Sendai Station – The Beating Heart of Miyagi’s Capital City

In the previous post, I introduced you to Miyagi Prefecture — a place that may not be as flashy as Tokyo, as majestic as Hokkaido, or as historical as Kyoto, but has its own gentle charm with endless orchards, delicious food and drink, and a peaceful vibe. Today, let’s explore its vibrant capital city, Sendai — starting right at the core of it all: Sendai Station.

Why Sendai Station Is the Heart of the City

Sendai is the capital of Miyagi Prefecture and a lively, modern city with lots to offer. The easiest and most convenient way to get here is by train. In fact, I recommend it for two reasons:

1. Train tickets are flexible. Unlike flights that you often need to book days in advance, you can easily buy train tickets on the same day — just get from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station, then hop on a bullet train straight to Sendai Station.
2. Sendai Station is the city’s transportation hub. From here, you can access anywhere in Miyagi via train, bus, taxi, or hotel shuttle. Even better, it’s one of the top spots for shopping and food in the entire region!

Where to Stay – Hotel Metropolitan Sendai East

If you’re wondering where to stay in Sendai, look no further than Hotel Metropolitan Sendai East — a modern, comfortable hotel located inside Sendai Station itself. Opened in June 2017, the hotel caters to young travelers, couples, and businesspeople. The rooms are stylish, spacious, and the queen-sized beds? Huge and ultra-comfy!

Be careful not to confuse it with Hotel Metropolitan Sendai (no “East” in the name) — this one is located on the east side of the station, making travel super easy and your trip planning super efficient.

JR EAST Tourist Information Center – Inside Sendai Station

Located right inside Sendai Station is the JR EAST Tourist Information Center, where you can grab English-language brochures and info about places to see not only in Miyagi but across Japan.

Sendai is nicknamed the “City of Trees” and boasts incredible spots like Sendai Castle Site, Zuihoden Mausoleum, Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, and Jozenji Street. You can also enjoy traditional hot springs in areas like Akiu and Sakunami. And don’t forget to try the local specialties like Sendai gyutan (grilled beef tongue), sasa kamaboko (bamboo leaf-shaped fish cake), and Zunda mochi (sweet edamame mochi).

Sendai also hosts seasonal festivals like the Sendai Aoba Festival and the famous Sendai Tanabata Festival. Be sure to stop by the tourist center to collect all the info you need for an unforgettable visit!

Panoramic View from AER Observation Deck

If you’re in Sendai around sunset, don’t miss the AER Observation Deck (also called AER Lookout Terrace) located on the 31st floor of the AER Building. Entry is free, and you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.

The observation deck was built thanks to contributions from local residents and stands as a beloved viewpoint in the city. From up here, you’ll see shopping streets like Clis Road stretching like giant arteries into the heart of Sendai, and in the distance, the lush mountain ranges of Miyagi.

The deck has views on both sides of the building, so be sure to walk around for the full 360-degree experience. Opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM — make sure to go before the shops close!

Clis Road – Shopping Paradise Near Sendai Station

Sendai is also a shopper’s heaven. In addition to the Uniqlo store inside the AER Tower (closes at 8:00 PM) and MUJI inside LOFT Sendai across from the station (closes at 9:00 PM), you’ll find everything you need at Clis Road Shopping Street.

Here, you’ll come across big-name Japanese stores like DAISO (where almost everything is 100 yen), and Don Quijote, a massive store for cosmetics, food, snacks, and health products. Most stores around Clis Road and Sendai Station offer tax-free shopping if you spend more than 5,000 yen — just remember to bring your passport!

Before you leave, don’t forget to try Zunda Mochi, sold inside the shopping area of Sendai Station. And if you want a souvenir to sip on later, pick up a bottle of Umeshu (plum wine) — it’s sweet, fragrant, and oh-so-Japanese.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it — a complete guide to what to do, see, and eat around Sendai Station, the central hub of Sendai City. Whether you’re staying at Hotel Metropolitan East, hunting for deals at Uniqlo and MUJI, sipping tea at the AER Observation Deck, or indulging in local specialties — Sendai has something for every traveler.

Be sure to follow my upcoming posts for more detailed guides around Miyagi Prefecture. See you next time on Bill Balo!