Highlights of Matsushima
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Port
Ishinomaki, Japan
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Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$200
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Depart the pier for the 50-minute drive to Zuiganji Temple, founded in AD 1609. It is among the Tohoku region's most famous Zen temples and is renowned for its beautifully painted fusuma sliding doors. The adjacent Zuiganji Treasure Museum exhibits original samurai swords, interesting historical artifacts, and traditional art that is quite sublime.
Walk to Entsuin Temple, founded in 1647 -- an Important Cultural Property. The mausoleum's interior is decorated in gold leaf and paintings and the rock garden with maple and cedar trees is a scenic representation of the Matsushima islands. There is a painting depicting the oldest Western rose in Japan. This painting features a gold leaf background with three colors: white, red, and green created with verdigris and coral so that its colors will never change permanently. This is a highly unusual feature for a Buddhist temple.
Stroll down to the bayside with some free time to explore on your own. Don't miss the intricately designed Godaido Temple -- a small temple hall originally built in AD 807 on an islet next to the pier. This is an iconic symbol of Matsushima reached by way of red arched bridges. It provides breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.
Please note:
Tour requires considerable walking. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. You must remove your shoes or more location(s). Photography is not allowed at Zuiganji Temple. Venue capacity is limited; the group may be split to accommodate inside visits. Tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency, as some vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. Tour requires approximately 15 minutes of walking from the coach parking area to Godaido Temple. The temple is not wheelchair accessible. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, inclines, gravel, grass, and steps.