Miyagi Prefecture offers a surprising variety of experiences for travelers eager to explore Japan beyond the big cities. Known for its lush landscapes, traditional towns, and fresh seafood, Miyagi is a spot where you can combine authentic cultural encounters with outdoor adventures. We’re especially fond of the Afternoon Cycling Tour in Naruko because it lets you pedal through beautiful Satoyama scenery and visit onsen towns, offering a glimpse into local life and traditions. This tour is a great way to see the countryside at a relaxed pace while enjoying unique cultural experiences like tasting Kuri Dango, a local sweet. For those interested in local crafts, the Kimono fabric badge and keyring workshop provides an authentic hands-on souvenir-making experience that captures Miyagi’s textile heritage [].
If convenience is your priority, the Private Transfer from Sendai Airport to Sendai City offers a smooth start to your trip, ensuring you relax after your flight and start exploring without hassle. For food lovers, Miyagi’s Local Food Tour in Shiogama, famed for its tuna and sushi, is a must. It combines fresh seafood sampling with walking through historical streets, making it a flavorful introduction to Miyagi’s culinary scene. And for those craving outdoor action, the Catch and Dine A Gourmet Fishing Experience offers fresh river fish, which you can enjoy cooked on the spot—an experience that truly highlights Miyagi’s reputation for quality seafood.
Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of each tour, helping you choose the best fit for your interests and schedule.
1. Afternoon Cycling Tour in Naruko

At number 1 on our list, the Afternoon Cycling Tour in Naruko offers an immersive way to explore Miyagi’s rural charm. Starting at 1:00 pm from the Naruko Nature Center, this approximately 4-hour ride takes you through the tranquil onsen towns, rice paddies, and mountain-surrounded farms of Naruko. You’ll pedal past traditional grass-roofed houses and small ryokans, gaining a real sense of local life. The tour includes visits to spots like onsen villages, and the guide shares local stories and insights along the way, making it more than just a bike ride.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of scenic beauty and cultural experiences. The highlight is the visit to Kuri Dango, a beloved local sweet, which gives you a taste of regional flavors. Riding through Satoyama landscapes—those traditional farming areas—is both calming and educational. While reviews are limited, the tour’s pace and focus on authentic scenery make it a good choice for active travelers who want a meaningful outdoor experience. The price is $156, which covers nearly four hours of guided cycling plus cultural stops.
Bottom line: If you like combining outdoor activity with cultural discovery, this tour offers a memorable afternoon that’s both scenic and delicious.
2. Make Unique Items with Kimono Fabric Kimono Fabric Badge + Kimono Fabric Keyring

For around $24, this Kimono fabric crafting experience offers a rare chance to make a personalized souvenir rooted in Miyagi’s textile traditions. Over about 2.5 hours, you’ll choose from thousands of fabrics to create a custom keyring or badge. The process is straightforward and suitable for all ages, making it perfect for families or anyone wanting a tactile, memorable keepsake.
What makes this activity unique is its focus on local kimono fabrics, which are often beautifully textured and colorful. You’ll take home a one-of-a-kind item, a wearable or displayable piece that captures the essence of Miyagi’s craftsmanship. After crafting, you can relax at the café with a drink and baked cake, creating a leisurely, cultural end to your session. Though reviews are limited, the chance to craft an authentic item that directly ties to Miyagi’s textile heritage adds value to this experience. It’s priced at $23.54, making it both affordable and meaningful.
Bottom line: Perfect for craft lovers or those wanting a tangible memory of Miyagi, this workshop combines creativity with cultural insight.
3. Private Transfer from Sendai Airport to Sendai City

