Begin your private shore excursion with a convenient pickup directly from Sendai-Shiogama Port. Travel in the comfort of your own private vehicle, allowing you to enjoy each destination at your own pace.
Start at Shiogama Seafood Wholesale Market, a large seafood market open to the public and known for fresh seafood landed at Shiogama Port. Walk through the market, browse stalls selling fresh fish and processed seafood products, and experience the atmosphere of one of Miyagi’s important fishing communities. Depending on the time of your visit, you can also purchase seafood or enjoy local dishes at one of the market’s dining areas.
Continue to Shiogama Shrine, a historic shrine overlooking the city of Shiogama. Explore the peaceful shrine grounds and experience a place that has long been closely connected with the local community and the sea. The shrine grounds can be visited free of charge.
Next, travel to Matsushima, one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views and one of the country’s most celebrated coastal destinations. In Matsushima, you will have completely free time to explore the area. There is no fixed sightseeing route, allowing you to choose the places and experiences that interest you most and enjoy Matsushima at your own pace.
Take a Matsushima Bay sightseeing cruise to admire the islands from the water, visit the historic Zuiganji Temple, walk across the distinctive red bridge to Godaido Temple, stroll along the waterfront, browse local shops, or relax at a café overlooking the bay. You can also enjoy local seafood and regional specialities, including oysters. The standard Matsushima Bay sightseeing cruise takes approximately 50 minutes, so depending on the departure schedule and availability, you may be able to enjoy a cruise during your free time.
After enjoying your free time in Matsushima, meet your driver at the designated meeting point and return comfortably to Sendai-Shiogama Port in time for your ship’s departure.
Before the tour, you will receive an English digital guidebook with information about the itinerary and each sightseeing location. The driver speaks Japanese, and communication will be assisted by a translation app.