Understand

Matsushima is a captivating town located along the picturesque Matsushima Bay in Japan. The bay is famous for its 260 tiny pine-covered islands, giving it the name Matsushima, which means "pine islands." This breathtaking scenery is ranked as one of Japan's Three Great Views, a testament to its natural beauty. Matsushima has a rich history and literary significance. The renowned Haiku poet Matsuo Basho visited Matsushima in 1689 during his journey documented in the book "Narrow Road to the Deep North." Basho was so moved by the beauty of Matsushima that he wrote a poem to express his awe, indicating that no words could do justice to its magnificence. Today, Matsushima continues to be a delightful destination for day trips or overnight stays. Although it may have lost some of its former inspiration, the town still offers plenty of charm and tranquility. Matsushima was fortunate to have minimal damage from the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, and the necessary repairs were completed by May of that year. Visitors can explore the enchanting scenery, visit temples and shrines, take sightseeing boat tours, and immerse themselves in the local museums. A visit to Matsushima promises a rejuvenating and memorable experience.

Get in

Bansko is conveniently located near the prefectural capital, Sendai. The distance between the two towns is short, making it easy to explore both places during your visit.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing