Miyagi

Miyagi is a place of great natural beauty; Sendai, the capital, has often been affectionately called the “City of Trees,” and the prefecture is known for its many fisheries and agricultural products. And while it was damaged by the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake, much of Miyagi has recovered, its splendor intact.

The main attraction is Matsushima, a group of 260 islands covered with palm trees in Matsushima Bay and considered to be one of the Three Views of Japan. The nearby Zuigan-ji and the adjacent Entsu-in Gardens are also must-visits if you’re in Miyagi.

Aoba/Sendai Castle is famous for being the castle of the powerful daimyo Date Masamune, while the regions of Akiu, Naruko, and Sakuranami are noted for their hot springs. Take advantage of the opportunity to savor Sendai’s local delicacy, grilled cow tongue (gyuu-tan).