Matsushima is an amazing place to visit for the day.

You can get everything ticked off in a few hours so there's no need to wake up at the crack of dawn. Matsushima and its bay have over 250 pine-covered islands that have been shaped by the elements to extreme and truly speculator shapes. This collection of beautiful islands is one of Japan's Three Great sites (Nihon Sankei).

The other two are:

1. The floating Tori Gates of Miyajima Island
2. The sand spit at Amanohashidate

The only downside with Matsushima being one of Japan's Three Great sites is the amount of tourists.

Nowhere that has a Reputation of being an area of ​​natural beauty will be free of tourists and Matsuyama is no exception. But even though it's pretty touristy you can't deny that it's a picturesque and charming place. If you want to avoid the crowds, avoid going there on the weekends.

Below is a list of things that you really shouldn't miss out on:

Zuigan-ji

Cost: ¥ 700

Description: At the moment you can only see a fraction of the temple complex because it's currently under major reconstruction until 2016! Even if you can only see this half the site, it's well worth the trip especially to this amazing joinery work that holds up the roof to the kitchen! I've never seen anything quite like it before! Even the walk up to the temple, through an avenue lined with tall cedars and weathered Buddha's hiding in the Caves, is beautiful!

Boat Trip Around Matsushima Bay

Cost: ¥ 1,400 for a 50minute cruise

Description: Even if it's rammed full of tourists, that shouldn't stop you from going. The tiny islands that make up this bay are stunning and the cruise to see them is well worth the time and money. If you want a really good view - just stay outside and try not to get too pissed off with everyone feeding the seagulls.

Tea and Cake

Cost: ¥ 600

Description: After the boat trip, there's nothing better than an iced coffee and a traditional Japanese cake set. When I was there the most relaxing and Delicious place I found for an afternoon cake set was this place.

If you find somewhere else - equal as Delicious and laid back, please leave a message in the comments section. I'd love to know more!

Fukuura-jima

Cost: ¥ 200

Description: This tiny island is an idyllic place to stroll around. There are some picturesque views along the way and if you bring your swimming trunks you can even go for a quick dip through one of the many beaches. The island is connected to the Mainland by a 252m long red wooden bridge and it makes a lovely way to end your day in Matsushima.

After you've done these 4 things there isn't much else to see in Matsushma. But if you do want to see some more nature, the best thing to do is to go to Miyato Island. The only problem, because of the Great Japanese Earthquake in 2012, is that the railway line is shut. So, in order to get to Miyato Island you'll need to get a car.

Happy travels and enjoy Matsushima!