Embark on a Blossoming Journey: Cherry Blossoms in Sendai

Welcome to Sendai, the heart of the Tohoku region, where history and modernity blend beneath the delicate pink of cherry blossoms. As spring awakens, the city transforms into a canvas painted with the soft, enchanting hues of sakura. This guide invites you to wander through verdant pathways, explore ancient temples shrouded in floral beauty, and engage in the cherished tradition of Hanami — the viewing of cherry blossoms.

In Sendai, each cherry blossom spot tells its own story, set against majestic castles, serene parks, and riverbanks, making the city a juxtaposition of nature’s exquisiteness and cultural depth. From the historic ruins of Aoba Castle to the vibrant blooms framing the Shiroishi River, this guide is your companion to experiencing the soul-stirring beauty of sakura season in one of Japan’s most captivating cities.

Get ready to explore the best Hanami spots in Sendai, offering not just a feast for the eyes, but a journey through the heart and soul of Japan.

Day 1: Discover the Heart of Sendai During Cherry Blossom Season

Welcome to Sendai, the City of Trees! Begin your journey into this verdant urban scape, specially adorned in spring with the pink and white hues of cherry blossoms. Our Day 1 itinerary unfolds the perfect mix of historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and culinary delights.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your morning by checking into the APA Hotel Sendai-eki Itsutsubashi, conveniently located a 2-minute walk from Itsutsubashi Subway Station. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll to Jozenji-dori Avenue, renowned for its beautifully lined zelkova trees. During spring, the area transforms with cherry blossom trees blooming alongside, offering a picturesque setting.

Afternoon: Cultural Immersion

After lunch at a local restaurant serving Sendai’s renowned beef tongue, head over to Zuihoden Mausoleum, the resting place of Date Masamune, a legendary feudal lord. Surrounded by hundreds of cherry trees, the mausoleum offers a tranquil and culturally rich experience. Don’t forget to capture the magnificent blend of Edo architecture and blooming sakura.

Evening: Savor Sendai’s Delicacies

Conclude your day with a revisit to Jozenji-dori Avenue. As night falls, the street lights up and the cherry blossoms create a magical canopy overhead. Enjoy dinner at a local Izakaya, tasting Sendai’s fresh seafood and other delicacies. Before heading back to your hotel, indulge in a peaceful walk under the illuminated cherry blossoms along the Hirose River, a perfect end to an enchanting day.

Day 2: Immerse in Nature and History

Your second day in Sendai brings you closer to nature’s splendor and the city’s historical essence. Prepare for a day filled with scenic beauty, historical exploration, and culinary delights unique to Sendai.

Morning: Breakfast and Aoba Castle

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Keihan Sendai, offering a variety of local and international cuisines. Post breakfast, make your way to the historic Aoba Castle. Though what remains are mostly ruins, the site presents a breathtaking view of Sendai city against the backdrop of cherry blossoms in full bloom. The castle grounds and the adjacent park become a spectacular sight during the cherry blossom season.

Afternoon: Lunch and Matsushima Bay

For lunch, enjoy Sendai’s specialty, seafood, at a local restaurant known for its fresh catches. Afterwards, embark on a journey to Matsushima Bay, one of Japan’s three most scenic views. The area is famous for its beautiful island views surrounded by deep blue sea and, in spring, highlighted by cherry blossoms. Explore the bay with a scenic cruise, offering an unparalleled experience of the natural beauty.

Evening: Return to Sendai and Gourmet Dinner

Return to Sendai in the evening and unwind with a stroll through Sendai Mediatheque, an architectural masterpiece housing various public art and media spaces. For dinner, venture to the vibrant Clis Road, a popular dining and shopping street. Here, sample local delicacies such as sushi and Sendai’s famous zunda (edamame paste) desserts.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration and Relaxation

Embrace the serenity and cultural richness of Sendai on your third day. Engage with the city’s spiritual heritage, lush landscapes, and end the day with relaxing hot spring baths.

Morning: Yamadera Temple

After a restful sleep at The Westin Sendai, start your day with a journey to the outskirts of Sendai to visit Yamadera Temple. Nestled in the scenic mountainside, this historic temple offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. The trip there is especially beautiful in cherry blossom season, with floral hues enhancing the natural and spiritual experience.

