Yui-Shiori
Enjoy a panoramic view of Sendai's cityscape and the Pacific Ocean from the equestrian statue of Lord Masamune
MiyagiTravel

Enjoy a panoramic view of Sendai's cityscape and the Pacific Ocean from the equestrian statue of Lord Masamune

About this spot

The ruins of Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle), constructed by Lord Masamune on Aoba Mountain during the Keicho era. This was a practical mountain fortress without a main tower, naturally fortified by the precipices of the Hirose River to the east and deep forests to the west. The equestrian statue of Lord Masamune standing at the castle's main enclosure is famous as a symbol of Sendai, and the vista beyond the statue stretching to the Sendai cityscape and the distant Pacific Ocean is truly breathtaking. The high stone walls of the main enclosure's northern rampart, which convey the castle's former appearance, reach approximately 17 meters in height, and the sheer power of the meticulously stacked stones testifies to the might of the domain's administration. The Aoba Castle Museum exhibits video recreations of the main enclosure's great hall using computer graphics, making it enjoyable to walk while imagining the castle's lost past. The time spent gazing together toward the same direction that Lord Masamune once looked, now filled with the modern City of Trees, is truly special.

Tips

From Sendai City Museum to the main enclosure, it is approximately a 20-minute walk up Aoba Mountain. Using Loople Sendai, the 'Sendai Castle Ruins' bus stop is right near the main enclosure for easy access. Viewing the main enclosure is free and open to all (the Aoba Castle Museum requires admission). The mountaintop is windy, so a light jacket is reassuring in spring and autumn.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes required. Afternoon with favorable sunlight provides clear views of the cityscape. Favorable conditions for photographing the equestrian statue.

Access & map

〒980-0862 Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Kawauchi

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Model course featuring this spot

Sendai: A Historical Walk through Zuihoden and Aoba Castle Ruins with Lord Masamune

Miyagi

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Enjoy a panoramic view of Sendai's cityscape and the Pacific Ocean from the equestrian statue of Lord Masamune (Miyagi) | Things to Do & Highlights | Yui (栞)