Matsushima Bay, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is a group of about 260 shima, small islands, covered in matsu, pines. Along with Miyajima and Amanohashidate, Matsushima Bay is one of Japan’s most famous sights. Matsushima’s beauty can be appreciated by land or sea. Various points among the islands are ideal for viewing the scenery, and local cruises allow visitors to enjoy the islands from offshore.
Visitors to Matsushima experience the peaceful atmosphere of its temples and natural beauty. The ancient Godaido temple is located next to Matsushima Pier. Its outer walls are decorated with carvings of the twelve animals from the lunar calendar. Enshrined within Godaido are the statues of five deities. Rarely seen by the public, these statues are displayed only once every 33 years. Zuigan-ji, another temple in Matsushima, is well known for its caves carved into the rock and used for memorial services. An art museum on the temple grounds, established in 1995, displays calligraphy, fusuma paintings, teacups, and portraits. Oshima Island, close to Matsushima Pier, can be reached on foot by crossing a short bridge. The island has caves that were formerly used by Buddhist monks to pray and meditate in.
Overlooking Matsushima Bay, Karantei is the largest Momoyama-style tea house in Japan. This elaborately decorated tea house was originally built in Kyoto and moved to Matsushima in 1645. One of its rooms has sliding screens covered in gold foil and fine works of art hung upon its walls. Behind the tea house, Matsushima Museum has tools, armor, weapons, and other artifacts on display.
Explore the Matsushima Bay, Zuiganji Temple, Oshima Island... Speak to Your Japan Travel Expert for more details about what to do or experience in Matsushima
The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what's possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.
It was our first trip to Japan. Working with Jeff was a pleasure. His knowledge of the country and local contacts were very helpful. Choice...
Working with Jeff at Rediscover Tours was a wonderful experience. He helped me plan a 10 day trip of a lifetime to Japan with my mother...
I would like to take this opportunity to commend and thank you for the marvelous vacation we recently enjoyed in Japan. The entire experience exceeded...
Years after years we have selected the best specialists about Japan. They have at least lived a minimum of 10 years in the country. They are here to answer all your questions and to make your tour just the way you want it.
![](https://www.rediscovertours.com/wp-content/themes/RediscoverTours/img/team/team1.jpg")
Jeff was born in a south suburb of Chicago named South Holland and lived in Japan for 14 years. He now lives in Commerce Township, Michigan with his wife Yoshimi, son Shota, and daughter Mina. He enjoys playing with his kids, volunteering with his daughter’s marching band, cycling and training & teaching Aikido.
Michiyo was born in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Prefecture though currently lives in Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture. Her main passions in life is traveling all around the world and enjoying their cultures.
Noriko was born in Nagoya. During her childhood she moved around Japan following her father’s office transfer. She especially liked her time in Shizuoka, facing Mt Fuji. She now lives in Minoo (in the suburb of Osaka). Noriko graduated from Hiroshima university. She’s been to Malaysia, Thailand and Europe (Germany and Bulgaria). Her hobbies are hiking, reading and surfing.
Great trips don't just happen It takes a lot to create a truly memorable holiday. You can rely on us to make your trip a perfect Japanese Experience
This is your trip. Together we will design it just for you.
Your interests will be front and center.
We handle your specific requests. We will inform accommodations, guides and partners of any meal requirements, allergies or disabilities you may have.
Your Japan expert has lived in Japan for many years or is Japanese.
We know the hidden treasures of Japan.
Because most of our staff live in Japan we are always aware of what’s happening in Japan. Throughout our network of partners we get first-hand information that will benefit your trip.
They add a whole new depth to your Japanese tour.
Our local guides are extremely professional and knowledgeable.
Your guide will listen to you, give you suggestions and show you sights you want. They are also very flexible and can make on the fly changes to fit your style, mood, weather and crowds.
Our office in Japan is here to assist you.
Rediscover Tours has been organizing travel to Japan since 2000.
You will arrive in Japan feeling safe and comfortable knowing that all the details have been taken care of and that our Japan office is just a phone call away. Indulge yoursefl!
