and nearby temples, all perfect for exploring and enjoying a forest bath.
7. Yagiyama Zoological Park
This zoo is free. While most of the animals at this zoo are native to Japan, there are also exotic species from around the world, such as lions, kangaroos, capybaras, flamingos, red pandas, siamangs, and many more. In addition to the zoo, there are beautiful walking trails and picnic areas. There is also a mini zoo for children.
8. Osaki Hachimangu Shrine
This Shinto shrine was built by Date Masamune in 1607. Visitors often come to this shrine to admire the Momoyama-style architecture, purchase omamori amulets, participate in ceremonies, take photos, stroll in the shrine grounds, and attend cultural festivals.
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