Sendai Port

What to know

Since Sendai's city center lies several kilometers inland, it's easy to overlook that the city is actually a major port. The Sendai Port (仙台港, Sendaikō) area is a key shipping hub for the Tohoku region, dotted with industrial warehouses and factories.

Beyond the commercial activity, the waterfront has recently been developed into a recreational zone, drawing locals and tourists with a modern aquarium, a beer factory, and large shopping complexes including an outlet mall. Sendai Uminomori Aquarium Hours: vary, typically 9:00 to 17:30 Admission: 2400 yen No closing days Opened in 2015, the Sendai Uminomori Aquarium is one of the largest and most modern aquariums in Tohoku. Alongside impressive tanks, dolphin and seal shows, and a penguin enclosure, it features marine life from the Miyagi coastline, including exhibits dedicated to oysters—a local seafood staple. English explanations are provided for many exhibits. Kirin Beer Factory Sendai Tours start between 10:00 and 14:50 Admission: 500 yen Duration: 80 minutes Closed: Mondays (or next day if Mon is a public holiday), New Year holidays Like Kirin's other breweries, the Sendai factory offers tours. Tours are conducted entirely in Japanese (though English pamphlets and signage are available) and provide an informative look at the beer-making process. After the 50-minute tour, adults can enjoy beer tasting and a brief lesson on how to pour the perfect glass. The facility also has a restaurant. Advance reservations are recommended and can be made online. Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port Hours: 10:00 to 20:00 The Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port is the largest outlet shopping center in Tohoku. It houses over 100 stores and restaurants, including several major international brands, some offering products at slightly lower prices than other retail stores in Japan. The closest train station to Sendai Port is Nakanosakae Station on the JR Senseki Line (20 minutes, 210 yen one way from Sendai Station, every 10 minutes). From Nakanosakae Station, it's a 15-30 minute walk to most of the port's attractions.