Natori

Natori (名取) is a city in central Miyagi Prefecture, located immediately south of Sendai along the Pacific coast. While it is primarily a commuter suburb of Sendai, Natori has its own distinct attractions, most notably the scenic coastline and the Sendai Airport — the main international gateway to the Tohoku region.

Natori was heavily affected by the 2011 tsunami, particularly in its coastal areas, but has since rebuilt. The city combines urban convenience with access to beaches, the Natori River, and agricultural land.

The climate is mild and humid, with warm summers and cool winters. The best times to visit are late spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October).

By Plane

Sendai Airport (SDJ) is located within Natori city limits — the main terminal is a 5-minute walk from Natori Station via the airport access line.

By Train

Natori Station is on the JR Tohoku Main Line and the Sendai Airport Access Line. From Sendai Station, it takes about 5-10 minutes by local train.

By Car / Road

Natori is easily accessible from the Sendai area via National Route 4 and the Sendai-Tobu Road. Driving from Sendai city centre takes about 15-20 minutes.

The city is best navigated by car. The area near Natori Station and the airport is walkable. Local buses connect the station to the coast.

• Sendai Airport — The main international gateway to Tohoku. The observation deck and terminal shops are worth a visit.

• Yuriage Coast — The coastal area of Natori, with beaches, memorials, and the reconstructed waterfront.

• Natori River — A scenic river with walking paths and cycling routes.

• Yuriage Memorial Park — A park dedicated to the 2011 tsunami, with memorials and educational exhibits.

• Jusambo Bamboo Grove — A small but beautiful bamboo forest.

• Beach walks along the Yuriage Coast.

• Cycling along the Natori River.

• Shopping and dining at Sendai Airport's terminal complex.

• Visit the tsunami memorial sites.

Natori has a range of restaurants near the station and airport. The airport terminal has several restaurants serving Miyagi specialities including gyutan (grilled beef tongue), zunda mochi, and fresh seafood.

The airport and station area have cafes and bars.

• Budget: Sendai Airport has a transit hotel within the terminal.
• Mid-range: Hotels near Sendai Airport and Natori Station, from around ¥5,000-8,000.
• Upscale: For luxury, head to central Sendai.

Sendai Airport has excellent shopping for Tohoku souvenirs, local crafts, and food products. Local agricultural products from Natori's farms are available at roadside stations.

• Sendai (5 minutes by train) — Miyagi's capital with Aoba Castle, Jozenji-dori, and the Sendai Pageant of Starlight.
• Matsushima (30 minutes by train via Sendai) — Pine-covered islands and Zuigan-ji Temple.
• Shiogama (20 minutes by train) — Famous for its sushi and the Shiogama Shrine.
• Akiu Onsen (30 minutes by car) — A hot spring resort in the mountains west of Sendai.
• Yamamoto (10 minutes by car) — Coastal town known for its fresh seafood.