Day Tour in Sendai Historic Sites and Samurai History

This mausoleum is the resting place of Date Masamune (along with his son and grandson in nearby tombs). Date Masamune was one of Japan's most powerful daimyō, or feudal lords, under Tokugawa Ieyasu’s rule during the early Edo period. He was an heir to a long line of powerful lords and later went on to found the modern day city of Sendai. He was known for his ornate style and tastes and is credited with multiple projects that enhanced the beauty of the Tohoku region. This mausoleum was part of his last will and testament, and its gorgeous design and color palette are striking examples of Momoyama period art. Your guide will walk you through the Zuihoden grounds and museum, offering historical context, interesting anecdotes, and further insight to the intricate nature of samurai dynamics in Japan.

We will then travel to the Sendai City Museum. Here you will have ample time to delve into the intricate history of Sendai; including prehistoric hunter-gatherer eras, samurai armor and dynamics, all the way to modern day Sendai city. The museum has ample English resources for visitors to enjoy, but your guide will offer their insights and further information about the various exhibitions available for viewing. There are also temporary exhibitions that change throughout the year that you can enjoy. They typically are thematic and have connections to the permanent exhibitions in the rest of the museum.

Our next stop is located conveniently right next to the museum! The Sendai Ryokusaikan Visitor Center is a fairly new cultural center that offers guests an all year round look at some of the streamers and floats from Sendai’s most famous festivals. There is also a cafe, a reflection pond, traditional crafts, and artifacts unearthed during cultural property surveys on display depending on the season. You will have some time to walk around and view the center or purchase some souvenirs if you prefer! There is also a walking tea garden, referred to as the “Forest Garden” (mori no teien). Within this garden sits the historic structure called the Zangetsutei Tea Room. Zangetsutei is a designated tangible cultural property that largely retains its original build from the time it was constructed in the Edo period. The plaque hanging above the entrance and its inscription on the back are said to be copies of the original hand-written by Lord Date Masamune himself.

Next we will head to the site of the Sendai Castle Ruins. Formally known as Aoba Castle, this site was home for the Date Clan during the Edo period located on Mount Aoba. In 2003, the site was designated a National Historic Site. After a short explanation from your guide, you will have ample free time to get a view of the city skyline, grab some lunch or souvenirs, and take a walk around the ruins. The Castle Ruins has no admission fee. However, there is a small museum located near the ruins that has a 770 yen admission fee. Guests are welcome to enter the museum during their free time at their own expense should they desire.

Osaki Hachimangu Shrine was built in 1607 by Lord Date Masamune, is a designated National Treasure, and possibly one of the most important shrines in Sendai. The Date patron deity honored here is Hachiman, the Shinto god of war who is a guardian and protector of the city. There are also three other kami deities honored here: Emperor Ojin, Emperor Chuai, and Empress Jingu. Date Masamune deeply respected the art, architecture, and culture of Kyoto and invited artists, craftsmen, and architects from all over Japan to create the lavish structure we see today. Your guide will walk you through the area giving you insight to the various buildings, Momoyama period art and characteristics, as well as a brief overview of shrine etiquette.