Miyagi's space-age stadium (Allsport)

Located in the southern part of the Tokohu (north-east Japan), Miyagi is a hugely popular tourists attraction.

It boasts wonderful coastlines, mountains plus a colourful history and culture.

Sendei, capital of the ara, has prospered as the nuceleus of the Tohoku region since the 17th century when it became the stronghold of the Date clan.

Its prosperity has persisted even after the late 19th century modernization period through to the niodern day.

There are a number of stunning monuments to Lord Date Masamune who guided his clan to its former power.

Hot springs and delicacies from the mountains and the sea are the current speciality for the area.

Places To Visit

Sendai Castle Site: Now a park situated on a hilltop commanding a sweeping view of sendai.

The original castle used to be a famous stronghold built by Lord Date Msamune in the early 17th century, but only some part of the structures ad walls remain today.

Zuihoden Mausoleum: Situated in a 400-year cedar grove, Zuihoden is dedicated to the soul of Lord Date Mausame. Its architechtural brilliance is a big draw for tourists.

Osaki Hachimangu Shrine: Lord Date Masamune built this shrine to consecrate the guardian deity of the Date clan.

It has been designated a National Treasure because of its architectural brilliance.

Rinnoji Temple: The family temple for the Date clan, Rinnoji is celebrated for its Japanese garden that welcomes visitors with seasonally changing beauty.

Matsushima: One of three noted scenic views of Japan, picturesque Matsushima features more than 260 islets afloat in a bay.

It is said even the haiku poet-saint Basho could find no words to describe its beauty.

Zuiganji Temple: The temple is another must for tourists.

Its Main Hall and other wonderful structures represent the quintessence of the Momoyama-period culture and are designated National Treasures.

Accommodation

A wide range is available in downtown in Sendai, from affordable business hotels to first-class city hotels.

In other tourist areas around the prefecture, especially at hot spring resorts, a stay at a ryokan is highly recommended to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle.

Where To Eat

Kesennuma: A seaside city located in the Rikuchu Coast National Park.

The world's greatest supplier of Shark's fin, the city is also famous for other marine products.

Kesunnuma boats one of Japan's largest catches of fresh seafood which never fail to please gourmet palates.

Local delicacies: Beef tongue dishes; Sasa-kamaboko (fish paste shaped like bamboo leaf and grilled); Sendai dagashi (traditional hand-made confections), Zunda-Mochi (rice cake wrapped up in sweet soy bean paste), sushi, seafoods (sea urchin, scallop, oyster, tuna etc), umen noodles.

How To Get There

By Rail: From Tokyo to Sendai, JR's Tohoku Shinkansen super-express is most convenient. (1hr 36min to 2hr 32 min).

From Car: From Tokyo to Sendai, take Tohoku Expresseway to Sendai-Miyagi IC then to downtown Sendai (approx 5hr).

From Downtown Sendai to the World Cup stadium in Rifu: Approx 30 mins by car.