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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Sabae.
Sabae is a jewel in the crown of Fukui Prefecture, offering a plethora of sparkling experiences for visitors to enjoy.
From admiring the glimmering creations of master craftsmen to hiking through breathtaking natural scenery, Sabae shines bright as a destination that is not to be missed.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Sabae:
1. Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins
Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins is a historical site in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the former castle town that was once the center of culture and politics during the late Muromachi Period.
The site includes a reconstructed gate, walls, and several historical structures.
Don’t miss: The Ichijodani Teahouse, which offers traditional Japanese tea ceremonies for visitors.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit during the springtime when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Also, be sure to check out the museum on-site to learn more about the history of the area.
2. Sabae City Museum of Glass
Sabae City Museum of Glass is a museum dedicated to glass and its history in Sabae City, Japan. The museum showcases a vast display of glassware artifacts and exhibits, including a beautiful glass sculpture garden.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s various exhibitions, including glass artwork from around the world and glassblowing demonstrations. The museum also features a cafe and a gift shop where visitors can purchase their own glassware souvenirs.
Don’t miss: The museum’s permanent exhibition titled “Sabae Glass Trail” is a must-see for glass enthusiasts. It showcases the history of glass in Sabae City, from ancient times to the modern day.
The exhibition also features exquisite glassware from local artisans.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the museum is during the annual Sabae Glass Festival, held in October. During the festival, the museum hosts special events and demonstrations.
Visitors can also witness the beautiful nighttime illumination of the museum’s sculpture garden during the festival.
3. Eiheiji Temple
A 13th-century Zen temple located in Sabae, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful temple grounds and admire its traditional architecture, including the main hall, Zen garden, and other buildings.
The temple also offers meditation sessions and Zen retreats for those interested in experiencing the practice firsthand.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the imposing statues of the temple’s founders, Dogen and his disciple, at the entrance. The tranquil Zen garden and the view of the temple from the hilltop are also must-see attractions.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit the temple early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the serene atmosphere in quiet.
Keep in mind that the temple has strict rules, such as no photography in some areas, so make sure to follow the guidelines and be respectful of the monks and other visitors.
4. Maruoka Castle
A historic castle located in Sabae, Japan, known for its unique two-story keep and stunning cherry blossom views.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s interior and climb to the top of the keep for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The castle grounds are also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing during the spring months.
Don’t miss: The two-story keep is the only one of its kind in Japan, offering a unique glimpse into the architecture and design of feudal Japanese castles.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April) for stunning views and photo opportunities. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history and significance.
It’s also worth stopping by the nearby Maruoka Castle Museum to see artifacts and exhibits related to the castle’s history.
5. Ono Castle
Ono Castle is a historical site located in Sabae, Japan. The castle was built in 1575 by Lord Shibata Katsuie during the Sengoku period.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the castle, including the stone walls, gates, and moat.
The castle tower was destroyed in the Meiji Restoration, but there is a museum on-site where visitors can learn about the castle’s history and see artifacts from the time period.
Don’t miss: The view from the top of the castle ruins is breathtaking, offering panoramic views of Sabae and the surrounding landscape. The nearby Ono Shrine is also worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is some walking involved to reach the castle ruins.
It’s also a good idea to visit during the cherry blossom season in early April, when the castle is surrounded by beautiful pink blooms.
6. Matsuo Shrine
Matsuo Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds of the shrine, which feature a pond, lanterns, and torii gates – iconic symbols of Japanese shrines.
The main building of the shrine also houses a variety of artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the shrine and its role in the local community.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Fudo Hall, a separate building on the shrine grounds that houses a large statue of Fudo Myoo, the patron deity of the shrine.
Visitors can offer their prayers and wishes to the deity here.
Insider travel tips: Take some time to wander the peaceful gardens surrounding the shrine, and don’t forget to try the local specialty sweet called “Matsuo no Tama,” a small, round cake made with chestnuts and sweet bean paste.
7. Sabae Nishiyama Park
Sabae Nishiyama Park is a beautiful park located in Sabae, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in the park, including hiking, picnicking, and bird watching. The park also features a large playground for children, a baseball diamond, and a gymnasium for indoor sports.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the park is the stunning view of Mount Haku and the surrounding mountains.
Be sure to also visit the park’s beautiful Japanese garden, which features a pond filled with koi fish and a charming tea house.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the grassy hills of the park while taking in the breathtaking views. Also, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture memories of the stunning scenery.
8. Hakusan National Park
Hakusan National Park is a vast wilderness area located in Sabae, Japan. This national park is home to Mount Hakusan, which is known for its striking beauty and lush forests.
