Things To Do
in Sabae
Sabae is a compact city in Fukui Prefecture famed for its century-old eyewear tradition. Its streets pulse with workshops, design studios, and a quiet charm that centers on craftsmanship. Beyond frames, the area offers riverside walks, local markets, and a welcoming small-city atmosphere.
A short journey from the Sea of Japan coast and nearby nature makes Sabae a convenient base for a relaxed Hokuriku itinerary.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sabae City Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. After soaking in the artifacts and exhibitions, take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding park to enjoy the seasonal flora. The fresh morning air will invigorate you as you observe the local residents going about their daily routines.
Head to the Sabae Glass Museum, where you can admire stunning glass art and even participate in a glass-blowing workshop. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Post-lunch, continue your exploration by visiting the iconic Sabae's Fukui Prefectural Museum of Cultural History, which offers an in-depth view of the region's traditions.
As the sun sets, unwind at a cozy izakaya where you can savor local sake and seasonal delicacies. Engage with the friendly locals and perhaps strike up a conversation about the town's history and culture. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the river, enjoying the serene atmosphere and reflection of the lights on the water.
Kick off your day by visiting a traditional sake brewery, where you can learn about the sake-making process and sample some of the finest local brews. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through each step, explaining the significance of each ingredient. After tasting, head to a nearby shop to purchase some unique, locally crafted sake as a souvenir.
In the afternoon, participate in a workshop where you can try your hand at making Sabae's renowned eyeglass frames. Guided by skilled artisans, you will learn about the intricate craftsmanship that has made Sabae famous for its eyewear. Enjoy a light lunch at a local café, featuring dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding countryside.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional Japanese arts, such as tea ceremonies or local dance. Immerse yourself in the experience as performers share stories of Sabae's rich history through their art. Afterward, enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant that specializes in seasonal kaiseki cuisine, allowing you to indulge in a multi-course meal that celebrates local flavors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range cafe | $12-20 |
| 🛏️Hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $70-120 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $40-70 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and local crafts | $5-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent eyewear craftsmanship and shopping options
- Compact, walkable city with river and coast nearby
- Accessible seafood and regional cuisine at reasonable prices
- Friendly locals and a calm, safe environment
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Public transport outside the core area can be infrequent
- Winter weather can bring heavy snowfall and icy roads
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "これはいくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Sabae
Visit one of these nice places.
A photogenic stretch where glass shops display frames in their storefronts; great for color, texture, and candid workshop scenes.
Quiet riverfront with seasonal foliage and reflective water — ideal for golden hour portraits and landscape shots.
Coastal views with the Sea of Japan on clear days; sunset sequences over the water are especially striking.
Workshop interiors and papermaking processes offer close-ups of traditional craft and plaster-dust textures.
Food in Sabae
Sabae Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mackerel sushi prepared with seasoned vinegar rice, a nod to the region’s seafood abundance. Often found at markets and seaside eateries in nearby Echizen and Mikuni.
Must-Try!
Rice bowls topped with local fish, shellfish, or vegetables; a good way to sample seasonal flavors from the coast.
A local variation of soba noodles served hot or cold with dipping sauce, commonly enjoyed with small side dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market street near the eyewear district offering grilled seafood, oden, pickles, and bite-size treats; a great place to sample local snacks.
Seafood stalls and casual eateries with fresh fish bowls and grilled skewers during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a bow or polite greeting, speak softly in public spaces, and wait your turn in queues. Remove shoes only where required (homes, certain traditional spaces).
Present money and cards with both hands in formal settings; be patient and courteous with service staff.
Safety
Tipping in Sabae
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Japanese establishments, including Sabae. Excellent service is expected as standard; simply show appreciation with a polite thank you.
Cash is widely accepted; many small shops prefer cash. Major credit cards are accepted at larger establishments. IC cards (like ICOCA) are convenient for JR travel and many shops, but verify acceptance at each venue.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens; great for strolls along rivers and markets. Bring a light jacket for occasional chilly mornings.
Warm to hot and humid with the possibility of rain; coastal breezes help. Stay hydrated and plan market visits for early mornings or evenings.
Crisp air and colorful foliage around riverbanks and hills; ideal for photography and outdoor walks.
Cold with potential snowfall; roads can be icy. Warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and planning around shorter daylight hours are advised.
Sabae at Night
Hiking in Sabae
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible sum of trails to Mount Hakusan; dramatic alpine scenery, suitable for day hikes or longer treks with proper gear.
Gentle hillside routes with coastal and inland views; good for easy day hikes and photography.
Short, scenic riverside trails ideal for easy nature walks and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Sabae by plane.
Major domestic flight hub for the region; access to Tokyo and Osaka with convenient ground connections to Sabae by train or bus.
Limited service airport with seasonal or charter flights; many travelers use Komatsu or Kansai as alternatives.
Large international hub about 2–3 hours by train or car; convenient for international travelers connecting to Japan’s Hokuriku area via rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Aging population with strong community ties and a slower pace of life; supportive local services.
A thriving craft scene around eyewear and traditional arts, with shops and studios catering to visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at school and club levels; local teams often participate in regional events.
Common recreational activity and youth leagues; local parks host matches on weekends.
Winter options in nearby Hokuriku hills offer accessible snow sports for day trips.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sabae.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places can accommodate vegetarian requests but expect more fish- and meat-centered options. Look for tofu, vegetable tempura, and miso-based dishes; ask for miso soup without fish stock and for vegetable-dense meals.