SENDAI 仙台
Taiwa 対話
First, a brief introduction about the greatest town in Miyagi: Taiwa, home to 25 000, of which 2500 are Brazilian, is located two towns up from Izumi on Route 4 or just off the Taiwa exit on the Tohoku Expressway. Unfortunately, Taiwa does not have a JR station or a subway stop so the most convenient way to get to Taiwa is by car. Taiwa does have a variety of natural activities to partake in. For example, swan-watching, frog-viewing and fish-looking. The local mountains provide good spots for picnics, especially at imonikai time. Tennis, fishing and campfires are permitted. There's also hiking and camping in the Funagata Mountains. Judo is practiced every Thursday and Saturday evenings at the local gym.
One of Miyagi's most important shrines, Hachiman Jinja, is in Taiwa; and Miyatoko, the summer home of Warlord Date Musamune remains as
several memorials, traditional Japanese houses, and a museum.
Ohira 大衡
The surrounding towns are just as fun and they have some great food as well. Ohira is a sleepy village in the dead centre of Miyagi. It has
a delicious ramen restaurant called Genotsuya Ramen off of Route 4. But the real fun is a cute izakaya called FU with affordable drinks
and a bar loaded with all the favorites. The atmosphere is very cool and the Mama-san speaks pretty good English; located behind the Eneos
petrol station on Route 4.
For all you church-goers, or anyone with an interest, there is a beautiful American-built church in Ohira village. It is called Gospel Town and it is located on Route 4. It has a cool pastor, who should be an English professor, plus it offers gospel choir and other cool activities. Very cool and lots of fun!
Tomiya 富谷
This is more or less a suburb of Sendai without the convenience of
trains or subways. But it has a Seiyu and that is what makes it
awesome. It is littered with small restaurants like North Pole, good
for Japanese, and it has a great Udon shop (tempura mochi a must) but
the Seiyu is where the money is. It is located on Route 4 and it has
bowling, an arcade, a video store and karaoke. Since it is
centralized in one fun location it is whopping great time. The next
greatest place in Tomiya is Jusco. It is huge mall on Route 4 and
usually all the kids from the surrounding high schools and junior high
schools go there to hangout. It has a movie theater so you can keep
up to date on all the new movies. (If you show your gaijin card you
sometimes get for half-price). Our last location is a restaurant
called Del Sol, which is not NY pizza, but it is good. It is located
across the street from Jusco and it is not terribly expensive. It
will definitely be one of the best pizzas you eat in Japan.
Moving east from Tomiya towards the Pacific Ocean you arrive at
nishisancho (二市三町), what locals collectively call this hovel of two
cities and three towns.
Tagajo 多賀城市
Formerly famous for its raging Thursday night poker games, the Tagajo
board of education has stopped hiring JETs and there remains little
reason to visit.
Rifu 利府
There is a massive shopping centre (well, compared to most Japanese
sizes) in Rifu. Known to all as 'Jusco', although technically AEON
Rifu Shopping Centre, it contains a supermarket (Jusco) and loads of
shops & restaurants. Including a recent addition- Claire's
Accessories! No 100 yen shop, but has pretty much everything else.
There's also a big UNI QLO near the movix cinema and loads of nice
restaurants round there, including Hinano (��野), a great all you can
eat organic food restaurant.
Rifu is also home to Grandy 21 stadium. If you're interested in
football (soccer), you might like to know that it's where Japan got
knocked out of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. There's also a nice onsen
near the stadium. As part of the Grandy complex, as well as one in
another part of town, there's a swimming pool and nice sports
facilities.
The other highlight of Rifu is the nashi (Asian pear). They are grown
in orchards near the station and can be picked in October. Rifu is a
strange anomalous dead end on the Tohoku Honsen; go north from Sendai
and change at Iwakiri- takes just under 20 minutes if you make a good
connection. If sports or fruit aren't your thing, there's a friendly
Japanese speaking (Baptist??) church near Rifu station.
Matushima 松島
If you haven't already, I'm sure you'll soon hear about the famed
Matsushima, known as one of Japan's three most scenic sights. There
are a couple of temples, the most notable being Zuiganji Temple. Near
it is Enzuji, which has a nice Zen garden. A bit off to the side is
Fukuura-jima, a small island that can be accessed by a long red
bridge. It costs 200 yen to cross, but it's a beautiful stroll,
especially around sunset. There is a superstition that if you cross
this bridge with your lover, you will soon break up. You've been
warned. There's also the Matsushima Aquarium as well as an Organ
Museum (that's the musical, not the internal kind). The aquarium,
while small, is apparently rather nice. Matsushima is known for its
oysters, so if you enjoy them check out one of the many restaurants in
the area – oysters are prepared in almost every conceivable way.
To get to Matushima from Sendai, take the Senseki line to the
Matsushima Kaigan (松島海岸) station. Be careful, there's also a Matsushima
station off the Tohoku line, but it's rather far from the interesting
areas. Matsushima is also accessible by ferry, which is highly
recommended if it's a nice day. There are several that leave from
Marine Gate in Shiogama fairly frequently and offer a scenic view
around the islands before arriving in Matsushima.
Shichigahama 七ヶ浜
Unfortunately, Shichigahama is a bit hard to get to without a car, but
worth a visit if you're searching for some local beaches (true to its
name: Shichigahama means seven beaches). Shobuta is a good beach
although crowded in the summer and Azukihama is one of the better
surfing locations in the area. If you're any kind of ramen lover,
check out Kura (蔵) off the 45. There are often lines around lunch,
but it's a testament to how delicious their ramen is – there's a
general consensus by locals that it's the best ramen around. There is
a CIR who works at the local International Village (国際村 – koku sai
mura) and they put on interesting events from time to time.
Shiogama 塩釜
Probably the most famous sight in Shiogama is its shrine, the oldest
Shinto shrine in Tohoku and a World Heritage site. The best time to
visit the shrine is probably hanami (cherry blossom viewing) season in
late April/early May. There are a wide variety of sakura trees
including the 'shiogama-zakura', a sakura unique to the shrine. In
addition to the shrine, Shiogama is known for its sushi – it has the
highest density of sushi restaurants in all of Japan. Though
Sushitetsu (鮨鉄) is the most well known of Shiogama's sushi
restaurants (with a number of famous patrons), everyone in the area
has their opinion on the best sushi restaurant. If you're going for
high quality, best sushi of your life, try Kamekizushi (かめき鮨), or, if
you can handle waking up at the crack of dawn, visiting Nakaoroshi
Fish Market for a taste of the freshest arrivals.
About 5 minutes from the Hon-Shiogama station (on the Senseki line) is
Marine Gate, Shiogama's ferry terminal. There are a couple ferries
that tour around Matsushima Bay, but also ones that head out to Urato
Islands, a small but habited island chain. An interesting day trip to
make, especially in the summer – the islands have several small
beaches and trails for those yearning for the outdoors. Also at
Marine Gate is Blair Marinara, a fairly good Italian restaurant.
