Sendai, the capital city of Miyagi Prefecture, is renowned for its beautiful tree-lined streets and rich cultural heritage. Founded in 1600 by the daimyō Date Masamune, Sendai is often referred to as the City of Trees, a nod to the Japanese zelkova trees that adorn its main avenues. The city is also famous for its summer Tanabata Festival, the largest in Japan, and the enchanting Pageant of Starlight in winter, where the trees are illuminated with thousands of lights. With a population of over one million, Sendai combines the charm of historical sites like Aoba Castle with the vibrancy of a modern city.