When it comes to breathtaking getaways near Sendai, Matsushima is always at the top of the list.
More than 260 tiny islands float gracefully across Matsushima Bay, creating one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views — a landscape that has inspired poets for centuries.
In this guide, I’ll take you through my half-day trip to Godaidō Temple, Zuiganji Temple, and the Matsushima coast, ending with a delicious seafood lunch by the bay.
You can easily follow this route by train or car, making it perfect for your next Sendai adventure! 🚗✨
- What Is Matsushima? ｜ A Bay Where Sea and Islands Shine in Harmony
- Godaidō Temple ｜ Matsushima’s Icon Floating Above the Sea
- Zuiganji Temple ｜ A Zen Sanctuary Built by Date Masamune
- Seafood Lunch by the Matsushima Coast
- A Seaside Stroll to End the Day
- 🕐 Suggested Itinerary (About 5 Hours)
- Conclusion ｜ Matsushima — A Half-Day Journey Through Sea, History & Flavor
What Is Matsushima? ｜ A Bay Where Sea and Islands Shine in Harmony
Matsushima Bay is dotted with over 260 small pine-covered islands, each shaping the calm surface of the sea.
The scenery moved the famous haiku poet Matsuo Bashō, who called it one of the most beautiful places he had ever seen.
Throughout the year — from spring blossoms to autumn colors and snowy winters — the view never loses its magic.
📍 Access
- By train: About 40 minutes from Sendai Station on the JR Senseki Line to Matsushimakaigan Station
- By car: Around 50 minutes; paid parking available near the coast
Godaidō Temple ｜ Matsushima’s Icon Floating Above the Sea
Perched on a small island connected by a vivid red bridge, Godaidō stands as Matsushima’s most recognizable landmark.
Originally built in 807 by Sakanoue no Tamuramaro and later reconstructed in 1604 by Date Masamune, this tiny hall offers a panoramic view of the bay that takes your breath away.
Crossing the see-through vermilion bridge feels both thrilling and fun — you can glimpse the waves below your feet!
On sunny days, the contrast between the blue sea, red bridge, and wooden structure creates the perfect photo opportunity.
📸 Photo Tip: Visit in the morning for softer light and richer blues on the water.
Godaidō Temple Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Godaidō Temple (五大堂) |
| Address | 111 Matsushima-machinai, Matsushima-machi, Miyagi 981-0213 |
| Access | 5-minute walk from JR Matsushimakaigan Station |
| Hours | Open all day (outside only; inner hall closed to public) |
| Admission | Free |
| Note | Bridge surface is see-through — be careful on rainy days! |
Zuiganji Temple ｜ A Zen Sanctuary Built by Date Masamune
Just a short walk from Godaidō lies Zuiganji Temple, one of Tohoku’s most important Zen temples.
Rebuilt by the samurai lord Date Masamune in the 17th century, its main hall is now designated a National Treasure.
Step through the gate and you’ll enter a world of stillness — ancient wooden halls, moss-covered gardens, and stone caves for memorial offerings.
The blend of architecture and nature makes it a truly spiritual place to explore.
Even on rainy days, the moss glows brighter, and the sound of raindrops adds a meditative rhythm to your visit.
Zuiganji Temple Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Zuiganji Temple (瑞巌寺) |
| Address | 91 Matsushima-machinai, Matsushima-machi, Miyagi 981-0213 |
| Access | 5-minute walk from JR Matsushimakaigan Station |
| Hours | 8:30 – 16:30 (varies by season) |
| Admission | Adults ¥700 / Children ¥400 |
| Website | https://www.zuiganji.or.jp/ |
💡 Tip: Arrive early in the morning before tour buses arrive to enjoy the calm atmosphere of Zen.
Seafood Lunch by the Matsushima Coast
After soaking in history, it’s time to taste Matsushima’s ocean bounty!
Along the coast, several local seafood restaurants serve freshly caught fish and seasonal specialties.
One of the most memorable dishes was the Harako-meshi — a rice bowl topped with salmon and ikura (salmon roe) soaked in savory broth.
Each bite burst with flavor, blending the aroma of dashi and the freshness of the sea.
Other favorites included crispy fried oysters and grilled oysters and anago eel rice boxes, all beautifully presented and full of flavor.
Enjoying a meal while gazing at the ocean truly feels like a luxury moment of travel bliss.
🍴 Tip: Arrive before 11 a.m. on weekends to avoid long queues at popular spots.
A Seaside Stroll to End the Day
After lunch, take a relaxing walk along the Matsushima coast.
Souvenir shops, cafés, and small piers line the path, and the gentle sea breeze makes every step refreshing.
If you have more time, drop by Kanrantei Tea House (formerly part of the Date family) or the Matsushima Fish Market for local snacks and scenic views.
Grab a coffee, watch the boats gliding across the bay, and let the calm of Matsushima sink in.
🕐 Suggested Itinerary (About 5 Hours)
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 10:00 | Depart Sendai (by car or JR Senseki Line) |
| 11:00 | Explore Godaidō Temple |
| 11:30 | Visit Zuiganji Temple |
| 12:30 | Seafood lunch at Matsushima coast |
| 13:30 | Stroll along the bay / café break |
| 15:00 | Return to Sendai |
💡 Driving Tip: The coastal route from Rifu IC to Matsushima offers gorgeous ocean views — keep your camera ready!
Conclusion ｜ Matsushima — A Half-Day Journey Through Sea, History & Flavor
Matsushima is a destination where stunning scenery, samurai history, and fresh seafood come together in perfect harmony.
Just an hour from Sendai, it’s easy to reach yet offers a deep sense of escape.
From the panoramic view at Godaidō to the tranquil grounds of Zuiganji and the flavors of the bay, each moment creates a memory you’ll treasure.
🚉 No car needed! Everything is walkable from Matsushimakaigan Station, making it ideal for international travelers exploring Tohoku independently.
👉 Coming up next: A One-Day Car-Free Sendai Sightseeing Guide!
