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Matsushima Bay 松島

Checked October 2026 · next check January 2027 · 1 post since 2010

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Visiting Matsushima Bay today

  • What it is: One of Japan's three most scenic views: a bay with more than 200 small islands covered in pine trees.
  • Getting there: The JR Senseki Line runs from Sendai to Matsushima Kaigan Station in 40 minutes (¥440), and the pier is a 5-10 minute walk from the station.
  • Admission: Bay cruises last about 50 minutes and cost ¥1,500 for adults (¥750 for children aged 6-11). Boats also run one way between Shiogama and Matsushima.
  • Tip: Take the train to Hon-Shiogama (20-30 minutes, ¥350), cruise to Matsushima, then return to Sendai by train. Luggage storage at the tourism association costs ¥700.
  • Then and now: The March 2011 tsunami flooded the waterfront shops, but the sheltered bay limited the damage. The islands, Godaido Hall and Zuiganji came through intact, and cruises were due to restart on 29 April 2011.
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Autumn colors peak mid to late November, Entsuin light-up

Checked against: Matsushima Bay Cruises (japan-guide.com) · Matsushima Travel: Getting there (japan-guide.com) · FAQ (Matsushima Tourism Association) · After the Earthquake: A trip to Matsushima (japan-guide.com blog, 21 April 2011). Check opening times and prices before you go.

Matsushima Bay on Shibuya246

Photos and stories from our visits, as they were written at the time.

Photos

Matsushima, Sendai

Last year I took a trip to Sendai and visited Matsushima which is said to be one of Japan’s three great views along with Miyajima and Amanohashidate. I found more photos of my trip and resized some others to provide this gallery of beautiful Matsushima which has a group of 260 small, pine tree islands as well as the many temples nearby.