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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Kesennuma.
Kesennuma, a coastal gem nestled in northeastern Japan, is a vibrant hub of natural beauty and cultural richness, where the ocean meets the mountains and tradition blends with modernity.
From indulging in fresh seafood delights to exploring the resilient spirit of the local community in the aftermath of the 2011 tsunami, Kesennuma offers a multitude of experiences that will awaken your senses and touch your heart.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kesennuma:
1. Ryoriyama Park
Ryoriyama Park is a beautiful park located in Kesennuma, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the park’s lush green gardens and enjoy the scenic views of the ocean. You’ll find several walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking scenery of the island while you’re at the park.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the cherry blossom season to see the park in full bloom.
2. Kesennuma Oshima Island
Kesennuma Oshima Island is a small, picturesque island located off the coast of Miyagi prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: – Visit the Oshima Island Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Miyagi prefecture that dates back to over 1,000 years ago.
Don’t miss: – The breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset over the ocean from Oshima Island.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit to coincide with the annual Oshima Island Festival, typically held in August, to experience the local culture and festivities.
3. Kesennuma Port
Kesennuma Port is a bustling fishing port located on the eastern coast of Japan.
What to see or do: -Visit the Kesennuma Fishing Port Market to sample fresh seafood.
Don’t miss: -The chance to try the locally caught salmon, oysters, and other seafood delicacies.
Insider travel tips: -Visit early in the morning to catch the fishing boats coming in.
4. Kurosaki-Kaikyo Gorge
Kurosaki-Kaikyo Gorge is a picturesque gorge located in Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive along the gorge, taking in the beautiful waterfalls, lush greenery, and stunning rock formations. The area is also popular for fishing, as it is home to various species of trout.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a hike along the Kurosaki-Kaikyo Gorge Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the gorge and its surroundings.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during peak autumn season from late October to early November, when the foliage turns into a picturesque palette of colors.
It is also advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and to be aware of changing weather conditions, as the area can get slippery and muddy during rainy days.
5. Rias Ark Museum of Art
Rias Ark Museum of Art is an art museum located in Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. It was founded to preserve and exhibit artworks collected by the late oil trader Kenshin Sasaki.
What to see or do: The museum’s collection includes over 3,000 pieces of art, ranging from classic to contemporary works from Japan and overseas.
Visitors can admire paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and other forms of art from prominent artists such as Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, and Taro Okamoto.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the permanent exhibition, which showcases the museum’s extensive collection. Also, don’t miss the changing exhibitions that showcase various themes and works.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located on a hill that overlooks the Onagawa Bay, which offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
6. Hashikami Furusato-kan Museum
Hashikami Furusato-kan is a small but charming museum located in the town of Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. It offers visitors a glimpse into the local history and culture of the area.
What to see or do: The museum has several exhibits showcasing local crafts, including lacquerware, pottery, and textiles. Visitors can also learn about the local fishing industry and see tools used in traditional fishing methods.
There is also a small collection of local artwork and photographs.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll through the nearby Japanese garden, which features a pond, a waterfall, and traditional stone lanterns.
It’s a peaceful and serene spot that’s perfect for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in Japanese crafts, be sure to visit the gift shop at the museum. It has a great selection of locally made items that make for perfect souvenirs or gifts.
Additionally, plan to spend some time in the nearby town of Kesennuma, which is known for its fresh seafood and beautiful coastal scenery.
7. Kesennuma-Shishiori Station
Kesennuma-Shishiori Station is a train station located in Shishiori, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The station itself is small, but very picturesque with a traditional Japanese-style design and a beautiful garden full of seasonal flowers.
It’s a great spot for taking photos and enjoying the quiet scenery.
Don’t miss: The train ride to Kesennuma is breathtaking, passing through stunning coastal landscapes and offering panoramic views of the ocean.
Kesennuma is known for its delicious seafood, so be sure to try some of the local specialties like oysters and sea urchin.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the Sakura (cherry blossom) season in the spring to see the station surrounded by a beautiful pink canopy of flowers.
If you’re traveling from Tokyo, take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Sendai and transfer to the local train to Kesennuma-Shishiori Station.
Be sure to check the train schedule in advance as there are limited train services to the station.
8. Kesennuma Fish Market
Kesennuma Fish Market is a major fish market located in Kesennuma City in northeastern Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can observe the bustling fish auction that takes place early in the morning and purchase various types of fresh seafood directly from the market stalls.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to try some of the local delicacies like seafood sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to arrive early in the morning to witness the energetic atmosphere of the fish auction and to get the freshest catch of the day.
Additionally, bringing cash is recommended as most vendors do not accept credit cards.