If you're looking to grab a couple of drinks, there is the well
frequented izakaya (Yoronotaki) right by Shiogama station (Tohoku
Honsen) and Niche, a new darts café that has good food and a friendly
staff, albeit slow service.
Izumi Chuo 泉中央
The last stop towards downtown Sendai is a little place called Izumi.
Actually, it is quite big and it is a very popular place for school
drinking parties. It has the northern subway terminus (Izumi Chou),
plus it has some of the cheapest parking in Sendai, about 100 yen per
hour. There is a Starbucks, a decent bookstore and a small
international food shop in the Selva Department store. For cheap
Italian visit Seizareya. It is usually full of university students
and wannabe musicians.
And now what you've all been waiting for…
SENDAI 仙台
Hello and welcome to Sendai! You have just moved into or near the
biggest little city in Tohoku and I hope this introduction will help
you enjoy your first few weeks here. Although it supports quite a
large population, the action-packed downtown is relatively compact,
and it won't be long before you know your way around its well designed
streets. There are plenty of shops, bars and restaurants for you to
explore down little alleys on your own. This guide lists the best
known and popular places with locals. Most of the 'sight seeing'
spots and museums haven't been included in this guide as the few that
there are covered quite well in the tourist pamphlets available. If
you can't seem to find a place you like, ask someone who has lived
near Sendai for a few years. They are sure to know a few secret
spots!
Transit Sendai
By Train: There are five main train lines that run through Sendai
Station from all corners of the prefecture (see the 'Miyagi Trains'
section for details). Be careful, if you're not on a train home by
midnight, you'll probably be spending the night in the city.
By Subway: The subway is most useful for those living within the
city. It is one line that runs from Tomizawa in the south, to Izumi
Chuo in the north. The names of the stations are all written in
Japanese and English so it's easy to navigate. The last subway runs
at one minute to midnight in both directions.
Buses: The bus services in Sendai will take you almost anywhere in
the area. The central bus stop is directly in front of Sendai station,
below the raised walkways.
Taxi: You will never have any problem finding a taxi in Sendai, but
the meter starts at around 650 yen.
Meeting Places
There are two main areas where people tend to meet in the city. One
is in front of the statue of local warlord and syphilis-sufferer Date
Masamune (often 'Banana Man' among foreigners, because of the shape of
his helmet). It can be found on the second floor of Sendai station,
directly in front of you as you come out of the ticket gates.
Another popular meeting point is in front of the Disney Store. This is
located at the corner of Hirose-dori and Ichibancho-dori. From the
station, follow the covered arcade Clis Road/Chuo dori until it meets
the perpendicular Ichibancho at the end, then turn right into the
covered Ichibancho arcade. As you reach the end of the covered stretch
of Ichibancho, you will see HMV Music store on your left. Across the
large street (Hirose-dori) is the Disney Store. (You can buy killer
chocolate croissants in the café next door while you wait.)
Department Stores
AER (アエル): Attached to the north end of Sendai Station. Has Maruzen
bookstore on the ground floor, which has a good selection of English
books. AER has clothes stores, including the inexpensive UNIQLO,
which have some larger sizes. It also houses Starbucks, a good
stationary floor and a free internet area on the 5th floor.
FORUS: Opposite HMV at the end of Ichibancho. This is great for both
men and women, with a wide range of styles and prices. On the top
floor there is an interiors shop and Tower Records. There is also a
Body Shoppe so you can replenish you supply of cocoa body butter.
S-PAL: Attached to the southern end of the Sendai Station. The
basement has a LARGE range of omiyage shops and restaurants. The
other floors have women's clothes, Virgin Mega store, Muji (generic
homewares & such) and make-up.
Loft: Great for tarting up your apartment, though a little pricey.
Some toiletries, lots of furniture, home accessories, posters and art,
art materials. On the top floor there are some restaurants, a
hairdresser, and a cookery workshop.
E-Beans: Next to S-Pal. 'Young Fashions', McDonalds. There is also
one of the largest book stores in Sendai, with a decent range of
English books.
Fujisaki: At the end of Clis road. Expensive fashions, make-up
and handbags.
Mitsukoshi : Some more expensive clothes and cosmetics. It is
worth visiting the food department in the basement. (Sunday is free
sample day.) Find it at the end of the uncovered northern end of
Ichibancho. It has a killer beer garden with all-you-can-drink/eat on
the roof during summer.
1-4-1: This extension of Mitsukoshi is at the northern end
of Ichibancho. Has women's fashions, cafes and restaurants.
The Mall: That's its name. Right at Nagamachi-Minami subway station,
it has duplicates of many stores in Sendai, but under one roof. Also
includes a MOVIX cinema multiplex, a large Xebio Sports and a lot of
smaller clothing and specialty stores.
Diamond City: See the section on Natori further down.
Electronics
Yodobashi Camera: This is directly behind the station at the East
exit. This quite simply has everything you need, from gadgets and
computer games to household equipment. The prices are average and they
do deliver for a small fee. Be sure to sign up for a point card – earn
10% of everything you spend as points to use towards future purchases.
LABI: Directly across from Loft, or behind Loft if you look at it
from the station.
Apple Store: Ichibancho near HMV. ALTs get educators discounts on
computers, iPods & software.
Music, Books and Films
HMV: Located at the northern end of the covered section of
Ichibancho, left hand side. This has two floors of music and DVDS.
It also has a selection of English magazines, which are much cheaper
than Maruzen.
Tower Records: Top floor of Forus
Virgin Mega Store: S-Pal
Maruzen: Large bookstore on ground floor of AER
Junku–dou: Bookshop in E-Beans
Tsutaya: This is a large chain of 'culture convenience' shops. They
sell and rent DVDS, videos and music. They also sell some computer
games. You can join for ¥500 and borrow DVDs for about ¥300. There
are two branches in central Sendai, another in Izumi and no doubt more
scattered around the suburbs. The largest branch is next to Sendai
station. Walk down the staircase at the end of the most southern of
the raised walkways in front of the Station and it is on your left.
The other branch is at the western end of Hirose-dori.
MEDIATHEQUE: This art and cultural centre has an English library and
a foreign language DVD/video library. Those living in the Sendai area
can become a member and borrow books and DVDs for free. The selection
isn't huge, but definitely worth a visit. Walk to the northern end of
Ichibancho, then turn left onto Jozenji-dori. It is the large modern
glass building on the opposite side of the road.
Games, Anime, Manga & Other Geekery
Get something more interesting to read other than that textbook or
pick something up for that sad uncle of yours who still lives at home.
He's 47 for crying out loud! Fear factors have been added so that
nobody mistakenly ends up in Melon Books.
