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Pedal Through Tradition: Discover Sakai’s Knives and Tea Heritage

Set out on a half-day cycling journey through Sakai, a seaside city where tradition and craftsmanship live on. Ride through quiet streets to discover the artistry of master blacksmiths forging world-renowned knives, and experience the serenity of a tea ceremony that reflects centuries of refined culture. As you explore, you’ll feel how history, craftsmanship, and tranquility come together in perfect harmony in this timeless city.

Overview

Nestled by the sea in southern Osaka, Sakai has long flourished as a hub of culture and commerce.
Hop on a bicycle and embark on a half-day journey through quiet backstreets and historic sites to experience the city’s living traditions—from master blacksmiths forging world-renowned knives to the serene art of tea.

Your journey begins at Sakai Station, where you’ll cycle through the city to the Sakai Traditional Crafts Museum (Denshōkan) to learn about Sakai’s history and craftsmanship. Then, visit a local forge where you can witness up close the sparks and rhythm of skilled artisans hammering steel — an art form passed down for generations.

Continue to Risho-no-Mori (Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko), where you’ll experience a hands-on tea ceremony (temae) and learn about Sen no Rikyu, the Sakai-born tea master who shaped Japan’s tea culture.　Finally, explore the Sakai Waiting Tea House (Sakai Tai-an), a reconstruction inspired by Rikyu’s original tea hut, before cycling back to the station.

This immersive tour connects craftsmanship, culture, and tranquility — offering a rare opportunity to see, feel, and taste the spirit of traditional Japan in one of its most historic cities.

Highlights

  • Visit a blacksmith workshop and witness live knife-forging demonstrations

  • Learn and experience the art of the Japanese tea ceremony

 

Why Choose This Experience?

  • Discover a Hidden Gem Near Osaka: Just a short ride from the bustling city center, Sakai offers a peaceful contrast to Osaka’s crowds—an ideal place to slow down and connect with Japan’s living traditions.

  • Witness Mastery Up Close: Gain rare access to a working blacksmith forge, where artisans skillfully craft Sakai’s world-renowned knives.

  • Experience the Spirit of Tea: Learn the philosophy and aesthetics of the Japanese tea ceremony in the hometown of tea master Sen no Rikyu.

  • Perfect for Cultural Explorers: A compact yet immersive half-day journey that captures the essence of traditional Japan.

 

Tour Schedule

This tour is available on Wednesday afternoons (12:30-15:30) and Sunday mornings (9:30-12:30).

 

Price per Person

From ¥14,100 to ¥32,500 (Prices vary depending on the group size)

Optional: Blacksmith experience – Additional ¥1,500 per person (tax included)

*Tax included
*This tour requires a minimum of 2 participants.

 

Contact Us

Interested in joining this tour?
For inquiries or bookings, please get in touch with us through the Contact Us page.