After healing your mind and body the previous day, let's head further down the southern portion of Tohoku. Here you will visit an important World Heritage site in Hiraizumi, followed by a trip to Matsushima, one of Japan's most scenic seaside spots. End your fulfilling day with a shopping trip to one of the largest outlet malls in Tohoku!
Hiraizumi
Through the tour around here, get in touch with your spiritual self. Nestled in the mountains of southern Iwate is Hiraizumi, an ancient city dotted with many temples and gardens, many of which are World Heritage sites that have survived from its golden era (1100-1189) when the area was then an independent country on its own. The crown jewel is Chuson-ji temple, an 11th century temple complex that includes the magnificently gilded Konjikido Hall. Nearby is the Motsuji temple complex, where you can explore its elegant Buddhist Pure Land gardens and savour the temple's Ennen-cha tea which is said to promote longevity.
Matsushima
Surrounded by the ocean, Matsushima is known for its scenic bay which is dotted with about 260 pine-clad islets. You can appreciate its beauty by cruising around the bay, or heading to one of the four viewpoints known as the Shitaikan - each has a nickname describing its view: magnificent, elegant, grand, and spiritual. Fresh seafood is sold every morning at the Shiogama Market, located between Matsushima and Sendai, where you can select your choice of fresh seafood and go to counter No. 6 to make your own original seafood rice bowl!
15:40Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port
Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port is one of the largest outlet malls in the Tohoku region. As the mall offers fashion, daily necessities, and miscellaneous goods from domestic brands, you can find high quality goods at reasonable prices here!
3-7-2 Nakano, Miyagi-ku, Sendai City Miyagi Prefecture 983-0013
Tekephone number: +81-22-355-8800
Oening Hours: 10:00 - 20:00
https://mitsui-shopping-park.com/mop/sendai/english/