Animate: Chain of anime, manga & merch stores. Massive selection,
behind eBeans above the fishsellers in the farmers market. Fear
factor: kittens
Gamers: If you're into dating sims, visual novels or anything that
has bishoujo in the description, this chain will carry it. This 5th
floor shop (owned by Broccoli, makers of Galaxy Angel) is at the top
of Clis road near Daiei and sells CDs, DVDs, games, manga, art
collections, figures and a large selection of monthly industry and fan
magazines. Fear factor: asking a girl on a date for the first time
Volks/Hobby Box: There's a large model/hobby shop that sells figures
and kits of characters, gundams and assorted flying
machine-robot-death-bringers on the floor below Gamers. Fear factor:
kittens with bitey teeth
Big Anime Store: Top floor of eBeans building. Models, manga,
artbooks, CDs and DVDs. Fear factor: kittens.
Melon Books: Sells doujinshi, mostly filthy. Near Sendai station on
Minami-machi-dori opposite Tsutaya. WILL SCAR YOUR CORNEAS. Fear
factor: scourging with rusty barbed wire dipped in salt & vinegar
Toranoana: Sells doujinshi, 50-50 mix of filthy and not. Also sells
doujin music CDs, software, regular manga, DVDs, etc. On Clis Road
above the new Taito Station. Fear factor: root canal.
Super Potato: 8-Bit console love. Original Famicoms, Dreamcasts, etc.
Games too. Awesome! On Clis Road above the new Taito Station. Fear
factor: kittens
Gees: Anime/Manga T-Shirts, goods, toys, etc. On Clis Road above the
new Taito Station. Fear factor: kittens
Book Off: Chances are you have one of these in your town – used manga
= ¥100. Also sells used DVDs & CDs. For DVDs, you'll get better 2nd
hand prices in Akihabara. Diagonally opposite Sakurano on Aoba-dori.
Fear factor: kittens
Shiita Games: New & used console & handheld games. On Ichibancho,
midway between Disney Store and Mitsukoshi, opposite an entrance into
Kokubuncho. Fear factor: kittens
Bargain Hunting
The Daiso: Clis Road. This green-fronted 100 yen shop has 5 floors
of stuff. Worth having a rummage through for household goods and
fancy dress accessories.
Recycle Shop: Scruffy shop that sells many household appliances and odds and ends. Western end of Hirose-dori. Next to Tsutaya
Hanjiro: The basement of eBeans has a huge second-hand clothes shop.
Eating Out
There are hundreds of great restaurants and cafes in Sendai, here are
just a few to get you started.
Café Croissant: Serves tasty filled baguettes, bagels, rolls and
croissants, and nice fresh juice. A bit pricey, but much closer to a
decent sandwich than you will get in most of Sendai's cafes. Just next
to the Aoba-dori JR station entrance on the Clis road side of
Aoba-dori.
Beni Tora Gyoza: Good Chinese food, great atmosphere. Follow
the walk-way from Sendai station, go through the second floor of the
AER Building and continue over the street. It's the darkish
two-storey building with neon orange lettering.
Rose Garden: The best and cheapest yaki-niku in Sendai. A set meal
starts at about 1000 yen. Located opposite 'Hotel Bonita', a love
hotel on Bansui dori.
Namaskar: Excellent Indian restaurant with great naan bread and
friendly service. The manager speaks fluent English. A decent meal
including beer will cost around ¥3000. Heading down Minamimachi-dori
away from the station, it is about a five minute walk. You'll find it
on the right hand side of the road.
Sendai Station/S-PAL: On the ground and basement floors of the
station building, there are many smart little restaurants. The whole
area underwent a facelift in 2005 and there is a lot of choice, both
Japanese and Western. Try the 'Sushi-tetsu', for great sushi, or
'Liverpool' for a wide range of (expensive) imported beers in a modern
airy restaurant.
Bivi: A former electronic super-store behind the station that since
being remodeled in 2004 has attracted an eclectic assortment of ethnic
restaurants including Indian, Turkish, Italian, Thai and American.
Leaf & Bean: A small underpriced café in the overpriced clothing
store Ships that sells good burgers. Avocado or chili is recommended.
On the south end of Ichibancho.
Teddie's Diner: A small burger bar on the 2nd floor of a building on
Hirose Dori. Head towards Bansui Dori along Hirose Dori from the
Disney Store. Look for the teddy bear with the burgers on the sign.
Recommended - BURGERS. Between 11-4 you can get a drink and choice of
soup or dessert with your burger for no extra cost.
Hosoya Sandwich: In Kokubuncho, Hosoya's has been selling burgers
since after WWII. Good stuff. Head down Ichibancho past the Disney
Store. Look for the fruit stall and turn left into Kokubuncho. Head
about 50m, look on your right.
Drinking
The Japanese tend to eat while they drink, so most of the bars in the
area expect you to buy a few things to nibble on while you drink,
particularly if you opt for the nomihodai (all-you-can-drink).
Apologies for the rather scant directions in this section. As there
are hundreds of tiny bars crammed into the entertainment district (the
block formed by Jozenji-dori and Hirose-dori (north and south) and
Bansui-dori and Ichibancho (east and west) called Kokubuncho (国分町).
It may be best to find someone to show you around at first. Here are
just a few to get you started.
Osamu's Kitchen: Popular with JETs. Nomihodai and nice food. Be
warned, service can be a little slow on weekends. Kokubuncho.
Marrakesh: Moroccan décor, Japanese style western food. Great
nomihodai. Kokubuncho.
Vilevan: A second-floor bar that has live jazz on Fridays and
Saturday. The walls are covered with the signatures of those who have
played and visited. Great cocktails and food. On the left hand side
of Clis road going away from Sendai station.
The Green Shamrock: This pub is popular with ALTs. It serves
expensive pints, but is large and airy, unlike most bars in Sendai.
They also serve British/Irish style food and have live music on
weekends. Located on Bansui-dori, on the block between Jozenji-dori
and Hirose-dori.
Shirokiya: You will start noticing the orange/yellow signs for
this chain of izakaya scattered liberally throughout the city (along
Clis Road and Ichibancho). A two-hour nomihodai & set course for
about ¥3000.
Triple Jack: A Jack Daniels-themed shot bar. With darts. A two-hour
nomihodai will set you back ¥2000. In the Bivi Building, east side of
Sendai station.
Sunshine Bowl: If bowling is your thing, there is an alley on
Ichibancho where you can drink while you bowl. Walk up the uncovered
stretch of Ichibancho, away from the Disney store and you will see a
sign for bowling on your right.
Agheha: On Kokubuncho-Dori about 50 meters in from Hirose Dori. Look
opposite the parking garage, on the 6th floor. After 9pm they have a
cheap nomi for under 1000 per person for 2 hours, just order one food
per person.
Karaoke
Song Park: Quite cheap, crap English song selection & drinks are very
weak. These are littered around Sendai, however the most prominent one
is along Ichibancho past the Disney store. Look for the people in
yellow tops – they hand out coupons and price cards and will lead you
to the store if need be.
