Between Sendai and Matsushima

From Sendai, you can take the train to Matsushima and then across a long bridge to Fukuurajima Island. It's just a small island, but there is a great view of the ocean and the coastline with many scattered islands.

Afterward, enjoy a nice slice of cake on the promenade and then head to a nearby temple. The Zuiganji Temple is very old and has a beautiful stone-paved courtyard as well as a lovely backyard. Inside, there are significant paintings and a statue of the famous Date Masamune. Further along the coast is a small offshoot of the temple, perched on a rock.

On the way back from Matsushima, you'll find Shiogama, where there is a small shop displaying beautiful dishes and porcelain. There’s also a stunning shrine, more like a complex with shrines and impressive buildings situated on a hill. However, it was getting late, and the main shrine was closed. But I was able to capture some great photos of the evening lighting.

The next day, I went early again to Shiogama and visited the fish harbor. There, you could watch as huge tuna were delivered and assessed. Nearby, there was also a fish market where you could buy delicious and fresh tuna.