Sendai

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Extracurricular Activities

Opportunities for students to join clubs, sports, and cultural activities outside of regular school hours.

Sections

1. Sports and Fitness Activities

Sendai has a strong sports culture, with plenty of opportunities for both casual and competitive participation.

Popular Sports and Activities

  • Martial Arts (Karate, Judo, Kendo, Aikido):

    • Many dojos (training halls) in Sendai offer classes for beginners to advanced practitioners.
    • Cost: ¥5,000–¥10,000/month for regular classes. Some dojos may charge an additional registration fee.
    • How to Join: Visit the dojo to observe a class, then inquire about enrollment. Some may require a uniform (gi) and equipment, which can be purchased locally.
    • Cultural Note: Bowing and respect for instructors (sensei) and fellow students are essential.

  • Team Sports (Soccer, Baseball, Basketball):

    • Local clubs and community centers often organize leagues for children and adults.
    • Cost: ¥3,000–¥8,000/month, depending on the club.
    • How to Join: Check with local sports centers or community boards. Some clubs may require tryouts.
    • Cultural Note: Punctuality and teamwork are highly valued.

  • Running and Cycling:

    • Sendai has beautiful parks and trails, such as along the Hirose River or in Nishi Park.
    • Cost: Free for casual runners; ¥1,000–¥3,000 for organized events like marathons.
    • How to Join: Look for running groups on Meetup or local Facebook groups. Cycling clubs often meet at bike shops.

  • Fitness Centers and Gyms:

    • Popular gyms include Konami Sports Club, Tipness, and municipal fitness centers.
    • Cost: ¥5,000–¥10,000/month for private gyms; ¥300–¥500 per visit for municipal gyms.
    • How to Join: Bring ID and fill out a membership form. Some gyms may require an initial registration fee.

Facilities to Explore:

  • Sendai Gymnasium: Hosts various sports events and offers facilities for basketball, volleyball, and badminton.
  • Miyagi Prefectural Sports Park: A large complex with fields, courts, and a track.

2. Arts and Creative Activities

Sendai has a thriving arts scene, with opportunities to explore traditional Japanese arts as well as modern creative outlets.

Traditional Japanese Arts

  • Calligraphy (Shodo):

    • Classes are available at cultural centers and private studios.
    • Cost: ¥3,000–¥6,000/month, plus materials (brush, ink, paper).
    • How to Join: Check with local community centers or cultural organizations.
    • Cultural Note: Patience and attention to detail are key.

  • Ikebana (Flower Arranging):

    • Learn the art of Japanese flower arrangement.
    • Cost: ¥3,000–¥8,000/month, plus materials.
    • How to Join: Look for classes at cultural centers or through the Ikenobo or Sogetsu schools of ikebana.

  • Tea Ceremony (Sado):

    • Experience the meditative practice of preparing and serving tea.
    • Cost: ¥3,000–¥10,000/month, depending on the school.
    • How to Join: Contact local tea ceremony schools or cultural centers.
    • Cultural Note: Wearing traditional attire (kimono) may be encouraged for formal lessons.

Modern Arts

  • Painting and Drawing:

    • Art studios and community centers offer classes for all skill levels.
    • Cost: ¥2,000–¥5,000 per session, or ¥5,000–¥10,000/month for regular classes.
    • How to Join: Search for local art schools or workshops online.

  • Photography:

    • Join photography clubs or workshops to explore Sendai’s scenic beauty.
    • Cost: ¥1,000–¥3,000 per session for workshops.
    • How to Join: Look for clubs on Meetup or inquire at camera shops.

  • Music (Instruments and Singing):

    • Private lessons for piano, guitar, violin, and traditional instruments like shamisen are widely available.
    • Cost: ¥3,000–¥8,000 per lesson.
    • How to Join: Contact music schools or private instructors.

Facilities to Explore:

  • Sendai Mediatheque: A hub for art exhibitions, workshops, and creative events.
  • Sendai City Cultural Center: Offers classes and hosts performances.

3. Cultural and Language Clubs

For those interested in cultural exchange or improving their Japanese, Sendai has many options.

Language Exchange and Japanese Classes

  • Japanese Language Classes:

    • Offered by community centers and organizations like the Sendai International Center.
    • Cost: Free to ¥5,000/month.
    • How to Join: Contact the Sendai International Center or local community boards.
    • Cultural Note: Be prepared to introduce yourself formally in Japanese.

  • Language Exchange Meetups:

    • Join groups where locals and foreigners practice languages together.
    • Cost: Free or ¥500–¥1,000 per session.
    • How to Join: Look for events on Meetup or Facebook.

Cultural Exchange Clubs

  • International Friendship Associations:

    • Participate in events like cooking classes, cultural festivals, and workshops.
    • Cost: Free to ¥2,000 per event.
    • How to Join: Check the Sendai International Center’s website for event listings.

  • Traditional Dance and Music:

    • Learn traditional Japanese dance or taiko drumming.
    • Cost: ¥3,000–¥8,000/month.
    • How to Join: Contact local cultural organizations.

4. Outdoor and Nature Activities

Sendai’s proximity to nature makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking and Nature Exploration

  • Popular Spots:
    • Akiu Otaki Waterfall, Mount Izumigatake, and the Zao Mountain Range.
    • Cost: Free for most trails; guided tours may cost ¥3,000–¥5,000.
    • How to Join: Join hiking groups or check with local tour operators.

Gardening and Urban Farming

  • Community Gardens:
    • Rent a small plot to grow your own vegetables.
    • Cost: ¥5,000–¥10,000/year.
    • How to Join: Inquire at the Sendai City Hall or local community centers.

5. Volunteer and Community Activities

Volunteering is a great way to give back and connect with the local community.

Opportunities:

  • Disaster Relief Volunteering:

    • Sendai has a strong volunteer network due to its experience with the 2011 earthquake.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Join: Contact organizations like the Sendai Volunteer Center.

  • Community Events:

    • Help organize festivals, clean parks, or teach English.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Join: Check with local community boards or the Sendai International Center.

General Tips for Joining Activities in Sendai

  1. Language Barrier: While many organizations are foreigner-friendly, having basic Japanese skills will help. Consider taking a Japanese class if you’re staying long-term.
  2. Punctuality: Being on time is crucial in Japanese culture. Arrive early for classes or events.
  3. Respect for Rules: Follow the rules and etiquette of the group or facility. For example, remove your shoes when entering certain spaces.
  4. Seasonal Considerations: Some activities, like hiking or gardening, are seasonal. Check schedules in advance.
  5. Community Boards: Look for flyers and announcements at community centers, libraries, and supermarkets.

Sendai offers a rich variety of extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re looking to stay active, explore Japanese culture, or connect with the local community, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enrich your experience in this vibrant city.