Below Forus: Service & drinks are good. Good selection of songs.
Prices are a little more than average
Karaoke-kan: Have your own Lost-In-Translation moment in the rooms
with the windows onto Hirose Dori. Next to Baskin-Robbins. 2500yen for
2 hours karaoke/nomihoudai.
Dancing
Bar, Isn't it?: Expensive (around 2000yen1D) and the definition of
"meat market", this chain club usually plays cheesy R and B followed
by even cheesier techno but has remained popular due to the
never-ending supply of lonely eikaiwa teachers looking for
companionship. If you must go, you'll find it on Ichibancho near HMV,
above the Royal Host on the left hand side as you are walking away
from the station.
Shaft: Owned by an ex-ALT, this is a popular venue for JET organized
events. Has a range of different nights. Also a sports bar.
Kokubuncho-dori. If you make friends with the owners, you may even be
allowed to DJ.
Club ADD: This club also offers a range of events; they sometimes
have hard house/techno nights. Kokubuncho. If you make friends with
the owners, you may even be allowed to DJ.
International Centres
Sendai International Centre: Daily newspapers, sky news, magazines
and a small English library. The centre also provides news about
international events and language classes in Sendai. Another useful
feature is the message board, where you can find others interested in
language and cultural exchange or buy used goods. Head west along
Aoba-dori until you reach its very end. From here, carry on straight,
go over the bridge and keep following the road as it curves to the
right. The International centre is a large modern building on the
right hand side.
Miyagi International Association (MIA): The association introduces
Japanese volunteer tutors to foreigners and runs two affordable
Japanese courses (¥8000 for 12 weeks). It also has information on
international events on the web
(http://www.h5.dion.ne.jp/~mia/english/). From Kita-Yobancho subway
stop, head north on Higashi Nibancho-dori for about five minutes and
it is on your right hand side.
LEAVING SENDAI VIA ROUTE 4
The Sendai 'area' continues along the Route 4 to the Fukushima border,
and if you follow the road, you will eventually get to Tokyo. Whilst
undertaking such a trip is not advised (too many traffic lights) Route
4 contains a veritable smorgasbord of karaoke, pachinko, specialty
stores, love hotels & car yards. Here are some of the recommendations.
Karaoke dens of every imaginable kind are literally every 2
kilometers. Since karaoke is often accompanied by drinking, unless
you have a designated driver (or bicycle) it's not so much a good
idea.
There are two Love Hotels interesting for their novelty value.
Hotel Kitty-chan is, good to its name, a Hello Kitty themed Den of
Iniquity shortly after Minami Sendai station. At Hotel Staymore it's
perpetually Christmas. Look for the flaming passion red Santa Claus
after the turn-off for Natori station. There are many others of
course.
There's a Toys R Us near Minami Sendai station. Get everything from
food to car audio to Luis Vuitton bags to camping equipment at the
monster-sized, open-til-4 a.m. Don Quixote. For gentlemen requiring
items of a personal nature, they have a small section with larger
sizes than you find in your average drugstore. Near Minami Sendai
station.
Natori名取
If you call Natori home when people ask you where you live, you may as
well tell them Sendai. Natori borders on the southern end of Sendai's
urban sprawl and is a city of 60 000 people. It's also the location of
Sendai airport, NASPA & the Sapporo Brewing Company's Sendai Beer
Garden.
To the west of Natori station sits a Miyagi CO-OP with a florist,
bakery and service counter that sells bus cards and develops film. A
ten minute walk north of Natori Station is a Tokyo Interior
(homewares, furniture, stuff), Homac & Yokubenimaru (everything from
supermarket, booze & bikes to fireworks, tatami & lumber), Daiso ¥100
store and Daruma Pharmacy. Across the street is Beshia Denki
electronics store which generally is not as good as Yodobashi but
cheaper for some items.
Diamond City is a brand new REAL mall that actually feels like a
proper shopping mall! It has a Warner-Mycal Cinema, Jusco, Aeon Super
Center, 2 food courts, Mitsukoshi, HMV, Lush, a massive tonne of
clothing and specialty stores AND the train stops right at the front
door! Get on any Sendai Airport Train at Sendai, Nagamachi, Taishidou,
Minami-Sendai or Natori and then get off at Moriseki-no-shita. A
fantastic day of shopping which will have you feeling ALMOST like
you're back home! For a kick-arse day, rock the shopping then cap it
off with a trip to the Sapporo Beer Garden.
Most people go to Sendai for the nightlife, but there's some action in
Natori. The Sapporo Beer Garden is right next to the station; the
beer flows freely from the brewery next door (which offers tours in
Japanese and free beer tasting in the language of delicious). It also
has a Genghis-khan in the garden proper, which basically means a lamb
tabehoudai accompanied by a Sapporo Beer nomihoudai. About ¥4500 for
2 hours, but LAMB! The small Indonesian place, run by Indonesians,
called Ena is near the station and recommended for lovers and
lovers of genuinely spicy food. A hamburg joint on the left, heading
south on Route 4 past the station & Yellow Hat, Hachi offers a lunch
set for ¥800 and a special hamburg of the month. It has a nice, local
diner-type atmosphere. Natori ALTs also recommend the conveniently
located Murasaki Izakaya just next to the East Exit of the station.
Look for the red sign.
Natori also contains the port town of Yuriage, which boasts a sea pool
- a pool on the coast where the water is tidally flushed from the
ocean! Only open July to August, it's accessible by buses to Yuriage
from Sendai Station's east exit.
Iwanuma岩馬
Iwanuma station is in the crotch of two major train lines, the Tohoku
Honsen line and the Jouban line. If you get on the wrong train you
will have to backtrack to here. Fortunately, while you are waiting
for the correct train, you can scoot over to the best Yakitori
restaurant/bar in the world, Wataya.
Watari 亘理
Being right on the coast, Watari boasts a decent beach (by Japanese
standards). Unfortunately, the public transit is not so good, so
you'll need a car (or taxi, if you're desperate) to get there. If you
make it, there's a nice pizza/pasta restaurant near the beach called
Santa Fe. Watari strawberries famous throughout Miyagi for their
deliciousness! For the true strawberry lover, most fields have an
all-you-can-pick-and-eat deal. Harakomeshi (rice topped with cooked
salmon and salmon roe) in season is delicious.
Yamamoto 山本
Yamamoto is the last stop before hitting Fukushima and has twin peaks
that might draw the mountain enthusiast out of you. Shihouzan is a
small mountain from the top of which you can see in all four
directions, including views of the ocean and Zao. It's a 2-hour hike
to the top; or a short drive for the lazy or busy. Shinzan/Shounen no
Mori is a similar mountain with a slightly less spectacular view.
However, this one offers bike rentals and BMX trails. The town's also
got plenty of apples and strawberries for the fruit lovers, too.
First, a brief introduction about the greatest town in Miyagi: Taiwa, home to 25 000, of which 2500 are Brazilian, is located two towns up from Izumi on Route 4 or just off the Taiwa exit on the Tohoku Expressway. Unfortunately, Taiwa does not have a JR station or a subway stop so the most convenient way to get to Taiwa is by car. Taiwa does have a variety of natural activities to partake in. For example, swan-watching, frog-viewing and fish-looking. The local mountains provide good spots for picnics, especially at imonikai time. Tennis, fishing and campfires are permitted. There's also hiking and camping in the Funagata Mountains. Judo is practiced every Thursday and Saturday evenings at the local gym.
One of Miyagi's most important shrines, Hachiman Jinja, is in Taiwa; and Miyatoko, the summer home of Warlord Date Musamune remains as
several memorials, traditional Japanese houses, and a museum.
Ohira 大衡
The surrounding towns are just as fun and they have some great food as well. Ohira is a sleepy village in the dead centre of Miyagi. It has
a delicious ramen restaurant called Genotsuya Ramen off of Route 4. But the real fun is a cute izakaya called FU with affordable drinks
and a bar loaded with all the favorites. The atmosphere is very cool and the Mama-san speaks pretty good English; located behind the Eneos
petrol station on Route 4.
For all you church-goers, or anyone with an interest, there is a beautiful American-built church in Ohira village. It is called Gospel Town and it is located on Route 4. It has a cool pastor, who should be an English professor, plus it offers gospel choir and other cool activities. Very cool and lots of fun!
Tomiya 富谷
This is more or less a suburb of Sendai without the convenience of
trains or subways. But it has a Seiyu and that is what makes it
awesome. It is littered with small restaurants like North Pole, good
for Japanese, and it has a great Udon shop (tempura mochi a must) but
the Seiyu is where the money is. It is located on Route 4 and it has
bowling, an arcade, a video store and karaoke. Since it is
centralized in one fun location it is whopping great time. The next
greatest place in Tomiya is Jusco. It is huge mall on Route 4 and
usually all the kids from the surrounding high schools and junior high
schools go there to hangout. It has a movie theater so you can keep
up to date on all the new movies. (If you show your gaijin card you
sometimes get for half-price). Our last location is a restaurant
called Del Sol, which is not NY pizza, but it is good. It is located
across the street from Jusco and it is not terribly expensive. It
will definitely be one of the best pizzas you eat in Japan.
Moving east from Tomiya towards the Pacific Ocean you arrive at
nishisancho (二市三町), what locals collectively call this hovel of two
cities and three towns.
Tagajo 多賀城市
Formerly famous for its raging Thursday night poker games, the Tagajo
board of education has stopped hiring JETs and there remains little
reason to visit.
Rifu 利府
There is a massive shopping centre (well, compared to most Japanese
sizes) in Rifu. Known to all as 'Jusco', although technically AEON
Rifu Shopping Centre, it contains a supermarket (Jusco) and loads of
shops & restaurants. Including a recent addition- Claire's
Accessories! No 100 yen shop, but has pretty much everything else.
There's also a big UNI QLO near the movix cinema and loads of nice
restaurants round there, including Hinano (��野), a great all you can
eat organic food restaurant.
Rifu is also home to Grandy 21 stadium. If you're interested in
football (soccer), you might like to know that it's where Japan got
knocked out of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. There's also a nice onsen
near the stadium. As part of the Grandy complex, as well as one in
another part of town, there's a swimming pool and nice sports
facilities.
The other highlight of Rifu is the nashi (Asian pear). They are grown
in orchards near the station and can be picked in October. Rifu is a
strange anomalous dead end on the Tohoku Honsen; go north from Sendai
and change at Iwakiri- takes just under 20 minutes if you make a good
connection. If sports or fruit aren't your thing, there's a friendly
Japanese speaking (Baptist??) church near Rifu station.
Matushima 松島
If you haven't already, I'm sure you'll soon hear about the famed
Matsushima, known as one of Japan's three most scenic sights. There
are a couple of temples, the most notable being Zuiganji Temple. Near
it is Enzuji, which has a nice Zen garden. A bit off to the side is
Fukuura-jima, a small island that can be accessed by a long red
bridge. It costs 200 yen to cross, but it's a beautiful stroll,
especially around sunset. There is a superstition that if you cross
this bridge with your lover, you will soon break up. You've been
warned. There's also the Matsushima Aquarium as well as an Organ
Museum (that's the musical, not the internal kind). The aquarium,
while small, is apparently rather nice. Matsushima is known for its
oysters, so if you enjoy them check out one of the many restaurants in
the area – oysters are prepared in almost every conceivable way.
To get to Matushima from Sendai, take the Senseki line to the
Matsushima Kaigan (松島海岸) station. Be careful, there's also a Matsushima
station off the Tohoku line, but it's rather far from the interesting
areas. Matsushima is also accessible by ferry, which is highly
recommended if it's a nice day. There are several that leave from
Marine Gate in Shiogama fairly frequently and offer a scenic view
around the islands before arriving in Matsushima.
Shichigahama 七ヶ浜
Unfortunately, Shichigahama is a bit hard to get to without a car, but
worth a visit if you're searching for some local beaches (true to its
name: Shichigahama means seven beaches). Shobuta is a good beach
although crowded in the summer and Azukihama is one of the better
surfing locations in the area. If you're any kind of ramen lover,
check out Kura (蔵) off the 45. There are often lines around lunch,
but it's a testament to how delicious their ramen is – there's a
general consensus by locals that it's the best ramen around. There is
a CIR who works at the local International Village (国際村 – koku sai
mura) and they put on interesting events from time to time.
Shiogama 塩釜
Probably the most famous sight in Shiogama is its shrine, the oldest
Shinto shrine in Tohoku and a World Heritage site. The best time to
visit the shrine is probably hanami (cherry blossom viewing) season in
late April/early May. There are a wide variety of sakura trees
including the 'shiogama-zakura', a sakura unique to the shrine. In
addition to the shrine, Shiogama is known for its sushi – it has the
highest density of sushi restaurants in all of Japan. Though
Sushitetsu (鮨鉄) is the most well known of Shiogama's sushi
restaurants (with a number of famous patrons), everyone in the area
has their opinion on the best sushi restaurant. If you're going for
high quality, best sushi of your life, try Kamekizushi (かめき鮨), or, if
you can handle waking up at the crack of dawn, visiting Nakaoroshi
Fish Market for a taste of the freshest arrivals.
About 5 minutes from the Hon-Shiogama station (on the Senseki line) is
Marine Gate, Shiogama's ferry terminal. There are a couple ferries
that tour around Matsushima Bay, but also ones that head out to Urato
Islands, a small but habited island chain. An interesting day trip to
make, especially in the summer – the islands have several small
beaches and trails for those yearning for the outdoors. Also at
Marine Gate is Blair Marinara, a fairly good Italian restaurant.