9. Toyoma Beach
A picturesque beach located in Kesennuma, Miyagi, Japan.
What to see or do: Take long relaxing walks on the soft sands, admire the stunning view of the ocean from the beach, and go for a swim in the clear blue waters.
Don’t miss: The gorgeous sunrise and sunset views at the beach that are a sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to try the fresh seafood at the nearby restaurants or stalls, and bring bug spray as the sand fleas can be a nuisance during certain times of the year.
10. Roadside Station “Harbor-Youkan”
A roadside station in Kesennuma, Miyagi prefecture, Japan that offers various local specialties and fresh seafood.
What to see or do: Savor the famous “youkan,” a traditional Japanese sweet made of red bean paste that is only found in Kesennuma. Shop for souvenirs such as local sake, seafood products, and handicrafts.
Enjoy a meal at the restaurant that serves dishes made with fresh and locally caught seafood.
Don’t miss: Trying the Kesennuma-style seafood rice bowl, which features a generous serving of sashimi-grade seafood on top of a bed of rice.
Also, check out the observation deck that offers a panoramic view of Kesennuma Bay.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning to see the tuna auction, where fresh tuna caught in Kesennuma is sold to traders from all over Japan.
Make sure to try the “chanchan yaki,” a local dish made of salmon and vegetables cooked on an iron plate.
If you are interested in fishing, there is a fishing spot right beside the station where you can catch your own seafood to eat or take home.
11. Rias Kannon
Rias Kannon is a massive statue of the Buddhist goddess of mercy located in Kesennuma, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the size and beauty of the statue, which stands at over 48 meters tall and features a viewing platform at the top of her head.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the surrounding area from the top of the statue, which is accessible by an elevator or stairs.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to visit on a clear day for the best views.
12. Kesennuma City Museum
Kesennuma City Museum is a historical and cultural museum located in Kesennuma, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum houses exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Kesennuma and its surrounding area.
Visitors can explore the permanent exhibition, which includes artifacts and displays related to the fishing and maritime industry, local traditional crafts, and the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the full-sized fishing boat on display in the museum, as well as the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the fishing industry firsthand.
Insider travel tips: If possible, plan your visit for a day when the museum offers guided tours or special events. The knowledgeable guides can provide insight into the exhibits and the history of the area.
Also, make sure to stop by the museum shop for unique souvenirs and locally-made crafts.
13. Kesennuma City Central Market
Kesennuma City Central Market is a bustling seafood market located in the port town of Kesennuma, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the market and see a wide variety of fresh seafood such as crab, squid, octopus, and various species of fish.
The market also offers a selection of prepared foods such as sushi, sashimi, and grilled seafood skewers.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try the local specialty dish, Kaisendon (seafood rice bowl). It’s a delicious and generous serving of fresh sashimi on top of a bed of rice.
Insider travel tips: The market is busiest in the morning, so arrive early for the freshest catches.
14. Karakuwa Peninsula
A scenic peninsula located in the city of Kesennuma in Miyagi prefecture, Japan, famous for its rugged coastline and stunning ocean views.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely drive or hike along the picturesque coastal road, stopping at several lookout points to admire the amazing scenery of the Pacific Ocean and the rocky cliffs.
Visit the Karakuwa Observatory, a popular spot where you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea, mountains, and fishing villages.
You can also explore the Karakuwa-Maru, a retired tuna fishing boat turned museum that gives you a glimpse into the local fishing industry.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking sunset views from the peninsula are a must-see.
Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the changing colors of the sky as the sun sets over the ocean.
Insider travel tips: If you’re lucky, you might spot some dolphins playing in the waves along the coast.
Also, make sure to try the local seafood dishes, particularly the fresh sashimi and sushi made from the catch of the day.
Plan your visit in late June to early July to catch the Karakuwa Sea Festival, a popular event that features a fireworks display, concerts, and traditional cultural activities.
15. Shishiori Range Lookout Park
Shishiori Range Lookout Park is a scenic park located on the eastern coast of Japan’s Miyagi Prefecture, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Shishiori Mountain Range.
What to see or do: Enjoy a panoramic view of the stunning coastline, gaze out at the vast ocean, and take in the beauty of the rugged mountain range.
Take a stroll around the park, relax on the benches, and enjoy a picnic in the peaceful surroundings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the observation deck, which provides an unobstructed view of the ocean and the mountain range. The park also contains a restaurant where visitors can taste the delicious seafood that the area is famous for.
Insider travel tips: Visit during sunset when the sky turns into a beautiful shade of orange and red, making the park even more picturesque.
The park can get crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.