The “Old Sakai Port Area” (Kyū-Sakai-Kō) along the Sakai seaside is a hidden gem where the atmosphere of a historic port town remains vividly alive. Located in Sakai City, Osaka, this peaceful walking spot offers a perfect escape from the bustling city center.
It is about a 10-minute walk from Nankai Main Line “Sakai Station,” making it easily accessible for travelers. On sunny days, the sea breeze feels wonderfully refreshing, inviting visitors to take a relaxing stroll along the promenade.
Access Information
- Nearest Station: About 10 minutes on foot from Nankai Main Line “Sakai Station” (West Exit).
- Walking Time: Approximately 1 hour is recommended for a leisurely stroll and photography.
- Admission: Free (Open 24 hours).
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!
Visitors are often surprised to find such a splendid, European-style bayside area in Sakai. The ground is completely paved with bricks, creating a romantic and charming atmosphere.
One of the best features of this spot is its tranquility. With relatively few people around, you can truly relax while enjoying the panoramic sea view. In the upper left of the image above, you can see the mysterious Dragon Goddess statue in the distance. Since it might be hard to spot, let’s take a closer look.
The Dragon Goddess Statue
The “Dragon Goddess Statue” (Ryūshin-zō) overlooking the Old Sakai Port commands a strong presence. Built to pray for safe voyages and the continued prosperity of the port, the statue stands mysteriously with the expansive sea as her backdrop.
At sunset, her silhouette looks magical against the burning orange sky, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Upon closer inspection, you can see she is holding something resembling a precious jewel, symbolizing the wealth and safety of the ocean.
A Monument of Impressive Scale
The scale of the monument is impressive: the pedestal stands 16 meters high, and the Dragon Goddess statue itself reaches 10 meters. Historically, a similar statue was installed for the 5th National Industrial Exhibition in 1903. Although it was later removed, this current statue was restored in 2000 to watch over the port once again.
From a distance, her expression is hard to read, so I zoomed in with my camera. She doesn’t appear to be smiling; rather, she seems to be watching quietly and stoically over the port, ensuring the safety of passing ships.
A Harbor Full of Life
To the right of the Dragon Goddess Statue, there is a marina where many ships are docked.
The number of ships docked here is surprisingly large! From small functional fishing boats to luxury leisure cruisers, you can see a wide variety of vessels resting in the harbor.
Luxury Cruisers
Some of these cruisers look incredibly expensive. It is fascinating to imagine the lifestyle of the owners who sail these on weekends. While owning one might be a distant dream for most of us, just walking by and admiring these beautiful machines is an enjoyable part of the experience.
Still an Active Port
Although it is called the “Old” Sakai Port, it is very much active. Ships frequently depart from here, passing by the lighthouse to reach the open sea of Osaka Bay. While I was taking photos, I was lucky enough to see a ship returning to the port, adding movement to the peaceful scenery.
The Iconic Old Sakai Lighthouse
Perhaps the most famous landmark here is the Old Sakai Lighthouse.
Built in 1877 (Meiji 10), it holds the title of Japan’s oldest wooden lighthouse existing at its original location. It is designated as a National Historic Site and serves as a symbol of Sakai’s rich maritime history. The hexagonal white wooden structure contrasts beautifully with the blue sky and sea, making it highly photogenic.
As shown in the photo, the lighthouse is surrounded by steps, allowing visitors to sit and gaze at the horizon. It is a perfect spot to spend some quiet time listening to the waves.
The Giant Mural of Nanban Trade
Across from the Old Sakai Lighthouse, you will notice a vibrant, giant mural.
This massive artwork was created to promote tourism in Sakai. It depicts the bustling atmosphere of the “Nanban Trade” period (trade with Portugal and Spain in the 16th and 17th centuries), a time when Sakai flourished as an international trade hub.
One of Japan’s Largest Murals
The scale is breathtaking: the mural is 11 meters tall and 155 meters wide! It is one of the largest outdoor murals in Japan. The vivid colors and historical scenes add a unique artistic flair to the port area, bridging the past and present.
Conclusion: Why You Should Visit
The Old Sakai Port Area is more than just a walking path; it is a location where history and scenic beauty intersect.
Highlights of the visit:
- Historical Value: See Japan’s oldest wooden lighthouse and the restored Dragon Goddess statue.
- Atmosphere: Enjoy a peaceful, uncrowded stroll with brick pavements and sea breezes.
- Photography: Perfect for capturing sunset silhouettes, ships, and architectural heritage.
If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path spot in Osaka where you can escape the crowds and enjoy a moment of tranquility, the Old Sakai Port is highly recommended. 👍
