It was Lu Xun who made people want to go to Sendai. Isn't that artistic?
Sendai: A rendezvous with history and nature
I first learned about Sendai in northeastern Japan from the story of Mr. Lu Xun, who studied there and gave up medicine for literature. Curious about this city, I embarked on a journey to Sendai.
Upon arriving in Sendai, the first thing I noticed was its "greenery." In a country like Japan, where land resources are scarce, Sendai's urban greening is exceptional. The lush greenery makes you feel like you're in a forest, full of comfort and relaxation.
During my half-day experience in Sendai, Zuihoden left a deep impression on me. It is the mausoleum of Date Masamune, the first lord of the Sendai Domain, and his descendants. Although small in scale, it is deep in the forest, with a spectacular approach reminiscent of the Kumano Kodo. The museum uses a lot of high-tech, such as reconstructing Masamune's appearance based on his skull and showing the restoration process, bringing history to life.
The Sendai Daikannon is 100 meters tall and very imposing. You can take the 910 bus from Sendai Station Bus Stop 19, and the fare is 400 yen. If you don't go inside, it takes about an hour and a half round trip, with about 10 minutes for photos. When I arrived, I was overwhelmed by the grandeur of the Daikannon. On the way back, I walked along the street, taking pictures and walking to Nakayama Hachichome to catch the bus. The Daikannon and the street scene complemented each other.
There are many other attractions worth visiting in Sendai. Outside the Green Plaza, there is a bust of Date Masamune and a large lawn. Sometimes there are markets, full of energy, and you can get free postcards. Goshikinuma, the birthplace of figure skating in Japan, has a unique charm. The Sendai Museum is Tsukishima's workplace, and there is a small volleyball sign at the entrance. There is a statue next to the Lu Xun Monument, which makes you think of Mr. Lu Xun. Sendai Castle is a steep climb from the museum, and although there are only ruins and a statue of Date Masamune on horseback, the view is open, overlooking Sendai City and the Daikannon.
The beef tongue street on the third floor of Sendai Station is not to be missed. Most of the local beef tongue shops in Sendai are gathered here, and you can also buy Sendai's specialty edamame milkshake next door, which tastes great.
The Lu Xun Memorial Hall at Tohoku University is also a must-see. The Tohoku University Archives is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 17:00, and the Lu Xun Lecture Hall is open every Wednesday and Friday from 10:30 to 16:00, with reservations required at least one day in advance. In the archives, you can see records of Lu Xun's time at Tohoku University, his notes, and his grades.
Sendai is a city with a rich history and fresh nature. Every attraction seems to tell its own story, making the trip worthwhile.