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20 Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Osaka’s Sakai City – Famous for Ancient Tombs and Knives

• SPIRA / RELUX

Sakai City, located south of Osaka City, has thrived as the city of knives and cutlery. It is dotted with clusters of ancient tombs (“kofun” in Japanese) that were built before the 1600s, including the Tomb of Emperor Nintoku on the eastern part of the city. Sakai is also known as the town where Sen no Rikyu spread the tradition of tea ceremony. So with that, here are the sightseeing spots and dishes that you have to see and taste in Sakai, the city at the heart of Japan’s history.

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10 Classic Sightseeing Spots in Sakai

1. tomb of emperor nintoku.

Located within the Mozu Ancient Tomb Cluster (Mozu Kofun-gun), the Tomb of Emperor Nintoku (Nintoku Tenno-ryo Kofun) is a representative site of Sakai and the largest ancient burial tomb in Japan. It is famous as one of the three largest tombs in the world alongside the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt and the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor in China.

Emperor Nintoku was the 16th Emperor of Japan. He reigned in the first half of the 5th century. His tumulus was built about two years after his death, and a stone coffin, swords, armor and helmet, and plenty of clay figures were excavated in the area.

The burial mound is a keyhole-shaped tumulus that is rectangular in shape in front and round at the rear, measuring about 468m in total length. It is surrounded by three layers of moats.

The observation lobby on the 21st floor of Sakai City Hall has a sweeping view of the entire burial mound. Entry is not allowed inside the ancient tomb, but you should still visit the area to learn about the history of Japan.

2. Mozu Ancient Tomb Cluster

The Mozu Ancient Tomb Cluster is a world-famous zone of tombs that, together with the Furuichi Tomb Cluster, stretches from Habikino City to Fujiidera City and is collectively called Mozu-Furuichi Ancient Tomb Cluster.

This cluster of burial mounds currently houses 44 ancient tombs, centering around the Tomb of Emperor Nintoku, the Tomb of Emperor Richu, and the Tomb of Emperor Hanzei.

Many of the tumuli in this area have a stunning keyhole shape, with all the mounds believed to have been built from the end of the 4th century until the early 6th century.

It is definitely great to explore the area by car, but another way that is recommended is to hop on a rental bicycle. The bicycles have electric assist systems, so it's really convenient for getting around.

3. Daisen Park

Daisen Park is a nature-rich public park that is located between the Tomb of Emperor Nintoku and the Tomb of Emperor Richu.

Inside this sprawling 38.5-hectare park is a Japanese garden that covers a vast area of the lawn, as well as Sakai City Museum, the Central Public Library, and the Cycle Center.

There are also 12 ancient burial mounds inside this area, although they are smaller in scale. This park is also a famous spot for sakura (cherry blossoms), treating visitors to gorgeous blooms of rare cherry trees such as the Chishima-zakura.

You should also check out the Shinan and Obaian tea rooms, which are registered tangible cultural properties, and the Kyujodoji Kyuju-no-to (nine-layered stone pillar), an important cultural property. Make sure to visit these spots when you tour the cluster of ancient burial mounds.

4. Japanese Garden at Daisen Park

The Japanese Garden inside Daisen Park occupies a vast 26,000 sq.m. area. It opened in March 1989 as the 100th anniversary project of Sakai City.

This garden was built using Japan’s original technology for creating gardens. The plateau at the southern part of the garden serves as a “togenkyo” (Shangri-La), the Ishizukei River flows from south to north, and the plains spread out on the north side.

Beautiful flowers bloom in this garden every season, with exhibitions held to showcase peonies, morning glory flowers, chrysanthemums, and many other flowers throughout the year. If you stand on any of the three bridges over Ishizukei, you will get to soak in the peaceful scenery that will make you feel the four seasons of Japan.

There are rest facilities where you relax inside the garden as well. They even offer matcha green tea to visitors. This park is definitely the perfect spot for dates and other occasions.

5. Bicycle Museum Cycle Center

Found inside Daisen Park, the Bicycle Museum Cycle Center is the only bicycle museum in Japan that showcases the history of Sakai City's bicycle industry and displays various kinds of bicycles.

Sakai flourished as a town of smithery where blacksmiths made hoes, guns, and blades. The blacksmiths' techniques were also used in the production of bicycles; the bicycle parts manufactured in the area are used not only in Japan, but all over the world as well.

The museum features around 300 bicycles - from the oldest bicycle up to the latest bicycle in the market today. Visitors even get to experience and learn about brakes, transmissions, and other bicycle mechanisms.

There are also events that are held at this museum, including test-ride events for classic bicycles and bicycle riding classes. This museum is highly recommended to those who wish to know more about the charms of bicycles.

6. Hamadera Park

Hamadera Park, which is located at the southernmost coast of Sakai City, opened in 1873 and is the oldest public park in Japan. The row of pine trees on its coastline has been chosen as one of the Top 100 Pine Groves in Japan.

It is home to the Traffic Amusement Park, which offers visitors a variety of fun rides, a rose garden, pool, sports facilities, and children’s playground, among many other facilities.

During summer, the famous Hamadera Swimming School holds lessons at this park. From spring until autumn, the park’s Rose Garden is enveloped with 6,500 blooming rose plants from 300 varieties.  

You can rent bicycles for free inside this vast park, and you can also have a BBQ at a designated area, so you are bound to have a fun-filled day with your family.

7. Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko

Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko (Sakai Risho no Mori) is a complex facility that is annexed to two museums: Sen no Rikyu Chanoyu (Tea Ceremony) Museum and Yosano Akiko Museum.

The Sen no Rikyu Chanoyu (Tea Ceremony) Museum was built in memory of the Sakai-born tea master Sen no Rikyu. Here, there is a reproduction of one of his original tea rooms, and you can unlock the ingenuity of Sen no Rikyu through audio and video presentations.

Meanwhile, at the Yosano Akiko Museum, life and works of the Sakai-born singer Akiko Yosano are on display. There is also a corner where you can experience the world of poetry through video and audio.

Adjacent to this museum are the Chanoyu Experience Halls and the Sen no Rikyu Yashikiato (ruins of Sen no Rikyu’s residence), as well as a restaurant and cafe. This spot is recommended to those who want to know more about the world of tea ceremony and poetry.

