The “Old Sakai Port Area” along the Sakai seaside is a peaceful walking spot where the historic port town atmosphere remains vivid.
It is about a 10-minute walk from Nankai Main Line “Sakai Station,” and on sunny days, the sea breeze feels wonderfully refreshing.
Access Information
- Nearest Station: About 10 minutes on foot from Nankai Main Line “Sakai Station”
- Walking Time: Approximately 1 hour for a leisurely stroll
- Admission: Free
▼Nankai Main Line “Sakai Station”
The Scenic Old Sakai Port Bayside Area
After walking from Sakai Station and climbing the stairs to the Old Sakai Port, this is the first view that greets you!
▲Old Sakai Port Bayside Area
It’s surprising to see such a splendid bayside area in Sakai.
The ground is completely paved with bricks, giving it a charming atmosphere.
With few people around, you can relax while enjoying the sea view.
In the upper left of the image, you can see the Dragon Goddess statue in the distance.
It might be hard to spot, so in the next section, I took a zoomed-in shot for you.
Dragon Goddess Statue
The “Dragon Goddess Statue” overlooking the Old Sakai Port has a strong presence!
Built to pray for safe voyages and the prosperity of the port, the statue stands mysteriously with the sea behind it.
At sunset, its silhouette looks magical, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
▲Dragon Goddess Statue at Old Sakai Port
You can see that she is holding something resembling a precious jewel.
Size and Expression of the Dragon Goddess Statue
The pedestal of the Dragon Goddess Statue is 16 meters high, and the statue itself reaches 10 meters!
It seems it was originally installed for the 1903 National Industrial Exhibition, later removed, and then restored in 2000.
▲Close-up of Dragon Goddess Statue at Old Sakai Port
From a distance, the expression is hard to see, so I zoomed in with my camera.
It doesn’t appear to be smiling but rather watching quietly over the port.
Many Ships Docked
To the right of the Dragon Goddess Statue, there is a spot where many ships are docked.
▲Many ships docked at Old Sakai Port
I was surprised by the large number of ships!
From small fishing boats to cruisers, you can see a variety of vessels.
The smaller boats are probably used for fishing.
Rows of Expensive Cruisers…!
▲Cruisers docked at Old Sakai Port
These cruisers look incredibly expensive, and it’s amazing that some individuals own them.
For someone like me, it’s completely out of reach 😅
If anyone wants to gift me a cruiser, please contact me (just kidding!)
Old Sakai Port is Still an Active Port!
Ships actually depart from here, passing by the Old Sakai Lighthouse to reach the sea, so although it’s called the Old Sakai Port, it’s still actively used.
While taking photos, a ship returned to the port.
▲Ship returning to Old Sakai Port from Osaka Bay
Old Sakai Lighthouse
Here is the iconic “Old Sakai Lighthouse” in the Old Sakai Port.
Built in 1877 (Meiji 10), it is one of Japan’s oldest wooden lighthouses and an important historical structure that tells the story of Sakai Port.
The white wooden structure contrasts beautifully with the blue sky and sea, making it a highly photogenic spot.
▲Old Sakai Lighthouse
As you can see, the lighthouse is surrounded by stairs, allowing you to sit and enjoy the sea view!
I spent some time here just gazing at the sea and felt incredibly relaxed.
Giant Mural Across from the Old Sakai Lighthouse
Across from the Old Sakai Lighthouse, there is a giant mural.
▲Giant Mural at Old Sakai Port
This massive mural was created with the cooperation of Nippon Nobopan Kogyo Co., Ltd., and installed by Sakai City to promote tourism.
The artwork depicts bustling merchants during the prosperous Nanban trade period.
Size of the Mural
The mural is an impressive 11 meters tall and 155 meters wide!
It is one of the largest murals in Japan, adding a vibrant atmosphere to the port area.
Conclusion
The Old Sakai Port Area is a hidden gem where you can enjoy both the history of Sakai and beautiful seaside views.
Both the Old Sakai Lighthouse and the Dragon Goddess Statue stand quietly by the shore, welcoming visitors gently.
It’s also fun to watch the various ships docked in the bayside area.
With few people around, you can enjoy a peaceful sea view, making it a highly recommended off-the-beaten-path spot 👍
