Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Sakai City

Sakai is a city with a story to tell through its landmarks and historical milestones. Visit the 4th-century mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku, an iconic site that showcases the grandeur of ancient Japan. Travel through time to the 16th century, when Sakai became an important port city, building its first connections with Europe and shaping its role in global trade and cultural exchange.

In the 19th century, as Japan reopened to the world, Sakai embraced new opportunities while holding on to its traditions. This tour takes you on a journey through centuries, exploring how the city transformed over time and played a vital role in Japan’s history. Each stop highlights Sakai’s unique blend of historical depth and cultural significance.

What’s Covered

• Private guide for the full day

• Guide’s transport and entrance fees

What’s Extra

• Meals and drinks

• Personal transportation expenses

• Entry to Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko (1700 JPY per person)

Good to Know

• The tour is stroller and pram accessible for families with young children.

• Pets are welcome to join the experience.

• Convenient access to public transportation is available nearby.

• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

• Infants should have their own seating arrangement; sitting on laps is not permitted.

• Infant seats are not provided during the tour.

• This is a private day tour, offering a personalized experience.

• The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

• Live tour guide is available in French, English, and Japanese.

Tour Itinerary

Old Sakai Lighthouse

• Duration: 15 minutes

See one of Japan’s oldest wooden lighthouses, a symbol of Sakai’s connection to the world during its trading days. It guided ships in the past and stands as a reminder of Sakai’s role in opening Japan to global trade.

Statue of Luzon Sukezaemon

• Duration: 10 minutes

Meet the statue of Luzon Sukezaemon, a successful 16th-century merchant. He represented Sakai’s wealth and influence during the time when trade flourished between Japan and Southeast Asia.

Old Port of Sakai

• Duration: 10 minutes

Walk by the Old Port monument, once the heart of Sakai’s busy trading hub. It’s also tied to the Sakai Incident, where Japanese samurai and French forces had a historic encounter.

Statue of the Foreigner

• Duration: 10 minutes

Say hello to the statue of a Spanish visitor from the 16th century. This statue celebrates Sakai’s early connections with Europeans and its welcoming spirit.

Xavier Park

• Duration: 20 minutes

Visit this peaceful park built on the ruins of a wealthy Christian merchant’s home. Named after St. Francis Xavier, it highlights the influence of Christianity and global interaction during the 1500s.

Sakai Knife Museum

• Duration: 40 minutes

Discover why Sakai is famous for its knives. Learn how the tradition of sword-making for samurai evolved into creating some of the world’s best kitchen knives. Explore the craftsmanship that makes Sakai knives globally respected.

Myokokuji Temple

• Duration: 25 minutes

Step into history at Myokokuji Temple, a key site in the Sakai Incident. Reflect on this event and how it shaped Japan’s interactions with foreign powers during a time of change.

Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko

• Duration: 45 minutes

Explore this museum to uncover Sakai’s history, from ancient times to modern days. Dive into the lives of cultural icons like Sen no Rikyu, the master of tea ceremonies, and Akiko Yosano, a famous poet.

Nanshu-ji Temple

• Duration: 30 minutes

Visit the temple where Sen no Rikyu, Japan’s greatest tea master, practiced his craft. Experience the calm surroundings and learn about the deep traditions of Japanese tea culture.

Mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku

• Duration: 45 minutes

End the tour at this massive 5th-century kofun, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The grand burial site of Emperor Nintoku offers a peaceful setting and a look into Japan’s ancient past.

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