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Sakai-shi, a port town, once used to flourish as a gate of trading with southern countries, when it was called "an Oriental Venice", or "a Golden Town". The town has left behind the liveliness in the olden days, and the biggest economic power in the Kansai area was replaced by Osaka a long time ago. However, its sophisticated culture and the footsteps of prosperity, which have been maintained in the course of its long history, remain in various places in the town, strongly impacting the people who visit. These include Emperor Nintoku's tomb, the oldest in the world, and Nanshu-ji Temple, where Sen-no Rikyu, a tea ceremony master, learned the philosophy of the tea ceremony school. There is also an old gunsmith town site, proof that the town once was the major producer of guns. The nostalgic street cars, which have run since the late 19th century, guides you to these major sightseeing spots. It is hard to believe that within 10 minutes from the busy city of Osaka, you can reach this quiet, historical place where time seems to pass leisurely.
Courtesy: Commerce and Industry Division, Sakai City Government & Sakai-shi Mayor's Office Project Coordination Division
