Visiting Miyagi prefecture? Then you definitely need to go visit all the beautiful temples and shrines that Miyagi has to offer.
You can devote a whole day to seeing these temples and shrines if you like learning about history. Zuigan-ji temple, a national treasure, is one of the most famous and a place you should put on your list of must-sees.
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Zuigan-ji Temple
The dazzling main hall constructed by the first feudal lord of the Sendai clan, Masamune Date, cannot be missed. Experience art from Japan’s Middle Ages at Zuigan-ji Temple, where many Important Cultural Properties including National Treasures are maintained.
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Godaido Temple
Godaido is located on a small island in Matsushima Bay. Built in 1604, this temple has the powerful appearance of Momoyama architecture. Enshrined within the temple, there are 5 “hibutsu” (Buddhist images not open for viewing) made during the mid-Heian Era. They are only opened for public viewing once every 33 years.
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Entsuin Temple
This distinguished Zen temple was constructed in the 17th century. Starting with the Meditation Garden with its towering cedar trees, there are four different gardens to enjoy. The mausoleum for Mitsumune Date, made with the finest craftsmanship of the time, is also something not to be missed.
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Zuihoden
This mausoleum applies the design of Azuchi-Momoyama culture which is known for its gorgeous ornamentation and architecture. It was constructed in 1937 as the final resting place for the founding leader of the Sendai clan, Masamune Date, but burned down due to war damage. However it was rebuilt in 1979.
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Osaki Hachiman-gu Shrine
By the order of the Sendai feudal lord, Masamune Date, the splendid main shrine building began to be built from 1604 and took 12 years to be completed. The shrine has been designated as a National Treasure due to its status as one of the country’s oldest examples of the magnificent architecture symbolizing Azuchi-Momoyama culture.
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Naruko Onsen Shrine
A 1,000-year-old shrine located on the plateau with an onsen town. Within the shrine grounds, there is a large kokeshi doll which is a traditional handicraft of Naruko. During the National Kokeshi Festival held every September, kokeshi from Japan are given as offerings.
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