Marvelous Sakai a city steeped in history awaits you. Sakai boasts over forty ancient burial mounds a testament to its rich past. These aren’t just any mounds. The largest is Daisen Kofun. This colossal keyhole-shaped structure is one of the world’s three biggest tombs rivaling the Pyramid of Khufu and the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor. Imagine its scale a staggering 486 meters long. Even including the moats it stretches an incredible 840 meters. Take the 28 kilometer route to fully appreciate its immensity.
Sakai’s history extends beyond grand tombs. It was a major seaport and commercial center from the 14th to the 17th centuries. Merchants from Sakai traded extensively with China Korea the Ryukyu Islands and even Europe. Its prosperity faded with the national seclusion policy of 1639 and the silting of its harbor. Sakai then became a shadow of its former self as Osaka rose to prominence.
But Sakai’s spirit didn’t break. It revived as an industrial satellite of Osaka. Its products became globally recognized. Sakai’s knives are world-famous. Ninety percent of Japanese chefs use Sakai knives. The Jikko knife shop a Sakai institution since 1900 showcases this mastery. You can watch artisans at work in the open factory. They craft over 100 types of knives. You’ll even find sashimi knives resembling Japanese swords and knives decorated with Mount Fuji.
Beyond knives Sakai is known for its tea ceremony. Sen no Rikyu the master of the tea ceremony was born here. The Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko museum celebrates this legacy. Explore documents images and even participate in a tea ceremony. Try the Ryurei Teicha a casual tea room perfect for solo visitors. Admire the hanging scrolls and teacups. Learn the traditional etiquette. And don’t miss the Sakai Taian tearoom a recreation of a tea room designed by Sen no Rikyu.
Sakai offers more than just history and craftsmanship. Experience the unique culinary scene. Indulge in udon-suki at Mimiu a comforting dish of seafood and vegetables cooked sukiyaki style. Or savor traditional Japanese sweets at Kanbukuro a 700-year-old confectionery shop that offers only two exquisite products. For a visual feast try Kofun Curry at Hanachawan. This rice curry dish is shaped like the Tomb of Emperor Nintoku.
The Sakai City Traditional Crafts Museum offers a treasure trove of artisan skills. Discover Sakai’s traditional industries knives incense sticks textiles and more. Participate in workshops learn to sharpen knives or create incense. The museum’s Knife Museum displays rare knives even those used for cutting tuna. A French coordinator is available to guide you.
Sakai is a city where history art and culture blend seamlessly. Explore its rich past its skilled artisans and its captivating sights. Let the whispers of the past inspire you as you discover the magic of Sakai.