【Departure from Sendai】Matsushima 2-Day Tour | Matsushima, one of Japan's three major scenic spots, for autumn foliage viewing & nighttime illuminations & in-depth coastal tour | One-night stay at a hot spring hotel | Minimum group size 6 | Private transfer | Multilingual service (Miyagi Prefecture)
Visit Taga Castle, a city with a history spanning over a thousand years, and Matsushima, one of Japan's Three Views, to experience the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the Tohoku region. From the former political stronghold that ruled Mutsu Province, to the ancient shrines that protect the Tohoku region, and the nationally renowned Matsushima Bay, each place tells a story of the Tohoku region's history and legend.
This tour will take you along the Matsushima coast, to visit the Shiozaki Shrine and Taga Castle historical sites, and to experience the local fishing port culture at the seafood market. In autumn, you can also enjoy the illuminated autumn leaves of Matsushima at night, experiencing a deep dive into the Tohoku region that combines history, culture, and cuisine amidst the stunning scenery of red leaves and the bay!
- Group of 6: Even one person can sign up, and we can flexibly form a group of 6 people to depart. It is suitable for couples, families, and friends to travel together!
- Private car service: Direct transportation from Sendai to attractions, no transfers required, making transportation easier and less hassle!
- Multilingual service: We have Taiwanese or Japanese staff who can speak Chinese, English, Korean, and Japanese, so you can communicate without any problems and feel more at ease!
(Staff will arrange services based on the number of passengers on the day; we regret that we cannot specify the language of service.)
Package Options
Product Info
Purchase Notice
- This tour requires a minimum of 6 participants. If the number of participants on the same departure date is less than 6, the tour will not proceed and the order will not be confirmed. You will be notified of whether the tour will proceed no later than 14 days before departure.
- The tour fee includes round-trip transportation and staff services, but does not include entrance fees to attractions (sightseeing facilities, etc.) and meals. Lunch time is free time, and travelers are responsible for their own expenses on-site.
- This tour has a flat rate regardless of age; the unit displayed in the system represents the number of participants. Travelers aged 2 and above must register at this rate.
- The weather at outdoor attractions is changeable, so it is recommended to bring rain gear and a windproof, warm jacket.
- The itinerary may be subject to change due to inclement weather conditions. No refunds will be given in the event of changes, but the trip will proceed as scheduled.
- The arrangement of private vehicles will be adjusted according to the number of participants, and may be buses or large taxis.
- Staff will arrange the language according to the passengers' language needs on the day (Chinese/English/Korean/Japanese), but we apologize that we cannot specify the language.
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[Tourism Conditions]
Departure/Destination: Sendai ⇄ Miyagi Prefecture
Duration of trip: 2 days
Transportation: Private car hire, large taxis or buses
Bus companies: Chuo Takushi or Senan Kotsu
Meal arrangement: Breakfast 1, Lunch 0, Dinner 1
Accommodation included: 1 night's accommodation
Minimum group size: 6 people
Accompanying personnel: There is one tour leader.
Tour guide service: No tour guide
[Tourism Planning & Organizing Unit]
Company Name: Tour Wave Co., Ltd. (Japanese company)
Address: 2F, NL Sendai-Hirose-dori Building, 2-5-1 Honmachi, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan 980-0014, Japan
Tourism Business Registration Number: Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner's Registered Travel Business No. 1665
Affiliation: Member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Contact information:
• Telephone: +81-22-212-1980
• Email: twc-inb@tourwave.net
Service hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 to 17:00 (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays and Japanese national holidays)
※For emergencies outside of business hours, please use the official LINE account or the emergency contact method notified in advance, and we will respond as soon as possible.
【Reseller/Distributor】
Company Name: KKDAY JAPAN Co., Ltd.
Tourism Business Registration Number: Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner's Registration Number for Travel Businesses No. 2045
Affiliated Association: Japan Travel Agents Association (JATA)
Reminders
A minimum of 6 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 14 day(s) before the departure date
Please arrive at the designated location on time to complete the check-in process. Check-in may take time when there are many travelers, so we recommend arriving early to allow sufficient time. Latecomers will be considered as not present (No Show), and no refund will be given.
