Exploring Sakai’s History: Filming Locations & Sites Related to the Sengoku Period

2026.03.23

In the “Travelogue” (Kiko) segment of the 11th episode of the 2026 Taiga Drama “Toyotomi Kyodai”, locations associated with the legendary Sakai merchant Imai Sokyu were featured.
In this article, we introduce the filming locations and historical sites in Sakai that still retain the atmosphere of the Sengoku period (Warring States period). Come and walk through Sakai to experience the world of the drama for yourself!

Official Website of “Toyotomi Kyodai” Taiga Drama

～Filming Locations & Historical Sites～

1.Old Gunsmith Workshop and Residence

Firearms (matchlock guns) changed the course of Japanese history, and Sakai was its primary production hub. This precious building from the Edo period tells the history of the gunsmiths who were patronized by legendary lords like Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

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・Old Gunsmith Workshop and Residence
2.Myokoku-ji Temple

Famous for the legend of the “Night-Crying Cycad,” which reportedly astonished Oda Nobunaga. As depicted in history, this temple symbolizes the strength and autonomy of Sakai’s merchants, a quality recognized even by the powerful lord Nobunaga.

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・Myokoku-ji Temple
3.Old Sakai Harbor & Old Sakai Lighthouse

This is where wealthy merchants like Imai Sokyu amassed vast fortunes through overseas trade. The bay area offers a scenic view reminiscent of the city’s prosperous era.

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・Old Sakai Harbor
・Old Sakai Lighthouse
4.Aguchi Shrine

Affectionately known as “Otera” by local citizens, this ancient shrine served as a spiritual hub where Imai Sokyu and other merchant leaders gathered to manage the city’s affairs. It is a place that still radiates the historic pride of Sakai.

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・Aguchi Shrine
5.Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko

Imai Sokyu was hailed as one of the “Three Great Tea Masters” alongside Sen no Rikyu. At this facility, you can experience the “Golden Days of Sakai” and learn how the tea culture loved by Hideyoshi was supported by the immense economic power of Sakai’s merchants.

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・Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko
6.Site of Imai Sokyu’s Residence

This is the former site of the residence of Imai Sokyu, a renowned tea master and close aide to Nobunaga and Hideyoshi. A stone monument now stands here, marking the place where he conducted bold business dealings with the most powerful leaders of the time.

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・Site of Imai Sokyu’s Residence（Google Map）
7.Nanshuji Temple

A Zen temple where Sen no Rikyu practiced, which also shares a deep connection with the Toyotomi family. Records show that Hideyoshi himself visited this temple. It remains a serene space that tells the story of the close ties between Sengoku warriors and the tea masters of Sakai.

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・Nanshuji Temple
8.Sakai Tea Room Obaian

Known for its association with Imai Sokyu, this tea house was later relocated to Sakai. It perfectly preserves the world of “Chanoyu” (Tea Ceremony) favored by Hideyoshi and serves as a symbol of the brilliant culture depicted in the drama.

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・Sakai Tea Room Obaian