Best Gyms in Sendai for Travelers: CBD Picks and City Walks
Sendai is often called the City of Trees, and you will understand why the moment you step onto Jozenji-dori. This wide, beautiful street is lined with massive zelkova trees and is the heart of the city’s Central Business District. For a traveler, Sendai offers a more relaxed pace than Tokyo, but it still has all the amenities you need to stay fit while on the road.
If you are staying near the station or in the CBD, Jozenji-dori is actually one of my favorite places for a light workout. It is not a place for a high-intensity sprint, but for a brisk walk or a slow jog under the canopy of trees, it is perfect. There are bronze statues scattered along the walkway, and the atmosphere is always pleasant, especially in the autumn when the leaves change color. It is a great way to get some fresh air and see the city at the same time.
For a serious lifting session, Gold's Gym Sendai is located right near the main station. It is a high-energy spot with plenty of free weights and machines. Like most Gold's Gym locations in Japan, they are quite welcoming to visitors, provided you follow the rules regarding indoor shoes and covering tattoos. It is a great place to meet local fitness enthusiasts and get a high-quality workout in a professional environment.
Anytime Fitness also has several locations around Sendai Station and the Ichibancho shopping district. These are perfect if you are looking for something quick and familiar. The Ichibancho branch is particularly convenient because it is surrounded by great cafes and shops, so you can grab a healthy lunch right after your session.
If you have a bit more time and want a truly local experience, consider a walk up to the ruins of Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle). The climb is steep enough to get your heart rate up, and the reward at the top is a panoramic view of the entire city and the statue of Date Masamune. It is a workout and a history lesson rolled into one. Sendai might be a smaller city than its neighbors to the south, but it has plenty of heart and plenty of ways to keep you moving.
