Major Attractions
Sakai Traditional Crafts Museum
Explore the comprehensive history and culture of Japanese knife-making through extensive exhibits showcasing the evolution of blade craftsmanship from samurai swords to modern culinary tools. The museum provides invaluable insights into the techniques, materials, and artistic principles that make Sakai knives world-renowned.
Sakai Knife Forging Workshops
Witness master smiths demonstrating the intricate three-step handcrafting process that produces Sakai's legendary blades. These workshops offer rare opportunities to observe centuries-old techniques in action, from initial forging through sharpening and polishing, revealing the meticulous artistry behind each knife.
Sakai City Traditional Knife Shops
Visit specialized shops where master craftsmen create single-edged blades using techniques derived directly from traditional swordsmith methods. These establishments offer authentic Sakai knives used by 90% of Japan's professional chefs, each blade representing the pinnacle of Japanese cutlery craftsmanship.
Kofun Period Archaeological Sites
Discover ancient production sites dating back to the Kofun Period, where archaeological evidence reveals Sakai's long history of metalworking, including early cutlery and sword production. These sites demonstrate that Sakai's blade-making tradition extends back over a millennium.
Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko
A cultural center honoring Sen no Rikyu, the legendary tea ceremony master born in Sakai, and poet Yosano Akiko. The plaza features exhibits on tea culture, traditional arts, and the historical figures who shaped Japanese aesthetics, highlighting Sakai's contributions beyond blade-making.
Daisen Park
Surrounding ancient burial mounds (kofun), this expansive park offers peaceful green spaces, museums, and walking paths among historically significant archaeological sites. The park provides a serene environment where visitors can appreciate both natural beauty and Sakai's ancient heritage.