Sendai & Tohoku

Sendai is the largest city in Tohoku and one of Japan's most livable mid-size cities. Easy bullet train access to Tokyo, mild summers, and lower costs than the major metros.

City & Government

• City of Sendai - Official English site with resident info, garbage rules, and city services.
• Sendai International Relations Association (SIRA) - Multilingual support center for foreign residents with consultation, classes, and event info.
• Miyagi Prefectural Government - Multilingual prefecture site covering Sendai and surrounding areas.

Living Guides

• Sendai Living Guide - SIRA's comprehensive guide covering housing, healthcare, education, and emergencies.
• Tohoku Tales - English blog covering travel, food, and life across the Tohoku region.

Transportation

• Sendai City Subway - Two-line subway system map and fares.
• JR East Sendai - Shinkansen and local trains in the Tohoku region.
• Sendai Airport - Regional airport with domestic and limited international routes.

Healthcare

• Tohoku University Hospital - Major university hospital with foreign patient support.
• Sendai Medical Center - National hospital in central Sendai.

Education

• Tohoku University - One of Japan's top national research universities.
• Tohoku International School - K-12 international school with English-language curriculum.
• Miyagi University of Education

Disaster Info

WARNING

The Tohoku region was heavily impacted by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Familiarize yourself with local disaster procedures and evacuation routes.

• Sendai Disaster Prevention - City disaster preparedness info (Japanese, but translatable).
• Japan Meteorological Agency - Earthquake and tsunami warnings.