Things To Do
in Sakae

Sakae is a vibrant district in Nagoya, Japan, known for its bustling shopping centers, entertainment options, and culinary delights. It serves as a cultural hub, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions. Visitors can find everything from neon-lit streets filled with nightlife to serene parks and temples.

With its easy access to public transport, Sakae makes for a perfect base to explore the wider Nagoya area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Sakae
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Oasis 21, an iconic shopping and entertainment complex, followed by breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the Nagoya City Science Museum and its impressive planetarium, then enjoy lunch at a nearby ramen shop.

evening
:

Stroll through Sakae’s nightlife district, enjoying dinner at an izakaya and then taking in the neon lights and atmosphere at Nagoya TV Tower.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Shopping
morning
:

Visit the historic Osu Kannon Temple, followed by a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local restaurant.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon shopping at the Osu Shopping District, known for its unique shops and street food.

evening
:

End your day with a relaxing evening at a local onsen, followed by dinner at a sushi restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
Coffee$4
🍻Beer$6
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine
  • Rich cultural experiences with historical sites
  • Language barrier may pose challenges
  • Summer heat and humidity can be uncomfortable
  • Crowded tourist areas can detract from the experience
  • "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/Sorry
  • "お手洗いはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "英語を話せますか?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Sakae

Visit one of these nice places.

Nagoya TV Tower

An iconic landmark that offers stunning panoramic views of the city, especially beautiful at sunset.

Oasis 21

A futuristic shopping complex with a unique glass roof, providing great angles for modern architectural photography.

Osu Kannon Temple

A traditional temple surrounded by vibrant stalls, perfect for capturing the juxtaposition of history and modernity.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sakae

Sakae offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich culture of the region. From savory street food to exquisite dining options, food lovers will find plenty to satisfy their cravings.

Sakae Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hitsumabushi

A unique Nagoya-style grilled eel dish served over rice, which you can enjoy in three different ways.

Must-Try!

Miso Katsu

A Nagoya twist on the classic tonkatsu, featuring deep-fried pork cutlet topped with rich red miso sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Osu Shopping District

A bustling area filled with street vendors selling local snacks like yakitori, takoyaki, and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sakae experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are relatively mild, with temperatures usually not dropping below freezing. Rainfall is common, especially during the rainy season in June and July, while autumn and spring offer comfortable weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Public Spaces

Keep noise levels low in public areas and dispose of trash properly, as cleanliness is highly valued.

Bowing

A common greeting in Japan; a slight bow shows respect and politeness.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sakae is considered a safe area for travelers, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services are readily available, and it is advisable to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Sakae

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude; instead, excellent service is expected as the norm.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments, so it's advisable to carry yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it ideal for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer (June to August)

Hot and humid with occasional rain, visitors should stay hydrated and wear light clothing; summer festivals are plentiful.

Autumn (September to November)

Cooler weather with stunning fall foliage; a great time for hiking and outdoor photography.

Winter (December to February)

Cold but relatively dry; enjoy winter illuminations and warm up with hearty local dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Sakae at Night

Sakae boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, izakayas, and clubs. The area comes alive after dark, with neon lights illuminating the streets. Visitors can enjoy karaoke bars, dance clubs, and themed bars, all offering a unique taste of Japanese entertainment. The atmosphere is friendly, and many venues cater to both locals and tourists, making it a great place to socialize and experience local culture.

Hiking in Sakae

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kiso Valley

A beautiful hiking area located about an hour from Sakae, offering scenic views and trails along the historic Nakasendo route.

Mt. Komaki

A popular local hiking spot that provides stunning views of Nagoya and the surrounding area, with trails suitable for various skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Sakae by plane.

Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)

Located approximately 35 km from Sakae, this airport serves as the main international gateway to the Nagoya region, with numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sakae is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance from each other. The area has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transport is also readily accessible, further enhancing mobility for visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Sakae is home to a diverse mix of local residents, including young professionals, families, and students, all contributing to the vibrant culture.

Tourists

The area attracts both domestic and international tourists, drawn by its shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Nagoya, with the Chunichi Dragons being the local professional team, drawing large crowds at games.

Sumo

While not as prevalent as in other regions, sumo wrestling events occasionally take place, attracting both local and tourist interest.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sakae can be busy, especially during peak hours, but public transportation is highly efficient. The area is serviced by subways and buses, making it easy to navigate. Biking is also a popular option, with dedicated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sakae.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish and meat, many restaurants in Sakae offer vegetarian dishes like tofu and vegetable tempura.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited, but some restaurants offer rice-based dishes and can accommodate dietary requests upon advance notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Sakae is excellent, with numerous clinics and hospitals offering a wide range of services. Emergency medical services are available, with hospitals generally equipped to handle various medical situations. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide