Must-Try Foods In Rinnoji Temple (Sendai) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Rinnoje Temple, Sendai, Japan

Rinnoji Temple is a Buddhist temple in Sendai, known for its spiritual significance and beautiful gardens. The temple itself does not have a distinctive food history but is surrounded by a city that boasts a rich culinary tradition. Sendai has been historically celebrated for its variety of traditional Japanese dishes, which are primarily influenced by the local climate and the availability of fresh produce from the surrounding mountains and the sea.

The region is especially known for its cultivation of rice, vegetables, and fruits, as well as for the harvesting of seafood. Over the years, these ingredients have been incorporated into local dishes to create unique flavors that represent Sendai's food culture, which visitors to the Rinnoji Temple can enjoy in nearby restaurants.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Sendai

1. Zunda Mochi (Vegetarian): Sweet rice cakes topped with a paste made from edamame (young soybeans).
2. Sendai Tofu (Vegetarian): A unique type of tofu that is firmer and more flavorful than the standard variety.
3. Harako Meshi (Non-Vegetarian): A rice dish mixed with salmon and topped with salmon roe, a local autumn favorite.
4. Sasakama (Non-Vegetarian): Bamboo leaf-shaped fish cake that is broiled and enjoyed as a snack.
5. Gyutan (Non-Vegetarian): Grilled beef tongue that is thinly sliced and served with a variety of seasonings.
6. Soba Noodles (Vegetarian option available): Buckwheat noodles that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, hot or cold, with a dashi-based broth.
7. Oysters (Non-Vegetarian): Miyagi Prefecture is famous for its oysters, which can be enjoyed raw, grilled, or deep-fried.
8. Ita-Soba (Vegetarian option available): Soba noodles served on a square wooden plate, commonly enjoyed with various toppings.
9. Kamaboko (Non-Vegetarian): A type of cured surimi or a processed seafood product that is typically steamed and served sliced.
10. Shiroishi Umen (Vegetarian option available): A thin, white noodle soup that is light and refreshing, originating from Shiroishi, a city south of Sendai.

Top Famous Restaurants in Rinnoji Temple, Sendai Area

Aji Tasuke

Address: 4-4-13 Ichibancho, Aoba Ward, Sendato

Famous Food: Gyutan (Non-Vegetarian)

Kameki Sushi

Address: 2-3-1 Chuo, Aoba Ward, Sendato

Famous Food: Sushi (Non-Vegetarian)

Zunda Saryo

Address: 1-1-1 Chuo, Aoba Ward, Sendai (Inside Sendai Station)

Famous Food: Zunda Shake (Vegetarian)

Iroha Yokocho

Address: 3-7-18 Ichibancho, Aoba Ward, Sendato

Famous Food: Variety of local foods (Vegetarian options available)

Rikyu

Address: 2 Chome-1-65 Chuo, Aoba Ward, Sendato

Famous Food: Gyutan (Non-Vegetarian)

Yasubee

Address: Multiple locations in Sendato

Famous Food: Tofu Ryori (Vegetarian dishes)

Kakisen Oyster Bar

Address: 2-15-7 Honcho, Aoba Ward, Sendato

Famous Food: Oysters (Non-Vegetarian)

Kokubuncho Area

Various Izakayas and Restaurants

Famous Foods: Various Japanese dishes (Vegetarian options available)

Please note that while vegetarian options are mentioned where possible, traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish-based broths and condiments, so it's important for strict vegetarians to inquire about ingredients when ordering.