S e n d a i

It is the last day to use our JR Rail Pass, and I wanted to make full use of it. We have never gotten beyond north of Tokyo other than Nikko, so I took the opportunity to visit Sendai with the Pass. Sendai is in the Tohoku region and the journey by JR train is almost 2 hours. Closed by to Sendai is Matsushima Bay, which is one of Japan's three most scenic views. I have to see it for myself.

 The best way to see Matsushima Bay is by taking the cruise boat.

 While waiting to board, we made friends with a pair of doggies. Look how interesting the owner dressed them up.

 As in all seaport, seafood is in abundance.

 We board the one-way cruise boat from Shiogama.

 The navy coast ship guarding the water of Japan.

 Matsushima Bay is dotted with many islands covered with pine trees.

 These islands were probably land and it got eroded over the centuries to form small pine clad islets.

 Returning cruise boat passing between the islands.

 This particular one has the belief that whoever passes through it would live 3 years longer.

 Resting place for sea birds.

 Kanejima. Wonder how many years longer can you live if you pass through this one?

 The sun setting as we approached the end of the cruise.

Smoking Chimney.

 Silhouette cast against the setting sun.

 Pretty printed fabric that you could frame it as wall paintings.

 Where we board our train back. Just loved the wood feel.

 We visited a factory outlet, that is near to the bay.

 Mitsui Outlets is considered small, and the items are not exactly cheap. We strolled and left in quick time.

 Sendai city has more things to see & shop. Look how orderly these taxis are.

 We spend the evening at the city before embarking another long train ride back to Tokyo.

From my short day trip, I found Sendai to be a pleasant and comfortable city. Although it is the largest city in Tohoku, it has a lot of open space and does not give me the concrete jungle feel. The roads are wide and the buildings are not cluttered. In fact, I see more greens here than in Tokyo. It is certainly worth a 2nd visit, perhaps enroute to the Tohoku region.

And another travel trip awaiting....