All pre-departure notices and important messages will be sent via email. Please check your email regularly to avoid missing any information.
This is a day trip in Japan with shared transportation. Participants will be traveling with tourists from other countries, so please be punctual and keep up with the group pace.
The vehicle type will be arranged according to the actual number of passengers, and may be a bus or a large taxi. We regret that we cannot specify the vehicle type.
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or traffic conditions. Please follow the instructions of our staff.
It is not recommended to bring children under 2 years old or people with mobility impairments. Infant seats and accessible facilities are not provided on the tour.
If you need to bring large luggage, please indicate this in advance when registering; due to unpredictable road conditions, we cannot assume responsibility for missing subsequent trains due to traffic congestion.
It is recommended to wear lightweight, non-slip clothing and shoes, and bring your own mosquito repellent and warm clothing depending on the season.
FAQ
Matsushima is renowned for its picturesque bay dotted with over 260 pine-clad islands, a landscape sculpted by nature over millennia. Its unique charm lies in the harmonious blend of islands, sea, and sky, which changes dramatically with seasons and time of day. This breathtaking scenery, often viewed from various vantage points along the coast or during a boat cruise, has inspired poets and artists for centuries, solidifying its status as one of Japan's most celebrated scenic locales.
When exploring the Matsushima coast, essential attractions include Zuiganji Temple, a National Treasure and Important Cultural Property, and Godaido Temple, a small temple hall on an island connected by a red bridge. Recommended activities also include strolling along the scenic Matsushima Bay, visiting the nearby Shiogama Shrine known for its impressive architecture and ocean views, and experiencing local culture at a seafood market. Autumn visitors can also enjoy the beautiful night illumination of the maple leaves.
Matsushima offers distinct beauty in every season. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while summer provides pleasant boat cruises and fresh seafood. However, autumn (late October to early December) is often considered the best season, offering vibrant fall foliage, especially around temples, and special night illumination events. Winter presents a serene, snow-dusted landscape, offering a tranquil beauty. Visitors can experience diverse cultural events throughout the year, often tied to local festivals.
The ideal time to witness the vibrant autumn foliage at Entsuin Temple in Matsushima is typically from late October to late November. During this period, the temple grounds are adorned with stunning reds, oranges, and yellows. Many visitors also highly anticipate the special night illumination events, which usually take place in November, transforming the temple's gardens into a magical, glowing landscape, enhancing the beauty of the autumn leaves against the night sky.
While specific admission fees can vary, Entsuin Temple typically charges an entrance fee for its grounds and gardens. It's advisable to check current information before your visit. The temple is generally open during daylight hours, with extended hours during special events like the autumn night illumination. Visitors should be aware of cultural etiquette, such as removing shoes in certain areas and maintaining respectful behavior. The temple offers a peaceful environment for appreciating its history and natural beauty.
For convenient travel to Matsushima, Taga Castle, and Shiogama Shrine from Sendai, a dedicated private transfer service is highly recommended. This option eliminates the need for navigating public transportation and transfers, allowing for a relaxed and efficient journey directly between these historical and scenic sites. Such services often include experienced drivers and can accommodate various group sizes, ensuring a seamless exploration of the Tohoku region's rich heritage and natural beauty.
Beyond the breathtaking scenic views of Matsushima Bay, a multi-day tour offers deeper cultural and historical immersion. This includes exploring the ancient Taga Castle ruins, a former political center, and visiting the revered Shiogama Shrine. Travelers can also experience the vibrant local culture firsthand at a seafood market, interacting with vendors and tasting fresh catches. The tour may also feature special autumn foliage viewing with night illuminations, and an overnight stay, providing a more comprehensive regional experience.
A multi-day tour package exploring Matsushima and the wider Tohoku region typically includes an overnight stay at a comfortable hot spring hotel. These hotels offer guests the opportunity to relax in traditional Japanese onsen (hot springs), providing a rejuvenating experience after a day of sightseeing. The accommodation aims to complement the cultural journey, ensuring comfort and a taste of local hospitality amidst the beautiful surroundings.
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