What are the opening hours of Aoba Castle Museum?

9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (until 4:00 PM from November to March)

What is the admission price for Aoba Castle Museum?

770 yen (museum only) 880 yen (VR goggles only) 1430 yen (set ticket for museum and VR goggles)

What are the opening hours of Sendai City Museum?

9:00 AM to 4:45 PM (last admission at 4:15 PM)

What are the closing days of Sendai City Museum?

Mondays and the day following national holidays (but open on national holidays and weekends)

What are the opening hours of Sendai Yagiyama Zoo?

9:00 AM to 4:45 PM (until 4:00 PM from early November to February)

What are the closing days of Sendai Yagiyama Zoo?

Wednesdays (or the following day if Wednesday is a national holiday)

Aoba Castle

1 of 12 in Sendai

Aoba Castle (青葉城, Aobajō), built in 1600 by the famous feudal lord Date Masamune, stands proudly atop Mount Aoba, offering breathtaking views of Sendai from its 100-meter-high vantage point. While only the stone walls and a guard tower remain from the original structure, the site serves as a captivating reminder of Japan’s feudal era. Visitors can explore an on-site museum that displays Edo-period models, historical artifacts, and even an immersive VR experience that transports them back in time to the castle's former grandeur. A statue of Date Masamune on horseback near the castle further emphasizes the enduring legacy of this legendary warrior and his impact on the region.

In addition to the historical attractions at the castle itself, the surrounding area offers even more to discover. Nearby, Gokoku Shrine honors Japan’s modern military history, while the Sendai City Museum features relics from the powerful Date clan, providing further insight into the family’s influence. A short walk from the castle takes visitors to Yagiyama Zoo, home to a variety of local wildlife, and to Yagiyama Benyland amusement park, which offers entertainment for visitors of all ages. With its mix of history, culture, and family-friendly activities, Aoba Castle is a must-visit destination for those wanting to experience both the rich past and vibrant present of Sendai.

Hours and Fees

Aoba Castle Museum

Sendai City Museum

Sendai Yagiyama Zoo

Getting there

Google Maps

You can reach Aoba Castle in 20 minutes from Sendai Station using the Loople Sendai bus. Get off at stop #5 for Sendai City Museum or stop #6 for the castle grounds. A day pass costs 630 yen, or a single ride is 260 yen. The museum and castle grounds are a 10–15 minute walk apart.

Alternatively, take the Tozai Subway Line to International Center (5 minutes, 210 yen), then walk 5 minutes to the museum or 20 minutes uphill to the castle grounds. Yagiyama Zoo and Benyland are a 20–30 minute walk from the castle or near Yagiyama Dobutsuen Station, which is 12 minutes from Sendai Station (310 yen).