Located directly in front and opposite of the massive Sendai Daikannon Statue is Sendai Nicchu Boueki Shoji (仙台日中貿易商事). Step inside and you may very well be in the largest Chinese collectibles store in the Tohoku region. Expect quality products, fair prices, and a friendly and professional staff. With direct imports from China, as well as literal hidden gems and more, a step inside this expansive specialty store is worth a separate trip in its own right.
Sendai Nicchu Boueki Shoji is big with several aisles and two main sections of the store. Browse the front part of the store to see furniture, porcelain and vases, jade pieces, and various statuary. Also, there are some Japanese products. Those on a budget will be happy to know there are many smaller souvenir style items so you can easily take home something for less than 10 US dollars (1000 yen). On the opposite side of the spectrum are the many wonderful art pieces located along the right wall upon entering. Here you will see some true masterpieces. Wooden carvings of dragons, peacocks, and deities. Some of these sell for thousands of US dollars. This is a fair price, but if it is a little too much, keep an eye out. There are arts of varying prices and sizes, all amazing to look at or dream of owning. Sometimes you will come across damaged products that sell at a huge discount--as much as 80-90% off. This is a real bargain for the less serious collector.
Continue to the back half of the store to see man-made and earthly wonders. Wooden Buddhist sculptures correlate to different signs of the Zodiac or one of a number of protector gods.These are the same quality, and sometimes size, which you may find at any temple across Japan. Buddhist altars and prayer utensils are also available. Lastly the far side of the backend of the store is full of shining and glittering minerals. Rare earth stones and gems will have any collector jumping for glee.
Sendai Nicchu Boueki Shoji is an excellent place for finding high quality and unique Chinese collectibles. Or just browse and feel like you are walking through a museum, but without paying the admission fee. Shipping services are available and the knowledgeable staff are happy to explain any product for any guest. Next time you find yourself in Sendai, make a special trip here. You'll be glad you did!
