Things To Do
in Sabae

Sabae is a charming city located in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is famous for its high-quality eyewear manufacturing, which has earned it the nickname 'Eyewear Capital of Japan.' Visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional Japanese architecture and modern amenities.

With its beautiful natural landscapes and warm local community, Sabae offers a unique travel experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Sabae
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Sabae City Museum to learn about the local culture and history.

afternoon
:

Head to the Sabae Eyewear Museum for an interactive experience on the city's eyewear industry, followed by a leisurely stroll in the nearby park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, sampling traditional Japanese dishes and engaging with the friendly locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the stunning Shinto shrine, Eiheiji, located just outside Sabae, and immerse yourself in its tranquil atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful landscapes of the surrounding mountains, with hiking or simply enjoying the scenic views.

evening
:

Relax at a local hot spring (onsen) to unwind after a day of exploration.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🚆Train Ticket$5
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
🏨Hotel Night$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent in rural areas.
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Sabae

Visit one of these nice places.

Eiheiji Temple

A serene temple set in a lush forest, offering stunning architecture and an atmosphere of tranquility.

Sabae City Park

A beautiful park with cherry blossoms in spring, perfect for capturing nature and local life.

Eyewear Museum Exterior

The modern architecture of the Eyewear Museum makes for a striking contrast against the traditional surroundings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sabae

Sabae offers a delightful array of local cuisines that reflect its cultural heritage and agricultural bounty.

Sabae Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sabae Sushi

A unique style of sushi that features fresh fish sourced from the nearby Sea of Japan, often accompanied by local vegetables.

Must-Try!

Echizen Soba

Buckwheat noodles served in a rich broth, perfect for a hearty meal.

Fukui Wagyu

Premium quality beef known for its rich marbling and flavor, often served grilled or as shabu-shabu.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sabae Morning Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies, perfect for sampling street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sabae experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F) and occasional snowfall. The spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons are mild and comfortable, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect; the deeper the bow, the more respect is shown.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public areas, as loud conversations are generally frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sabae is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take standard precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings. In case of emergencies, local authorities and police are approachable and willing to help.

Tipping in Sabae

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; instead, excellent service is expected as part of the hospitality.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many establishments also accept credit cards. It's advisable to have cash on hand for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a picturesque time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and humid weather; perfect for enjoying festivals but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage, ideal for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snowfall; a great time for hot springs and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Sabae at Night

Sabae has a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around izakayas and small bars. Locals often gather in these establishments to enjoy good food, drinks, and friendly conversation. While there are no large nightclubs, the atmosphere is inviting and pleasant, making it easy to socialize and experience local culture.

Hiking in Sabae

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Katsuyama Mountain Trail

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, perfect for moderate hikers.

Kuroda Pass Trail

A more challenging trail with rugged terrain, rewarding hikers with breathtaking vistas at the summit.

Airports

How to reach Sabae by plane.

Komatsu Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Sabae, Komatsu Airport serves domestic and some international flights, offering convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sabae is a relatively walkable city, especially within the downtown area where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, for some attractions outside the city center, public transport or bicycles may be preferable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Sabae's population consists of Japanese locals, who are engaged in various sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and services.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations come to Sabae, particularly those interested in culture, nature, and local cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams playing in community parks and schools.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with local clubs and schools having active teams and competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sabae is generally light, and the city is easily navigable by car, bicycle, or on foot. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is available but may require some planning, as schedules can be limited during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sabae.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine often features fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes upon request.

Allergy Awareness

It's advisable to communicate any food allergies, as seafood is a staple ingredient in many local dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan has a high standard of healthcare with numerous clinics and hospitals available. In Sabae, medical facilities are accessible, and English-speaking staff may be available at larger hospitals. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide