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🕓 2025/2/18
＃観光地
Table of Contents
- Sendai Castle Ruins (Aoba Castle Site)｜A Stunning View Built by Date Masamune
- Okama Crater, Mount Zao｜The Mysterious Emerald Green Lake
- Matsushima｜One of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views!
Top 3 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Miyagi
- What is Miyagi Prefecture? -
Miyagi Prefecture is located in the Tohoku region of Japan, with Sendai City as its capital. This region has played a significant role in Japanese history and is home to a rich culture and traditions, coexisting harmoniously with its breathtaking natural landscapes.
Historically, Miyagi was once part of a larger territory known as Mutsu Province (陸奥国, Mutsu no Kuni). In particular, the area that is now Sendai City flourished as a castle town under the rule of Date Masamune, one of Japan’s most famous samurai warlords. Sendai later became the stronghold of the Date clan, leaving a lasting historical legacy.
In 2011, Miyagi was severely impacted by the Great East Japan Earthquake (東日本大震災). This disaster posed an enormous challenge for the region, and the path to recovery has been long and difficult. However, the resilience of the local communities grew stronger, and with support from across the country, the region has steadily progressed on its road to reconstruction.
1. Sendai Castle Ruins (Aoba Castle Site)｜A Stunning View Built by Date Masamune
● Attractions of Sendai Castle Ruins
The Sendai Castle Ruins (Aoba Castle Site) is located in Aoba Ward, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture. It was originally built by Date Masamune, the first lord of the Sendai Domain, in 1601 (Keicho 6). Situated on Mt. Aoba, approximately 130 meters above sea level, the castle took advantage of its natural surroundings, with cliffs on the east and south serving as natural fortifications. While the original castle buildings no longer remain, the stone walls and a reconstructed turret allow visitors to imagine its former grandeur.
At the Honmaru (main enclosure) site, a statue of Date Masamune on horseback stands, offering a panoramic view of Sendai City and the Pacific Ocean. The site is especially enchanting at night when the stone walls and statue are illuminated, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Visitors can also explore the Aoba Castle Museum, where they can learn about the history of Sendai Castle through exhibits and digital reconstructions. The entire castle site is now part of Aobayama Park, where visitors can enjoy a historic walk amidst nature that changes with the seasons.
● History of Sendai Castle
Sendai Castle was constructed under the orders of Date Masamune after his victory at the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. Planning for the castle began in December 1600, and full-scale construction commenced in January 1601. The castle was designed as a mountain fortress, utilizing natural defenses:
- Steep cliffs along the Hirose River on the east,
- The rugged Ryonokuchi Gorge on the south,
- A dense forest known as "Oura Hayashi" on the west.
After Masamune’s passing, the second lord of Sendai Domain, Date Tadamune, expanded the castle by building the Ninomaru (secondary enclosure) on the foothills, which was completed in 1639. From then on, the Ninomaru became the administrative center of the domain, while Sendai Castle remained the residence of the Date family for about 270 years.
Following the Meiji Restoration, the castle came under government control, and in 1871, military facilities were established in the Ninomaru area. Unfortunately, in 1882, a fire destroyed many of the remaining structures.
● Access to Sendai Castle Ruins
- Address: Kawauchi, Aoba Ward, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture
- Google Maps Link: 仙台城跡（青葉城跡）
- Walking: From Sendai Station, take a bus to "Sendai City Museum Mae", then walk for about 5 minutes.
- Train/Bus: From Kotodai-Koen Station (Sendai Subway Namboku Line), walk about 20 minutes or take a bus.
● Attractions of Okama Crater
Okama Crater is a mystical crater lake situated at the border of Miyagi and Yamagata Prefectures, within the Zao Mountain Range. It is encircled by three peaks:
- Katta-dake
- Kumanodake
- Goshikidake
Its unique bowl-like shape inspired its name, which means "cooking pot" (Okama in Japanese). The lake’s emerald-green surface, in contrast with the rugged crater walls, creates a truly otherworldly sight.
The color of the lake changes depending on the sunlight and weather conditions, earning it the nickname "Goshiki-numa" (Five-Colored Lake).
Due to its high acidity, the lake does not support any aquatic life. Another fascinating feature is that while the surface temperature is low (around 2°C at 10 meters depth), the deeper layers are actually warmer, making it one of the world’s rare double-layered lakes.
Throughout the year, visitors can witness the ever-changing scenery of Okama Crater, making it a beloved natural wonder for travelers.
● History of Okama Crater
The history of Okama Crater dates back over 1,000 years, when volcanic activity shaped the current crater lake. It was formed after a series of eruptions in the 10th century, and subsequent volcanic activity and crustal movements have contributed to its present shape.
During the Edo period, the lake was known as "Goshiki-numa" (Five-Colored Pond) and was considered a sacred site, often spoken of as a mystical place. The entire Zao Mountain range was also revered, serving as an important center for mountain worship and Shugendo (ascetic Buddhism).
In modern times, Okama Crater has gained popularity as a tourist destination, and in 1925, Zao Mountain was designated a national park, attracting countless visitors.
● Access to Okama Crater
- Address: Zao Okama, Togatta Onsen, Katta District, Miyagi Prefecture
- Google Maps Link: 蔵王御釜
- By Car: About 50 minutes from Yamagata Zao IC (Yamagata Expressway).
- Public Transport: Take a bus from Yamagata Station, via the Zao Echo Line, and get off at "Zao Okama" bus stop.
3. Matsushima｜One of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views!
● Attractions of Matsushima
Matsushima, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is celebrated as one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views (Nihon Sankei). The Matsushima Bay area is dotted with about 260 small islands covered in pine trees, creating a breathtaking seascape that has captivated visitors for centuries.
A particularly spectacular view can be enjoyed from the "Four Great Viewing Spots" (Shidaikan):
- Sokan (Magnificent View)
- Reikan (Elegant View)
- Ikan (Grand View)
- Yukan (Mysterious View)
Matsushima has drawn admiration from poets and travelers for centuries. Matsuo Basho, one of Japan’s most famous haiku poets, was so moved by its beauty that he was left speechless.
The area is also home to Zuiganji Temple and Godaido Hall, both historically connected to Date Masamune.
A popular way to experience Matsushima’s beauty is by taking a sightseeing boat tour, which allows visitors to enjoy the unique scenery from the sea. Depending on the season and time of day, Matsushima reveals different breathtaking landscapes.
● History of Matsushima
The geography of Matsushima was shaped over 20,000–30,000 years through tectonic activity and sea-level changes. The bay’s scattered islands were gradually carved by natural forces, forming today’s remarkable coastal landscape.
During the Edo period, Date Masamune established Zuiganji Temple and Godaido Hall, making Matsushima an important center for Buddhist culture and worship. Matsuo Basho later visited the site and recorded his impressions in "Oku no Hosomichi" (The Narrow Road to the Deep North).
The name "Matsushima" is thought to have originated from the many pine-covered islands ("Matsu" means "pine" in Japanese), though various legends also suggest different origins.
● Access to Matsushima
- By Train: 15-minute walk from JR Senseki Line "Matsushima-Kaigan Station".
- By Car: About 50 minutes from Sendai City.
- Google Maps Link: 松島
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