At number 3, the Private Transfer from Sendai Airport to Sendai City provides a stress-free way to start your Miyagi stay. For just $187.44 per group (up to five people), you’ll be greeted at the arrivals hall and chauffeured in a spacious vehicle. Duration runs around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic, making it a reliable choice after a long flight.
This service is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience, especially if arriving with lots of luggage or in a group. It also offers peace of mind, knowing that your driver has extensive local knowledge, which can come in handy for future planning. While reviews are not available, the straightforward nature of private transfers makes them a popular choice for first-time visitors. This service suits those who prefer to skip crowded buses or taxis and want to start their Miyagi adventure smoothly.
Bottom line: If you want a hassle-free, private start to your trip, this transfer service offers comfort and reliability.
4. Catch and Dine A Gourmet Fishing Experience in Miyagi

Number 4 on our list is the Catch and Dine a Gourmet Fishing Experience, perfect for seafood lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. For just $22.87 per person, you’ll spend around 75 minutes fishing for river fish known for their fine flavor. The fishing experience is designed to be accessible—beginners and children can expect to catch an average of six fish, with skilled anglers catching dozens.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to order your catch for a freshly prepared meal right on-site. You’ll learn about the quality of Miyagi’s river fish, raised with careful water and feed management. Once caught, fish are cooked on the spot, allowing you to enjoy your own fresh catch—a true highlight for foodies. Reviewers appreciate the quality and the relaxed pace, making it an easy, fun outdoor activity that ends with a delicious meal.
Bottom line: Ideal for families or groups wanting to combine outdoor activity with a fresh seafood feast, this experience delivers on flavor and fun.
5. Michinoku Coastal Trail Sake Tasting with Dinner

The Michinoku Coastal Trail Sake Tasting with Dinner offers a cultural deep dive into Miyagi’s sake brewing heritage. For about $137, you’ll visit Otokoyama Honten, founded in 1912, and see their main store, rebuilt after the 2011 tsunami, now a national cultural property. The tasting session lets you sample a variety of sake not typically available elsewhere, while the staff shares stories about Miyagi’s sake traditions.
This tour is not just about tasting; it’s an educational experience that helps you understand how local sake is made and why it’s such a valued part of Miyagi’s culture. The dinner component allows you to enjoy sake alongside local dishes, making for a well-rounded evening. Although reviews are limited, the historical significance of Otokoyama Honten and the chance to learn directly from brewers make this a rewarding experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for those interested in traditional Japanese beverages and local history, this tour combines education with flavorful tasting.
6. Local Food Tour in Shiogama, Japan Top Tuna and Sushi Town

Finally, the 5-hour Local Food Tour in Shiogama is a feast for seafood lovers. Known for its world-class tuna catches, Shiogama is where you’ll explore bustling markets and historic streets. The tour includes a seafood bowl with your preferred ingredients, so arrive hungry—be sure to skip breakfast! It combines walking through traditional streets and bus rides through the port area, giving you a full picture of this lively fishing town.
The highlight is visiting the Shiogama Fish Market, where you can see the daily catch and learn about the fishing industry. The tour’s pacing suits those who want an in-depth look at Miyagi’s seafood culture, topped off with tasting some of the freshest fish in Japan. At $127.93, it offers a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price considering the quality and depth of exploration.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for seafood aficionados and history lovers interested in Miyagi’s fishing traditions.
How to Choose Your Miyagi Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want a quick, active introduction to rural Miyagi, the Afternoon Cycling Tour is ideal. For a cultural keepsake, the Kimono fabric workshop offers handmade souvenirs. If ease and comfort are your top priorities, opt for the Private Transfer. For outdoor eaters, the fishing Catch and Dine provides both activity and a delicious meal. Finally, for those wanting a deep dive into local beverages and history, the Sake Tasting is perfect, while seafood lovers should not miss the Shiogama Food Tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date. Consider combining a couple of these experiences if you have the time—Miyagi’s tours offer enough variety to cater to many interests.
To sum it up, Miyagi Prefecture offers a rich palette of tour options that appeal to outdoor adventurers, culture seekers, and food lovers alike. Whether you prefer cycling through scenic farmland, crafting a textile souvenir, or diving into fresh seafood, there’s a perfect activity waiting. For a well-rounded trip, consider pairing a cultural experience with a meal or outdoor activity. Start planning early, and enjoy a memorable visit to this authentic corner of Japan.
