Matsushima

Matsushima

Matsushima is located in Matsushima Bay, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, and refers to about 260 large and small islands scattered across the bay. It earned its name because these islands are covered with many Japanese black pines and red pines. The sea is a brilliant blue, the pine trees lush green, and the landscape dotted with rugged rocks, making for stunning scenery. Since the Nara period, Matsushima has been celebrated in waka and haiku poetry, and together with Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture and Amanohashidate in Kyoto Prefecture, it is known as one of Japan’s Three Great Views.

Matsushima boasts not only spectacular natural scenery but also charming cultural landmarks. Due to the many hidden reefs in Matsushima Bay, Date Masamune, the lord of the Sendai Domain in the early Edo period, regarded the area as a strategic military port and commissioned the construction of various structures. As a result, the surrounding area still preserves many famous historical buildings, including Zuigan-ji Temple, Godaido Hall, Kanrantei Tea House, and Entsuin Temple. The beautiful natural landscape and ancient cultural sites blend perfectly, creating an immaculate and breathtaking scene.

Matsushima is one of Japan’s most renowned scenic spots, displaying different colors in each season and frequently hosting various cultural events that align with seasonal changes. Especially during the annual Matsushima Lantern Floating and Fireworks Festival held in August, when 8,000 fireworks light up the night sky and countless lanterns float on the bay, the entire area transforms into a magical dreamlike world, truly wondrous.

Matsushima

Must-visit reason: One of Japan’s three most famous scenic areas

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Japan[Japan]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Miyagi Prefecture [Miyagi Prefecture]

City where the attraction is located: Sendai City [Sendai]