Explore Miyagi
A Gateway to Scenic Beauty, History, and Culinary Excellence

Miyagi Prefecture, located in the heart of the Tohoku region, is a vibrant destination offering a perfect mix of natural wonders, historic landmarks, and delicious local cuisine. From the breathtaking views of Matsushima Bay to the rich samurai history of Sendai, Miyagi is an ideal travel destination for those looking to explore Japan beyond the major cities.

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Best Food in Miyagi: Must-Try Local Dishes

Miyagi is famous for its high-quality seafood, regional delicacies, and traditional flavors.

  • Gyutan (Grilled Beef Tongue): A signature dish of Sendai, known for its tender texture and smoky flavor.
  • Zunda Mochi: A sweet treat made from mashed edamame beans, often served with soft rice cakes.
  • Matsushima Oysters: Fresh and juicy oysters harvested from Matsushima Bay, best enjoyed grilled or raw.
  • Harako Meshi: A rice bowl topped with fresh salmon and ikura (salmon roe), a delicacy from the Sanriku Coast.
  • Sendai Miso: A rich, aged miso that enhances many local dishes.

Miyagi Festivals & Events: Seasonal Highlights

Miyagi hosts some of the most lively and culturally significant festivals in Japan.

  • Sendai Tanabata Festival (August): One of Japan’s most famous Tanabata festivals, featuring colorful streamers and city-wide celebrations.
  • Shiogama Minato Festival (July): A maritime festival celebrating Miyagi’s fishing heritage, with decorated boats and traditional performances.
  • Naruko Onsen Kokeshi Doll Festival (September): A celebration of the traditional hand-painted wooden Kokeshi dolls unique to Miyagi.
  • Matsushima Oyster Festival (February): A must-visit for seafood lovers, offering fresh, all-you-can-eat oysters.
  • Aoba Festival (May): A vibrant samurai-era parade honoring Date Masamune, the founder of Sendai.

Outdoor Activities in Miyagi: Things to Do Year-Round

From scenic coastlines to mountainous retreats, Miyagi offers incredible outdoor adventures.

  • Island-Hopping in Matsushima Bay: Explore one of Japan’s top scenic views, with stunning islands and historic temples.
  • Fox Village in Zao: Visit this unique wildlife park where you can observe and interact with over 100 free-roaming foxes.
  • Naruko Gorge Hiking: A breathtaking autumn foliage destination with vibrant colors and stunning cliffs.
  • Snow Sports at Zao Ski Resort: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at one of Tohoku’s best winter resorts.
  • Akiu Waterfall & Onsen: A scenic waterfall combined with relaxing hot spring retreats nearby.

Must-Visit Places in Miyagi: Top Attractions

Discover some of the best sightseeing spots in Miyagi.

  • Matsushima Bay: Renowned as one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views, offering stunning ocean vistas.
  • Sendai Castle Ruins: A historical site with panoramic views of Sendai, once home to the powerful samurai Date Masamune.
  • Zuihoden Mausoleum: The lavish resting place of Date Masamune, featuring intricate architecture and serene gardens.
  • Ishinomaki Mangattan Museum: A unique manga museum dedicated to Shotaro Ishinomori, the creator of Kamen Rider.
  • Naruko Onsen: One of Tohoku’s most famous onsen towns, known for its healing waters and scenic views.

Getting Around Miyagi: Public Transportation Guide

Miyagi’s convenient transport options make it easy to explore the region.

  • Tohoku Shinkansen: High-speed bullet trains connect Sendai to Tokyo in just 90 minutes.
  • Sendai Airport: Offers domestic and international flights with easy access to the city.
  • Local Trains & Subway: The Sendai Subway and JR trains provide convenient travel within Miyagi.
  • Matsushima Sightseeing Cruise: A relaxing way to explore the bay’s iconic islands.
  • Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations like Naruko Gorge and the Zao Fox Village.

Best Hotels in Miyagi: Where to Stay

Miyagi offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to traditional ryokan.

  • Budget-Friendly Hotels: Convenient and affordable options like Hotel Metropolitan Sendai.
Hotel Metropolitan Sendai

  • Luxury Hotels: Stay at the Westin Sendai for a premium experience with breathtaking city views.
The Westin Sendai

  • Traditional Ryokan: Enjoy a traditional Japanese stay at Akiu Onsen or Naruko Onsen, known for their healing waters.
Sakan（Akiu Onsen）

Saryo Soen（Akiu Onsen）

Naruko Onsen Yumoto Kissho（Naruko Onsen）

Miyagi’s Cultural Heritage: Experience Unique Traditions

Miyagi is deeply connected to samurai history, spiritual sites, and artistic traditions.

  • Samurai History of Sendai: Learn about the powerful Date clan and visit the Sendai Castle ruins.
  • Kokeshi Doll Crafting: Experience making your own traditional Kokeshi doll in Naruko.
  • Buddhist Temples & Shrines: Visit Entsuin Temple and Zuiganji Temple, famous for their serene atmospheres.
  • Matsushima Tea Houses: Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony with a view of Matsushima Bay.
  • Sanriku Coast Fishing Culture: Learn about Miyagi’s deep connection to the sea through its fishing villages and seafood markets.

Best Souvenirs from Miyagi: What to Buy

Take home a piece of Miyagi with these local specialties.

  • Sendai Gyutan Gift Sets: Pre-packaged grilled beef tongue, perfect for a taste of Miyagi at home.
  • Zunda Sweets: Various edamame-flavored treats, including Zunda Shake and Zunda Mochi.
  • Matsushima Oysters: Fresh or preserved oyster products, great for seafood lovers.
  • Naruko Kokeshi Dolls: Traditional hand-painted wooden dolls, a famous craft of Miyagi.
  • Local Sake: Premium Miyagi sake brands such as Urakasumi and Ichinokura.

Plan Your Miyagi Adventure Today!

From breathtaking coastal views and historic samurai sites to delicious cuisine and lively festivals, Miyagi is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Japan. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or food exploration, Miyagi offers something for everyone.

For more travel inspiration, check out our Japan travel guides and start planning your trip to Miyagi today!