Miyagi Prefecture | The Heart of Tohoku, Where City and Nature Harmonize

Miyagi, flourishing as the center of the Tohoku region, is a place where urban life and nature coexist in harmony.

Sendai, known as the “City of Trees,” is a city rich in greenery, history, and culture. In central Sendai, Aoba-dori and Jozenji-dori are lined with beautiful zelkova trees, offering a different scenic charm with each season.

The area is still deeply influenced by the legacy of the famed samurai warlord Date Masamune. Remnants of his era can be seen throughout the region, including castle ruins and local festivals. On Mount Aoba, the former site of his castle, a statue of Date Masamune stands proudly, watching over the city of Sendai to this day.

Miyagi’s culinary culture is also a major attraction. Local specialties such as Sendai beef tongue, zunda mochi (sweet edamame rice cakes), and sasa-kamaboko (bamboo leaf-shaped fish cakes) are well-known across Japan and are popular souvenirs.

In 2011, Miyagi was heavily affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, and through the long process of recovery, the region has reshaped its way of life alongside the sea.

Miyagi Prefecture: Key Facts

Prefectural Capital

Sendai City

Major Cities

Sendai City
Ishinomaki City
Kesennuma City

Population

Approximately 2.3 million

Representative Places and Events

Matsushima
Sendai Castle Ruins
Naruko Onsen
Shiogama Shrine

Local Cuisine

Gyūtan-yaki [Sendai] – grilled beef tongue
Zunda-mochi – sweet edamame paste on rice cake

Articles About Miyagi Prefecture

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Scenery in Miyagi Prefecture

Sendai, also known as the City of Trees, is filled with beautiful rows of zelkova trees lining its streets.

The Pageant of Starlight is a beloved winter tradition in Sendai. Stunning illuminations adorn the rows of zelkova trees.

Dating back to the era of Date Masamune, the Sendai Tanabata Festival transforms the city’s arcades with a dazzling display of colorful streamers and decorations.