Site of Sendai Castle

Sendai Castle Ruins are the remains of Sendai Castle, built over 400 years ago by Date Masamune. Because the castle stood on the naturally defensible Mount Aoba, it is also called Aoba Castle. No main buildings remain today, but the stone walls and reconstructed side turret evoke the former grandeur. The area is maintained as a park, with well-equipped exhibition facilities such as the Aoba Castle Museum and Sendai Kenbunkan. From the Honmaru ruins, you can look out over Sendai City and even the Pacific Ocean, and the famous equestrian statue of Date Masamune stands as if surveying the town below. From sunset to 23:00, the statue and stone walls are illuminated, making it a popular night-view spot. Access: about 10 minutes by car from JR/Subway “Sendai Station.” From Subway Tozai Line “Kokusai Center Station,” it’s about a 15-minute walk up Aobayama for a castle-climbing feel. From Sendai Station West Exit bus terminal, the retro loop sightseeing bus “Loople Sendai” is recommended—get off at “Sendai Castle Ruins” stop and it’s right there. Zuihoden (Date Masamune’s mausoleum) is nearby and pairs well for a visit.