【Miyagi】Sendai Zuihoden Part 1

Zuihoden is easily accessible from the "Loople Sendai" sightseeing bus stop near Sendai Station, but be prepared for a moderate slope and stairs. During the special opening of Zuihoden, I had the privilege of viewing the revered statue of Lord Date Masamune. The museum adjacent to Zuihoden is also a must-visit. Learning about the meanings behind the carvings and other details beforehand enhances the experience.

Zuihoden is a mausoleum built in 1637, following the will of Lord Date Masamune, the founder of the Sendai Domain, who passed away at the age of 70 in 1636. Located on Mount Kyogamine, Zuihoden consists of the main hall, worship hall, offering hall, and Nirvana Gate. It was designated a National Treasure in 1931 as a splendid example of mausoleum architecture reflecting the Momoyama cultural style. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in the air raids of 1945. The current structure was rebuilt in 1979, faithfully replicating the scale and decorations of the original. In 2001, a major renovation was carried out to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Sendai's founding, restoring features such as carved lion heads on the pillars and dragon-headed tiles on the roof, bringing back its original appearance.

The main gate of Zuihoden is called the "Nirvana Gate." Reconstructed using centuries-old Aomori cypress, the gate features intricate carvings, including the mythical creature "Kirin" on the upper part of the front doors and "Peonies and Chinese Lions" on the side decorations, replicating the pre-war designs.

Before its destruction, the worship hall was at the same level as Zuihoden's floor, allowing visitors to pay respects to the wooden statue of Masamune through the bridge corridor and Chinese-style gate. The current worship hall has been simplified to provide a better view of Zuihoden.

Special Openings of Zuihoden
Zuihoden holds special openings on January 1st and 2nd, May 24th for the memorial service, August 6th, 7th, and 8th during summer, August 15th for Obon, and early to mid-October in autumn. These are rare opportunities to view the revered statue of Lord Date Masamune.

Admission Fee: 570 yen
With a Loople Sendai one-day pass: 460 yen

Zuihoden
Address: 23-2 Otamayashita, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0814

Post by こりのとりっぷ | Oct 19, 2025