Nestled in the shadow of Mount Ikoma, Sakai is a city that time seems to have forgotten. Though it's just a short train ride from Osaka, Sakai feels like a different world, one where the pace of life is a little slower and the air a little cleaner. The city is famous for its production of samurai swords and traditional Japanese textiles, and there are plenty of museums and artisan workshops to explore. There's also a lively nightlife, with a large number of izakaya (Japanese pubs) and yakitori (chicken skewers) restaurants. If you're looking for a taste of traditional Japan, Sakai is the place to find it.