If you're looking to grab a couple of drinks, there is the well
frequented izakaya (Yoronotaki) right by Shiogama station (Tohoku
Honsen) and Niche, a new darts café that has good food and a friendly
staff, albeit slow service.
Izumi Chuo 泉中央
The last stop towards downtown Sendai is a little place called Izumi.
Actually, it is quite big and it is a very popular place for school
drinking parties. It has the northern subway terminus (Izumi Chou),
plus it has some of the cheapest parking in Sendai, about 100 yen per
hour. There is a Starbucks, a decent bookstore and a small
international food shop in the Selva Department store. For cheap
Italian visit Seizareya. It is usually full of university students
and wannabe musicians.
And now what you've all been waiting for…
SENDAI 仙台
Hello and welcome to Sendai! You have just moved into or near the
biggest little city in Tohoku and I hope this introduction will help
you enjoy your first few weeks here. Although it supports quite a
large population, the action-packed downtown is relatively compact,
and it won't be long before you know your way around its well designed
streets. There are plenty of shops, bars and restaurants for you to
explore down little alleys on your own. This guide lists the best
known and popular places with locals. Most of the 'sight seeing'
spots and museums haven't been included in this guide as the few that
there are covered quite well in the tourist pamphlets available. If
you can't seem to find a place you like, ask someone who has lived
near Sendai for a few years. They are sure to know a few secret
spots!
Transit Sendai
By Train: There are five main train lines that run through Sendai
Station from all corners of the prefecture (see the 'Miyagi Trains'
section for details). Be careful, if you're not on a train home by
midnight, you'll probably be spending the night in the city.
By Subway: The subway is most useful for those living within the
city. It is one line that runs from Tomizawa in the south, to Izumi
Chuo in the north. The names of the stations are all written in
Japanese and English so it's easy to navigate. The last subway runs
at one minute to midnight in both directions.
Buses: The bus services in Sendai will take you almost anywhere in
the area. The central bus stop is directly in front of Sendai station,
below the raised walkways.
Taxi: You will never have any problem finding a taxi in Sendai, but
the meter starts at around 650 yen.
Meeting Places
There are two main areas where people tend to meet in the city. One
is in front of the statue of local warlord and syphilis-sufferer Date
Masamune (often 'Banana Man' among foreigners, because of the shape of
his helmet). It can be found on the second floor of Sendai station,
directly in front of you as you come out of the ticket gates.
Another popular meeting point is in front of the Disney Store. This is
located at the corner of Hirose-dori and Ichibancho-dori. From the
station, follow the covered arcade Clis Road/Chuo dori until it meets
the perpendicular Ichibancho at the end, then turn right into the
covered Ichibancho arcade. As you reach the end of the covered stretch
of Ichibancho, you will see HMV Music store on your left. Across the
large street (Hirose-dori) is the Disney Store. (You can buy killer
chocolate croissants in the café next door while you wait.)
Department Stores
AER (アエル): Attached to the north end of Sendai Station. Has Maruzen
bookstore on the ground floor, which has a good selection of English
books. AER has clothes stores, including the inexpensive UNIQLO,
which have some larger sizes. It also houses Starbucks, a good
stationary floor and a free internet area on the 5th floor.
FORUS: Opposite HMV at the end of Ichibancho. This is great for both
men and women, with a wide range of styles and prices. On the top
floor there is an interiors shop and Tower Records. There is also a
Body Shoppe so you can replenish you supply of cocoa body butter.
S-PAL: Attached to the southern end of the Sendai Station. The
basement has a LARGE range of omiyage shops and restaurants. The
other floors have women's clothes, Virgin Mega store, Muji (generic
homewares & such) and make-up.
Loft: Great for tarting up your apartment, though a little pricey.
Some toiletries, lots of furniture, home accessories, posters and art,
art materials. On the top floor there are some restaurants, a
hairdresser, and a cookery workshop.
E-Beans: Next to S-Pal. 'Young Fashions', McDonalds. There is also
one of the largest book stores in Sendai, with a decent range of
English books.
Fujisaki: At the end of Clis road. Expensive fashions, make-up
and handbags.
Mitsukoshi : Some more expensive clothes and cosmetics. It is
worth visiting the food department in the basement. (Sunday is free
sample day.) Find it at the end of the uncovered northern end of
Ichibancho. It has a killer beer garden with all-you-can-drink/eat on
the roof during summer.
1-4-1: This extension of Mitsukoshi is at the northern end
of Ichibancho. Has women's fashions, cafes and restaurants.
The Mall: That's its name. Right at Nagamachi-Minami subway station,
it has duplicates of many stores in Sendai, but under one roof. Also
includes a MOVIX cinema multiplex, a large Xebio Sports and a lot of
smaller clothing and specialty stores.
Diamond City: See the section on Natori further down.
Electronics
Yodobashi Camera: This is directly behind the station at the East
exit. This quite simply has everything you need, from gadgets and
computer games to household equipment. The prices are average and they
do deliver for a small fee. Be sure to sign up for a point card – earn
10% of everything you spend as points to use towards future purchases.
LABI: Directly across from Loft, or behind Loft if you look at it
from the station.
Apple Store: Ichibancho near HMV. ALTs get educators discounts on
computers, iPods & software.
Music, Books and Films
HMV: Located at the northern end of the covered section of
Ichibancho, left hand side. This has two floors of music and DVDS.
It also has a selection of English magazines, which are much cheaper
than Maruzen.
Tower Records: Top floor of Forus
Virgin Mega Store: S-Pal
Maruzen: Large bookstore on ground floor of AER
Junku–dou: Bookshop in E-Beans
Tsutaya: This is a large chain of 'culture convenience' shops. They
sell and rent DVDS, videos and music. They also sell some computer
games. You can join for ¥500 and borrow DVDs for about ¥300. There
are two branches in central Sendai, another in Izumi and no doubt more
scattered around the suburbs. The largest branch is next to Sendai
station. Walk down the staircase at the end of the most southern of
the raised walkways in front of the Station and it is on your left.
The other branch is at the western end of Hirose-dori.
MEDIATHEQUE: This art and cultural centre has an English library and
a foreign language DVD/video library. Those living in the Sendai area
can become a member and borrow books and DVDs for free. The selection
isn't huge, but definitely worth a visit. Walk to the northern end of
Ichibancho, then turn left onto Jozenji-dori. It is the large modern
glass building on the opposite side of the road.
Games, Anime, Manga & Other Geekery
Get something more interesting to read other than that textbook or
pick something up for that sad uncle of yours who still lives at home.
He's 47 for crying out loud! Fear factors have been added so that
nobody mistakenly ends up in Melon Books.
