City of Trees & Academic City Sendai
"City of Trees" and "Academic City": these two phrases for describing Sendai carry a history of greenery and learning.
Greenery that began with the estate groves of samurai residences has been handed down to today's zelkova-lined avenues.
Its identity as a city of scholarship also helps shape Sendai's appeal.
Sendai, Made of Greenery and Learning
"City of Trees"もりのみやこ
Sendai's nickname, after the greenery nurtured by estate groves and shrine-and-temple woods. The city tree is the zelkova, and the city flower is the bush clover.
Source:仙台市 公式サイト
Jozenji-doriじょうぜんじどおり
An avenue of zelkova trees that adorns the city center. In winter it becomes the main venue for the Pageant of Starlight.
Source:せんだい旅日和（仙台観光情報サイト）
Hirose Riverひろせがわ
A clear stream of the Natori River system flowing through the city. Sung of in "Aoba-jo Koiuta," its banks are also a beloved spot for imoni-kai riverside stew gatherings.
Source:仙台市 公式サイト
Tohoku Universityとうほくだいがく
A former imperial university founded in 1907. Lu Xun studied at its predecessor school, and it serves as the core of "Academic City" Sendai.
Source:東北大学
Sankyozawa Power Stationさんきょざわはつでんしょ
Begun in 1888 by the Miyagi Spinning Company in Sankyozawa, Aoba Ward, it is known as the first hydroelectric generation on record in Japan. Power is still generated on the same site today.
Source:三居沢電気百年館（東北電力）
Sendai Mediathequeせんだいめでぃあてーく
A cultural facility designed by the architect Toyo Ito. Home to a library and galleries, it is also celebrated as a work of contemporary architecture.
Source:せんだいメディアテーク
FAQ
What does the "mori" in "City of Trees" mean?
It refers to stands of trees that stay close to people's lives, like shrine forests and estate groves. The key point is that it means cultivated greenery rather than untouched, natural forest.
Why is Sendai called an "Academic City"?
Because many schools, students, and research institutions, beginning with Tohoku University, gather here. It has grown as a city of scholarship.