Matsushima Bay
Islands of Pines in the Celestial Sea
Matsushima Bay has been celebrated as one of Japan's 'Nihon Sankei' (Three Great Views) for over 400 years, alongside Amanohashidate in Kyoto and Itsukushima in Hiroshima. The Edo-period scholar Hayashi Razan ranked these three as Japan's most beautiful scenic spots in 1643. The bay contains over 260 small islands covered with windswept pine trees (matsu means pine, shima means island), sculpted by centuries of waves and weather into fantastical shapes.
The area has deep connections to Zen Buddhism. The famous poet Matsuo Basho visited in 1689 during his journey chronicled in 'The Narrow Road to the Deep North,' though he claimed the beauty left him speechless and unable to compose poetry. Date Masamune, the powerful feudal lord known as the 'One-Eyed Dragon,' made Matsushima his spiritual center in the early 1600s, building Zuiganji Temple (National Treasure) and Kanrantei tea house, both of which survive today.
The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami devastated much of the Tohoku coast, but Matsushima's islands acted as natural breakwaters, significantly reducing the tsunami's impact and protecting the town. This providential geography preserved both human lives and cultural heritage. Today, Matsushima stands as a symbol of natural beauty, cultural richness, and resilience, continuing to inspire visitors as it has for centuries.
Key Highlights
- One of Japan's Three Great Views (Nihon Sankei)
- Over 260 pine-covered islands in scenic bay
- Zuiganji Temple - National Treasure Zen temple
- Scenic cruises through the islands (50 minutes)
- Godaido Hall on small island (panoramic views)
- Historic connections to Date Masamune and Matsuo Basho
Access Information
Location
Matsushima, Matsushima, Miyagi District, Miyagi 981-0213, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Matsushima-Kaigan Station (JR Senseki Line)
- • Matsushima Station (JR Tohoku Main Line - 20 min walk to bay)
Opening Hours
Bay: 24 hours | Sightseeing boats: 9:00-16:00 (hourly) | Temples: 8:00-17:00 (varies)
Admission Fee
Sightseeing cruise: ¥1,500 | Zuiganji Temple: ¥700 | Godaido: Free | Entsuin: ¥300
How to Get There
From Sendai
JR Senseki Line to Matsushima-Kaigan Station
40 minutes
From Tokyo
Tohoku Shinkansen to Sendai, transfer to JR Senseki Line
2 hours
From Sendai
Tohoku Main Line to Matsushima Station (slightly longer walk)
50 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Take the Sightseeing Cruise
The 50-minute bay cruise (¥1,500) is essential for experiencing Matsushima properly. It weaves between the islands, offering close views of their unique shapes and pine-covered beauty. Three routes available; the standard course is best. Boats depart hourly 9:00-16:00. Second floor open deck costs ¥600 extra but offers better views and photos.
Visit Zuiganji Temple
This National Treasure Zen temple (¥700) was rebuilt by Date Masamune in 1609 and remains one of Tohoku's most important temples. The approach through cryptomeria trees lined with carved caves, and the ornate interior with painted fusuma panels, represents Momoyama-period artistry at its finest. Allow 45 minutes minimum.
Best Viewpoints and Photo Spots
Godaido Hall (small island connected by red bridges - free, great bay views), Kanrantei tea house (Date Masamune's moon-viewing pavilion), Saigyo Modoshi-no-Matsu Park (sunset views), and from the sightseeing boat. Early morning and late afternoon light are most photogenic. Sunset over the islands is particularly beautiful.
Fresh Oysters are the Local Specialty
Matsushima Bay oysters are famous throughout Japan. Try them grilled, fried as kakifurai, in rice, or raw (in season Oct-Mar). Kaki-goya (oyster huts) along the waterfront serve all-you-can-eat grilled oysters (¥2,000-3,000). Also try anago (sea eel), local fish, and kamaboko (fish cake). Fresh seafood is Matsushima's culinary highlight.
Allow Half Day or Full Day
A thorough visit includes: sightseeing cruise (1 hour), Zuiganji Temple (1 hour), Godaido and waterfront walk (30 min), Entsuin Temple gardens (30 min), and lunch (1 hour). Half day minimum from Sendai, but a leisurely full day allows deeper exploration and multiple viewpoints without rushing.
Explore Beyond the Main Waterfront
Walk to Entsuin Temple (beautiful moss garden), Fukuurajima Island (connected by bridge, ¥200, nature trails), various observation points on hillsides, and Saigyo Modoshi Park. The area beyond the main tourist stretch offers quieter perspectives and lovely walks through pines along the coast.
Best in Autumn for Foliage
Early November brings beautiful autumn colors to the temple grounds and islands, enhancing the natural beauty. The combination of red/orange foliage with green pines and blue water is stunning. Spring (late April) offers cherry blossoms but is less dramatic than autumn. Summer can be hot and humid but less crowded.
Easy Day Trip from Sendai
Matsushima makes an excellent day trip from Sendai (40 min, ¥420). Most visitors come from Sendai, though overnight stays are possible at waterfront ryokan for romantic sunset/sunrise bay views. The area is compact and walkable - everything is within 15-20 minutes on foot from the station.
FAQ
How long should I spend in Matsushima?
Half day for basic sightseeing, full day to properly explore temples and take a boat cruise. Overnight stays allow enjoying different lights on the bay.
Is the boat cruise worth it?
Yes, the 50-minute cruise offers the best way to appreciate the 260+ pine-covered islands. Choose upper deck for better views. Multiple routes available.
What makes it one of Japan's three views?
The combination of countless pine-covered islands creates exceptional scenic beauty. Best appreciated from elevated viewpoints like Saigyomodoshi no Matsu Park.
Which temples should I visit?
Zuiganji is essential - a national treasure with gorgeous artwork. Godaido on small island is photogenic. Entsuin has beautiful gardens and illuminations.
How was it affected by the 2011 tsunami?
The many islands protected Matsushima from severe damage. Recovery is complete. The area serves as testament to natural protection and resilience.
What seafood should I try?
Oysters are famous here - all-you-can-eat oyster shacks in winter. Also try anago (sea eel) and local fish. Grilled fish cakes on sticks are popular snacks.
When is the best time to visit?
Each season offers beauty - spring cherry blossoms, summer greenery, autumn colors, winter oyster season. Avoid Japanese holidays when crowded.
Are there good viewpoints?
Four traditional viewpoints surround the bay. Otakamori requires hiking but offers spectacular views. Saigyo Modoshi Park is easily accessible.
Is it touristy?
Yes, it's popular with domestic tourists. The main street has typical souvenir shops. Despite this, natural beauty remains impressive.
How do I get there from Tokyo?
Shinkansen to Sendai, then JR Senseki Line to Matsushima-Kaigan (2 hours total). Express buses also available. Day trips possible but rushed.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Jozenji-dori Avenue
Sendai's most elegant boulevard lined with 160 zelkova trees, featuring seasonal festivals, outdoor sculptures, and cafe-filled streets that embody the city's nickname 'City of Trees.'
Naruko Gorge
A dramatic 100-meter deep gorge carved by the Ohtani River, renowned as one of Tohoku's premier autumn foliage viewing destinations with vibrant red and gold landscapes.
Sendai Aoba Castle Ruins
The hilltop remains of Date Masamune's fortress, featuring his famous equestrian statue, panoramic city views, and museums documenting the One-Eyed Dragon's legacy.
Zuihoden Mausoleum
The ornate mausoleum of Date Masamune featuring brilliant Momoyama-period architecture with black lacquer, gold leaf decoration, and vivid colors in a serene cedar forest setting.