8. Sakai Hamono Museum

Located on the second floor of the Sakai City Traditional Crafts Museum, the Sakai Hamono Museum is a place where they showcase and sell Sakai-made knives and hamono (cutlery), a traditional craft that is the pride of Sakai City. If you go to the first floor, you will see a demonstration of how knives and cutlery are made.

Hoes, plows, and other implements have been made in Sakai since ancient times, and it became famous throughout the country thanks to its thriving industry of knives used in cutting and trimming fish during the Tokugawa period (1693 - 1868).

yoshifumi_fujita

The museum displays various knives and cutlery that were made in Sakai, such as knives used by roughly 90% of all professional chefs in Japan. There is also an area where you can learn about taking care of knives, scissors, and other cutleries.

On the first floor of the Sakai City Traditional Crafts Museum, other traditional crafts outside of the cutlery sphere are also displayed and sold, including incense sticks and bicycles. It's a great place to stop by for souvenirs.

9. Mozu Hachimangu

Mozu Hachimangu is a Hachiman shrine that was built around 1,500 years ago. It is just a 5-minute walk away from Mozu Station.

There is an enormous camphor tree in front of the main shrine that is said to be 700 - 800 years old, and it has been designated as a natural monument by the city of Osaka. It is believed to help worshipers ward off evil.

This shrine is famous for its autumn festival (Tsukimi Matsuri) that is held during the night of the harvest moon (full moon, which occurs on August 15th in the lunar calendar) around September 20th each year. During the festival, the Futon Daiko drums, which weigh about 3 tons, are paraded around the neighborhood.

Mozu Hachimangu is near the Tomb of Emperor Nintoku and Daisen Park, so you should drop by this historic shrine on your stroll through these tombs. Who knows, something good just might happen to you!

10. Sakai Alphonse Mucha Museum

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The Sakai Alphonse Mucha Museum is an art museum that focuses on the illustrations and paintings by Alphonse Mucha, a designer representing the Art Nouveau genre.

Born in 1860 in what is in present day the Czech Republic, Mucha became famous in Paris, France, and received worldwide acclaim for his works at the 1900 Paris Expo. He lived his final years in the Czech Republic.

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The museum showcases his lifelong work, displaying a large number of his works from the early stages of his career up to the final years of his life. You will see many different sides of him through his works, which range from posters of women during his time in Paris, up to oil paintings and sculptures.

It should be worth your time to visit this museum to marvel at the works of Mucha, which have captivated many people with their graceful curves and pale, unique color schemes. This spot is recommended to those who are interested in graphic art and paintings.

5 Recommended Spots Around Sakai Station

1. ginshariya gekotei.

Located right next to Terajicho Station, Ginshariya Gekotei is an inexpensive local eatery built by the famous rice cooking master, where you can eat their exquisite rice at a truly affordable price.

Here, they primarily offer set meals that will allow you to choose one main dish, which is mainly a kind of seafood dish, with a side of miso soup and rice. The rice here is, of course, absolutely divine, but the other dishes they serve are always extremely highly rated.

iricoyasan57

The owner of the restaurant, Tsutomu Murashima, regretfully retired in 2013 at the age of 83. The eatery that stands at the location right now is Ginshari Gekotei, the second generation of his restaurant that has inherited his obsession and commitment to food.

Murashima, who turned 87 years old in 2019, apparently still comes to the restaurant to teach the crew how to properly cook rice. This is definitely the top recommended local gourmet stop when you visit Sakai.

2. Keshimochi Honpo Kojimaya

Keshimochi Honpo Kojimaya is a Japanese confectionery shop that was opened during the Enpo era (1673 - 1681) of the Edo period (1603 -1868). Their signature item is the keshimochi (rice cake covered with poppy seeds), and this delight has been its most famous product ever since the Edo period.

The making of confectioneries to be served in tea ceremonies, which was made popular by Sen no Rikyu, flourished in Sakai from the Azuchi-Momoyama period (around 1558 - 1600). Keshimochi is one of those sweets.

mikirin_mizoyan

Poppies are said to have come from India during the Muromachi period (1333 - 1573)  and then widely cultivated around Osaka (especially in Sakai) and Wakayama.

A soft rice cake filled with red bean paste and covered with fragrant poppy seeds, the keshimochi offered by Keshimochi Honpo Kojimaya is a confectionery that best represents Sakai. It is a great souvenir that will give you a taste of history that spans more than 300 years.

Sasuke is a store that has been forging and selling cutting tools, especially garden shears for professional use, for five generations since the Edo period. You can also tour the factory here if you make a reservation.

The tools at Sasuke are made using ancient techniques adopted from around the 5th century that preserve the traditions of Sakai and respect the power of fire.

Here, you will get to watch manufacturing processes such as steel hammer welding that combines two kinds of unprocessed metals (steel and unprocessed metal) and tempering, as well as polishing and sharpening.

Their scissors and clippers have also become popular with foreigners of late due to a bonsai boom. They also sell small knives, letter openers, and other cutting tools, so you should definitely visit if you have the time.

4. Sakai City Fishing Federation Tore-Tore Market

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The Sakai City Fishing Federation Tore-Tore Market is an eating establishment where you can enjoy seafood BBQ inside the Sakai Dejima Fishing Port. Sponsored by the Sakai City Fishing Federation, it is held every Saturday and Sunday.

At the center of a massive tent, there are rows of tables where you can grill your food. Around the tables there are eight stores offering a selection of various ingredients.

When you go there, the first thing you need to do is rent a BBQ net and then buy seafood, vegetables, yakisoba (fried noodles), rice and whatever food or ingredients you want from the other stores. When you rent out the BBQ net, you can also purchase meat along with it.

The Sakai City Fishing Federation Tore-Tore Market also holds events for children, such as the Super Bowl Sukui, so that you are guaranteed to have fun with your friends. You can certainly come alone and have a great time, but this place is especially recommended for families. 

5. Hochigai Shrine

Hochigai Shrine is said to have been built in 90 B.C., making it more than 2,000 years old. It is visited by plenty of worshipers who wish for luck when building a new house or moving. There are also many people who come to this shrine for their custom of “katatagai”, which calls for someone to head toward a different direction when the direction they are currently taking is unlucky.

