MileHacker Logo
Sendai Travel Tips

Sendai Travel Tips

Sendai Miyagi, Japan Travel Guide

Communication

Stay connected with local SIM cards or pocket Wi-Fi.

Local Services

  • Local SIM Cards: Major providers Docomo, au, SoftBank.
  • Internet Access: Free Wi-Fi at hotels, cafes, stations.
  • Postal Services: Japan Post offices for letters and parcels.

Connectivity Options

Tourist SIM cards are available from providers like B-Mobile, Sakura Mobile, or via e-SIM services.

Recommended Providers

  • eSIM services: Airalo for instant data.
  • Portable Wi-Fi: Solis Wi-Fi for consistent internet.
  • Global connectivity: Multiple solutions for seamless travel.

Language & Translation

Japanese is the main language. English is common in tourist areas, but not as much elsewhere.

Translation Resources

  • Translation Apps: Google Translate, DeepL (with camera/voice options).
  • Language Learning: Rosetta Stone for basic phrases.
  • Phrasebooks: Carry a small phrasebook for quick reference.

Important Phrases

A few phrases make interactions smoother.

Phrases to Know

  • "Arigato gozaimasu": Thank you (polite).
  • "Sumimasen": Excuse me / Sorry.
  • "Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?": Do you speak English?

Business Hours & Schedules

Retail & Dining

  • Shops & Dept Stores: Generally 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM.
  • Restaurants: Lunch 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, Dinner 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM.
  • Convenience Stores: 24/7.
  • Supermarkets: Usually 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM.

Banking & Holidays

  • Banks: Weekdays 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (closed weekends/holidays).
  • ATMs: Widely available 24/7 at convenience retailers and post offices.
  • New Year (Jan 1-3): Many shops shut or have reduced hours.
  • Golden Week (late April-early May): Busy travel period.

Planning Ahead

Check official online resources for specific opening hours of attractions, as some may have seasonal closures or else reduced schedules, often on Mondays.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Engage respectfully with local customs for a richer journey.

Greeting Customs

Bowing is the standard form of greeting and showing respect. A slight nod is enough for casual interactions.

Appropriate Attire

Modest dress is appreciated when visiting temples and shrines. Cover your shoulders and knees. Neat casual wear is generally acceptable.

Dining Practices

Tipping is not practiced. Say "Itadakimasu" before eating and "Gochisousama deshita" after. Slurping noodles is acceptable.

Photography Permissions

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children.

Guidelines

  • Ask for permission before taking photos of individuals.
  • Avoid intrusive photography, respect privacy.
  • Observe "No Photography" signs in restricted areas.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Observe general social courtesies.

Cultural Notes

  • Avoid loud conversations on public transport.
  • Do not talk on the phone in crowded public transport.
  • Punctuality is highly valued in Japan.

Further Etiquette

Common Courtesies

  • Pointing: Use an open hand, not a finger.
  • Trash: Carry trash until you discover a bin or head back to accommodation.
  • Remove Shoes: At homes, ryokan, designated temple/shrine areas.

Social Acceptance

  • Public Displays of Affection: Generally rare in Japan.
  • LGBTQ+ Information: Social acceptance varies; major cities are more open.
  • Sendai has some LGBTQ+-friendly venues.

Accessibility in Sendai

Sendai features accessible infrastructure. Major train and subway stations offer elevators plus accessible bathrooms. Newer hotels have accessible rooms. Historical sites could have restricted access owing to their traditional design. Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access. For flight disruptions, Compensair may provide assistance.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Explore Sendai while minimizing your footprint and supporting local communities.

Environmental Considerations

Support eco-friendly initiatives and make conscious choices.

Locations

  • Matsushima Bay: Protecting its unique ecosystem.
  • Zao Quasi-National Park: Conserving volcanic landscapes.
  • Water Conservation: Mindful use of water is encouraged.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

Support local craftspeople and traditional arts.

Ways to Contribute

  • Purchase authentic souvenirs directly from artisans.
  • Respect historical sites and follow rules.
  • Engage in cultural workshops and events.

Ethical Shopping

Prioritize purchasing goods directly from local artisans or small, independent businesses.

Fair Trade & Local Support

  • Local Markets: Shop at Sendai Asaichi for fresh produce.
  • Dine at local restaurants to back the community.
  • Sustainable Goods: Choose products with environmental certifications.

Responsible Choices

Research activities and contribute thoughtfully.

Considerations

  • Animal Tourism: Research to ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Exploitation: Avoid activities that exploit local populations.
  • Charitable Giving: Support reputable local non-profit organizations.

Important Reminders

Waste Disposal

  • Public trash bins are scarce; carry your trash.
  • Follow hotel guidelines for sorting waste.
  • Water conservation is always encouraged.

Respectful Conduct

  • Keep noise levels down in public spaces.
  • Avoid talking on the phone in crowded public transport.
  • Always obey "no photography" signs.

Ethical Tour Operators

Sustainable Travel Providers

  • G Adventures for ethical tour options.
  • Look for operators focusing on community benefit.
  • Choose trips that practice fair wages and local employment.

Conservation Initiatives

  • The Rainforest Site supports global conservation.
  • Support local efforts to preserve natural beauty.
  • Consider visiting protected areas with local guides.

Carbon Offset Options

For eco-conscious travel, you can support carbon offset programs independently. Consider platforms like Terrapass to mitigate your travel footprint.

Itinerary Suggestions

Tailor your Sendai adventure with these suggested itineraries for different lengths of stay and interests.

Historical & Heritage Focus

Explore Sendai's rich past.

Sites

  • Sendai Castle Ruins, Zuihoden Mausoleum.
  • Osaki Hachiman Shrine, Sendai City Museum.
  • Hiraizumi (Chusonji Temple) - Day Trip.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Savor local delicacies.

Must-Try

  • Gyutan restaurants, Zunda shops.
  • Sendai Asaichi market.
  • Shiogama for fresh sushi - Day Trip.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Seek thrills and natural beauty.

Active Pursuits

  • Hike Mt. Izumigatake.
  • Ski or snowboard at Spring Valley (winter).
  • Matsushima Bay cruise.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Activities for all ages.

Kids' Favorites

  • Sendai Anpanman Children's Museum AND Mall.
  • Enjoy Nishi Park.
  • Seasonal fruit picking in rural Miyagi.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Sendai Mediatheque

Explore this iconic modern architectural marvel.

Miyagi Museum of Art

Contemporary and traditional Japanese art.

Osaki Hachiman Shrine

Study its intricate Momoyama structural details.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Visit Rinnoji Temple, Osaki Hachiman Shrine, and Sendai Toshogu Shrine for reflection. Spend nights at a ryokan in Akiu Onsen or Sakunami Onsen for relaxation and onsen bathing.

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in Sendai. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation