Matsushima Island Sightseeing Cruises

Matsushima Island Tour Sightseeing Boats are popular cruises that let you enjoy Matsushima’s islands and scenery from the water. The most popular route is the large scheduled cruise “Niomaru Course,” looping an approximately 17 km route through famous islands in Matsushima Bay such as “Kanejima” and “Niojima.” Onboard announcements explain island-name origins and more, and the close-up views of Matsushima’s unique rocks and islands are well liked. For small groups and families, mid-size and small charter boats are available, with multiple courses ranging from a short 25-minute ride to a longest 70-minute route that covers many islands—one appeal is reaching spots large boats can’t. Tickets are sold at four locations in Matsushima. If arriving by train, the JR Senseki Line “Matsushima-Kaigan Station” ticket office is right in front of the station. The Central Office in front of Zuigan-ji’s approach is about an 8-minute walk from “Matsushima-Kaigan Station” and is closest to the large-boat pier, but it can get very crowded depending on season—using the nearest ticket counter can be more efficient. For small-boat use, the Matsushima Green Plaza Office or Godaido Office is convenient depending on your departure/arrival point.