This shrine is built along Nagao Highway, which connects Osaka, Nara, and Kumano. Behind it is the Tomb of Emperor Hanzei. This is a great spot to take a stroll as there are also many other spots near this shrine, such as the old townscape of Kuramae-cho and Aizen-in, where the main hall built in the early Edo period still remains.

5 Recommended Little-Known Spots in Sakai

1. 21st floor observation lobby at sakai city hall.

The 21st Floor Observation Lobby at Sakai City Hall is located on the top floor of Sakai City Hall near Sakaihigashi Station. From here, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the town below.

The streets of Sakai will spread before your eyes, and when you come on a clear day, you can even see everything from Mt. Rokko up to Mt. Ikoma and Mt. Kongo. The night view is also spectacular, catapulting the place as one of the new famous landmarks of Sakai City.

santo_night

This observation lobby on the 21st floor of Sakai City Hall is popular as the only place where the entire Tomb of Emperor Nintoku can be seen from above. Admission is free and it is open even on national holidays.

There is also a cafe corner where you can relax. It may be inside the city hall, but there are no troublesome procedures you need to go through when you enter, so make sure to check out this observation lobby.

2. Children’s Museum Big Bang

Children’s Museum Big Bang is a museum for children that was designed based on the theme “an epic journey of Bearu and Merou who are visitors from outer space”, with the famous cartoonist Leiji Matsumoto serving as the director of the museum.

The spaceship on which Bearu and Merou flew in on has been set as the facade of the museum, and the 1st to 4th floor consists of areas where the world created by Matsumoto is brought to life. There are even real rocket engines and space suits on display.

Inside the museum, there are various facilities such as the Children’s Theater, Workshop, Confectionery Making Room, as well as large playground equipment, a rest area, an infirmary, and a cafe. The 1st to 4th floors have a barrier-free design.

Beside the spaceship, there is a 53m-high jungle gym that looks just like a rocket launch pad. This facility will surely be enjoyed not just by children, but also by adults.

3. Maguro Park Sakai Main Branch

katsuhiro.ohashi

Maguro Park Sakai Main Branch is a major “food-based theme park” that is located inside the Sakai Central Wholesalers Market in the Kita area of Sakai. There are 220 seats available inside where you can sit while enjoying an array of dishes that mainly incorporate tuna (maguro).

People who come here love the sushi, donburi (rice bowl with topping), and set meals that use fresh tuna. There is also a tuna cutting show that is held here every day.

masanao.san

In addition to seafood, Maguro Park Sakai Main Branch also sells meats, vegetables, and other ingredients at prices that are much lower than market prices. This place draws in throngs of customers as the so-called kitchen of the residents in the area.

It is located in the middle of the Mozu Ancient Tomb Cluster and the Furuichi Tomb Cluster, so it is easy to drop by this market while you are exploring the ancient tombs. It may be a bit far from the center of the city, but it is definitely a must-visit little-known spot for seafood.

4. Old Sakai Lighthouse

The Old Sakai Lighthouse is a Western-style wooden lighthouse that was built in 1877 at the old Nanko pier in Sakai Port. It has been designated as a national historic site.

Located at the tip of the former Sakai Port, this old lighthouse is one of the oldest Western-style wooden lighthouses that still exist today. However, the reclamation of the port led to the closure of this lighthouse in 1968.

Standing at 11.3m high, this lighthouse initially illuminated the area using a kerosene lamp. That lamp was gradually worn out, but its restoration and repair was completed in 2006, bringing it back to its former glory.

Old Sakai Lighthouse may be a small lighthouse, but it is a priceless asset in terms of historical value. The nature-rich Ohama Park is nearby, too, so you should check it out when you go for a walk.

5. Shinan and Obaian Tea Rooms

The Shinan tea room in Daisen Park was built in 1929 by Rodo Ogi, but it was originally located at the Tokyo Shiba Park and later moved to its current location.

Rodo Ogi is a tea master and architect who was active from the Meiji period (1868 - 1912) until the early Showa period (1912 - 1926). Shinan is considered a massive structure even in terms of tea rooms, as it is a two-story Japanese sukiya-style (tea ceremony building) building with 10 Japanese-style rooms.

The adjacent Obaian tea room was built during the Edo period in a house that belonged to the Toyoda family in Kashihara City. Both tea rooms are designated as national tangible cultural properties.

At Shinan, you can enjoy matcha green tea with dried confectionery. Obaian is also connected to a beautiful Japanese garden, so you'll be able to relax and marvel at the beauty of Japan here.

Enjoy Walks Through Historic Streets and Delicious Food in Sakai

Sakai is a place that is overflowing with attractions that include ancient burial mounds housing notable people from the past, knives, tea ceremonies, and Japanese confectioneries. The gap between the clusters of buildings and the tumuli where the past generations are resting is the very thing that draws people to Sakai. Make sure to have your fill of seafood dishes and delicious rice as well for Sakai is a port town after all!

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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OSAKA Sakai & Kishiwada Massive fifth century mausoleum so close to Osaka

• NEAR SAKAI & KISHIWADA
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• Sakai & Kishiwada

Massive fifth century mausoleum so close to Osaka

If you are based in Osaka for any length of time, the neighboring cities of Sakai and Kishiwada on Osaka Bay make rewarding excursions. Due to their proximity to Kansai International Airport, they are ideal stopping-off points before a flight or during a long layover.

• Daisenryo Kofun—one of the world's largest ancient mausoleums at Sakai
• Sakai's world-renowned crafts
• The high-octane Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri festival

How to Get There

Sakai and Kishiwada lie southeast of Osaka en route to Kansai International Airport.

Both cities are within an hour of Osaka and easy to reach by train using the Nankai or JR Hanwa Line via Tennoji Station, or directly from the Airport. For Daisenryo Kofun, take the JR Hanwa Line to Mozu Station from where the mausoleum is a five-minute walk.

Sakai ancient and modern

The city of Sakai has a rich and colorful history. A prosperous merchant town and trading port in the 16th century, it is also the birthplace of revered tea master Sen no Rikyu. Today Sakai is renowned for its craft cutlery industry (Sakai knives are much sought after by chefs) and precision bicycle manufacture, and has museums devoted to both. Its most remarkable claim to fame, however, is the site of one of the largest mausoleums on the planet.

