Discover the vibrant neighborhood around us. From iconic landmarks and rich cultural sites to hidden local gems, unforgettable experiences await just steps from your stay.
Sendai Morning Market near Sendai Station is always full of energy! You can find a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood here. Many locals come to shop or dine every day, making it a great place to experience everything from fresh ingredients to traditional food culture. Visiting the morning market, chatting with the friendly vendors, and tasting local specialties is a wonderful experience! It is located about a 5-minute walk from our hotel.
Landmark
Site of Sendai Castle
Sendai Castle Site (Aoba Castle) — Date Masamune built Sendai Castle on a natural stronghold 115 meters above sea level.…
Sendai Castle Site (Aoba Castle) — Date Masamune built Sendai Castle on a natural stronghold 115 meters above sea level. Although its original buildings were destroyed by fire, the magnificent stone walls and reconstructed guardhouse still recall its glorious past. Recent excavations and research have revealed stone walls built across three distinct historical periods, which have been carefully repaired and restored to their original form as valuable cultural resources. Today, Sendai continues to preserve its historic sites through thoughtful urban planning, with ongoing plans to further enhance the Sendai Castle Site as a proud symbol of the city. To get there, take the Loople Sendai sightseeing bus (or Sendai City Bus) and get off at the “Site of Sendai Castle” stop.
Temple / Shrine
Osaki Hachiman Shrine
Osaki Hachimangu Shrine was built in 1607 by Date Masamune to protect the Sendai Domain. The main building (Shonden) is…
Osaki Hachimangu Shrine was built in 1607 by Date Masamune to protect the Sendai Domain. The main building (Shonden) is designated as a National Treasure and features magnificent black lacquer adorned with vivid colors and dazzling gold metalwork. Every year on January 14, the shrine hosts the famous Donto-sai Festival, where visitors burn New Year’s decorations to pray for health and good fortune in the coming year. To get there, take the Sendai City Bus and get off at the “Osaki Hachimangu-mae” stop.
Landmark
Sendai City Museum
The Sendai City Museum showcases the history of Sendai through a wide variety of cultural heritage items, primarily centered around…
The Sendai City Museum showcases the history of Sendai through a wide variety of cultural heritage items, primarily centered around the Date clan. Its extensive collection comprises over 75,000 artifacts, including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Around 1,200 items from the collection are regularly on display. It is located about an 8-minute walk from Kokusai Center Station on the subway.
Temple / Shrine
Zuihoden
Zuihoden — As the Japanese word "Date" (meaning stylish or dashing) suggests, Date Masamune is known as one of Japan's…
Zuihoden — As the Japanese word “Date” (meaning stylish or dashing) suggests, Date Masamune is known as one of Japan’s most stylish and heroic warlords. Zuihoden is his magnificent mausoleum. Located close to Sendai Station—the central hub of the Tohoku region—it is a must-visit destination. Why not add it to your travel itinerary?
Attraction
Sendai Astronomical Observatory
Sendai Astronomical Observatory hosts a popular "Stargazing Party" every Saturday night, offering a magical experience you cannot get in the…
Sendai Astronomical Observatory hosts a popular “Stargazing Party” every Saturday night, offering a magical experience you cannot get in the city center. The Chiron Hybrid Planetarium, featuring a impressive 25-meter dome, is also a must-see. In addition to the exhibition room, there is a cozy cafe on-site. The “Earth Candy” sold at the museum shop has gone viral on social media for its strikingly beautiful and detailed design!
Shopping
Sendai Gyutan TAKA
Sendai Gyutan Taka, located just a 2-minute walk from Kotodai-Koen Station on the Sendai City Subway Namboku Line (and accessible…
Sendai Gyutan Taka, located just a 2-minute walk from Kotodai-Koen Station on the Sendai City Subway Namboku Line (and accessible from Sendai Station via subway), is a popular dining spot that you should definitely visit. Their beef tongue is grilled quickly over high charcoal heat, making it thick yet surprisingly tender, with rich, juicy flavors that burst in your mouth.
