Matsushima: Japan’s Most Poetic Bay
Guide to Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture
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Matsushima, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is celebrated as one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views, along with Amanohashidate and Miyajima. The bay is renowned for its over 260 small islands covered with pine trees, creating a picturesque landscape that has captivated visitors for centuries, immortalizing it in various literary and artistic works. Matsushima’s natural beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Tohoku region.
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What is Matsushima?
Matsushima (松島) is a coastal area in Miyagi Prefecture, known for its stunning bay filled with pine-clad islands. The name “Matsushima” literally means “pine islands,” which aptly describes the scenery. The area has been admired for its beauty since ancient times, particularly by the celebrated haiku poet Matsuo Basho, among many other artists, earning its rightful spot among Japan’s most beautiful landscapes.
What to do at Matsushima
- Seek out the Four Panoramic Views: There are four best locations to admire the panoramic views of Matsushima Bay, collectively known as “Shitaikan”. Each one of these places have a special view: The Magnificent View (壮観, Sokan) is located in Mt. Okamori; the Elegant View (麗観, Reikan) can be found in Mt. Tomiyama; the Grand View (偉観, Ikan) is available at Mt. Tamon; and the Spiritual View (幽観, Yukan) can be seen from Ogidani Highland.
- Sightseeing Cruises: Explore the bay’s beauty with a boat tour. Several companies offer cruises that take you around the pine-covered islands, with tours lasting about 50 minutes. This is an excellent way to see the intricate shapes of the islands up close.
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- Visit Zuiganji Temple (瑞巌寺): a Zen temple with over a thousand years of history, and one of the most important cultural sites in Matsushima. It features beautifully preserved buildings and an atmospheric approach lined with moss-covered statues.
- Explore Fukuura Island (福浦島): Connected to the mainland by a photogenic long red bridge, Fukuura Island is ideal for a leisurely stroll along its walking paths while enjoying the beautiful natural scenery.
- Kanran-tei Pavilion (観瀾亭): Enjoy traditional tea and sweets in this historic tea house, offering stunning views of Matsushima Bay. The pavilion was originally built in Kyoto and later moved to Matsushima in the 17th century.
- Godaido Hall (松島五大堂): This iconic structure on a small islet offers picturesque views of the bay and is a symbol of Matsushima. It dates back to 1604 and provides a glimpse into the area’s historical architecture.
How to get to Matsushima
Its easy accessibility from Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region, makes it a perfect day trip for those looking to experience one of Japan’s most celebrated landscapes. Matsushima is reachable by train from Sendai Station through the JR Senseki Line, connecting Sendai to Matsushima Kaigan Station, with a journey time of approximately 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a cruise from nearby Shiogama to Matsushima, enjoying a scenic approach to the bay.
Tourist Attractions near Matsushima
Shiogama Shrine
Shiogama Shrine (鹽竈神社), located in nearby Shiogama City, is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Miyagi Prefecture. The shrine is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and its long history, dating back over 1,200 years. It also offers stunning views over Matsushima Bay from its elevated position.
Entsuin Temple
Entsuin Temple (円通院) is a charming temple near Matsushima Bay known for its beautiful gardens and historic significance. The temple features a lovely moss garden, a rose garden, and several picturesque ponds. In autumn, the temple grounds are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
 Access |
6-min walk from Matsushimakaigan Station |
|---|---|
 Official Website |
http://www.entuuin.or.jp/ |
Oshima Island
Oshima Island (雄島), in Matsushima Bay, is a small island, accessible by a short bridge, known for its lush greenery and quiet walking paths. Here you can explore ancient caves used by monks for meditation, and take in the picturesque views of the surrounding bay. The island is also home to several small shrines and stone monuments.
| Access |
30-min walk from Matsushima Station |
|---|---|
| Official Website |
https://www.town.miyagi-matsushima.lg.jp/index.cfm/8,0,30,263,html |
Ishinomori Manga Museum
Located in Ishinomaki, Ishinomori Manga Museum (石ノ森萬画館) is dedicated to the works of Shotaro Ishinomori, a very influential manga artist and creator of the Super Sentai and Kamen Rider series, among other works. The museum showcases his extensive collection of manga and offers interactive exhibits, making it a fun and educational destination for all ages and a must for manga enthusiasts.
| Access |
1-hr train from Matsushima Station |
|---|---|
| Official Website |
https://www.mangattan.jp/manga/ |
Kinkasan Island
Kinkasan Island (金華山) is relatively close from Matsushima and is known for its scenic hiking trails and the Koganeyama Shrine. The island offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful coastal views, lush forests, and opportunities to see wild deer and monkeys.
Matsushima Bay is a destination that brings together the best of natural beauty with the important cultural heritage that comes with being one of the Three most scenic views of Japan, inspiring poets and artists across the centuries. Thanks to its location in Tohoku, it hasn’t been discovered by mass tourism yet, so it largely remains as a hidden jewel awaiting for you.
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Written by
Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.
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