Hi! My name is Aya. I have been living at Borderless House in Sendai for about a month now – and I already wish I could stay longer! I am from Denmark, but I also lived in Tokyo a few years ago. I am currently studying and working as an intern for Borderless House, and was given the amazing opportunity to spend part of my internship living here in Sendai. I said yes immediately, excited to experience a different side of Japan, somewhere calmer, closer to nature and not as busy as Tokyo.

 Why I Chose Sendai For Living in Japan over Tokyo

Even though Sendai is often described as part of the Japanese countryside, it still feels lively and full of things to do. There are plenty of events, festivals and cozy city spots to explore, while still having beautiful nature close by. It really feels like the perfect mix between nature and city life. 

I personally think the shared house is:

• ● Located perfectly – only 15-20 minutes to Sendai Station and Aboba-dori Ichibancho Station
• ● Many cafes, restaurants and shops in the city
• ● Just a short walk to the peaceful Hirose River and the green Aobayama Park. I love going for long runs by the river – it is quiet, calm and surrounded by nature

Even though I have only been here a short time, Sendai has already made a big impression on me. Life here feels peaceful but never boring and has been such a warm and refreshing experience so far. 

Life in a Share House in Sendai (Borderless House Experience)

Moving to a new city can be lonely, but living in a shared house has made all the difference – and this is my honest opinion. Since I am working remotely during my internship, I worried that renting an apartment might become too isolating. But living in a shared house has made me feel much more connected and helped me adapt to life in Japan faster. 

Many of the housemates are students, but there are also full-time workers and the mix of Japanese and international residents makes every day interesting.

Together we:

• ● Make dinner – sometimes even using the vegetables together we have grown in our garden 
• ● Play board games and watch movies 
• ● Attend local festivals and events 
• ● vHave house parties 

The people who want to join are always welcome! 

Balance Between Social and Independent Living

When I work all day remotely in the living room, it is nice to have small interactions and conversations with my housemates throughout the day chatting when they are cooking or relaxing in the living room. These casual moments bring a cozy, homelike feeling to daily life.

I like that there is a good balance between being social and also having the freedom to be independent. Some days are busy and filled with conversations and activities, and other days are peaceful and calm – it is completely up to you! 

This flexibility makes the house feel like a real home and it has been one of the best parts of shared house life in Japan. 

Borderless House Housemates' Favorite Places in Sendai

One of my favorite things about living here is hearing everyone's stories and discovering the city through their eyes. Recently, I asked two of my housemates to share their favorite local spots and hidden gems around Sendai. 

Finlay from the UK

Finlay has been living at Borderless House Sendai for two months. He loves exploring the city, enjoying nature and spending time with friends at the game center. 

“My go-to place is the International Center. There's a cozy cafe on the second floor with big windows overlooking the river and greenery. It's just one stop from the shared house, so it's super easy to get to.”

The area is also great for riverside walks and relaxing in the park – a perfect escape into nature.

“Another hidden spot I love is Kameoka-Hachiangu Shrine. It's a short hike up some stairs, but once you're there, it's so peaceful and a great place to clear your mind and recharge.”

And of course, like many of us here, Finlay recommends gyūtan (grilled beef tongue) which is Sendai's most famous dish. “It's absolutely worth a try!” 

Yuiko from Japan

Yuiko has lived at Borderless House Sendai since they opened and knows all the best spots – from affordable bento shops to trendy cafes and scenic viewpoints. 

“Definitely Ofukuro-bento! Their karaage-bento is iconic, delicious, and super affordable. It's just a 5-minute walk from the house — perfect for lunch or a lazy dinner when you don't feel like cooking.”

Photo is from Darestore's Instagram

She also recommends one of her favorite cafes, Darestone Coffee & Eatery, known for its amazing coffee and sweets.

“A roommate from Austria who loves coffee joined me there, and he loved it too.”

Right across from the café is Black Tide Brewing Sendai, a local brewery from Kesennuma City offering 15 types of craft beer.

“Having a cup here is the greatest treat for me.”

Yuiko also shared a few great viewpoints:

“I love the night view from Sendai Castle, especially during the Luminact event (Luminact). Another favorite is walking across Okinosebashi Bridge at sunset – you can see the city, river, mountains, and trains all at once. It's so refreshing!”

 Food in Sendai: Gyutan, Zunda Shake and Local Culture

Trying local foods has been one of my favorite parts of living in Sendai. Sendai is famous for gyūtan. It tastes much better than it sounds and is a must-try dish when visiting here. 

Another must-try is the Zunda Shake. It is a sweet, creamy drink made from mashed edamame. It is originally from the Tohoku region and has a unique flavour you cannot find anywhere else, so I think it is definitely worth a try! 

Sendai also has many great tourist attractions that are worth visiting, such as:

• ● Aoba Castle, which has an amazing view of the city 
• ● Zuihoden mausoleum – surrounded by tall cedar trees. The mix of history, nature and modern city life makes Sendai feel very special

Best Day Trips from Sendai: Visiting Yamadera Temple 

One weekend, I took a day trip out to the deeper countryside of Japan. I went to Yamadera, which is about a one-hour train ride from Sendai Station. 

The hike up nearly 1,000 stone steps through the forest leads to ancient temples and a fantastic view over the surrounding mountains and village below. It was one of the most peaceful and spiritual experiences I had so far – I would definitely recommend this if you are staying in Sendai! 

Final Thought: Living in Sendai as a Foreigner

Even though I have only been here for one month, Sendai has already made a big impression on me. It is a city where life feels peaceful but never boring and living in a shared house has made the experience even more meaningful. I feel grateful for the friends and people I have met and the memories we have shared. 

I hope this will inspire you to live in Borderless House Sendai and experience the city too!