A Guide To Exploring The Matsushima Islands

The hundreds of tiny islands that make up the Matsushima Bay in Miyagi Prefecture have been celebrated for centuries as one of Japan’s Nihon Sankei, or “Three Views of Japan.” The Nihon Sankei, which also include Miyajima and Amanohashidate, lists what are said to be the three most beautiful sights in the country. With four main observation points and over 200 islands, there is more than one way to see and explore the Matsushima Bay. Take a look at the best options below.

The four views of Matsushima

From a distance, a panoramic view of the bay can be taken in from four different mountaintops, each providing a uniquely beautiful viewpoint of the islands. The views are known as sōkan (magnificent view), reikan (beautiful view), yūkan (enchanting view), and ikan (grand view). Located at the top of Mt. Otakamori, sōkan boasts a gorgeous 360° view with the islands up front and the mountains in the distance. Reikan, in addition to a picturesque view of the bay, features two historical structures: Tomiyama Kannon-do Hall and the Daigyo-ji temple. To the west is yūkan, which offers a V-shaped view of the bay said to resemble a giant Japanese fan opening slowly. Finally, of the four spots, ikan provides the closest view to the islands.

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Island cruises

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