Tombs to rival the pyramids

Sakai's ancient burial mounds with their distinctive keyhole design were built on a scale that rivals the pyramids. The central mound, known in Japanese as Daisen Kofun, is believed to contain the remains of the legendary fourth century Emperor Nintoku. Dating from the fifth century, the tomb covers 1.3 million square feet (room for 12 baseball fields) and is reckoned to have taken at least 15 years and 2,000 laborers to construct.

The mausoleum, set amidst the urban sprawl of 21st-century Sakai, is enclosed by three moats and the burial mounds are now covered in lush vegetation. The site is considered sacred and visitors may venture no further than the outer moat. To make sense of the site, it is best viewed from the observation deck on the 21st floor of Sakai City Hall. Back on the ground, you can walk around the peaceful outer moat (2.5 miles).

To learn more about the history and archaeology of Daisenryo Kofun, watch a short film in English provided by the Sakai City Museum in the park across the street.

Pedal power

Sakai is a pleasant city to tour by bike. You can rent cycles from the tourist office and routes are well signposted in English.

Kishiwada—serene castle and riotous festival

Rocking and rolling.

Thirty-five ornately crafted floats (danjiri) each weighing over four tons are hauled through the streets by hundreds of townspeople at breakneck speed. Hundreds more run alongside and behind while atop each float the Daiku-Gata, a wild and fearless master of ceremonies urges on his crew, performing feats of daring on the roof.

Like the bull runners of Pamplona, rival teams race their floats with little regard for their own safety. Stand well back as the floats pass by. It takes skill and experience to navigate tight corners along the route and accidents and injuries are not unusual (no wonder the festivities begin with prayers for the safety of the runners).

As evening sets in, the festival continues (though at a more leisurely pace) as revelers enjoy beers and street food and the rivalries of the day are forgotten.

Floats & Daiku-Gata on floats at the festival in Sakai-shi

Last minute shopping at Rinku Town

Alternatively, if you have time to spare before your flight, take a ride on the waterfront ferris wheel for excellent views of the artificial island on which the airport is built.

Views of Rinku Town

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Get out and go to sakai osaka.

Where can you go if you’ve already visited most of Osaka’s main tourist attractions – or you just want a bit of a break from the big city? Luckily there are many more places to go outside of the city, but still within easy reach of Osaka. This article is the second in a series looking at these places, which began last time with Ikeda . Today we’re looking at Sakai, Osaka Prefecture’s second-largest city.

Table of Contents

Why you should go to Sakai

Sakai is directly south of Osaka City, and is connected by major railway lines including Nankai and the Osaka Metro. Historically it has often been one of Japan’s main ports, and even today it is one of the 20 most populous cities in Japan, making Sakai more urbanised than some other parts of Osaka Prefecture. Today, I’ll go into some detail about Sakai’s long history and share some of the best places to walk around and see the city, taking in ancient tombs, relaxing parks, museums and more.

The history of Sakai

The Osaka area was important in the early history of Japan as a nation, when it was a marshy region of agriculture and port towns. The national capital was situated where Osaka City is today, perhaps on multiple occasions, with the first time said to have been in the 4 th century CE during the reign of the semi-legendary Emperor Nintoku. At that time, members of the ruling class were buried all around Japan in large, keyhole-shaped tombs called kofun . The kofun traditionally regarded as Nintoku’s grave is part of the Mozu-Furuichi group in modern-day Sakai City. This shows just how central the area was at this time in Japanese history.

The port town of Sakai was named for its location. The word sakai (堺) means “border”, and the town straddled the boundaries of the three old provinces of Settsu, Izumi and Kawachi. This distinction was significant in the 15 th and 16 th centuries, when the Sengoku (“warring states”) Period saw an extended period of civil war, and provinces were under the control of local warlords. Sakai, which had become a major port by then, was governed instead by a merchants’ council and was known as a “free city”. This was an important time in Sakai’s history, when it was one of the country’s main sites for international trade and diplomacy ( read more about the diplomatic history of Osaka here ). Foreign culture was also brought to Sakai by missionaries including Francis Xavier, the first Jesuit missionary to visit Japan. Xavier Park in Sakai, which was named in his honour, can be found on the site of the home of a merchant who supported Xavier and other missionaries.

Sakai has also had an important impact on the history of Osaka City. Towards the end of the Sengoku Period, the samurai warlord Oda Nobunaga was attempting to reunify the country by force. One of the main opposition forces was a Buddhist faction headquartered in Ishiyama Honganji, a temple that the town of Osaka grew around. During his eventually successful war against Ishiyama Honganji, Nobunaga’s forces were based in Sakai, a major producer of arms at that time. These events led to Osaka becoming the political centre of Japan for several years as Nobunaga’s successor, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, founded Osaka Castle on the former site of Ishiyama Honganji and continued the struggle for unification. Another connection between Sakai and Osaka is in Sakai’s closeness to Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, which is part of southern Osaka City today but once controlled part of Sakai. A traditional element of the shrine’s summer festival, Sumiyoshi Matsuri, is a procession bringing the mikoshi – a portable shrine transporting a deity – south to Sakai ( read more about traditional ceremonies and festivals in Osaka here ). Today’s Sakai Matsuri, held in Sakai every October, also reflects this history with a parade and other events including markets selling local specialities.

After the Sengoku Period, Sakai was overtaken by Osaka among the great cities of Japan, but it remained important as a port even around the time Japan’s modern era began. It was still such a major city that when the system of prefectures was first being set up in the late 19 th century, Sakai Prefecture was formed out of the old provinces of Izumi and Kawachi. For a short time, even today’s Nara Prefecture was absorbed into Sakai Prefecture, before the boundaries were redrawn again and Sakai joined Osaka Prefecture. Sakai was also the setting for a dramatic episode showing the tension between Japan and the growing influence of foreign powers. In the Sakai Incident, eleven French sailors were killed at the port, triggering a diplomatic crisis where the French authorities demanded that the perpetrators be executed. Twenty were eventually sentenced to public ritual suicide, but after the first eleven, the French captain asked for the last nine to be pardoned. This point in Sakai’s history is also represented by the Old Sakai Lighthouse, which is the oldest remaining wooden lighthouse in the country. It was built in 1877 and was in operation for almost a century before land reclamation changed the city’s coastline. It remains as a popular symbol of Sakai today.

