Sendai Private Customizable Full Day Tour

Sendai , Japan

Sendai Private Customizable Full Day Tour

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All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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About this experience

Explore Sendai city with a private 8-hour tour designed to match your interests. Choose 4 to 5 attractions for a customized itinerary, guided by a local expert who ensures a smooth and engaging experience. From historical landmarks to modern highlights, this tour lets you discover the best of Sendai at your own pace. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a personalized journey.

Available options

Public Transport

Bus, Trains or other: This tour includes public transportation costs with your tour expert (1 tour guide only). All transportation costs included.

Private: 1 Driver + 1 Guide

Private Car: This tour includes private chartered vehicle (1 driver) with a tour expert (1 tour guide). All transportation costs included.

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Choose 4 to 5 sites for a personalized tour of Sendai

English-speaking professional tour guide

8-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf

Transportation within the city only

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Zuihōden is a magnificent mausoleum dedicated to Date Masamune, a powerful feudal lord of the Edo period.

A magical world awaits young adventurers at the Sendai Anpanman Children’s Museum & Mall.

The Miyagi Museum of Art is a cultural treasure trove showcasing a rich collection of Japanese and Western art.

Sendai Castle, or Aoba Castle Ruins, is a historic site offering stunning panoramic views of Sendai City.

Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium is a captivating underwater world showcasing a diverse range of marine life. From the coastlines of Japan to the depths of the ocean, visitors can explore the wonders of the aquatic realm.

Aobayama Park is a sprawling green oasis offering panoramic views of Sendai City. Once the site of Sendai Castle, the park now boasts a blend of history and nature. Explore the ruins of the castle, visit the Aoba Castle Museum, and admire the statue of Date Masamune. The park is also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring.

What's not included

Meals, food and drinks not specified

Gratuities (optional)

Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 14 days or less before event

We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 21 days or less before event

We will charge a cancellation fee of 25% if booking is cancelled 30 days or less before event

PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:

After your booking, you will receive a link to the Sendai Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Sendai Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before your tour date

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences

If you cancel the tour any time after we have sent you the custom Itinerary, the service fee of 15% of your total tour cost will be nonrefundable

Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator in Japan, with hundreds of registered and vetted tour guides nationwide. We offer tours in any location in Japan and manage all details, including transportation and tickets. Visit Japan Awaits to learn more about our tours or inquire about a custom experience today

Mode of transportation: Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)

Custom Itinerary:

Organizing and planning a trip requires a lot of time, and if we have made reservations on your behalf, it may be challenging to cancel some booking requests. Once we receive your booking and responses from the Custom Tour form, we’ll begin creating your itinerary and organizing the necessary arrangements for your tour

How far in advance should I book?

Preparing a customized tour takes time, especially if restaurant or venue reservations are needed. We recommend booking as early as possible—ideally 3 months in advance, or at least 1 month before your travel date. For requests made within 7 days of travel, we may not be able to arrange the tour in time, and your booking request may be canceled with a full refund

What if I'm late?

We ask that all guests arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before the designated meet-up time

Guests are provided with the tour guides’ phone number before the tour and you can call the tour guide if you need help

Although this is a private tour, the tour guide will only wait for you for up to 30 minutes of start time before the tour is cancelled

Attire: Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions

Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour

Meeting point

We meet all travelers at a starting point.

About Sendai

Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region of Japan, is known for its lush greenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. As the capital of Miyagi Prefecture, it offers a blend of modern urban life and traditional charm, with numerous temples, shrines, and natural attractions.

Top Attractions

Osaki Hachimangu Shrine

One of the most important Shinto shrines in the Tohoku region, Osaki Hachimangu is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. It's a popular spot for traditional festivals and ceremonies.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Miyagi Museum of Art

This museum showcases a diverse collection of art, including traditional Japanese art, modern works, and international exhibits. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local art scene.

Museum 1-3 hours ¥300-¥1,000

Zuihoden Mausoleum

This mausoleum is the final resting place of Date Masamune, the famous samurai lord who founded the city of Sendai. The site features beautiful gardens and intricate architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥500

Jozenji-dori Avenue

Known as one of the most beautiful tree-lined streets in Japan, Jozenji-dori Avenue is famous for its double row of zelkova trees that create a stunning canopy. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll.

Architecture/Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Sendai Castle Ruins

Also known as Aobajo Castle, these ruins offer a glimpse into Sendai's samurai history. The site includes a museum and a reconstructed tower with panoramic views of the city.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥200

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gyutan (Grilled Beef Tongue)

A specialty of Sendai, gyutan is grilled beef tongue often served with rice and various toppings. It's known for its tender texture and rich flavor.

Main Dish Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Zundamochi (Mugwort Rice Cake)

A traditional Japanese sweet made from rice flour and filled with zunda, a paste made from mashed edamame beans. It has a unique, slightly bitter taste.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten

Sendai Tanmen (Noodle Soup)

A local noodle soup dish featuring a rich, miso-based broth with various toppings such as seafood, vegetables, and meat. It's a hearty and comforting meal.

Main Dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan with modifications

Ishigaki (Grilled Fish)

A traditional Sendai dish featuring fish grilled over an open flame, often served with rice and vegetables. The fish is typically a local variety such as mackerel or salmon.

Main Dish Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Snow sports in Zao Onsen (winter) Boat tours in Matsushima Bay Onsen (hot spring) baths in Zao Onsen Strolling through Jozenji-dori Avenue Visiting local cafes and tea houses Visiting temples and shrines Exploring museums and art galleries

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer comfortable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring is particularly famous for cherry blossoms, while autumn brings beautiful fall foliage.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sendai is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis and tour services

Getting there

By air

Sendai Airport • 13 km from city center

By train

Sendai Station

By bus

Sendai Station Bus Terminal, Other regional terminals

Getting around

Public transport

The Sendai Subway system is efficient and easy to use, with two lines: the Nanboku Line and the Tozai Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Aoba Ward Nakano Ward Izumi Ward

Day trips

Matsushima

40 km from Sendai • Full day

Matsushima is a picturesque bay known for its beautiful islands, temples, and shrines. It's one of the Three Most Scenic Views of Japan.

Yamadera

30 km from Sendai • Half day to full day

Yamadera is a mountain temple complex known for its beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and panoramic views. It's a great spot for hiking and enjoying nature.

Zao Onsen

50 km from Sendai • Full day or overnight

Zao Onsen is a famous hot spring resort nestled in the mountains. It's known for its relaxing onsen (hot spring) baths and beautiful natural surroundings.

Festivals

Sendai Tanabata Festival • August 6-8 (main days), with related events throughout the month Sendai Pageant of Starlight • Late November to early December Sendai Sansa Odori • August 3-6 (main days), with related events throughout the month

Pro tips

Purchase a Suica or Pasmo IC card for convenient and discounted public transportation
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Try local specialties, such as gyutan (grilled beef tongue) and zundamochi (mugwort rice cake)
Visit during the spring or autumn for pleasant weather and beautiful foliage, but be prepared for crowds during peak travel seasons and festivals
Explore the city's green spaces, such as Jozenji-dori Avenue and nearby parks, for a relaxing and scenic experience