Travel Guide Matsushima

Matsushima is a must-see place. It is considered as one of the three most beautiful places in Japan, together with the floating Torii of Miyajima and the sandy spit of Amanohashidate, in the north of Kyoto Prefecture: the three places composing the "Nihon Sankei" (the "three views of Japan"). Matsushima Bay has about 260 islets dotted with majestic pine trees. But the uniqueness of this archipelago lies mainly in the appearance of its rock formations, with contours carved and shaped by the sea over the centuries. The imprint of Masamune Date is particularly visible there, as attested by the numerous temples, including Zuiganji and Entsuin. The bay is enchanting during the summer period, but it is of little interest in autumn and especially in winter, when the extremely harsh climate (snowstorms, gusts of wind) does not allow to appreciate the place at its true value. One can also enjoy beautiful culinary discoveries, with seafood, nice moments of relaxation with the many hot springs and a pleasant boat ride on the bay. Several companies offer boat tours to admire the scenery from the city's port. To get there, take the JR Senseki line train from Sendai to Matsushima Kaigan station (40 min). Many sites are accessible by foot from the station.