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Sendai
"My Year In Sendai"
I'm sure that things have changed since I was there last, but Sendai is a beautiful city on the North East Coast of Japan. The small towns around it are gorgeous and the way of life is very different from other areas of Japan.
I actually lived one hour south of Sendai in a small town called Shiroishi (meaning "white stone or rock). Shiroishi has a few thousand people and is about one hour by train to the city of Sendai.
The town is famous for their castle, their soba and their kokeshi dolls. You won't find too many foreigners - they are a bit of a novelty in Shiroishi but the people are extremely friendly, curious and kind. The town is tiny and picturesque with traditional Japanese houses lining the streets.
You probably won't find anyone that speaks English here and I don't think that there are any hotels or places to stay in this town.
Probably great for a day trip to have a picnic or enjoy some snacks under the cherry blossom trees at the castle.
The city of Sendai on the other hand is modern and fun and very very clean! It is definitely much cheaper than Tokyo but does not have as much hustle and bustle or activity. I spent many nights sneaking out to underground clubs drinking at foreigner cafes (there are quite a few of these in Sendai).
Sendai has its castles as well which are beautiful and gorgeous day trips to outlying areas.
it's a great place to go if you are looking to get out of Tokyo and visit a modern city with the small town feel.
