Overview the Matsushima

Matsushima is only short distance from prefectural capital Sendai and easily accessible by train. Matsushima is a group of island where 260 tiny island, large and small, covered by black and red pines and grayish white rocks make the view is changes from place to place and from season to season. Matshusima is ranked as one of the three most beautiful sites in Japan.. The area was protected by the islands and suffered little damage of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.

Matsushima's best-known structure is the most famous Zen temple, stands facing Matsushima Bay. Zuigan-ji Temple, a Zen temple erected in 828. On the right side of the pathway leading to the temple are caves and grottoes dug out by priests long ago; adorned with Buddhist statues and memorial tablets, they were used for practicing Zazen (sitting meditation) and are an impressive sight.

With its stunning island scenery, the place is frequented by visitors all year round.

Access:

Public Transportation: 23 minutes from Sendai station to Matsushima- Kaigan station by the JR Senseki Line rapid train.
Approximately 25 minutes from Sendai station to Matsushima- Kaigan station by the JR Tohoku Honsen Line
Car:Approximately 50 minutes from central Sendai via Route 45.