Afternoon: Lunch and Osaki Hachimangu Shrine

Relish a lunch featuring Sendai’s traditional cuisine at a recommended restaurant in the city center. Then, visit Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, designated as a National Treasure of Japan. This Shinto shrine, adorned with cherry blossoms, showcases stunning Edo period architecture and offers a profound sense of peace amidst the festivities of the sakura season.

Evening: Hot Springs and Sendai Nightlife

Culminate your day with a visit to an onsen (hot spring) at Akiu Onsen or Sakunami Onsen for a rejuvenating experience. Both places are surrounded by nature and offer a reflective end to a day of exploration. In the evening, experience Sendai’s vibrant nightlife in the Kokubuncho area, where you can savor local bites and drinks in various izakayas and bars.

Day 4: Nature, Cuisine, and Craft

Explore the lush landscapes, indulge in gastronomic delights, and uncover the artistic pulse of Sendai. Day 4 promises a journey into the city’s vibrant nature, rich culinary scenes, and traditional crafts.

Morning: Tagajo and Shiogama

Embark on a morning trip to Tagajo, an ancient city with historical ruins that tell stories of the region’s past. Admire the cherry blossoms that add a delicate touch to these historic sites. Later, proceed to Shiogama, a neighboring coastal city known for having the highest density of sushi restaurants nationwide. Visit the Shiogama Fish Market to taste some of the freshest sushi and seafood delicacies.

Afternoon: Craftsmanship and Shopping

Return to Sendai and spend your afternoon exploring the local craftsmanship at the Sendai Mediatheque, which often hosts exhibitions on regional arts and crafts. Afterwards, enjoy shopping at the Sendai Station area, where you can find a plethora of shops selling local products including traditional Kokeshi dolls, Sendai Tanabata decorations, and other artisanal goods perfect for souvenirs.

Evening: Specialty Dinner and Leisure Walk

For dinner, indulge in Sendai’s specialty dish, Gyutan (grilled beef tongue), available at numerous restaurants around the city famed for this delicacy. Conclude your day with a leisurely evening walk around the Aoba-dori Avenue, enjoying the night-time ambiance of the city illuminated by street lights with a backdrop of cherry blossoms.

Day 5: Scenic Adventures and Cultural Deep Dive

As the cherry blossom petals gently fall, your fifth day in Sendai invites you for an unforgettable journey into nature’s wonders and cultural treasures. Immerse yourself in scenic views, traditional experiences, and a taste of Sendai’s rich history.

Morning: Zao Fox Village and Okama Crater

Kickstart your day with a visit to the enchanting Zao Fox Village, where you can meet and interact with hundreds of free-roaming foxes in a natural setting. Then, venture further to witness the magnificent Okama Crater, a crater lake formed at the summit of Mount Zao. The ethereal beauty of the lake, especially with the cherry blossoms reflecting on its surface, is a sight to behold.

Afternoon: Sendai City Museum and Cultural Workshop

Return to the heart of Sendai for a leisurely afternoon dedicated to understanding the region’s heritage at the Sendai City Museum. Here, delve into the history of the Date clan and explore artifacts from Sendai’s samurai past. Enhance your cultural exploration by participating in a local workshop, where you can try your hand at traditional Japanese arts like calligraphy or pottery, providing a memorable keepsake of your journey.

Evening: Farewell Dinner

Celebrate your last evening in Sendai with a special farewell dinner at one of the city’s esteemed restaurants. Savor the flavors of Miyagi prefecture, from fresh sashimi to mouthwatering meats, complementing the meal with sake brewed locally. Reflect on the beauty and adventures experienced over the past days, making the final night in Sendai an occasion to remember.

The cherry blossom season in Sendai is not just a feast for the eyes but a soulful experience that connects us to the ephemeral beauty of life. It invites us to pause, reflect, and appreciate the fleeting moments that, like cherry blossoms, are here for a moment and gone the next, yet leave a lasting impression on our hearts.

We hope this guide inspires you to don your own hanami picnic under the cherry blossoms, to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Sendai, and to find your own favorite spot among the petals. Whether you’re strolling through quiet park paths, witnessing history amidst the blooms, or enjoying the local delicacies under a canopy of pink, Sendai’s cherry blossom season is a journey waiting to be lived. And as each cherry blossom petal floats softly to the ground, may your memories of Sendai be as enduring and beautiful as the sakura themselves.