Recommended Reservation Available
Legacy of Date Masamune Tour via LOOPLE Sendai Sightseeing Bus
Learn about the legacy of city founder and feudal lord Date Masamune at Sendai’s three most famous sightseeing spots: Zuihoden Mausoleum, the site of Sendai Castle, and Osaki Hachimangu Shrine.
Operation Period
All year round
Time Required
4-5 hours
Number of Participants
1〜10people
Price
On this tour we'll visit three locations connected with Date Masamune using the convenient LOOPLE Sendai sightseeing bus. The bus departs from the Sendai Station bus pool. So I can meet you at the “Stained Glass” on the 2nd floor of JR Sendai Station or your hotel lobby (downtown only) to guide you there.
Date Masamune (1567-1636) was one of the most interesting characters in Japan's long history. His nickname was the "One-eyed Dragon" because he was strong and cunning, and he had only one eye. Masamune was also a man of culture who loved tea, calligraphy, and fashion. The buildings in Sendai connected with Date Masamune and the Date clan display a blend of power and elegance.
Our first stop is Zuihoden Mausoleum, the final resting place of Date Masamune. The tomb is highly decorated with detailed woodwork and bright colors. This is a rare example of Momoyama architecture which is hard to find in modern Japan. After we walk through some cedar trees, we’ll find the tombs of Masamune’s son and grandson as well.
Let’s hop back on the LOOPLE Sendai bus and go to the top of Mt. Aoba where the former Sendai Castle (also called Aoba Castle) was located. A statue of Masamune on horseback overlooks the panoramic view of modern Sendai. There are some remains such as stone walls and a reconstructed watchtower we’ll pass by. For an additional charge, we have the option of doing a virtual reality experience or visiting the castle museum to see a video showing what the castle once looked like, as well as view artifacts such as authentic suits of samurai armor.
After riding the bus through the city then across Hirose River, we’ll depart at our last location: Osaki Hachimangu Shrine. This shrine is a designated National Treasure that survived wartime bombing. The shrine is loved by Sendai citizens and is a popular place to pray for victory.
After visiting the shrine, we’ll board the sightseeing bus one final time and I will take you back to JR Sendai Station or to the front of your hotel.
For inquiries or bookings, please send a message to: msk_sendai*yahoo.co.jp (replace * with @).
| Experience Program Name | Legacy of Date Masamune Tour via LOOPLE Sendai Sightseeing Bus |
|---|---|
| Activity Location | Zuihoden Mausoleum, Sendai Castle, Osaki Hachimangu Shrine. |
| Time Required | 4-5 hours |
| Operation Period | All year round |
| Start Time | 9:00 |
| Minimum number of participants | 1people |
|---|---|
| Maximum number of participants | 10people |
| Reservation Deadline | 7 days before by 17:00 |
| About suspension of the activity | If you wish to cancel or change your reservation, please contact us immediately. Requests for changes may not be available depending on the time and reservation situation. |
| Important notes regarding participation | ・There are uneven stone steps at each location which could cause trouble for those with difficulty walking. ・Large groups may have trouble using the LOOPLE during peak times (holidays/weekend afternoons), so we may have to wait for another bus with less people. |
| Price |
| ||
|---|---|---|---|
| What is included in the price | Guide fee, guide's admission for attractions, guide's transportation. | ||
| What is not included in the price | Transportation costs for Loople Sendai for customers, food/drinks, admission for attractions for customers, insurance for participants. | ||
| Remarks regarding price | The Loople Sendai ticket stub offers discounts at some facilities or shops around Sendai. You should keep it all day just in case. | ||
| Method of Payment | Please pay in cash on the day. | ||
| About cancellations and changes | The tour will be conducted even in rainy weather, but will be canceled in case of stormy weather or disaster. Please check with us the day before the event. | ||
| Cancellation Policy | No cancellation fee is charged. |
| Meeting Spot | JR Sendai Station or hotel lobby (downtown only) 2F in front of the "Stained Glass" |
|---|---|
| Meeting Time | Please come by the start of the tour. |
| Access | JR Sendai Station, 2F Stained Glass. |
| Parking | Yes There is no designated parking, so please use nearby paid parking. |
| Facility Information | LOOPLE is equipped with free Wi-Fi, restrooms at each location. |
| Barrier-free Access | No |
|---|---|
| About Guides and Tours | The tour is led by a local guide. |
| About multi-lingual support | Japanese／English |
I was born and raised in Tohoku and I’ve lived in Sendai more than 30 years. I know about Sendai, Matsushima and other tourist spots in Tohoku such as Yamadera, Hiraizumi, and so on. I have experience guiding various tours including private tours, group tours and inspection tours of tsunami affected areas. I like talking with people. If you visit Tohoku, I’d love to take you to the most interesting and beautiful places. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon.