Matsushima - the pine islands of the north
Matsushima (litt. Pine Island) is the name of a smaller community on the coast north of Sendai in northern Honshu island. It is designated as one of the "three most beautiful sights of Japan". Start from Sendai and take the train to station Hon-Shiogama. From here you can board a sightseeing boat to Matsushima town, passing on your way all the famous pine-clad little islands of Matsushima bay. Going back to SEndai again, you can board the train directly in Matsushima at the Matsushima kaigan station.Apart from the bay cruise and walks on some of the islands closest to the mainland, the town of Matsushima also boasts a really preyy temple called Zuigan-ji. There is a recently added museum on the temple premises, however, there isnt much info in English as to what is actually shown in the museum.
