Guida
The Sendai City Museum is a comprehensive museum located within Aoba-yama Park on the site of the former Sendai Castle Sannomaru. It houses a wide range of materials regarding the history, culture, art, and crafts of the Tohoku region. The museum was established in 1961 with the primary goal of preserving and researching the precious cultural assets donated by the Date clan, the former lords of the Sendai Domain. The building itself is a notable piece of architecture, completed in 1986 with a steel-reinforced concrete structure that has received architectural awards. The museum offers a profound connection to the region, blending its collection with the natural beauty of its historic location.
The museum sits on a site that has witnessed the long history of Sendai, specifically the Sannomaru area of Sendai Castle. Most of the exhibits are deeply intertwined with the history of the Sendai Domain and the culture of the Date clan. The art, crafts, and historical documents donated by the Date family play a vital role in unravel-ing the history of Sendai. Additionally, the grounds contain monuments that tell a multi-faceted story of the region, such as a memorial for military horses and animals used by the 2nd Imperial Japanese Army Division from the Meiji era through the wartime period.
The museum features several exhibition rooms dedicated to the history and culture of the Tohoku region. The most striking feature is the collection of art and crafts related to the Date clan. For younger visitors, the 'Play Museum' offers an interactive experience where children can try on samurai armor or test Japanese musical instruments, providing a hands-on way to engage with culture. Outside, the grounds are dotted with historical monuments, including a statue of Lu Xun gifted from Shaoxing, China, a monument to Jiro Abe, and the 'Zangetsutei' tea house, which was relocated and reconstructed on-site. Furthermore, fans of the popular manga 'Haikyu!!' can find a special monument at the main entrance, based on the setting that a character from the series works at the museum.
As part of Aoba-yama Park, the museum can be enjoyed amidst changing seasonal landscapes. The outdoor exhibits are particularly beautiful during the gentle weather of spring or the vibrant foliage of autumn. The interior of the museum provides a calm and serene environment; visiting during the bright daylight hours allows visitors to experience the exhibits under soft natural light. The surrounding park area changes with the seasons, making a visit to the museum a perfect part of a scenic stroll through the park.
Beyond viewing exhibits, the 'Play Museum' offers a chance to experience Japanese traditions through wearing samurai armor and playing traditional instruments. This makes the history feel more tangible and accessible. Outside, you can explore the historical monuments and the architecture of the relocated 'Zangetsutei' tea house. These elements provide a multi-dimensional understanding of Japanese culture that goes beyond simple observation.
The museum is nestled within Aoba-yama Park, with nearby attractions such as the Sendai International Center. It is easily accessible from major sightseeing spots in Sendai. Using the 'Loople Sendai' sightseeing bus from Sendai Station is a smooth and convenient way to reach the museum and explore the surrounding natural environment.
To protect the precious historical materials, there are specific rules regarding entering exhibition rooms and photography. While there are no strict clothing requirements, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes as the museum is located within a large park area.