Matsushima - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Matsushima

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Matsushima, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Matsushima and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Matsushima, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Matsushima for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Matsushima

Matsushima is a group of islands located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its picturesque landscape and considered one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, as designated by the famous poet Basho. Matsushima is home to over 200 small islands and islets, many of which are covered in pine trees, giving it a unique and stunning appearance. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the islands or stroll along the shorefront to take in the beautiful scenery. Matsushima is also home to several historic temples and shrines, such as the Zuiganji Temple, a designated National Treasure of Japan. Its close proximity to Sendai City makes it a popular day trip destination for locals and tourists alike.

What to visit in Matsushima

Matsushima is a picturesque town in Japan, known for its scenic bay and numerous islands. Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Matsushima: 1. Matsushima Bay: This is the main attraction in the town and is widely recognized as one of the Three Views of Japan. It is a scenic bay dotted with approximately 260 small islands covered with pine trees.
2. Zuiganji Temple: One of the most famous temples in the Tohoku region, Zuiganji is known for its collection of ancient statues and scrolls. The temple originally dates back to the ninth century and underwent significant renovations in the seventeenth century.
3. Godaido Hall: This is a small wooden temple located on an islet in Matsushima Bay. Built by Date Masamune, Godaido Hall offers a great view of the bay and is one of the most photographed locations in Matsushima.
4. Fukuura Island: Located in the middle of Matsushima Bay, Fukuura Island is known for its scenic walking trails and stunning views of the bay. It is also home to several shrines and temples, including the iconic Enmei Jizoson Statue.
5. Entsuin Temple: Another famous temple in Matsushima, Entsuin is located on a hill overlooking the bay. The temple is known for its beautiful gardens, which are particularly spectacular during the autumn months.
6. Matsushima Fish Market: The fish market is a great place to sample fresh seafood, which is a speciality of the town. Visitors can try various types of seafood, including oysters, squid, and tuna.
Overall, Matsushima is a great destination for travellers who want to experience Japan's natural and cultural beauty.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Matsushima.

When to go on holiday to Matsushima

The best time to visit Matsushima in Japan is during the autumn months of September to November when the weather is mild with less rainfall, and you can witness the stunning fall foliage scenery. Spring is also a beautiful time to visit Matsushima when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom from late March to early April. The summer months can be hot and humid, while the winter months can be cold and snowy. Therefore, to enjoy the best of Matsushima, I suggest planning your trip between September and November or late March and early April.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Matsushima

Matsushima is a beautiful coastal town located in the Miyagi Prefecture of Japan. Here are some different ways to get there: 1. By train: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Sendai Station. From there, transfer to the Senseki Line and take it to Matsushima-Kaigan Station. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and costs approximately 10,000 yen.
2. By bus: From Tokyo Station, take the highway bus to Matsushima-Kaigan Station. The journey takes around 5-6 hours and costs approximately 3,500 yen.
3. By car: Matsushima is approximately a 3.5-4 hour drive from Tokyo. However, if you are not familiar with the Japanese roads or if you do not have an international driver's license, it is recommended to take the train or bus instead.
Regardless of the transportation option you choose, I highly recommend visiting Matsushima. It is known for its stunning views of the bay, walking trails, and historical landmarks.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Matsushima, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Matsushima

Matsushima is a beautiful coastal town in the Miyagi Prefecture of Japan that is famous for its stunning scenery and fresh seafood. Here are some of the local foods of Matsushima with a short description: 1. Matsushima Oysters: These are considered to be the best oysters in Japan. They are plump and juicy and have a rich flavor. You can enjoy them raw, grilled or in soups.
2. Sasa-Kamaboko: Sasa-Kamaboko is a fish cake made from white fish and wheat flour. It has a distinctive shape that looks like bamboo leaves. It is often served with soy sauce and wasabi.
3. Sendai Beef Tongue: Sendai Beef Tongue is a local dish that is made from high-quality beef tongue. It is thinly sliced and grilled to perfection. It is often served with special sauce made from soy sauce and vinegar.
4. Seaweed Salad: Matsushima is famous for its seaweed salad, which is made from a variety of seaweed such as Wakame and Hijiki. It is often served with soy sauce and vinegar.
5. Zunda Mochi: Zunda Mochi is a traditional sweet that is made from pounded sticky rice and sweetened soybean paste. The soybean paste has a smooth texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the chewy mochi.
6. Shigureni: Shigureni is a dish made from beef, chicken or pork that is slowly simmered in soy sauce, sugar and sake until it becomes tender and flavorful. It is often served as a topping for rice.
7. Sasakamaboko Cheese: One of the newer dishes in Matsushima, Sasakamaboko Cheese combines the traditional Japanese fish cake with a western twist. The fish cake is mixed with cheese and grilled to create a tasty and unique snack.
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Matsushima an expensive destination for tourists?

