Most full days out of Sendai head west into the Zao mountains for the Okama crater lake and the fox village, often with Ginzan Onsen on the way back. Matsushima is the coastal alternative if you’d rather have islands than mountains.
Compare fox encounters, Ginzan Onsen scenery, timing, seasonal trade-offs, and value on this full-day trip from Sendai.
Most Popular★ 4.8“I was expecting a lot of snow at Ginzan Onsen, but it was just okay. I felt the same about the Zao Fox Village; it was a bit too expensive. However, the transportation was convenient and didn't require much thought.”
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80 reviewsFrom $142.09
Compare Zao’s winter snow monsters with Ginzan Onsen on a long, organized day trip from Sendai, with group ropeway access and extra fees to plan for.
★ 4.8“The itinerary was changed to Silver Mountain Hot Springs in the morning and Mount Zao snow mountain after lunch. For me, going to the snow mountain in the morning would have been better. As a result, the weather on the snow mountain was bad that…”
★★★★★★★★★★
51 reviewsFrom $125.05
Compare fox watching, local Shiroishi noodles and Ginzan Onsen on a small-van day trip from Sendai, with practical tips on costs, timing and pickup.
★ 4.8“Visiting Sendai this time, we decided at the last minute to use Klook and ended up riding in Mr. Tanaka's car. Not only was it a new car, but the service was top-notch! The timing was well-managed, his attitude was great, and he even prepared…”
★★★★★★★★★★
49 reviewsFrom $74.29
Discover the hidden gems of Sendai and Matsushima with a knowledgeable guide. Experience the beauty and culture of Japan like never before. Book your private tour now!
★ 5.0“Riko gave a wonderful tour of Matsushima and surrounding areas. The tour was perfectly paced and very enjoyable. We toured the shrines around Matsushima bay, the beautiful islands and bridges, ate wonderful food and learned a lot about the area and its culture. I would…”
★★★★★★★★★★
18 reviewsFrom $154.37by Japan Guide Agency
Review this Sendai day trip to Zao Okama, Fox Village, and Ginzan Onsen, with practical details on timing, costs, language, and trade-offs.
★ 4.6“Love the small group ride, very quiet and can fully rest for the activities. Guide is polite and informative.”
★★★★★★★★★★
17 reviewsFrom $111.25
See Zao’s color-shifting Okama crater, free-roaming foxes and kokeshi crafts on a guided day trip from Sendai.
★ 4.8“it was a pity we can't see the crater due to the weather. guides were very helpful”
★★★★★★★★★★
8 reviewsFrom $156.39
Compare Yamadera’s mountain temple with Ginzan Onsen on a full-day Yamagata tour, with practical advice on winter delays, guiding, and value.
★ 3.8“The driver was very friendly, the schedule was managed perfectly, and both Yamadera and Ginzan Onsen were beautiful. I didn't expect Tendo Onsen to be such a great place for shopping, though (I'll have to drive there myself next time to stock up).”
★★★★★★★★★★
5 reviewsFrom $105.95
Compare Zao’s winter snow monsters with the foxes of Shiroishi on a guided day trip from Sendai, with practical tips on timing and mountain conditions.
★ 4.3“First, gather at Sendai Station, then take the Snow Monster bus up Mount Zao. Upon arriving at the summit of Mount Zao, there's only 15 minutes for taking photos; any longer and your time is up! Plus, the snow is so deep, reaching mid-thigh, making…”
★★★★★★★★★★
4 reviewsFrom $124.85
Build a Sendai cherry blossom day around your own stops with a private car, local driver, and up to eight hours on the road.
★ 5.0“awesome driver. great experience”
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3 reviews8 hoursFrom $430.95
Luxuriously explore Sendai's top attractions at your own pace with a personalized full-day tour, complete with an English-speaking guide and hotel transfers. Learn more about this exceptional experience.
★ 5.0“The perfect experience thanks to our guide Chie Tamada. Very kind, extremely knowledgeable of the town's rich culture including history, food and customs. She went above and beyond to make my friends and I feel welcome and cared for. Could not recommend anyone better!”
★★★★★★★★★★
2 reviewsFrom $231.58by Japan Awaits