Matsushima Bay

Matsushima Bay is a sub-bay of Sendai Bay that spans Matsushima Town, Shichigahama Town, Rifu Town, Shiogama City, and Higashimatsushima City in Miyagi Prefecture, and it is regarded as one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Spots. More than 260 islands of various sizes are scattered throughout the bay, and its beautiful landscape has long fascinated people. It is said that these islands took their present form when, long ago, tectonic movement caused the land to subside and hills sank into the sea, leaving only their mountain tops above the water. According to a survey by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan, there are 144 named islands and 98 unnamed islands.

Many of the islands are made of rocks such as tuff and sandstone that are vulnerable to erosion. Near the sea surface, their white rock faces are exposed, while pine trees grow thickly on their upper portions. This contrast of white, green, and blue creates the distinctive scenery of Matsushima Bay.

Matsushima’s Four Great Views (Observation Spots)
Famous as spectacular viewpoints overlooking Matsushima Bay, the “Four Great Views of Matsushima” allow visitors to enjoy Matsushima from four directions, each with a different atmosphere.

So-kan, O-takamori (elevation 105.8 m)
This observatory on Miyato Island in Higashimatsushima City offers a 360-degree panoramic view from the summit. Visitors can take in the full, miniature-garden-like panorama of Matsushima Bay, as well as Suga Gorge and even the distant Zaō Mountain Range.

Rei-kan, Tomiyama (elevation 116.8 m)
This is the highest viewpoint among the Four Great Views. At the summit’s Daigyoji Temple stands Tomiyama Kannon, one of the Three Great Kannon of Ōshū, and from the temple grounds visitors can admire the scenery of Matsushima in a solemn atmosphere. It is a historic place also visited by Emperor Meiji.

I-kan, Tamonzan (elevation 55.6 m)
Located in Shichigahama Town, this spot overlooks the rough waves of the Pacific Ocean and the ships entering and leaving Shiogama Port. It is called “I-kan” because of the magnificent view it offers.

Yū-kan, Entsugyō (elevation 55.8 m)
Named because the inlet of Matsushima Bay resembles a fan. During the autumn foliage season, maples add a beautiful elegance to the scenery. It is one of the best viewpoints for taking in the full panorama of Matsushima.

Features and Highlights of the Islands
Each island floating in Matsushima Bay has its own name and origin.

Hōraijima: Named because it resembles Penglai Mountain from Chinese legend.
Niojima: A strangely shaped rock formation carved by coastal erosion, notable for looking as if two Nio statues are standing there.
Senganjima: An island praised by Date Masamune for its beauty; he reportedly said he would pay one thousand kan for moving it.
Yoroi-jima and Kabuto-jima: Named for their resemblance to the armor and helmet of a Sengoku-era warlord.
Kanejima: Named because when waves strike the four cave openings, the sound echoes like a bell. It is also sometimes called Kojima because of a hole resembling a gold coin.
Futagojima: A general name for two small islands standing side by side; the view from Oshima is especially beautiful, and they are also known as Kamejima and Kujirajima.

Sightseeing in Matsushima Bay
If you visit Matsushima Bay, a sightseeing cruise by pleasure boat is highly recommended. The approximately 50-minute cruise takes you around the bay, allowing you to enjoy the island scenery up close. Sightseeing while listening to onboard commentary about the history and island names offers a deeper understanding and greater appreciation of the area. The pleasure boats depart from the tourist pier, about a 6-minute walk from JR Matsushima-Kaigan Station, and tickets can be purchased around the station or at the Matsushima Kaigan Rest House.

In addition, Matsushima Bay features vermilion bridges connecting tourist spots, and the following are essential for a stroll: Fukuurabashi (Fukuura Island), Sutekibashi (Godaido), and Togetsubashi (Oshima).

Matsushima Bay is one of Japan’s premier scenic destinations, where its geological origins, the diverse landscapes of more than 260 islands, and famous attractions such as the Four Great Views and vermilion bridges come together. In addition to its majestic natural beauty, Matsushima Bay is steeped in history and culture, continuing to offer visitors seasonal charms throughout the year.