Zuigan-ji was constructed in 828, belonging to the Tendai Buddhist sect. Now, after its conversion as Zen temple in Kamakura Era, it has been one of the most celebrated Zen temple in Miyagi. It is most known for its beautifully painted sliding doors (fusuma).
For a bit of historical background, in 1604, the temple functioned as Date Masamune's aristocratic residence and family temple.
The temple is also near the Entsu-in, a temple with beautiful stone and earthy garden.
Zuigan-ji Art Museum is just across Kuri, the Zen kitchen of the temple. It exhibits the temple's treasures and important artifacts.
Zuigan-ji is proximate from the pier of Matsushima, and 5-10 minutes on foot from JR Matsushima Kaigan Station.
The temple is open all year round, with 700 yen admission fee.
Here are the temple's schedules:
April to September: 8:00-17:00
March and October: 8:00-16:30
February and November: 8:00-16:00
December and January: 8:00-15:30