Matsushima

Matsushima is a collection of around 260 forested islands scattered across the bay of the same name in Miyagi Prefecture. The islands rise in different sizes from the calm water and form a maze of rock formations, narrow passages and small coves.

The bay formed thousands of years ago through tectonic movement and rising sea levels that turned hills into islands. During the Edo period the place became a destination for travelers and attracted haiku poets such as Matsuo Bashō, who mentioned the landscape in his writings.

The name Matsushima means Pine Island and refers to the black pines growing on the rocky formations that shape the bay's appearance. Visitors today still see the same trees and coastline that have inspired painters and poets for centuries.

Tour boats go out into the bay and allow visitors to see the islands up close, with the journey taking about an hour depending on weather conditions. On clear days a wide view over the entire island group can be seen from the shore or from raised points along the coast.

Some of the islands have passages and caves formed by the erosion of soft tuff stone that become visible at low tide. The different shapes of the rocks led to folk names that refer to their appearance, such as Lion Rock or Helmet Rock.

Location: Miyagi Prefecture

Part of: Three Views of Japan, 新日本旅行地100選, 100 izborov japonskega belega peska in zelenih borovcev, 新日本觀光地100選, 100 Best Urban Parks in Japan, Top 100 Geological Sites in Japan, 100 Landscapes of Heisei

Website: https://matsushima-kanko.com

GPS coordinates: 38.35556,141.07639

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:33