×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - The Insider's Guide to Sendai
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


The Insider's Guide to Sendai

By Betsy Burlingame

 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

Summary: Exploring the Best of Sendai: Your Guide to Top Sites, Restaurants, Nightlife, and More. From Cultural Experiences to Outdoor Adventures, We'll Help You Make the Most of Your Time in the City.

Welcome to Sendai! If you're planning to move to Sendai, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Sendai has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Sendai.

Sendai, the capital city of Miyagi Prefecture in Japan, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. One of the most popular tourist attractions is the Sendai Castle, also known as Aoba Castle. Although the castle was destroyed in the 19th century, the stone walls and the statue of Date Masamune, the founder of Sendai, remain. The castle site offers a panoramic view of the city. Another must-visit is the Zuihoden Mausoleum, the resting place of Date Masamune, which is known for its intricate and colorful woodwork. The Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, a national treasure, is a stunning example of Momoyama architecture.

For nature lovers, the Rinnoji Temple with its beautiful gardens and the Sendai City Tomizawa Site Museum, which is located in a prehistoric village, are worth a visit. The Sendai Mediatheque, a multi-purpose cultural center, is a modern architectural marvel. The city also hosts the Sendai Tanabata Festival, one of the largest and most colorful festivals in Japan.

Sendai's restaurant scene is diverse and exciting, offering a range of local and international cuisines. Gyutan, or grilled beef tongue, is a local specialty and can be enjoyed at restaurants like Rikyu or Kisuke. For sushi lovers, Sendai Sushi Street is a must-visit. Here, you can find popular sushi restaurants like Ichimian and Sushizanmai. For a unique dining experience, visit the Sendai Morning Market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local produce.

The nightlife in Sendai is vibrant and varied. Kokubuncho, the largest entertainment district in the Tohoku region, is packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants. Jazz lovers should head to the Birdland Jazz Club for live performances. For a more relaxed evening, the British pub Full Monty offers a wide selection of beers and a cozy atmosphere. The Star Lounge is a popular nightclub with a great music selection and a lively crowd.

Recreational activities in Sendai are diverse, catering to different interests. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city offers beautiful parks like the Nishi Park, which is perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. The Hirose River is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring. The Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium is a great place for families, with its large collection of marine life and interactive exhibits.

For sports enthusiasts, the Yagiyama Baseball Stadium and the Sekisui Heim Super Arena are popular venues for baseball and basketball games respectively. The Sendai City Athletic Stadium is a great place to watch football matches. For those interested in golf, the Sendai Izumi Country Club offers a challenging course with beautiful views. The city also has several hot spring resorts like the Akiu Onsen and the Sakunami Onsen, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

Insider Tips from Expats in Sendai: Making the Most of Life and Connections

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides