Miyagi Travel Guide (Tohoku/Japan/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Miyagi

Located in the Tohoku region of Japan, Miyagi is a prefecture with a rich history, an abundance of natural beauty, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient temples or hike through stunning mountain landscapes, Miyagi has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Miyagi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Zuihoden Mausoleum: This elaborate mausoleum is a shrine dedicated to the famous feudal lord Date Masamune. The mausoleum is famous for its intricate carvings and beautiful architectural features.
Sendai Castle Ruins: Offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history, the Sendai Castle Ruins are a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history.
Matsushima Bay: Another historical gem, Matsushima Bay is a picturesque location with around 200 tiny islands scattered throughout the bay. Take a stroll in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and appreciate the natural scenery fully.

Natural Attractions of Miyagi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Zao: Bordering Japan’s prefecture Yamagata and Miyagi is Mount Zao. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including hot springs, forests, and skiing opportunities in winter.
Akiu Great Falls: Akiu Great Falls is a 55-meter high waterfall located in the Akiu-onsen village. This scenic waterfall can also be enjoyed as hot springs face the falls.
Naruko Gorge: Located between Aoba and Osaki city is the 7km long Naruko Gorge. It offers stunning views of the many waterfalls and opportunities to experience the autumn colors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Miyagi

Mt. Adatara: Hikers will love exploring the trails of Mt. Adatara, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Shiroishi Cycling Road: Enjoy cycling on this vast road, where Shiroishi Castle ruins and other lush greenery sights are seen.

Best Things to Do in Miyagi: Activities and Tours

Hirose Dori Shopping Arcade: Hirose Dori offers a multitude of shopping opportunities ranging from high-end designer stores to affordable street food, all while walking under a canopy of trees.
Zao Fox Village: Located close to Mt. Zao, it is a sanctuary with over 100 foxes. Visitors can observe and interact with these friendly creatures.
Harmony Land Tohoku: Children and families can enjoy the world of Hello Kitty and other Sanrio characters at Harmony Land, a great place to create unforgettable memories.

Week-Long Itinerary for Miyagi

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit Sendai Castle Ruins, Aoba Castle, B&D Sake Brewery, and Zuihoden Mausoleum
Day 2	Hike through Mt. Zao
Day 3	Visit Matsushima Bay, Godaido Temple, and Zuiganji Temple
Day 4	Explore Naruko Gorge, Gozanoishi Shrine, and Akiu Great Falls
Day 5	Go shopping at Hirose Dori Shopping Arca, visit Zao Fox Village, and Harmony Land
Day 6	Cycle through the Shiroishi Cycling Road,Visit Shiogama Shrine, and Kinkasan Shrine
Day 7	Relax at the Tenshukaku Gardens, and Osaki Hachimangu Shrine

Food and Drink Scene of Miyagi

Must-Try Dishes

Gyutan: Grilled beef tongue; Miyagi is renowned for gyutan!
Zunda mochi: Mochi covered in sweet Edamame paste.
Sasa Kamaboko: Bamboo shoot-shaped fish cake prepared by steaming and smoking.
Kaki Ryori: Miyagi has an abundance of oysters and oysters-related dishes you can try!

Local Beverages

Sake: Miyagi is famous in Japan for its high-quality sake. B&D Sake and Ichinokura are two famous breweries.
Shochu: A popular Japanese spirit.
Matcha Green Tea: Miyagi produces quality green tea that is used to make matcha.

Where to Stay in Miyagi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

APA Villa Hotel Sendaieki-Kitaguchi: Located near Sendai Station, this hotel is affordable and has excellent amenities.
Dormy Inn Express Sendai Hirosedori Natatorium: This hotel is located near Hirose Dori and has hot spring baths.
Akiu Onsen Shikisai Ichiriki: Experience traditional ryokan accommodations, hot springs, and meals.
First Growth Hotels and Resorts Zao Onsen: Beautiful views of Zao Onsen and ski slopes, luxurious amenities and rooms.

What to Buy in Miyagi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Miyagi Zao Charcoal:
Oysters: Vacuum sealed or canned from local vendors, take them to your homecoming.
Study materials and clothes from Miyagi University: High in Japanese fashion, have a souvenir shirt or stationary set from one of the famed universities of Japan!
Sendai Tansu (Sendai Collection Boxes): Decorative and handmade storage boxes crafted in modern day Sendai.

Local Culture and Customs of Miyagi

Respectful behavior is expected, and gestures like bowing will be appreciated. Miyagi is not heavily influenced by mainstream culture; instead, residents take pride in upholding traditional Japanese culture.

Best Time to Visit Miyagi

The best time to visit Miyagi is during the autumn (September-November), where you can appreciate the crimson fall foliage. Winter in January is also an ideal time to visit as ski resorts in Zao Onsen and the surrounding areas are typically open. Summer is the ideal season for hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Miyagi

Do:

try local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood and savory beef tongue.
Participate in local events and festivals while you are in Miyagi.
Engage with the locals and ask for their opinions on their attractions and recommendations on where to go.

Don’t:

Wear shoes inside people’s homes or places that require to remove your shoes.
Be loud and disruptive; respect privacy.
Take pictures of people or food without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Miyagi

Miyagi is relatively safe; however, it is essential to be vigilant and alert when in public places. Avoid leaving your valuables or bags out in the open.

Health in Miyagi

Japan’s healthcare system is amongst the world’s best. Miyagi has hospitals with English-speaking doctors treating symptoms from minor to severe. It is recommended to have travel insurance with a medical cover before arriving in Miyagi.

Getting to Miyagi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Miyagi

Sendai International Airport
Yamagata Airport

Bus Stations Near Miyagi

Sendai Bus Terminal
Matsushima-Kaigan Station Bus.Stop
Kakuda-Staition Bus.Stop

Other Options

Take a bullet train, Shinkansen. Pickup from Tokyo station at maximum thrice a day, reaching Sendai city in 1 hour 30 minutes.

How to Get Around in Miyagi

Buses and railways are the most common transportation options in Miyagi. Renting a car is an option but is not recommended for tourists unfamiliar with Japanese traffic rules and signs. If you plan on cycling, Miyagi is very cyclist-friendly.

Where to Go Next from Miyagi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Yamagata Prefecture: The prefecture next to Miyagi offers rustic cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and the Dewa Sanzan, three sacred mountains with a 1000-year-old history.
Ishinomaki City: Located east to Miyagi, known for its iconic Shinto Shrine, Kiritanpo hot pot, and seafood market vitalized after the 3/11 tsunami.
Akita: Located northwest of Sendai, Akita oozes old-world charm, traditional festivals, nomadic culture plus diverse cuisine styles, and a hot spring paradise.

Conclusion

From hiking to appreciating traditional arts and crafts, Miyagi offers an array of experiences for all visitors. Whether enjoying fantastic cuisine, relaxing in hot spring baths or learning about Miyagi’s history and culture, Miyagi is an excellent destination spot in Japan, and it undoubtedly provides memories that will last a lifetime.

Miyagi Image Gallery