Nowadays, although it is dwarfed by Osaka, Sakai is a large city with over 800,000 residents. Its best-known industries include knives and bicycles, which developed using the technologies that have been used for making swords and firearms for hundreds of years. While Sakai is closely connected with Osaka, its long history of independence can still be seen too. One of the early setbacks for the Osaka Metropolis Plan – a policy that would have restructured Osaka and other nearby cities into a “metropolis” like Tokyo – was a lack of support from Sakai residents, forcing its proponents to scale back the plan ( read more about the Osaka Metropolis Plan here ). Reasons for opposing the plan included skepticism about its actual benefits, but part of it may also have been an unwillingness to be absorbed into Osaka City after centuries of independence.

You can see Sakai’s history for yourself at several popular sightseeing spots. I will now tell you about a few that you should visit.

The Mozu-Furuichi kofun group

As I mentioned earlier, emperors and other members of the ruling class in ancient Japan were entombed in kofun , large mounds typically in the shape of a keyhole. Hundreds were constructed around Japan between the 3 rd and 6 th centuries CE, an era often called the Kofun Period. The kofun in the Mozu-Furuichi group are so far the only ones to be recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. These are made up of the Mozu tombs in Sakai and the Furuichi tombs in the neighbouring cities of Habikino and Fujiidera. Some of these kofun are enormous, such as the Daisenryo Kofun, supposedly Emperor Nintoku’s final resting place, which is the largest in the country and one of the largest tombs in the world at nearly 500 metres in length.

The Mozu-Furuichi kofun are easy to visit, but you can only look from the outside. Wide moats surround each of the forested mounds, which have been accessed only occasionally by archaeologists for excavation projects. Even so, they are impressive to see, especially the Daisenryo Kofun, which takes about an hour to walk around and has a picturesque torii gate at its southern end. The keyhole shape can only be seen from an aerial view, but if you go to Sakai City Hall, you can at least get a sense of its size compared with the surrounding area. The city hall’s 21 st floor has an observation lobby where you can look out over the Daisenryo Kofun and the urban scenery of Sakai. Whether up-close or from a distance, the Mozu-Furuichi kofun are a fascinating sight.

Daisen Park

Daisen Park is located between several of the largest kofun and includes a few smaller ones itself. Within the park is Sakai City Museum, a museum devoted to the city’s history where you can learn more about the kofun . This is not the park’s only museum, as you can also find Japan’s only bicycle museum here. Bicycle Museum Cycle Center is all about the history of Sakai’s bicycle industry, and exhibits a variety of bicycles of many different kinds. Between them, these museums offer visitors a chance to understand Sakai’s history from ancient to modern times.

The park also features a beautiful Japanese garden, created to celebrate the centenary of the foundation of modern Sakai City. Various seasonal flowers can be seen in the garden, including plum trees which bloom in February, and there are often exhibits of flowers in the main pavilion. As Sakai is important to the history of Japanese tea ceremony – more on that in the next section – matcha and seasonal confectionary are also available in the Japanese garden and in two teahouses elsewhere in the park. Altogether, Daisen Park is a good place to go for a relaxing walk, especially if you are also checking out the Mozu-Furuichi kofun .

Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko

Sen no Rikyu and Yosano Akiko are two of Sakai’s most famous historical figures. The son of a Sakai merchant, Sen no Rikyu was a tea ceremony master who studied the art in Sakai and Kyoto before working under Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, two of the “great unifiers” at the end of the Sengoku Period. He revolutionised tea ceremony with an emphasis on hospitality, rustic aesthetics and equal treatment of guests. Although his friendship with Hideyoshi fell apart, he had a huge influence on the development of Japanese tea ceremony.

Yosano Akiko was also born into a successful merchant family, and became one of the most famous Japanese poets of the early 20 th century. As well as controversial works like the collection Tangled Hair ( Midaregami ) and the anti-war poem Thou Shalt Not Die ( Kimi shintamo koto nakare ), she wrote about social issues and produced a modern Japanese translation of the classic The Tale of Genji ( Genji monogatari ). Her work also had an impact on the early feminist movement in Japan.

These two figures are celebrated at the Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko. This museum has information about Sen no Rikyu and Yosano Akiko, and their place in Sakai’s history. There are displays of the cover designs for Yosano’s books, a recreation of Rikyu’s last remaining tearoom, and opportunities to participate in a tea ceremony yourself. Through the lives of these famous individuals, the museum teaches visitors about the cultural history of Sakai.

There are several ways to reach Sakai by train. The JR and Nankai networks both have several stations in Sakai, and the Osaka Metro and Hankai tramway also go there. Generally speaking, the Nankai Main Line is useful for areas near the shore, such as the Old Sakai Lighthouse, while the Nankai Koya Line and JR Hanwa Line provide connections to more inland sights like the kofun . Depending on your starting point and the places you want to visit, the most suitable method can vary, but read on for suggestions on the most direct routes from major stations in Osaka.

For the Daisenryo Kofun, the nearest stations are Mikunigaoka and Mozu on the JR Hanwa Line. An adult fare from Tennoji to either station is 220 yen. It takes about 10 minutes on a rapid service train from Tennoji to Mikunigaoka. Mikunigaoka is also on the Namba Koya line. A local train from Namba takes about 30 minutes and costs 340 yen. A faster route is to take an express or sub express train to Sakaihigashi – roughly 10 minutes – and change to a local service there.

Only JR local service trains stop at Mozu, but it is also the nearest station for Daisen Park. You can either take the local train all the way from Tennoji, which takes around 25 minutes, or take a rapid train to Mikunigaoka and change. The fare is still 220 yen.

For the Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko, the nearest station is Shukuin on the Hankai tramway. From either Ebisucho or Tennoji, it takes around 35 minutes and costs 230 yen. Note that if you are going from Ebisucho, you will need to change at Sumiyoshi, and that the Tennoji Hankai stop is outside the main station. Alternatively, the Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko is also about ten minutes’ walk from Sakai Station on the Nankai Main Line. From Namba, express trains take around 10 minutes, local trains take around 15 minutes, and an adult fare is 260 yen.

