16.5°C Sakai: Discover Ancient Burial Mounds and Delicious Japanese Cuisine

16.5°C Sakai: Discover Ancient Burial Mounds and Delicious Japanese Cuisine✨ Sakai, a city located in the south-central part of Osaka Prefecture, Japan, has an average annual temperature of 16.5°C. With warm summers and cool winters, it boasts unique historical culture and attractive cuisine, making it a must-see destination for Kansai travel. Here's a travel guide to Sakai📖 Prior Preparations Before departure, remember to check the expiration date of your passport and visa, and make copies for backup. Prepare clothing according to the season, ensuring sun protection in summer and warmth in winter. Purchase a Japanese travel card, such as an ICOCA card, for convenient travel on trains, buses, and other public transportation. Also, download useful apps like Japan Transit Planner and Google Maps in advance to aid your travels. Transportation Guide🚇 1. External Transportation: If traveling from Kansai International Airport to Sakai, you can take the Nankai Electric Railway, which takes about 30-40 minutes to reach Sakai. 2. City Transportation: The Hankai Tramway is a unique feature, connecting various attractions and offering scenic views along the way. Additionally, the Nankai Electric Railway operates within the city, meeting travel needs. Climate and Best Time to Travel Sakai has a temperate humid climate with an average annual temperature of 16.5°C and annual precipitation of 1232.9 mm. August is the hottest month, averaging 28.6°C, while January is the coldest, averaging 5.6°C. March-April is the best time to view cherry blossoms at Nishihara Park🌸; autumn is ideal for picnics and strolls in Hamadera Park, with its colorful foliage🍁 Must-See Attractions🌟 1. Daisenryo Kofun: One of the world's three largest imperial mausoleums, believed to be the tomb of Emperor Nintoku. The tomb is 486 meters long, 36 meters high, and covers a total area of 464,000 square meters. While entry inside is not permitted, you can overlook this magnificent kofun from the observation room on the 20th+ floor of the Sakai City Hall. 2. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine: The largest and oldest shrine in Osaka, with a history of 1,800 years. Its historical architecture makes it a great spot for photos, and the trams passing by the entrance add a touch of Japanese drama. 3. Sen no Rikyu Chanoyu Museum: The hometown of tea master Sen no Rikyu is in Sakai. Enjoy a cup of slightly bitter tea in the tatami room of the museum and experience the essence of Japanese tea ceremony culture. 4. Housen Wagashi Shop: Here you can taste beautiful and delicious wagashi (Japanese sweets). Pastry chefs use their skillful hands to sculpt wagashi into works of art, combining deliciousness and beauty. 5. Sakai Traditional Crafts Museum: Learn about Sakai's proud blade-making techniques. Sakai craftsmen create high-quality kitchen knives with exquisite craftsmanship, admired by customers worldwide. Sakai Cuisine🍱 1. Nanban Chicken with Tartar Sauce: Enjoy this specialty dish at a Japanese restaurant that has been in business for 19 years. The crispy chicken is paired with tartar sauce, salad, and cream soup, leaving a lasting impression. 2. Wagashi: Don't miss the wagashi at Housen Wagashi Shop. With exquisite shapes and diverse flavors like green tea, red bean, and chestnut, they cater to various preferences. Shopping Recommendations🛍️ 1. Cutlery: As a town renowned for cutlery, Sakai offers a wide variety of high-quality knives. Shops like Yamacho Cutlery and Jikko offer a selection of knives, with some even offering customization. 2. Wagashi: Purchase wagashi from Housen Wagashi Shop as souvenirs. Their beautiful packaging makes them suitable for gifts or personal enjoyment. Important Notes⚠️ 1. Traffic Rules: Vehicles in Japan drive on the left. Pay attention when crossing the road. Observe order when taking trains and buses, letting passengers off before boarding. 2. Cultural Etiquette: Remove your shoes when entering a room, keeping the tips pointed towards the door. Use polite language when communicating and respect local customs. 3. Valuables Safety: Keep your phone, wallet, passport, and other valuables safe during your trip to prevent loss or theft. 4. Scenic Area Regulations: Photography is prohibited in some scenic areas. Do not enter areas marked with "No Entry" or "Private Property." Follow the instructions of the scenic area and travel responsibly.