Animate: Chain of anime, manga & merch stores. Massive selection,
behind eBeans above the fishsellers in the farmers market. Fear
factor: kittens
Gamers: If you're into dating sims, visual novels or anything that
has bishoujo in the description, this chain will carry it. This 5th
floor shop (owned by Broccoli, makers of Galaxy Angel) is at the top
of Clis road near Daiei and sells CDs, DVDs, games, manga, art
collections, figures and a large selection of monthly industry and fan
magazines. Fear factor: asking a girl on a date for the first time
Volks/Hobby Box: There's a large model/hobby shop that sells figures
and kits of characters, gundams and assorted flying
machine-robot-death-bringers on the floor below Gamers. Fear factor:
kittens with bitey teeth
Big Anime Store: Top floor of eBeans building. Models, manga,
artbooks, CDs and DVDs. Fear factor: kittens.
Melon Books: Sells doujinshi, mostly filthy. Near Sendai station on
Minami-machi-dori opposite Tsutaya. WILL SCAR YOUR CORNEAS. Fear
factor: scourging with rusty barbed wire dipped in salt & vinegar
Toranoana: Sells doujinshi, 50-50 mix of filthy and not. Also sells
doujin music CDs, software, regular manga, DVDs, etc. On Clis Road
above the new Taito Station. Fear factor: root canal.
Super Potato: 8-Bit console love. Original Famicoms, Dreamcasts, etc.
Games too. Awesome! On Clis Road above the new Taito Station. Fear
factor: kittens
Gees: Anime/Manga T-Shirts, goods, toys, etc. On Clis Road above the
new Taito Station. Fear factor: kittens
Book Off: Chances are you have one of these in your town – used manga
= ¥100. Also sells used DVDs & CDs. For DVDs, you'll get better 2nd
hand prices in Akihabara. Diagonally opposite Sakurano on Aoba-dori.
Fear factor: kittens
Shiita Games: New & used console & handheld games. On Ichibancho,
midway between Disney Store and Mitsukoshi, opposite an entrance into
Kokubuncho. Fear factor: kittens
Bargain Hunting
The Daiso: Clis Road. This green-fronted 100 yen shop has 5 floors
of stuff. Worth having a rummage through for household goods and
fancy dress accessories.
Recycle Shop: Scruffy shop that sells many household appliances and odds and ends. Western end of Hirose-dori. Next to Tsutaya
Hanjiro: The basement of eBeans has a huge second-hand clothes shop.
Eating Out
There are hundreds of great restaurants and cafes in Sendai, here are
just a few to get you started.
Café Croissant: Serves tasty filled baguettes, bagels, rolls and
croissants, and nice fresh juice. A bit pricey, but much closer to a
decent sandwich than you will get in most of Sendai's cafes. Just next
to the Aoba-dori JR station entrance on the Clis road side of
Aoba-dori.
Beni Tora Gyoza: Good Chinese food, great atmosphere. Follow
the walk-way from Sendai station, go through the second floor of the
AER Building and continue over the street. It's the darkish
two-storey building with neon orange lettering.
Rose Garden: The best and cheapest yaki-niku in Sendai. A set meal
starts at about 1000 yen. Located opposite 'Hotel Bonita', a love
hotel on Bansui dori.
Namaskar: Excellent Indian restaurant with great naan bread and
friendly service. The manager speaks fluent English. A decent meal
including beer will cost around ¥3000. Heading down Minamimachi-dori
away from the station, it is about a five minute walk. You'll find it
on the right hand side of the road.
Sendai Station/S-PAL: On the ground and basement floors of the
station building, there are many smart little restaurants. The whole
area underwent a facelift in 2005 and there is a lot of choice, both
Japanese and Western. Try the 'Sushi-tetsu', for great sushi, or
'Liverpool' for a wide range of (expensive) imported beers in a modern
airy restaurant.
Bivi: A former electronic super-store behind the station that since
being remodeled in 2004 has attracted an eclectic assortment of ethnic
restaurants including Indian, Turkish, Italian, Thai and American.
Leaf & Bean: A small underpriced café in the overpriced clothing
store Ships that sells good burgers. Avocado or chili is recommended.
On the south end of Ichibancho.
Teddie's Diner: A small burger bar on the 2nd floor of a building on
Hirose Dori. Head towards Bansui Dori along Hirose Dori from the
Disney Store. Look for the teddy bear with the burgers on the sign.
Recommended - BURGERS. Between 11-4 you can get a drink and choice of
soup or dessert with your burger for no extra cost.
Hosoya Sandwich: In Kokubuncho, Hosoya's has been selling burgers
since after WWII. Good stuff. Head down Ichibancho past the Disney
Store. Look for the fruit stall and turn left into Kokubuncho. Head
about 50m, look on your right.
Drinking
The Japanese tend to eat while they drink, so most of the bars in the
area expect you to buy a few things to nibble on while you drink,
particularly if you opt for the nomihodai (all-you-can-drink).
Apologies for the rather scant directions in this section. As there
are hundreds of tiny bars crammed into the entertainment district (the
block formed by Jozenji-dori and Hirose-dori (north and south) and
Bansui-dori and Ichibancho (east and west) called Kokubuncho (国分町).
It may be best to find someone to show you around at first. Here are
just a few to get you started.
Osamu's Kitchen: Popular with JETs. Nomihodai and nice food. Be
warned, service can be a little slow on weekends. Kokubuncho.
Marrakesh: Moroccan décor, Japanese style western food. Great
nomihodai. Kokubuncho.
Vilevan: A second-floor bar that has live jazz on Fridays and
Saturday. The walls are covered with the signatures of those who have
played and visited. Great cocktails and food. On the left hand side
of Clis road going away from Sendai station.
The Green Shamrock: This pub is popular with ALTs. It serves
expensive pints, but is large and airy, unlike most bars in Sendai.
They also serve British/Irish style food and have live music on
weekends. Located on Bansui-dori, on the block between Jozenji-dori
and Hirose-dori.
Shirokiya: You will start noticing the orange/yellow signs for
this chain of izakaya scattered liberally throughout the city (along
Clis Road and Ichibancho). A two-hour nomihodai & set course for
about ¥3000.
Triple Jack: A Jack Daniels-themed shot bar. With darts. A two-hour
nomihodai will set you back ¥2000. In the Bivi Building, east side of
Sendai station.
Sunshine Bowl: If bowling is your thing, there is an alley on
Ichibancho where you can drink while you bowl. Walk up the uncovered
stretch of Ichibancho, away from the Disney store and you will see a
sign for bowling on your right.
Agheha: On Kokubuncho-Dori about 50 meters in from Hirose Dori. Look
opposite the parking garage, on the 6th floor. After 9pm they have a
cheap nomi for under 1000 per person for 2 hours, just order one food
per person.
Karaoke
Song Park: Quite cheap, crap English song selection & drinks are very
weak. These are littered around Sendai, however the most prominent one
is along Ichibancho past the Disney store. Look for the people in
yellow tops – they hand out coupons and price cards and will lead you
to the store if need be.
