Sai Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do, where to stay, eat and more in Sai, the hidden gem of Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori, Japan!


Introduction to Sai

Sai is a beautiful town situated in the Shimokita Peninsula of Aomori prefecture, Tohoku region, Japan. It is one of the hidden gems in Japan, yet to be discovered by most tourists. Sai boasts plenty of natural, cultural, and historical landmarks that make it a great destination for all kinds of tourists. The town has much to offer, from scenic views and outdoor adventures to historic sites and local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Sai

Here are some of the must-visit places in Sai:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sai Kagura Folklore Museum showcasing the traditional Kagura dance of Japan
  • Sai Town Museum to learn more about the town’s history and culture
  • Fukura Fishing Village, a preserved area that showcases traditional Japanese fishing villages

Natural Attractions of Sai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hashikami Beach, a scenic beach with crystal clear waters and soft sand
  • Mt. Osore, an active volcano and pilgrimage site known for its unusual landscapes and natural mystique
  • Matsumae Park, an expansive park featuring beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring, making it one of the most popular parks in Japan.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sai

Sai has some stunning hiking and biking trails that give tourists a unique experience. These are a must-do for nature enthusiasts, and some popular trails are:

  • Ou Mountain Range Hiking Trail, a beautiful trail that ends at the summit of the mountain with a breathtaking view
  • Ouraka Nature Walks, a botanical and bird-watching trail that features different species of flora and fauna native to Sai town.

Best Things to Do in Sai: Activities and Tours

Sai has a lot of fun-filled activities for tourists to enjoy. Here are some things you must do during your visit to Sai:

  • Check out the scenery and wildlife watching tours, showcasing the beauty of the area with professional nature and bird watching experts.
  • Experience traditional straw craftmaking sessions at Fukura Fishing village
  • Explore the magnificent views of the cape of Mutsu Bay by hopping on a bicycle and cycling around.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sai

Here’s an itinerary you can follow during your week-long stay in Sai:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive at Sai and check into your hotel. Visit Sai Town Museum and Sai Kagura Folklore Museum
Day 2 Head towards Fujino Ski Resort and have a fun-filled day of skiing
Day 3 Visit Kofuji Mountain and witness the beautiful and serene Mt. Osore
Day 4 Take a trip to Matsushima Bay and visit Matsushima Aquarium
Day 5 Head towards Mutsu Bay for a day of fishing and cycling
Day 6 Check out Hashikami Beach and have fun swimming and exploring the area
Day 7 Grab some souvenirs and memories to take back home from Sai Town and Fukura Fishing village. Depart from Sai.

Food and Drink Scene of Sai

Sai town has much to offer regarding food, from local traditional Japanese dishes to modern delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Senbei, is a rice cracker and a local traditional snack very popular in the area.
  • Iwaki Okowa, steamed glutinous rice seasoned with different flavors and ingredients.
  • Hachinohe Sanriku, a seafood platter featuring different varieties of sea life from Sanriku Bay like Tunas, squids, and many others!

Local Beverages

  • Nambu Mitsuboshi, is one of the famous green teas from the Nambu region of Japan, best known for its bitter and strong flavor.
  • Nanbu Bijin, a sake native to Sai town made from local ingredients with a unique flavor and aroma.

Where to Stay in Sai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sai town has various accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to hostels and guesthouses. Some recommended places to stay in Sai are:

  • Sai no Yado, a lovely traditional Japanese Inn featuring a private hot spring.
  • Hotel Sunroute Fukaura, a modern hotel situated on the beachfront, providing guests with a beautiful sea view.
  • Ryokan Tsutaya, located close to Fukura Fishing Village, a comfortable and cozy Japanese-style hotel featuring a hot spring and traditional designs.

What to Buy in Sai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some must-buy souvenirs to take back home from Sai:

  • Senbei rice crackers, as mentioned above, are a popular local snack that one can take back as souvenirs.
  • Shneko Knife, high-quality Japanese knives made in Shimokita Peninsula.
  • Nanbu Tekki, a type of cast-iron craft with unique designs native to the Nambu region of Japan.

Local Culture and Customs of Sai

Sai town is home to many traditions rooted in Japan. One unique culture is the Kagura dance, a traditional Japanese dance performed as part of celebrations and festivals. The town’s residents also practice unique farming techniques that ensure the growth of flavorful and quality crops, which visitors can learn about during their visit.

Best Time to Visit Sai

To have the best experience in Sai, it’s best to visit during the following periods:

  • April to May, to witness the cherry blossoms in Matsumae Park.
  • December to February, to enjoy winter sports and skiing.
  • June to August, for the beautiful weather and swimming in the sea.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sai

Do:

  • Respect the local traditions and follow the etiquettes when interacting with natives.
  • Be polite and courteous at all times, particularly when in public areas and when travelling by public transport.

Don’t:

  • Avoid littering or spitting in public areas.
  • Negative comments, particularly regarding the local farming culture, are frowned upon and should be avoided.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sai

Sai town is one of the safest places to visit in Japan, with a low crime rate, making it safe for travelers to move around. However, safety precautions should still be observed at all times.

Health in Sai

Sai town has a few medical facilities, including community hospitals and clinics. Ensure to check with your health insurer to have travel insurance in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Sai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sai

The closest airport to Sai town is Aomori Airport, which offers flights within Japan and international flights from major cities.

Bus Stations Near Sai

The Fukaura-Limited Express Bus station is located near Sai, operating daily buses to major cities in Japan.

Other Options

Taxis, bicycles, rental cars, and private cars are all common transportation methods in Sai town, making it easier for tourists to explore the regions.

How to Get Around in Sai

Sai town offers various ways to move around, and these include bicycles, cars, and buses. Renting a car is by far the most convenient method of traveling around, as it offers tourists the flexibility to move around according to their schedule.

Where to Go Next from Sai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sai town is located near other beautiful places on the Shimokita peninsula, and visitors can check them out. Here are some beautiful places visitors can travel to from Sai:

  • Hachinohe, a seaside town beautiful in its own right and featuring many beautiful parks and seafood delicacies.
  • Oirase Stream, a beautiful waterfall stream that one can hike and relax.
  • Towada Lake a national park with beautiful sceneries and freshwaters, formed by volcanic activities centuries ago.

Conclusion

Sai town is a beautiful destination in Japan offering tourists an opportunity to experience unique traditions and sightseeing experiences. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan their itinerary and gain insights into what the area has to offer, from beautiful landscapes and outdoor adventures to traditional Japanese meals and souvenirs to take home. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets to Sai town now and explore this hidden gem of a destination!

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