Entry to Sakai City Museum, Bicycle Museum Cycle Center and the Daisen Park Japanese Garden costs 200 yen each, and entry to the Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko costs 500 yen. Additional fees apply for services like tea ceremonies. There are no fees for visiting the Mozu-Furuichi kofun , Daisen Park or the city hall observation lobby.

Opening hours vary, and please note that at the time of writing (May 2021) many facilities are temporarily closed. Visit the links below to check up-to-date availability and opening hours.

Sakai City Museum (Japanese)

Bicycle Museum Cycle Center (Japanese)

Daisen Park Japanese Garden

Except where otherwise noted, images are photographs taken by the author.

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Culture of SAKAI

The burial mound of Emperor Nintoku, which is the world’s largest tomb and part of the Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group which has just been registered as a World Heritage Site in 2019, bordered by Japanese gardens and museums, is situated as one of the most popular spots in Osaka at the moment. Sakai was once a city that thrived on trade and industry, and the knives for which it is renowned, praised by chefs all over Japan and around the world, have a history of 600 years. Furthermore, with the influence of Senno Rikyu, the tea ceremony master, there are still many famous Japanese sweets shops.

Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group

Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group was designated as a World Heritage Site in 2019, the first in Osaka. The Funeral Mound of Emperor Nintoku is one of the world’s largest keyhole shaped tomb mounds and is just one of the 44 tombs that are scattered across the Mozu and Furuichi areas. The Japanese garden that borders the Mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku was designed by Kinsaku Nakane who is also famous for the gardens at the Adachi Museum of Art. By going up to the Sakai City Hall Observatory in front of the Sakai Higashi station, you can get a good view of the burial mound and see its shape. Rental bicycles are available to make your tour of the different sites easier.

• Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group, Official Site
• Sakai Tourism & Convention Guide

More traditional culture that comes from Sakai

There are plenty of other traditional industries that originated in Sakai. Items such as Sakai Senko (incense), the “chusenwazarashi” method of traditional dyeing, and the traditional Japanese sweets that are essential in the tea ceremony. Take a rental bicycle from Sakai station on the Nankai Line to the Sakai City Traditional Crafts Museum where you can see all of these traditional products and crafts gathered together. You can also participate in such traditional Sakai practices as knife sharpening and cooking Japanese sweets.

• Sakai City Traditional Crafts Museum, Official site

The town where the Tea Ceremony began

Senno Rikyu, born and raised in Sakai, perfected his own style of simple Tea Ceremony, and this has led to many organizations and tourists spots that promote this style in Sakai. One of the most popular attractions at the moment is the Cha no Yu experience available to visitors in proper tea rooms. Senno Rikyu pursued concepts such as motenashi (hospitality), shitsurai (tasteful room decorations on each occasion), and now you can experience these on location.

• Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko

Sakai: The Town of Knives

Sakai is well known as a great producer of knives. The quality of these knives, created blade by blade by master craftsmen, is recognized by professional chef, and it is said that 90% of sushi masters and chefs use knives made in Sakai. This reputation has started to spread internationally over the last few years, and now overseas visitors are coming to Sakai in growing numbers.

Sumiyoshi Taisha

Known as “Sumiyossan” to the locals, this is one of the most potent power spots in Osaka. It is the head shrine of the 2300 Sumiyoshi shrines throughout Japan, and many visitors from within Japan and overseas visit to take part in the monthly pilgrimage that is said to be beneficial to business success and for safety within the home. Each of the four main sanctuary buildings is for a different god, and each is a designated national treasure. Viewing the architecture of these buildings, using ancient Japanese techniques, is another pleasure to be gained from travel.

• Sumiyoshi Taisha, Official Site

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Where to go?

What to do, 15 things to do in sakai: japan.

The city of Sakai has much to offer to the visitor with its attractions fairly close to each other. From a short weekend to weeks, you can enjoy Sakai for however long you like. These fifteen attractions are the best we have chosen for you to help you get a head start on Sakai.

1. Daisenryo Ancient Tomb

The first attraction you should see in Sakai as recommended by TripAdvisor is the Daisenryo Ancient Tomb. It is a key-holed shape and the largest tomb in Japan. You can spend an enjoyable hour walking around the entire tomb.

Information Name: Daisenryo Ancient Tomb Address:  Daisencho, Sakai-ku , Sakai 590-0035, Osaka Prefecture Website: http://www.kunaicho.go.jp/ryobo/guide/016/index.html#_=_

2. Hamadera Park

The most beautiful park in Sakai is Hamadera Park. This park is pet-friendly and has a pine forest within. It is great for play time and it spreads to the waterfront. Spread out and enjoy the greenery.

Information Name: Hamadera Park Address: http://www.osaka-park.or.jp/rinkai/hamadera/main.html#access#_=_ Website: http://www.osaka-park.or.jp/rinkai/hamadera/main.html#access#_=_

3. Sakai City Hall Observatory Flour

For an epic city view, head to the Sakai City Hall Observatory Flour. It is the tallest building in Sakai and you can get to the top floor for a 360-degree view of the city. You can see all of Sakai stretching out to more of Osaka and a view of the Daisenryo Ancient Tomb from above.

Information Name: Sakai City Hall Observatory Flour Address:  3-1 Minamikawaramachi, Sakai-ku , Sakai590-0078, Osaka Prefecture Website: http://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/spot/spot.php?act=do_list#_=_

4. Oizumi Ryokuchi

Oizumi Ryokuchi is another main park in Sakai. Here, you will find ginko forests, a skate park, and a playground for children.The designated barbecue areas are great for socializing and getting people together.

Information Name: Oizumi Ryokuchi Address:  128 Kanaoka-cho, Kita-ku , Sakai 591-8022, Osaka Prefecture Website: http://www.osaka-park.or.jp/nanbu/oizumi/main.html

5. Daisen Park

Daisen Park is the third major park in Sakai. It is home to the Sakai Festival and located near many other major attractions. The flower garden at Daisen Park is so immaculate, that portion requires an entry fee. There is a lake to enjoy when you want to rest in peace.

