Reader’s Question:
Miyagi Solo Trip
In the morning, I’m planning to tour Matsushima, then head to Tashirojima (for the cats) in the afternoon. I hope to arrive at Sendai Airport around 6 PM, so I’m considering visiting one more place.
Do you have any recommendations? I will have a car. I plan to visit Sendai Station the day before.
Exploring Miyagi: A Solo Trip to Matsushima and Beyond
So, here’s the thing: I’ve always had a soft spot for Japan, and I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of exploring its nooks and crannies. Recently, I had the chance to take a solo trip to Miyagi Prefecture, and let me tell you, it was an adventure that filled my heart with joy and my camera roll with breathtaking views. I want to share my itinerary with you in case you’re planning a similar trip. Trust me; you’re going to want to make the most of your time in this beautiful area.
Morning Magic in Matsushima
I kicked off my adventure early in the morning at Matsushima, one of Japan’s three most scenic views. I drove there, and the route was gorgeous—think lush greenery interspersed with glimpses of the sea. You know that feeling when you’re driving with your favorite playlist, and the world just feels right? Yeah, that was me. Matsushima is famous for its pine-clad islands dotting the bay, and honestly, I was a bit skeptical about all the hype. But once I arrived, I totally understood. I parked near the bay and took a leisurely stroll along the coastline. The sight of those tiny islands peeking through the fog was straight out of a dream! I made my way to the famous Godaido Hall, a small shrine on an island that you can reach via a short footbridge. Can we take a moment to appreciate how peaceful shrines are? The gentle sound of water lapping against the rocks combined with the rustling of leaves—it’s like nature’s lullaby. I took my time here, capturing endless photos and just soaking in the tranquility. Next, I hopped onto a sightseeing boat for a quick tour around the islands. Pro tip: if you can, sit on the top deck for the best views. The captain was this charming older gentleman who waxed poetic about the history of the area, and I could feel his love for Matsushima. After about an hour, it was time to refuel. I couldn’t leave without trying Matsushima’s famous oysters. I found a small seaside restaurant and dug into a steaming plate of grilled oysters. Oh my goodness, they were so fresh and delicious! I think I might have made some happy noises while eating. If you’re an oyster lover, this is a must.
Afternoon Adventure on Tashirojima
Post-oysters, I jumped back into my car and headed towards Tashirojima, famously known as Cat Island. Yes, you heard that right! I mean, who doesn’t want to hang out with a bunch of adorable cats? The drive was a bit longer than I expected, but that just gave me more time to enjoy the scenery. I mean, can you really complain about being surrounded by such beauty? Once I arrived at Tashirojima, I could instantly feel the cat vibes. There were cat-themed signs everywhere, and I couldn’t help but smile. I parked my car and started exploring the island on foot. It’s small, so you can easily wander around, but keep your eyes peeled for the adorable felines. They were lounging everywhere—on benches, in the sun, and even peeking out from behind bushes. Some were shy, while others were super friendly, eager for some head scratches. I spent hours just wandering around, chatting with other cat enthusiasts, and taking pictures. I was living my best life, seriously! There’s even a cat shrine where you can leave offerings for the cats. Naturally, I couldn’t resist and left a little snack as a peace offering. You know, sometimes when you’re traveling solo, it feels a bit lonely. But here? I was surrounded by fellow cat lovers, and it felt like we were all part of this little community, united by our love for these fuzzy creatures. I made a couple of new friends too. I mean, does it get any better than bonding over cats?
One Last Stop Before Sendai Airport
By now, it was getting late, and I still had to make my way to Sendai Airport. But I didn’t want my day to end just yet! I remembered hearing about a hidden gem called Rikuzen Takata, a town that’s a symbol of resilience after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. It was on my way back, so I decided to make a quick stop. Rikuzen Takata is known for its beautiful landscapes, and I was curious to see how the town had rebuilt itself. I parked my car and wandered around, taking in the sights. One thing that struck me was the Takata Matsubara, a long stretch of pine trees that survived the disaster, serving as a reminder of nature’s strength. It felt oddly comforting to see how the community had come together to restore this beautiful area. As I strolled along the beach, I even stumbled upon some locals preparing for a festival. They were setting up stalls and hanging colorful decorations. I chatted with a few of them, and they welcomed me warmly, inviting me to join in their festivities. I couldn’t stay long, but it felt nice to be included in their preparations. Before I knew it, it was time to hit the road again. I had to make it to Sendai Airport by 6 PM, but I was riding a high from all the experiences I had that day. I hopped back in the car, and as I drove, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much beauty and warmth I had encountered in such a short time.
Final Thoughts
As I made my way to the airport, I found myself smiling like a goofball. My heart was full, and I felt incredibly grateful for the day I had. From the serene beauty of Matsushima to the quirky charm of Tashirojima and the resilient spirit of Rikuzen Takata, each stop had left me with lasting memories. Traveling solo can be a bit daunting at times, but this trip reminded me of the importance of exploring, even if it’s just for a day. I think we often underestimate how much joy we can find in the little things—like a beautiful view, a delicious meal, or the company of furry friends. If you ever find yourself in Miyagi, I hope you take the time to visit these spots. They’re full of life, beauty, and stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, there’s something magical about immersing yourself in a new place. So go ahead, hit the road, and make some unforgettable memories!
