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January 21, 2026 at 10:00 am
Event date:
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March 10, 2026 at 4:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Matsushima Oyster Festival, known locally as Kaki Matsuri, began over 40 years ago to celebrate the peak oyster season in Miyagi Prefecture. Matsushima is famous for its large, succulent oysters, along with nearby Minamisanriku and Kesennuma, making it a central hub for winter oyster lovers.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Originally a small local gathering, the festival has grown into a major annual event attracting visitors from across Japan. The focus has always been on enjoying fresh oysters and local seafood in a communal setting, combining traditional grilling methods with the natural beauty of Matsushima Bay.
Over the decades, the festival has incorporated food stalls, grilling stations, and entertainment for all ages, making it not only a culinary event but a seasonal celebration of Miyagi’s culture, winter scenery, and coastal life.
Overview
The Matsushima Oyster Festival 2026 will take place at Matsushima Green Square from late January to early March. Visitors can enjoy free grilled oysters, free bowls of oyster soup (kakinabe), and both paid and complimentary grilling stations. The festival is family-friendly, featuring a variety of seafood, meat, desserts, and hot beverages such as sake.
Beyond the food, the festival offers seasonal entertainment for children and adults alike, including displays by the Japanese Self Defense Force, interactive photo spots, and sake tastings. Snowfall in winter adds to the charm, providing a serene backdrop to Matsushima’s picturesque islands, temples, and coastal views.
Highlights
- Free grilled oysters and free oyster soup (kakinabe) during the festival.
- Paid and complimentary grill stations to cook seafood, meat, and vegetables.
- Seasonal seafood including crab, scallops, abalone, squid, and tsubu.
- Family-friendly entertainment and interactive displays.
- Enjoy Matsushima’s winter scenery, including snow-covered islands and historic temples.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Sample some of Japan’s largest and freshest oysters in a festive atmosphere.
- Unique experience combining traditional grilling and seafood tasting with winter views.
- Easy access from Sendai, making it a convenient day trip.
- Fun for families, groups, and solo travelers alike with activities beyond food.
- Winter snow creates a magical scenery perfect for photography and sightseeing.
If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan and need any type of help—from custom tours and experiences to transportation, booking tickets, and more—just contact us using the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
- Dates: Late January – Early March 2026
- Event Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (may vary depending on weather)
- Note: Outdoor events can be canceled or postponed due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Pricing
- Entry: Free
- Grill Stations: Paid or complimentary, with time slots of 60–90 minutes.
- Food Stalls: Various pricing depending on items (e.g., 5 fried oysters for 350 JPY, cup of grilled pork for 400 JPY).
Location
Matsushima Green Square
Matsushima, Miyagi District, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan
Phone: 022-211-2822
Email: [email protected]
How to Get There
- By Train: Take the Senseki Line from JR Sendai Station to Matsushima Kaigan Station (10-minute walk from the festival area).
- Note: Do not use Matsushima Station on the Tohoku Line, as it is further away.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can choose from hotels, ryokans, and guesthouses in Matsushima, Sendai, and nearby coastal towns. Options range from budget-friendly stays to more luxurious waterfront accommodations.
Average nightly prices range from 8,000 to 25,000 JPY, depending on location, room type, and season. Staying nearby is recommended to fully enjoy the festival without rushing.
FAQs
What is the Matsushima Oyster Festival?
It is an annual winter festival celebrating fresh oysters in Miyagi Prefecture, featuring free and paid tasting opportunities.
Are there free oysters at the festival?
Yes, visitors can enjoy free grilled oysters and free bowls of oyster soup (kakinabe) during the event.
Do I need to pay to use grill stations?
Some grill stations are complimentary, while others require a paid reservation for 60–90 minute time slots.
Is the festival family-friendly?
Yes, the festival offers entertainment for children and adults, including displays, photo spots, and interactive activities.
How do I get to the festival from Sendai?
Take the Senseki Line from JR Sendai Station to Matsushima Kaigan Station, followed by a 10-minute walk to Matsushima Green Square.
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