Shopping
Vlan Dome Ichibancho
Vlandome Ichibancho is a vibrant shopping arcade featuring an impressive glass roof that reaches a height of up to 21…
Vlandome Ichibancho is a vibrant shopping arcade featuring an impressive glass roof that reaches a height of up to 21 meters—making it one of the tallest covered arcades in Japan. The street is lined with a wide variety of trendy boutiques, cafes, and shops popular with young women and fashion enthusiasts. It also serves as one of the main venues for the famous Sendai Tanabata Festival, where massive, colorful paper decorations transform the arcade every summer.
Attraction
Sendai Umino-mori Aquarium
Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium features impressive marine life, including shimmering schools of sardines, gracefully gliding rays, and powerful hammerhead sharks. Don’t…
Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium features impressive marine life, including shimmering schools of sardines, gracefully gliding rays, and powerful hammerhead sharks. Don’t miss the dynamic dolphin and sea lion shows at the Uminomori Stadium, which seats approximately 1,000 guests. We also highly recommend the interactive “Friendly Time” program, where you can get up close and personal with penguins and sea lions (Otaria)!
Landmark
AER Observation Terrace
AER Observation Terrace — Standing approximately 145.5 meters tall, AER is a prominent skyscraper complex located right next to Sendai…
AER Observation Terrace — Standing approximately 145.5 meters tall, AER is a prominent skyscraper complex located right next to Sendai Station. While the lower floors feature a variety of shops and restaurants, the 31st floor houses a wedding venue as well as a free public observation terrace that offers panoramic views of the city.
Shopping
Murakamiya Mochiten
Murakamiya Mochiten is a historic Japanese mochi shop founded in 1877 (Meiji 10). Their specialty is "Zunda Mochi," topped with…
Murakamiya Mochiten is a historic Japanese mochi shop founded in 1877 (Meiji 10).Their specialty is “Zunda Mochi,” topped with a sweet bean paste made from boiled, finely mashed edamame seasoned with sugar and a pinch of salt. While there are various theories regarding the origin of the name “zunda,” the most popular belief is that it evolved from “zuzu-dada” or “zuda,” which refers to the act of mashing beans. Highly nutritious and rich in flavor, this traditional delicacy has been cherished by locals for generations.
Shopping
Sendai PARCO
Sendai PARCO is a major shopping complex located right next to JR Sendai Station, featuring a wide variety of trendy…
Sendai PARCO is a major shopping complex located right next to JR Sendai Station, featuring a wide variety of trendy fashion boutiques aimed at young people. It also offers a great selection of restaurants and cafes, making it an ideal spot to grab a bite before or after traveling through Sendai Station.
Attraction
Yagiyama Zoological Park
Yagiyama Zoological Park (Yagiyama Zoological Park Fujisaki Pavilion) is one of the premier zoos in the Tohoku region, home to…
Yagiyama Zoological Park (Yagiyama Zoological Park Fujisaki Pavilion) is one of the premier zoos in the Tohoku region, home to approximately 500 animals across 140 different species. The viewing area in the African Garden—where you can see elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife up close—is especially popular. The zoo also hosts engaging talks where keepers share behind-the-scenes insights about animal care, making it an ideal destination for family trips.
Attraction
Nikka Miyagikyo Distillery
Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery — Built in 1969, the Nikka Miyagikyo Distillery is nestled in a scenic, mountainous area surrounded…
Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery — Built in 1969, the Nikka Miyagikyo Distillery is nestled in a scenic, mountainous area surrounded by lush forests near Sendai. The grounds feature a beautiful pond reminiscent of a traditional Japanese garden. To explore the production facilities, visitors can join a free guided tour, which concludes with a whisky tasting session (advance online reservation is required). Access is approximately a 30 to 40-minute walk (or a short free shuttle bus ride on designated days) from Sakunami Station on the JR Senzan Line.
Shopping
HAPINA Nakakecho Shopping Street
Hapina Nakakecho Shopping Street is a bustling covered arcade that extends west from the West Exit of Sendai Station. The…
Hapina Nakakecho Shopping Street is a bustling covered arcade that extends west from the West Exit of Sendai Station. The street features a 15-meter-high retractable glass ceiling decorated with various hanging ornaments, making it delightful just to walk through. It is also one of the primary venues for the famous Sendai Tanabata Festival.
Hotel Keihan Sendai
Address3-3-5, Chuo, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan 980-0021Phone+81-22-263-0321Fax+81-22-265-6411
