Along with Amanohashidate in Kyoto and Miyajima in Hiroshima, Matsushima Bay is known for having one of Japan’s top three scenic views. When visiting Matsushima during the winter months don’t miss the town’s most popular winter treat, oysters! The Matsushima Oyster Festival takes place annually on the first Sunday of February and features the tasty delights of the abundant oysters farmed in Matsushima Bay. 

A wide range of oyster dishes are available including grilled, steamed and fried oysters, oyster rice dishes and oyster soup. Many of these sell out quickly as visitors come to the festival early in the morning to enjoy the piping hot oyster dishes. A number of stage events are held including a commemorative service for the oysters by the head priest of Zuiganji Temple. The festival is held in Matsushima’s waterfront park, a 5-minute walk from JR Matsushima Kaigan station.