Osaki Hachimangu is Sendai's most important Shinto shrine and one of the finest examples of Momoyama-era religious architecture in northern Japan. Date Masamune had it built in 1607, and the main hall — all black lacquer, gold leaf, and carved decorative panels — is a National Treasure. The restraint of the wooded setting heightens the impact of the ornate building.
The shrine is dedicated to the god of war, horses, and archery — appropriate for a warrior clan. It sits in a wooded hollow about 15 minutes by bus from Sendai Station, at the top of a long stone stairway lined with stone lanterns. The Dontosai fire festival in January draws large crowds. At other times it's quiet and easily explored without crowds.