Matsushima is a popular tourist destination in Japan known for its beautiful scenic views and historic sites. While it is more expensive than some other destinations in Japan, it is not necessarily considered to be one of the more expensive destinations in the country. Accommodation prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose and the time of year you visit. Eating out can also be quite expensive, but there are also more affordable options available. Overall, Matsushima is a great destination to visit despite the costs, as it offers unique experiences that cannot be found in other parts of Japan.

Where to find accomodation in Matsushima

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Matsushima are Matsushima Bay Area, central Matsushima near the train station, and the Zuiganji Temple area. The Matsushima Bay Area offers stunning views of the bay and is close to many of the main attractions, while the central Matsushima area has a wide variety of accommodations and is within walking distance of most of the town's major sights. Additionally, the Zuiganji Temple area is a quieter option with more traditional Japanese-style accommodations and is close to the famous temple itself.
You can check hotel prices at Matsushima here:
Booking.com

Is Matsushima a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Matsushima is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Japan as a whole is a very safe destination, with low levels of crime and a high standard of living. However, it is always important to take normal precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, taking care of your belongings, and following local laws and customs. Additionally, it may be helpful to familiarize yourself with emergency services and contacts in case of any unexpected situations.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Matsushima.

What type of travelers will enjoy Matsushima the most?

Matsushima in Japan is a great place for all kinds of travelers, but it's particularly suited for those who are interested in nature and culture. Couples will enjoy the stunningly romantic views of the island-dotted bay from the many lookout points throughout the town, or taking a sunset cruise along the bay. Young people looking for fun may enjoy exploring the quaint streets of the town, shopping for souvenirs or enjoying the local cuisine. Families with children will have a great time exploring the many attractions nearby, including the Matsushima Bay Aquarium, which is a popular destination for families with children. Overall, Matsushima is a great destination to visit for travelers who appreciate beautiful landscapes, peaceful settings, and cultural experiences.

How to get around Matsushima

Matsushima, Japan is a scenic area located along the coast and is known for its numerous islands covered in pine trees. To move around Matsushima, visitors can use various modes of transportation, including walking, cycling, taxis, or buses. Walking is a great option for those who want to leisurely explore the area and experience the stunning views up close. Alternatively, visitors can rent bicycles from various rental shops in Matsushima to travel further and faster.
Taxis offer convenient transportation, and visitors can easily hail a cab outside the train station or at designated taxi stands throughout the area. However, taxi fares can be expensive, particularly for longer trips.
Finally, the local bus network is an affordable option. There are multiple bus routes covering the Matsushima area, and visitors can purchase tickets from the driver or use an IC card to conveniently pay for their fare.

What to see around Matsushima

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Matsushima: 1. Sendai: The capital city of Miyagi prefecture, Sendai is a bustling city known for its shopping, dining and cultural attractions. Visit the historic Sendai Castle, relax at one of the many public hot springs (onsen), or stroll around Aoba-jo Dori, a street lined with traditional Japanese storefronts.
2. Yamadera: Located in the nearby town of Yamagata, Yamadera is a scenic temple complex nestled in the mountains. Hike up the stone steps to explore the various temples and shrines, and enjoy the sweeping views of the surrounding valley.
3. Shiogama: Known for its fresh seafood and picturesque port town, Shiogama is a great place to sample some of Japan's famous seafood dishes. Visit the fish market, take a stroll along the waterfront and visit Shiogama Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine located on a hill overlooking the port.
4. Matsushima Bay: While technically still in Matsushima, a boat tour of Matsushima Bay is an excellent way to explore the area's natural beauty and stunning coastal landscapes. Take a tour of the bay to see the many small islands and rock formations, and learn about the area's history and cultural significance.
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