Below Forus: Service & drinks are good. Good selection of songs.
Prices are a little more than average
Karaoke-kan: Have your own Lost-In-Translation moment in the rooms
with the windows onto Hirose Dori. Next to Baskin-Robbins. 2500yen for
2 hours karaoke/nomihoudai.
Dancing
Bar, Isn't it?: Expensive (around 2000yen1D) and the definition of
"meat market", this chain club usually plays cheesy R and B followed
by even cheesier techno but has remained popular due to the
never-ending supply of lonely eikaiwa teachers looking for
companionship. If you must go, you'll find it on Ichibancho near HMV,
above the Royal Host on the left hand side as you are walking away
from the station.
Shaft: Owned by an ex-ALT, this is a popular venue for JET organized
events. Has a range of different nights. Also a sports bar.
Kokubuncho-dori. If you make friends with the owners, you may even be
allowed to DJ.
Club ADD: This club also offers a range of events; they sometimes
have hard house/techno nights. Kokubuncho. If you make friends with
the owners, you may even be allowed to DJ.
International Centres
Sendai International Centre: Daily newspapers, sky news, magazines
and a small English library. The centre also provides news about
international events and language classes in Sendai. Another useful
feature is the message board, where you can find others interested in
language and cultural exchange or buy used goods. Head west along
Aoba-dori until you reach its very end. From here, carry on straight,
go over the bridge and keep following the road as it curves to the
right. The International centre is a large modern building on the
right hand side.
Miyagi International Association (MIA): The association introduces
Japanese volunteer tutors to foreigners and runs two affordable
Japanese courses (¥8000 for 12 weeks). It also has information on
international events on the web
(http://www.h5.dion.ne.jp/~mia/english/). From Kita-Yobancho subway
stop, head north on Higashi Nibancho-dori for about five minutes and
it is on your right hand side.
LEAVING SENDAI VIA ROUTE 4
The Sendai 'area' continues along the Route 4 to the Fukushima border,
and if you follow the road, you will eventually get to Tokyo. Whilst
undertaking such a trip is not advised (too many traffic lights) Route
4 contains a veritable smorgasbord of karaoke, pachinko, specialty
stores, love hotels & car yards. Here are some of the recommendations.
Karaoke dens of every imaginable kind are literally every 2
kilometers. Since karaoke is often accompanied by drinking, unless
you have a designated driver (or bicycle) it's not so much a good
idea.
There are two Love Hotels interesting for their novelty value.
Hotel Kitty-chan is, good to its name, a Hello Kitty themed Den of
Iniquity shortly after Minami Sendai station. At Hotel Staymore it's
perpetually Christmas. Look for the flaming passion red Santa Claus
after the turn-off for Natori station. There are many others of
course.
There's a Toys R Us near Minami Sendai station. Get everything from
food to car audio to Luis Vuitton bags to camping equipment at the
monster-sized, open-til-4 a.m. Don Quixote. For gentlemen requiring
items of a personal nature, they have a small section with larger
sizes than you find in your average drugstore. Near Minami Sendai
station.
Natori名取
If you call Natori home when people ask you where you live, you may as
well tell them Sendai. Natori borders on the southern end of Sendai's
urban sprawl and is a city of 60 000 people. It's also the location of
Sendai airport, NASPA & the Sapporo Brewing Company's Sendai Beer
Garden.
To the west of Natori station sits a Miyagi CO-OP with a florist,
bakery and service counter that sells bus cards and develops film. A
ten minute walk north of Natori Station is a Tokyo Interior
(homewares, furniture, stuff), Homac & Yokubenimaru (everything from
supermarket, booze & bikes to fireworks, tatami & lumber), Daiso ¥100
store and Daruma Pharmacy. Across the street is Beshia Denki
electronics store which generally is not as good as Yodobashi but
cheaper for some items.
Diamond City is a brand new REAL mall that actually feels like a
proper shopping mall! It has a Warner-Mycal Cinema, Jusco, Aeon Super
Center, 2 food courts, Mitsukoshi, HMV, Lush, a massive tonne of
clothing and specialty stores AND the train stops right at the front
door! Get on any Sendai Airport Train at Sendai, Nagamachi, Taishidou,
Minami-Sendai or Natori and then get off at Moriseki-no-shita. A
fantastic day of shopping which will have you feeling ALMOST like
you're back home! For a kick-arse day, rock the shopping then cap it
off with a trip to the Sapporo Beer Garden.
Most people go to Sendai for the nightlife, but there's some action in
Natori. The Sapporo Beer Garden is right next to the station; the
beer flows freely from the brewery next door (which offers tours in
Japanese and free beer tasting in the language of delicious). It also
has a Genghis-khan in the garden proper, which basically means a lamb
tabehoudai accompanied by a Sapporo Beer nomihoudai. About ¥4500 for
2 hours, but LAMB! The small Indonesian place, run by Indonesians,
called Ena is near the station and recommended for lovers and
lovers of genuinely spicy food. A hamburg joint on the left, heading
south on Route 4 past the station & Yellow Hat, Hachi offers a lunch
set for ¥800 and a special hamburg of the month. It has a nice, local
diner-type atmosphere. Natori ALTs also recommend the conveniently
located Murasaki Izakaya just next to the East Exit of the station.
Look for the red sign.
Natori also contains the port town of Yuriage, which boasts a sea pool
- a pool on the coast where the water is tidally flushed from the
ocean! Only open July to August, it's accessible by buses to Yuriage
from Sendai Station's east exit.
Iwanuma岩馬
Iwanuma station is in the crotch of two major train lines, the Tohoku
Honsen line and the Jouban line. If you get on the wrong train you
will have to backtrack to here. Fortunately, while you are waiting
for the correct train, you can scoot over to the best Yakitori
restaurant/bar in the world, Wataya.
Watari 亘理
Being right on the coast, Watari boasts a decent beach (by Japanese
standards). Unfortunately, the public transit is not so good, so
you'll need a car (or taxi, if you're desperate) to get there. If you
make it, there's a nice pizza/pasta restaurant near the beach called
Santa Fe. Watari strawberries famous throughout Miyagi for their
deliciousness! For the true strawberry lover, most fields have an
all-you-can-pick-and-eat deal. Harakomeshi (rice topped with cooked
salmon and salmon roe) in season is delicious.
Yamamoto 山本
Yamamoto is the last stop before hitting Fukushima and has twin peaks
that might draw the mountain enthusiast out of you. Shihouzan is a
small mountain from the top of which you can see in all four
directions, including views of the ocean and Zao. It's a 2-hour hike
to the top; or a short drive for the lazy or busy. Shinzan/Shounen no
Mori is a similar mountain with a slightly less spectacular view.
However, this one offers bike rentals and BMX trails. The town's also
got plenty of apples and strawberries for the fruit lovers, too.
