Tokimeku Tohoku[Tourism web media of six cities in Tohoku]

Tohoku Diary

Winter Vistas 

Sendai City/Zuihoden, the grave of Lord Masamune with the gorgeous designs of Momoyama culture

2022/09/29

Sendai City/Zuihoden, the grave of Lord Masamune with the gorgeous designs of Momoyama culture

Collaboration between Momoyama period design and colorful maple leaves

Zuihoden was designated as a national treasure before it was destroyed by fire as a historical site that strongly retains the influence of Momoyama culture. After undergoing a major renovation in the Heisei era, its former appearance has been recreated. The decorative carvings that decorate the main shrine, such as phoenixes, flying angels, and lions, are truly dazzling. Furthermore, the decorations, which feature motifs such as plants and butterflies, show influences from overseas.

The precincts preserve the remains of 62 stone steps that are said to represent the Kokudaka of the Date clan, stone lanterns dedicated by senior vassals, and monuments related to the Boshin, making it one of the city's most historic sites.

For many years, this area was a forbidden area known as the ''Date Family Sanctuary'' and no one could enter without permission, and fortunately, the natural environment has been maintained as it was during the feudal era. The collaboration between the brocade of maple leaves, the greenery of old cedar trees seen in the Edo period, and the richly colored Zuihoden is something you can only enjoy in autumn. In the evening from November 18th to 27th, 2022, the autumn leaves and bamboo forest will be illuminated. In addition, the opening hours will be extended by one hour on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the period, and light displays will be held on Omotesando and within the grounds.
Why not come and visit us this fall?

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About the Writer

writer

Minako Yoshida

Ikuseishimo has written tourism articles for the six prefectures of Tohoku plus α.

My latest craze is machine knitting, and I've started attending classes as well.