Matsushima (松島), Miyagi (宮城)
Tohoku, Honshu, Japan
Autumn 2009
For hundreds of years Matsushima Bay (松島) has been celebrated as one of Japan's three most scenic views. It is is a group of islands in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. The bay is dotted by over 260 small islands (shima) covered by pine trees (matsu) - hence the name. The view of Matsushima changes from place-to-place and from-season-to-season, which earns it its well-deserved status.
A good way to enjoy the bay is to get on a cruise boat. There are round trips starting and ending at Matsushima which run on an hourly basis. The cruise will allows an up-close view of fascinating-shaped islands like Niōjima (with its Donald Duck façade), Senganjima (Masamune Date's favorite island), Misagojima (two lion-headed islands linked by a bridge), and Meganejima (two people holding hands).
The windows on the boat are cleaned before every cruise - Helps ensure all passengers get a good view of the bay - We were very impressed by the efficiency and attention to details!
Feed for birds at 100 yen per pack - Calbee crisps!
The gulls are experts at catching the crisps!
Seagull in action : Target in sight - It swoops down - and gets it!
Silhouettes in the sunset...