What to see or do: Hakusan National Park offers a range of outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy. Hiking is one of the most popular things to do, with trails that vary in difficulty from easy to challenging.
Visitors can also go camping, fishing, and skiing in the winter season.
Don’t miss: When in Hakusan National Park, don’t miss out on exploring the mystical forests around Mount Hakusan.
These forests are home to rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, including the Japanese serow, the Asiatic black bear, and various birds of prey.
Insider travel tips: – If you are planning on hiking, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
9. Sabae Togeikan
Sabae Togeikan is a museum located in Sabae City, Japan, dedicated to showcasing the history and art of eyeglasses.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of over 4,000 glasses from different eras and countries. The museum also offers hands-on activities, such as making your own glasses or trying on different frames.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the world’s smallest glasses, as recognized by the Guinness World Records. The museum also has a gift shop where you can purchase unique eyeglasses and accessories.
Insider travel tips: – The museum can get quite busy during holidays and weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.
10. Houdoji Temple
A Buddhist temple located in Sabae, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the main temple building with its beautifully painted sliding doors and intricate wood carvings. The temple also has a serene Japanese garden featuring a pond and meticulously maintained landscaping.
Visitors can participate in meditation sessions or attend one of the temple’s many cultural events.
Don’t miss: The temple’s main hall and its stunning ceiling mural depicting dragons and other mythical creatures.
Also, be sure to check out the temple’s gift shop, which sells unique souvenirs like handmade pottery and traditional Japanese sweets.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should come prepared to remove their shoes before entering the temple. Additionally, it’s a good idea to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds.
Visitors should also be respectful and mindful of their behavior while on the temple grounds.
11. Kanegasaki Shrine
Kanegasaki Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Sabae, Japan. It is one of the oldest shrines in the region and was established over 1,300 years ago.
What to see or do: The main hall of the shrine is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture and is worth taking the time to admire.
Visitors can also explore the grounds and witness various Shinto rituals and ceremonies.
Don’t miss: The annual Kanegasaki Shrine Festival, held in August, is a highlight of the year and a must-see for visitors. The festival features a procession of mikoshi (portable shrines) and various performances and activities.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the shrine’s calendar of events before visiting to see if any special ceremonies or festivals are taking place.
Also, bring some spare change to make an offering at the shrine and participate in the traditional rituals.
12. Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a zoological park and botanical garden located in Sabae, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a wide variety of animals such as lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants, as well as reptiles and birds.
The botanical garden features over 600 species of plants and flowers from around the world.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the pandas, which are one of the zoo’s main attractions. There is also a children’s zoo where kids can interact with animals like rabbits and goats.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting the zoo early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get a chance to see the animals at their most active.
It’s also a good idea to bring plenty of sunscreen and water, especially in the summertime when the temperatures can get quite hot.
13. Azoji Temple
Azoji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The temple features several impressive buildings and statues, including a three-story pagoda that dates back to the early 17th century.
Visitors can explore the beautiful temple grounds, take in the serene atmosphere, and learn about the history of Buddhism in Japan.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Azoji Temple is the stunning views from the top of the pagoda. Visitors can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the nearby Sea of Japan.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs and pathways to explore throughout the temple grounds.
14. Nagatani-en Teapot Museum
The Nagatani-en Teapot Museum is a specialty museum dedicated to the teapot craft and its history.
The museum is housed in a stunning modern building with glass walls and an open terrace showcasing panoramic views of the surrounding city.
What to see or do: Visitors can see over 5,000 teapots made by Nagatani family including the world’s largest teapot that stretches 3.2 meters.
You can learn about the development of teapot craftsmanship and its significance through the centuries. An experience of pottery and teapot making are also available for visitors.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to witness the famous Fire Festival, during which visitors can enjoy the traditional Japanese performance of taiko drumming and relish the sight of teapots being heated in the furnace.
Insider travel tips: The museum is most enjoyable during weekdays when fewer crowds visit. If you want to participate in the pottery workshops, it is recommended to book at least two weeks in advance.
They also have an amazing gift shop where you’ll find unique teapot crafts you won’t find anywhere else.
15. Tarobo Valley
Tarobo Valley is a picturesque natural area located in the city of Sabae, in Fukui prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Hike along the Tarobo gorge and enjoy the stunning views of the crystal-clear Tarobo river. Relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings, with its towering cliffs, lush foliage, and scenic waterfalls.
Don’t miss: The Tarobo Suspension Bridge, an impressive feat of engineering that spans across the valley and offers breathtaking views. Another must-see attraction is the Tarobo Waterfall, the largest in Fukui prefecture, which cascades down the rocky cliffs.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during autumn (October and November) for the best views of the stunning fall foliage.