Matsushima

Matsushima is an archipelago consisting of more than 260 large and small islands scattered around Matsushima Bay in the central part of Miyagi Prefecture. On the gray-white rocks stand dense pine trees. Here, you can see the representative bay features of Japan, which are produced according to the seasons. Various changes. After arriving at JR Matsushima Kaigan Station, walk about 5 minutes to the Matsushima Tourism Association, where you can get some tourist brochures such as maps. Taking a cruise on Songdao Bay is the main way to visit, not only can you easily enjoy the beautiful scenery of many islands under the blue sky and white clouds, but also see many vibrant seagulls. In addition to the cruise, there are also many temples near JR Matsushima Kaigan Station, which you can visit on foot or by bicycle. Zuigan-ji Temple is designated as a National Treasure of Japan, and its doors, lintel windows, Japanese sliding doors, and ornate paintings of alcoves are all worth admiring. There are also historical sites exuding the cultural flavor of Date, such as the Five Halls, Guanlan Pavilion, Yuantong Courtyard, and Tianlin Courtyard. To the northeast of Zuigan Temple is the Shintoyama Mountain. The observation deck on the top of the mountain has a panoramic view of Matsushima Bay from the front, so don't miss it. If you come to Matsushima during the cherry blossom season, you can go to the westbound Matsushima Park on the west side of JR Matsushima Kaigan Station. This is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Matsushima. From the observation deck of the park, you can enjoy the superb view of cherry blossoms and the beauty of Matsushima Bay, which is very emotional. There are also "four major landscapes" in the east, south, west and north of Matsushima Bay - Otakamori, Tamon Mountain, Fangu, and Toyama. From these four places, you can see the scenery of Matsushima with different expressions. These four places are far apart, and if you have enough time, you can arrange to go to one or more of them for viewing. Oysters are a specialty of Matsushima, so don't forget to try them when you come to Matsushima. Every year from October to March of the following year is the season when Matsushima oysters are more delicious. During this period, there will be an oyster hut (かき hut) restaurant open for all you can eat.