Must-see spots in Matsushima, one of Japan's three most scenic views and the pride of Miyagi
260 islands floating in calm Matsushima Bay. Matsushima, which has mesmerized many people with its beauty, is a tourist attraction that you should visit at least once in your lifetime.
There are many tourist spots in the Matsushima area, but the first place you should visit is Godaido Temple. This temple is built on a small island, and its scenery is famous for being the symbol of Matsushima!
Miyagi Prefecture's Matsushima Rikyu is a new landmark in Matsushima that was opened in 2020. There is a lot to enjoy, such as observation spaces, shops and restaurants, and workshops.
Entsuin Temple, which has four beautiful gardens within its grounds, is also a famous spot in Matsushima. It is also known as a temple for matchmaking, and the shrine grounds are lined with "Enmusubi Kokeshi dolls".
When sightseeing in the Matsushima area, start by visiting these three places!
Godaido Temple, a symbol of Matsushima that you should definitely visit
(Photo courtesy of Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Promotion Division )
This spot features a vermilion bridge built over a small island with many trees and a temple with a solemn atmosphere. Godaido Temple, floating in Matsushima Bay, is said to be the symbol of Matsushima due to its balanced landscape.
To get to the small island, cross the somewhat thrilling Sukashi Bridge, where there is a gap between the girders, and you can see the ocean under your feet.
(Photo courtesy of Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Promotion Division)
The temple is said to be the oldest existing building from the Momoyama period in the Tohoku region, and its characteristics can be seen everywhere, such as the carvings of the zodiac on the "kaerumata" (decorative curved wooden support on the main beam of the house).
After visiting the shrine, don't forget to look at the beautiful scenery of Matsushima from the small island.
（Photo courtesy of Matsushima Tourism Association）
Miyagi Prefecture's Matsushima Rikyu is recommended as a base for sightseeing in Matsushima!
Miyagi Prefecture's Matsushima Rikyu is a tourist hub and facility where there are a variety of activities to enjoy, from overlooking Matsushima Bay from the observation deck to walking in the Japanese garden, various experiential activities, dining, and shopping.
In the center of the building stands the symbolic ten-sided three-storied pagoda, Retsuru Tower, and you can take the elevator inside the tower to the Tenku Rooftop Observation Deck. Inside the building, there are restaurants where you can enjoy local Matsushima cuisine, cafés that are perfect for taking a break and shopping for cute souvenirs.
There is also a kimono rental shop and rental bikes, so it's a great place to use as a hub for sightseeing in Matsushima.
Pray for luck in love at Entsuin Temple, which has four beautiful gardens
Entsuin Temple is located near the bustling center of Matsushima, yet it has a quiet and solemn atmosphere.
（Photo courtesy of Matsushima Tourism Association）
Within the precincts, there are four gardens, each with a different ambience, including the calm-looking main hall Daihitei, the mausoleum of Date Mitsumune Sankeiden, and a garden designed by Kobori Enshu and a Western-style garden filled with roses.
（Photo courtesy of Matsushima Tourism Association）
In addition, the Enmusubi (matchmaking) Kannon is enshrined right next to the Sanmon gate. Write your wishes on the "Enmusubi Kokeshi doll" and pray for luck in love.
After visiting the shrine, try your hand at making your own prayer beads in the prayer beads-making experience where you can choose your favorite beads.