DO
Matsushima Bay – This is an incredibly scenic area that features hundreds of tiny islands you can see from a boat.
Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery – This distillery tour is a bit of a pain to get to, but it’s interesting enough (with some free whisky samples at the end) that’s it’s worth the effort.
Pokemon Go – While in Japan, you’re bound to see large crowds congregating and playing Pokemon Go, which is still a big deal in that country.
Rinnō-ji Temple – It costs 300 yen to get into the garden at Rinnō-ji Temple, and it’s totally worth it.
Sightseeing – Three of the must-see sights in Sendai (Zuihōden, Sendai Castle, and the Sendai City Museum) are conveniently within walking distance of each other.
Yamadera Temple – This place is about an hour’s train ride outside of the city, and it features some breathtaking views. Don’t miss it.
EAT
Aji Tasuke Honten – If you only try one thing in Sendai, it’s gotta be the local specialty, gyutan — grilled beef tongue. Aji Tasuke Honten is featured in the Michelin guide and invented the dish, so it’s obviously the place to visit.
Choco Cro – This is a chain of bakeries that sells a very tasty chocolate croissant (the eponymous Choco Cro).
Daikoku Sushi – Shiogama is just outside of Sendai, and features one of the highest concentrations of sushi restaurants in all of Japan. One of those restaurants is Daikoku Sushi, and man, it’s so good.
Mensho Bonten – The ramen here isn’t mind-blowing, but even middle-of-the-road ramen in Japan is still quite delicious.
Set lunch – I’m not sure what this restaurant is called, but they offer a tasty and affordable set lunch.
Tonkatsu Katsusei – If you’re in Sendai with a craving for tonkatsu, you’ve gotta check this place out.
Zunda Saryo – Zunda is a bright green dessert made from soybeans; along with gyutan, it’s Sendai’s culinary claim to fame. Don’t miss it.