「WORLD MASTERS GAMES (WMG) 2021 KANSAI」 is an international multi-sport event which generally allows anyone above the age of 30 to participate. Among the events are football, which is hugely popular in Southeast Asian countries, and rugby. Japan will host the Rugby World Cup, the sport’s biggest international event for the first time this year. These two events will be held in Osaka Prefecture, a place that has connections with rugby and football (and futsal), as well as interesting local culture for WMG participants and spectators to enjoy. Those of you who are football and rugby fans could include the following places and experiences in your WMG itinerary!
Sakai: The Historical Town of Craftsmanship
J-GREEN SAKAI, the venue for football and futsal for WMG2021, is located in Sakai city. The city is notable for the Mozu-Furuichi Kofungun ancient tumulus clusters which is a World Heritage Site. Among the large group of kofun or tumuli, the keyhole-shaped Nintoku-tenno-ryo Kofun (Tomb of Emperor Nintoku) is the largest and also the symbol of the city. According to ancient texts, emperors of the time played kemari which is considered to be the earliest form of football. Kemari has been revived as a royal court cultural performance at Kyoto Imperial Palace in spring and autumn. Sakai is also an important seaport which grew rich acting as an foreign trade hub during the Middle Ages. Today it is still one of Japan’s most important ports and an important cultural site.
Japan’s Top-Quality Knives in Sakai
Sakai is famous for its high-quality knives and cutlery made by artisans. In the 15th century, many blacksmiths migrated to Sakai and brought their sword- making techniques. Ever since Sakai has been known for producing the best knives. Today Sakai City accounts for more than 90 percent of the handcrafted knives produced in Japan.
At the Sakai Knife Museum (part of Sakai City Traditional Crafts Museum), various knives for different uses and the process of crafting them are exhibited. The museum shop not only sells authentic Sakai knives, but English-speaking staff can provide advice on how to keep them in good condition.
Moreover, knife shops and workshops provide services such as name engraving and knife crafting and sharpening experiences. Get in touch with the knife culture of Sakai while getting yourself a souvenir as a memento of WMG2021!
※Depending on your country or region, there are restrictions on bringing in knives or sharp objects. We advise you to check the rules of your country or region before purchasing knives. Besides, knives are generally not allowed to be carried on the plane, so please place them in your check-in luggage. Rules and regulations might differ from airlines, so it is highly recommended that you check with your airline company regarding the rules.
Enjoy Japanese Style Tea with Artisanal Wagashi (Japanese Traditional Sweets)
In addition to knives, Sakai is also a place with a rich wagashi (Japanese confectionery) history and culture. Since ancient times Sakai prospered as a trading center, which led to the importation of sugar, allowing the wagashi industry to thrive. To this day, there are still many wagashi shops in the streets of Sakai.
Among the many kinds of wagashi to be found here, are manju with sweet red bean filling and mochi with cinnamon or poppy seed. Sen no Rikyu, the greatest master of the Japanese tea ceremony originated from Sakai and popularized tea culture in Sakai. Japanese sweets increased in demand as a snack to accompany the bitter tea. Do experience the dream combination of Japanese tea and wagashi during your stay here!
There are also places in Sakai where you can try your hand at making wagashi yourself, so do not miss this opportunity if you are interested!
Higashiosaka, Japan’s Rugby Town
The whole Hanazono area of Higashiosaka city spells rugby. For example, the rugby ball monument at Higashi-Hanazono Station, while tree-lined paths and manholes are decorated with rugby motifs all around the city. While you are there, check out the rugby-themed confectionery such as rugby-ball-shaped manju and chocolate, and cookies embossed with a street view of Higashiosaka.
The Hanazono Rugby Stadium located next to Hanazono Central Park is the oldest dedicated rugby stadium in Japan. Opened in 1929, it is widely known as the stage of the annual National High School Rugby Tournament. The stadium has also hosted important international matches and is an icon of Japan’s rugby culture. It will also be the venue for The 2019 Rugby World Cup™.
Higashiosaka, the City of Craftsmanship
Besides rugby, Higashiosaka is also well known as an industrial and manufacturing hub making a wide range of products, from toothbrushes to those requiring high level precision and technology such as satellites. Products manufactured in Higashiosaka are used in shinkansen and Tokyo Skytree. Sunglasses produced here are also favored by Japanese professional sport players. Maido-1, a small satellite launched in 2009 was developed in this city.
Try Udon-Suki with your Teammates!
Udon-suki, a hotpot with meat or seafood, vegetables, udon noodles, and mild soup, is one of the emblematic dishes of Osaka. Udon-suki allows you to enjoy various common ingredients of Japanese cuisine such as chicken, tiger prawn, and yuba (dried beancurd) in one go. What better way to relax with your teammates after a match than enjoying the exquisite taste of udon-suki!
A Trip to Experience Sports-Related Culture and the Uniqueness of Each City
Experience the excellent craftsmanship of knives and wagashi in Sakai, and the passion for rugby in Higashiosaka. While both cities are in Osaka Prefecture, you will see when you visit that they are very different. Both cities can offer something of interest for fans and players of football and rugby. Visit nearby stores and enjoy various hands-on experiences during rest days for your competition!
WMG Official Website👉 https://wmg2021.jp/en/
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