Information Name: Daisen Park Address: 2-204 Mozusekiuncho, Sakai Ward, Sakai, Osaka Prefecture 590-0802 Website: https://www.city.sakai.lg.jp/kurashi/koen/shokai/shokai/daisen.html

6. Sakai City Museum

This next attraction is an added benefit of visiting Daisen Park. Sakai City Museum is located within Daisen Park and only opened in 1980. Although it is more on the modern side, it holds many artifacts and exhibits for all ages.

Information Name: Sakai City Museum Address: Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, Sakai-ku, Mozusekiun-cho, in the 2-chome Daisen Park Website: http://www.city.sakai.lg.jp/kanko/hakubutsukan/

7. Alphonse Mucha Museum

The Alphonse Mucha Museum offers a more vibrant and exotic feel in its exhibits. Much of the work is of the famous artist, Alphonse Mucha. This museum actually has a lot of colors, which is different and the displays are eye-popping.

Information Name: http://mucha.sakai-bunshin.com/index.jsp#_=_ Address:  1-2-200 Tadeicho, Sakai-ku , Sakai 590-0014 , Osaka Prefecture Price: 500 yen Holiday: Monday Website: http://mucha.sakai-bunshin.com/index.jsp#_=_

8. Ebaraji Temple

A temple known for wisdom and its own pet cemetery will make this visit a unique one. This temples holds one of the oldest buildings that includes the famous Ieharaji along with other statues. There is so much to see that this temple can keep you entertained for hours.

Information Name: Ebaraji Temple Address: 〒593-8304 Osaka Prefecture, Sakai, Nishi Ward, Ebarajicho, １丁8−20 Website: http://www.chiemonjyuebaraji.jp/

9. Ario Otori

Ario Otori holds many different things for the visitor to experience. It is a five story building which has 150 stores and a cinema. You can find anything you need here – food, clothing, electronics, and more.

Information Name: Ario Otori Address:  3-199-12 Otoriminami-machi, Nishi-ku , Sakai593-8325, Osaka Prefecture Website: http://www.ario-otori.jp/web/

10. Harvest Hill

If you are looking to charm someone, including yourself, head to Harvest Hill. It is a park which will get you active if you like. You can choose from golfing, archery, go-karting, or people watching. If you want to spend your day low key, find a quiet spot by the flowers away from the activities.

Information Name: Harvest Hill Address:  2405-1 Hachigamineji, Minami-ku , Sakai, Osaka Prefecture Website: http://farm.or.jp/

11. Old Sakai Light House

Located on the waterfront, the Old Sakai Light House is a landmark that overlooks the port. It was built many years ago and it is rare to find others who hold the old form as this one does. Rent a bike and ride on over. Waterfront views at night or sunset are the best.

Information Name: Old Sakai Light House Address:  Ohamakitamachi, Sakai-ku , Sakai 590-0974, Osaka Prefecture Website: http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/facilities/cat10/post_138.html

12. Hochigai Shrine

For an authentic Japanese day, visit the Hochigai Shrine, which holds the story of Empress Jingu. Many locals come to worship here and it is also home to a festival in May annually. On New Years Day, the shrine is filled with crowds.

Information Name: Hochigai Shrine Address: 〒590-0021 Osaka Prefecture, Sakai, Sakai Ward, Kitamikunigaokacho, ２丁2−1 Website: http://www.hochigai-jinja.or.jp/

13. Sakai Traditional Industrial Hall

For a historical walk, where one can easily go out for dinner at the many restaurants nearby, make a stop at the Sakai Traditional Industrial Hall. The hall symbolizes cutlery and its past presence. You can view different knives and exhibits when you enter.

Information Name: Sakai Traditional Industrial Hall Address:  1-1-30 Nishi Zaimoku-cho Sakai-ku , Sakai590-0941, Osaka Prefecture Website: http://%20%20%20.sakaidensan.jp/#_=_

14. Bicycle Museum

The Bicycle Museum may be a bit strange, but we recommend you go! Dedicated to bicycles, it continues to be updated annually. Do not miss the basement which has exciting information.

Information Name:  Bicycle Museum Address:  18-2 Daisennakamachi, Sakai-ku , Sakai 590-0801, Osaka Prefecture Website: http://www.bikemuse.jp/#_=_

15. Nanshuji Temple

The Nanshuji Temple serves as a cultural center to those who visit it. It actually burned down during a battle and was rebuilt. There are graves of past Japanese fighters here, volunteers who will show you around, and memorials.

Information Name: Nanshuji Temple Address: 3 Chome-5-12 Honden, Nishi Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 550-0022 Website: http://www.nansouji.or.jp/noukotsudou.html

When you visit Sakai, you will be impressed how much this city has to do. It may be hard to choose which attraction to see first, and we hope you enjoy all of them.

Have a good trip and travel!

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The city of Sakai 堺

• Published on : 21/05/2019
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The medieval port

Sakai is an old market town located about fifteen kilometers from Osaka. Grown by trade, like its big sister in Kansai, the city offers the curious visitor a glimpse of ancient history found as you stroll through the streets.

Sakai or big business

Sakai is a city ideally located, right in the middle of Japan, in a region that since antiquity has been the heart of Japanese activity.

During the troubled times of Sengoku (1477 - 1573), it became an autonomous city, which, like Venice in Europe, prospered through trade and was ruled by an oligarchy of wealthy traders.

The atmosphere of freedom that reigned in Sakai then attracted many great personalities of the time such as the eccentric Buddhist monk Ikkyû . Sen no Rikyû , considered the greatest tea ceremony master in Japanese history, was also originally a local merchant.

The city had a great impact on the political game of the time, not only because of its wealth but also by forging links with the Europeans who landed for the first time on the island.

It thus hosted some of the first firearms manufacturers, with Oda Nobunaga as a client , who relied on them to unify the country.

Oda Nobunaga, the Japanese Napoleon.

It was his successor Hideyoshi Toyotomi who ended up putting an end to the power of the city by forcing merchants to settle in his city, Osaka. Since then, the city that has lost importance is best known in Japan for the quality of its yukatas and its knives .

• Read also : Visit Kyoto in the countries of Hideyoshi

History around every corner

The heritage of Sakai reveals the old history of the city. The best-known monument is the kofun – tomb in the shape of a keyhole typical of Japan in the first centuries of our era – of Emperor Nintoku , made in the 5th century. Stretching over a length of nearly 850 meters and comprising three moats, for a total area of 460,000 square meters, it is the largest tomb on the planet.

