Day 29 - Matsushima Bay

Matsushima—temples, islands and new friends

We caught the train from Sendai around 8:15 this morning. A small ticket-gate hiccup was sorted out when we arrived, and then we were free to explore.

We wandered through temple grounds and gardens, past wooden halls, stone lanterns and beautifully tended trees, then crossed the long red bridge to Fukuura Island. Our wanderings added up to about eight miles on foot—the long loop across the water on our Gaia trace was the boat doing the work!

At 2 p.m. we cruised around Matsushima Bay, getting close views of pine-covered islands, pale cliffs, sea arches and improbable stacks of rock. Trees somehow manage to cling to the most unlikely places.

We shared the boat with a lively group of schoolchildren. Cindy had great fun with them, with plenty of smiles and peace signs for the camera. On the train back, we met a couple from Florida and enjoyed a long conversation. A scenic day made even better by the people we met.

Back at Sendai Station, we found a shop stocked with international foods—including chocolate and peanut butter—and a lovely bakery next door. Familiar treats suddenly seemed like quite a discovery!

Dinner was burgers and fries, washed down with an Asahi. They hit the spot perfectly. Temples, islands, new friends and a very satisfying dinner—a good day all round.Read more