Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Sakai City

Namba , Japan

Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Sakai City

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About this experience

Come with us to discover Sakai and the history of Japan during a day on foot and by public transport!

We start with the port of Sakai. We see different historical monuments from the 16th and 19th centuries. What a history lesson!

We visit the Knife Museum. The famous blacksmiths of Sakai are honored with the kitchen knife sword. We then go to Sakai Plaza de Rikyu and Akiko, a museum that traces the evolution of Sakai from antiquity to the modern era. We can discover the rich history of the city and its link with Japan.

We then go to the mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku, dating from the 5th century and part of the UNESCO World Heritage. This kofun, mound, gives off a unique atmosphere and is one of the most significant monuments in Japan.

Learn more about the history of Japan and Sakai after this day. You will also have had plenty in the eyes of this picturesque city! Are you coming? We are waiting for you!

Available options

Guide + Travel & Entry Help

Guide Service Only

What's included

Guide Fees (their Transport, Entrance and Lunch Fees)

Detailed itinerary

We pass this symbol of Sakai's openness to the world and begin our journey.

We continue our journey by greeting Luzon Sukezaemon, a rich Japanese merchant of the 16th century open to the world and welcoming foreign visitors.

We pass this monument dedicated to the old port, also site of the incident of Sakai confronting French and samurai soldiers.
Then we continue on our way through the statue of the stranger (representing a 16th century Spaniard) and Xavier Park, in honor of the famous Christian missionary.

We first visit the knife museum in Sakai, a city famous for its masters who smith Japanese swords and then knife. Then we go to Myokoku-ji Temple, scene of the Sakai incident.

This museum traces the history of Sakai from antiquity to contemporary times. This is an opportunity for us to learn more about the history of Sakai and Japan!

The famous tea master Rikyu officiated in this place. It is now a temple. This is an opportunity for us to learn more about Japanese culture!

This kofun is the mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku, dating from the 5th century, part of the UNESCO World Heritage. We can feel the history that emanates from this place.

What's not included

Lunch

Transport Fees

"Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko" Entrance Fees (1700 JPY/person)

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN FR

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

3rd floor, near the Station Gates

About Namba

Namba is the vibrant, bustling heart of Osaka, renowned for its lively streets, delicious street food, and vibrant nightlife. It's a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern entertainment, offering a unique experience to every traveler.

Top Attractions

Dotonbori

A bustling street known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. It's a must-visit for its lively atmosphere and iconic Glico Running Man sign.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free to explore (food and shopping costs extra)

Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

A long shopping street filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great place for shopping and people-watching.

Shopping 2-4 hours Free to explore (shopping costs extra)

Hozenji Yokocho

A narrow, atmospheric alleyway with a moss-covered Buddha statue and traditional wooden buildings. It offers a glimpse into old Osaka.

Historical 30-60 minutes Free to explore (food and drinks cost extra)

Amerikamura (Amemura)

A trendy district known for its youth culture, street fashion, and vintage shops. It's a great place to experience Osaka's modern subcultures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore (shopping costs extra)

Namba Parks

A modern shopping mall with a rooftop garden and a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place for shopping and relaxation.

Shopping 1-3 hours Free to explore (shopping and dining costs extra)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Takoyaki

Octopus-filled dough balls, cooked in a special mold and topped with sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.

Snack Contains seafood, gluten, and soy

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings like pork, shrimp, and cheese.

Main Dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Kushikatsu

Deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables, served with a dipping sauce.

Snack Contains meat and seafood, gluten, and soy

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths (tonkotsu, shoyu, miso) and toppings like chashu pork, egg, and bamboo shoots.

Main Dish Contains gluten, soy, and sometimes seafood

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Biking along the river Kayaking or paddleboarding Visiting onsen (hot springs) Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples and shrines Attending a traditional festival

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city. Cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn add to the charm.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Osaka is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and check the meter
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Namba
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 20 km from Namba

By train

Namba Station, Osaka Namba Station

By bus

Namba Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Osaka Metro is efficient, clean, and easy to use. It connects to major attractions and neighborhoods in Namba and beyond.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Dotonbori Shinsaibashi Nipponbashi Amerikamura (Amemura) Hozenji Yokocho

Day trips

Osaka Castle

3 km from Namba • Half day

A stunning castle with a rich history, offering beautiful views of the city and a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.

Universal Studios Japan

15 km from Namba • Full day

A popular theme park featuring a variety of rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and characters.

Kobe

30 km from Namba • Full day

A nearby port city known for its beef, scenic views, and historical sites. It's a great place for a day trip to explore a different side of Japan.

Festivals

Osaka Asian Film Festival • March Sumiyoshi Matsuri • July 30-31 Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25

Pro tips

Use an IC card (like ICOCA or Suica) for convenient payments on public transportation and at some shops and vending machines
Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki from street vendors for an authentic Osaka experience
Visit Dotonbori at night to see the neon lights and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere
Explore Hozenji Yokocho for a glimpse into old Osaka and traditional izakayas
Use Google Maps or Japan Travel app for navigation and real-time updates on train schedules and delays