The city has several known temples. The monk Gyoki, a great figure of the Nara period, thus founded the Ebara temple in Sakai, where even today students go to place their wishes of success in a handkerchief which they hang on the walls of the temple.

The other large temple in the city is Myokoku-ji, one of the largest religious buildings of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism where we find the Great Cycas of Japan, a tree over 1100 years old , a natural monument of Japan since 1923, and which would have been almost destroyed by Oda Nobunaga before being returned to Myokoku-ji.

Emperor Nintoku's Tomb is one of the largest existing structures in the world and rivals the Giza Pyramid.

The temple is also the site of the so-called Sakai incident where, in 1868, Japanese samurai had to commit seppuku to be forgiven for having killed several French sailors.

Finally, for tea ceremony enthusiasts, the ruins of the house of Sen no Rikyû are open to visitors , with the garden at the bottom of which is the famous camellia well.

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Enjoy a faster pace in Kansai's capital

Top attractions in osaka.

Katsuoji Temple

Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Around osaka.

Osaka is the capital of Osaka Prefecture and one of Kansai's most beautiful cities. During night time, the illuminated billboards and skyscrapers light up the city. Places include Namba, Osaka's..

Osaka city needs no introductions. As a major tourist hub in Japan, Osaka rivals Tokyo in terms of attractions and food. Visitors will be spoilt for choice with Universal Studios Osaka, Osaka..

Sakai is a bustling city in Osaka prefecture brimming with scenic parks, keyhole-shaped burial mounds, and temples. Just under an hour away from Osaka city, Sakai, also well-known for its quality..

About Osaka

The center of western Japan and the home of Japanese comedy, Osaka Prefecture (大阪府, Ōsaka-fu ) is lively at all times, as the business district in Umeda, the shopping area of Shinsaibashi, and the neon-lit nightlife district of Dotonbori reflect the upbeat and friendly nature of the local people.

But if you’re tired of the urbanity, Osaka Castle and the Expo Commemoration Park (which contains the National Museum of Ethnology and the iconic Tower of the Sun) ensure that you won’t run out of things to do. And that’s without even mentioning Universal Studios Japan .

Walking around the streets of Osaka can be a gastronomical experience, with many food stalls selling takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and other delicious fast foods and snacks. And if you have the luxury to splurge, have dinner at Kitcho, one of the most high class Japanese restaurants. 

Osaka Top 10

• Recommended

Uemachi Japanese Restaurant

Two New Demon Slayer Attractions Are Opening at Universal Studios Japan

karaksa hotel grande Shin-Osaka Tower

Shu'n Wine and Dine Swissotel Namba

Permanent TeamLab Exhibit Coming to Osaka

Riverside Grill and Beer Garden

Minoya Wagashi

Six “Treasures of Osaka” You Must See When Visiting Osaka City

Universal Studios Japan to Open Donkey Kong Country Area in Spring 2024

Yodogawa Fireworks Festival

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri

Tenjin Tenma Awa Odori

Tenjin Matsuri

Summer Sonic Osaka

Midosuji and Hikari Illuminations

March Grand Sumo Tournament (Osaka)

Umeda Tanabata Festival

Craft Beer Holiday

Upcoming osaka events.

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri 2024

The Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is the largest, if not greatest, danjiri matsuri (float festival) in Japan. Celebrating 300 year..

Craft Beer Holiday 2024

Craft Beer Holiday is a three-day festival that includes a wide variety of craft beers to try, alongside plenty of tasty eats that..

Family Rail Fair 2024

The Family Rail Fair held at the Keihan Railway Neyagawa Depot is suitable for train aficionados of all ages, and contains numerous..

Where to eat in Osaka

Blue Birds Rooftop Terrace

Located on the top floor of Maraiza’s Landmark Square, the terrace offers panoramic views over Osaka Castle as well as a Japan..

Dotonbori's Top Restaurants

A saying associated with Dotonbori is kuidaore, which means to go bankrupt after spending a large amount of money on food. Not surprisingly,..

Bear Paw Cafe

On first glances, Osaka's newly-opened Bear Paw Cafe may seem like a cute gimmick, but it's much more than that.

Places to stay in Osaka

Amami Onsen Nanten-en

Amami Onsen Nanten-en is a traditional ryokan inn hidden deep within the Osaka countryside. Immersed in history and culture, boasting..

Cat Spa & Ryokan: Neko-Yokujo & Neko-Hatago

Located in Osaka, Neko-Yokujo and Neko-Hatago is a cat cafe and dormitory-style inn designed for cat rescue. The cafe and inn feature..

HOTEL MYSTAYS Shinsaibashi

HOTEL MYSTAYS Shinsaibashi makes for an excellent accomodation for tourists visiting Osaka. Combining chic, comfort and conven..

Latest Osaka Reports

Two New Demon Slayer Attractions Are Opening at Uni...

From July 19, 2024 to January 5, 2025, USJ will open two new Demon Slayer-themed rides.

Six “Treasures of Osaka” You Must See When Visiting...

To share Osaka’s heritage with travelers, six museums in Osaka will host a promotional campaign called the “OSAKA-HAKU” in con..

Onkochishin is a philosophy that I often associate with the chefs of Osaka. Confucius explains, “Exploring the old and deducin..

Let us know how we can help.

• First Time in Sakai City
• Tojinbo and Oshima
• Mikuni Minato
• Maruoka Castle
• Echizen Crab
• Fukui Sweet Shrimp
• Echizen Oroshi Soba
• Sightseeing
• Hot Springs/Accommodation
• Experiences
• Itinerary for Tojinbo/Oshima to Mikuni Minato
• Itinerary for Maruoka Castle to Eiheiji Temple
• Itinerary for Takeda to the Dinosaur Museum

Sightseeing Pamphlets

Mobile maps.

Scan the QR codes to view these maps on your smartphone.

Mikuni Exploration Map (Smartphone Version)

Tojinbo Map (Smartphone Version)

Tourist brochure in pdf.

Tojinbo Cliffs Guide

Sakai City Tourism Guide

Tourism guide.

TRIP Sakai (English)