Matsushima

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Matsushima

One of Three Great Views of Japan with the spectacular beauty of many islands.

3.46 11

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One of Three Great Views of Japan along with Kyoto’s Amanohashidate and Hiroshima’s Miyajima. The grand horizon of the Pacific Ocean and large and small 260 verdant islands have been attracting many visitors since the Heian Period.

The Four views of Matsushima at the east, west, north and south spots offer the best sceneries - the view from Otakamori on the east of Matsushima Bay, from the top of Mt. Tomiyama, from Mt. Tamon at the northern edge of Shichigahama Town, and from Ogitani behind Mt. Sokan.

Not only during the day, but also at sunset and sunrise, there is no word to describe the beauty here. Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green in summer, fall colors and winter snowscape - the expressions in changing seasons never stop alluring hearts. Matsushima Bay is calm and protected from the outer ocean, blessed with abundant seafood. Though small in size, the oyster and conger eel are so tasty that many restaurants serve them.

Highlights

  • The sublime scenery counted into Three Great Views of Japan.
  • Not only during the day, but also at sunset and sunrise are a must-see.
  • Each view in four seasons will always touch your heart anew.
  • The oyster and conger eel are Matsushima‘s gourmet food, a must-try.

Photos

  • The view of Matsushima from the top of Mt. Tomiyama at 116.8m above sea level
*Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

    The view of Matsushima from the top of Mt. Tomiyama at 116.8m above sea level *Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

  • From Mt. Tamon at southwest of Matsushima Bay
*Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

    From Mt. Tamon at southwest of Matsushima Bay *Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

  • Matsushima Bay in the glory of sunrise
*Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

    Matsushima Bay in the glory of sunrise *Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

  • Mountains of Matsushima, brilliant red in fall
*Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

    Mountains of Matsushima, brilliant red in fall *Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

  • Matsushima Bay and cherry blossoms’ gorgeous duet in spring
*Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

    Matsushima Bay and cherry blossoms’ gorgeous duet in spring *Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

  • Matsushima Oyster raised in the calm Matsushima Bay is a must-try
*Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

    Matsushima Oyster raised in the calm Matsushima Bay is a must-try *Photo provider: Matsushima Tourism Association

Reviews

11

Some reviews are AI-translated.

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    This time, I took the train from Sendai to Matsushima in Tohoku, one of Japan's famous Three Scenic Views. I had expected to see huge crowds of tourists, but when I got off the train, I was instead greeted by a rare sense of peace and quiet. Along the way, there were breathtaking views of the bay and ancient temples steeped in history, while the enticing aroma of grilled oysters drifted through the air. Strolling around Matsushima was very relaxing and pleasant.

    When I reached the red Fukuurabashi Bridge connecting to a small island, I unexpectedly came across a sign about friendship between Taiwan and Japan. As I quietly read the words, I learned that after the 311 earthquake, boat operators at Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan had organized a charity fundraiser to help the local tourism industry get back on its feet.

    This trip was about more than just enjoying the beautiful scenery. Walking through Matsushima's streets and historic sites also gave me a deeper sense of its long history and the resilience shown in rebuilding after the disaster. These stories of human kindness seemed to make Matsushima's scenery feel especially warm and moving.

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    Visiting Matsushima, one of Japan's Three Great Views, and taking a sightseeing cruise is definitely the most classic and ultimate experience! As the boat glides across the calm sea, rocky islands of various sizes dotted with green pine trees gradually appear on both sides. Natural wonders such as Niojima and Kanejima are right before your eyes, creating a scene like a moving ink-wash painting.
    Standing by the railing with the breeze on your face, you can fully take in Matsushima Bay's unique tranquility and magnificent scenery. Whether it's your first visit to Tohoku or you want an up-close experience of historic landmarks blending with spectacular natural scenery, this cruise is an exciting highlight you shouldn't miss!

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    Stepping into Matsushima, a seascape resembling a painting unfolds before your eyes. Islands of various sizes dot the deep blue sea, their lush pine trees blending with the sky and water to create a unique and peaceful beauty. Cruising among the islands, you can admire unusual rock formations, green islands, and shimmering waves from different angles, taking in scenery sculpted by nature over thousands of years. As you stroll along the shore with the breeze gently brushing by, the hustle and bustle of the city seems to fade away. Matsushima is not only one of Japan’s Three Great Views, but also a place to slow down and savor every moment. This trip left me with more than just beautiful photos—it also gave me unforgettable memories of the bay.

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    Matsushima, one of Japan's Three Scenic Views, is truly breathtaking! We took a local train from Sendai, passing from underground stations through residential areas, fields, and lush green forests before arriving at Matsushima-Kaigan Station by the sea about 40 minutes later. The small islands scattered across the bay looked like a natural Japanese garden. The weather was perfect that day, with blue skies reflected in the turquoise sea, so every photo came out beautifully! Besides strolling around and enjoying the scenery, don't forget to take a sightseeing cruise to admire this iconic view from the water. It's definitely worth visiting in person.

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    The trip to Sendai and Miyajima was unforgettable. Miyajima's scenery was picturesque and refreshing, and tasting the freshly grilled oysters, sweet and bursting with juice, was the ultimate treat. The dense, sweet honey castella from Shokado was the perfect ending to the trip.

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Details

Name in Japanese
松島
Postal Code
981-0213
Address
Matsushima, Matsushimamachi, Miyagigun, Miyagi
Telephone
022-354-2618 (Matsushima Tourism Association)
Directions
From JR Senseki Line Matsushimakaigan Station, walk 20 min. (to Saigyo Modoshi no Matsu Park)
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (English)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa