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Getting Around Sendai

Getting Around Sendai

Miyagi Japan Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Sendai offers a clean and reliable public transit system, mainly consisting of subways and buses. The network makes exploration easy.

Comprehensive Overview:

  • Sendai Subway: Operates two lines: the Namboku Line (north-south) and the Tozai Line (east-west), giving quick access city-wide.
  • Sendai City Bus: An extensive network encompasses the entire city and connects to suburban areas. Buses reach many places not served by the subway.
  • Loople Sendai: A specialized sightseeing bus service. It follows a circular route, connecting major tourist attractions in central Sendai.

Routes & Fares

  • Important Hubs: Sendai Station (central hub for subway, buses, Shinkansen), Kotodai-Koen Station (Namboku/Tozai intersection), International Center Station (near Castle Ruins).
  • Ticketing: IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, Icsca) are useful on subways and city buses. Single tickets are available at stations. For motorcoaches, pay on boarding (cash, exact change).
  • Day Passes: Loople Sendai Day Pass (JPY 600), Sendai Subway One-Day Pass (JPY 600/620). Consider Sendai Area Pass (JPY 1,320/2,670) for wider coverage.
  • Hours & Frequency: Subway 5:30 AM-midnight (4-15 min frequency). City Buses 6:00 AM-10:00 PM (varied frequency). Loople Sendai 9:00 AM-4:00 PM (20 min frequency).

Accessibility

Subway terminals and trains generally provide wheelchair access with elevators and ramps. Newer city buses are low-level and accessible.

Navigation Tips

Use Smartphone apps like Waze or Japan Transit Planner (Navitime) for real-time route planning, schedules, and prices. IC cards give convenience.

Eco-Friendly Transit

Public transport is an eco-conscious choice for exploring the city, reducing carbon footprint.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services
  • Identification: Licensed taxis have green license plates and a roof-mounted lamp.
  • Hailing: Look for a taxi with a lit "空車" (kūsha) sign ("vacant"). Find taxis at designated stands (e.g., Sendai Station) or book using app/phone.
  • Doors: Taxi doors available and close automatically. Do not attempt to open them yourself.
Fares & Ride-Sharing
  • Fares: Metered. Base fare typically JPY 600-700 for 1.0-1.5 km, then JPY 80-90 per 200-300 meters. Late-night surcharge (10 PM-5 AM) is 20%.
  • Payment: Cash is always accepted. Many taxis also accept IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) plus bank cards.
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber and DiDi Mobility operate in Sendai, mainly connecting users including customary taxi services. Japan's taxi services are highly regulated, safe, and reliable.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Requires IDP and home license. Major companies at airport/station. DiscoverCars.com.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common for tourists; specific licenses needed.

Bicycle Sharing

Sendai Datebike is popular with docking stations in central Sendai.

Driving Laws

Drive on left, seatbelts are required, strict DUI laws. Parking can be expensive.

Walking & Cycling

Sendai is a city made for walking and biking, with pedestrian-friendly areas and scenic routes.

Pedestrian Exploration

  • Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Downtown Sendai areas like Ichibancho shopping arcade, Aoba-dori, and Jozenji-dori are ideal for walking.
  • Parks & Riversides: Jozenji-dori, Kotodai Park, Nishi Park, and routes along the Hirose River offer pleasant walking paths.
  • Walking Tours: Self-guided tours are uncomplicated with apps and maps. The Loople Sendai bus complements self-guided tours to major sites.
  • No-Go Areas: No specific "no-go" areas exist due to safety concerns. Exercise caution on busy multi-lane roads.

Cycling Adventures

  • Bicycle Infrastructure: Dedicated bicycle lanes are not extensive but exist in certain places.
  • Safety: Cycling on sidewalks is common but needs caution around pedestrians. General road biking needs awareness of traffic.
  • Scenic Routes: Explore riverside paths plus calmer suburban streets by bicycle for another perspective of Sendai.
  • Personal Protective equipment (ppe): Wearing a helmet is advisable, though not always mandatory for adult cyclists.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

The Loople Sendai bus specifically serves tourists. It stops at significant landmarks and functions as a hop-on-hop-off service.

  • Circular route
  • Commentary available
  • Connects main sights
Boat Cruises

Matsushima Bay Cruises are available from Matsushima Pier or Shiogama Port (easily accessible from Sendai). These offer scenic tours of the islands.

  • "One of Japan's Three Scenic Views"
  • Day trip from Sendai
  • Varying cruise lengths
Accessibility Services

Public transportation generally provides accessibility features. Information is available at stations and tourist information centers. Advance preparation is useful.

  • Subway, newer buses accessible
  • Elevators plus ramps at stations
  • Inquire at information centers

Excluded Transport Options

Not Available in Sendai City
  • Cable Cars or Funiculars: No cable cars or funiculars operate within Sendai city.
  • Boat Taxis/River Transport: No significant boat taxi or river getting around for tourist travel within Sendai itself.
  • Trams: Sendai does not have a tram system.
Important Distinctions
  • The Loople Sendai bus is a dedicated tourist service, not a regular city bus route.
  • Matsushima Bay cruises are a day trip experience, not local city transport.
  • Always verify the specific operating hours and availability of any transport service, especially during holidays.

Your Sendai Journey

Navigating Sendai is simple with its effective public transportation and diverse rental options. Plan your routes and enjoy exploring this city at your own pace.

Either by subway, bus, bicycle, or on foot, Sendai welcomes you to discover its distinct charm.

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