Named in honor of Date Masamune (1567–1636), the Japanese feudal lord who built the Sendai castle in 1601 and established the foundation of Date Clan. He made efforts to increase international relationships and trade with foreign countries, sending a mission led by his retainer Hasekuro Tsunega to Mexico, Spain and Rome. Sendai {see planet  (3133)} will celebrate the 400th anniversary of its founding in 2001. (M 33787) _ _.