Sakae: The Vibrant Heart of Nagoya

• Helloこんにちは
  [Kon'nichiwa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [Sayōnara]
• Yesはい
  [Hai]
• Noいいえ
  [Īe]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [Dōzo]
• Thank youありがとう
  [Arigatō]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [Sumimasen]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [Ogenki desu ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [Genki desu. Anata wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [Eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [Wakarimasen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [Menyū o misete kudasai]
• I don't eat meat私は肉を食べません
  [Watashi wa niku o tabemasen]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [Kanpai!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [O-kaikē o onegaishimasu]

• Help!助けて！
  [Tasukete!]
• Go away!行って！
  [Itte!]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んで！
  [Keisatsu o yonde!]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！
  [Isha o yonde!]
• I'm lost道に迷いました
  [Michi ni mayoimashita]
• I'm ill体調が悪いです
  [Taichō ga warui desu]

• I'd like to buy......を買いたいです
  [... o kaitai desu]
• I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [Miteru dake desu]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [Ikura desu ka?]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [Sore wa takasugimasu]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [Nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [Ima nanji desu ka?]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [Ichiji desu]
• Half past (10)十時半です
  [Jūji han desu]
• Morning朝
  [Asa]
• Afternoon午後
  [Gogo]
• Evening夕方
  [Yūgata]
• Yesterday昨日
  [Kinō]
• Today今日
  [Kyō]
• Tomorrow明日
  [Ashita]
• 1一
  [Ichi]
• 2二
  [Ni]
• 3三
  [San]
• 4四
  [Yon]
• 5五
  [Go]
• 6六
  [Roku]
• 7七
  [Nana]
• 8八
  [Hachi]
• 9九
  [Ku]
• 10十
  [Jū]

• Where's a/the...?...はどこですか？
  [... wa doko desu ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [Jūsho wa nan desu ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてもらえますか？
  [Chizu de misete moraemasu ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次のバスはいつですか？
  [Tsugi no basu wa itsu desu ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)チケット（...へ）
  [Chiketto (... e)]

Sakae, as part of Nagoya, began to take shape during the Edo period (1603-1868) when the region was established as a strategic castle town. The construction of Nagoya Castle in 1612 marked the area as a political and economic center, leading to increased trade and cultural exchanges. Sakae's development during this time positioned it as a hub for merchants and samurai, setting the stage for its future growth.

The Meiji Restoration in 1868 brought significant changes to Sakae and Nagoya as a whole. The area rapidly industrialized, with the introduction of modern transportation and infrastructure. Sakae became a focal point for commerce and industry, particularly with the establishment of the Nagoya Railroad in 1886, which facilitated trade and increased the movement of people and goods.

In the early 20th century, Sakae began to evolve into a modern urban district. The construction of department stores, theaters, and the introduction of Western-style architecture reflected the changing cultural landscape. The opening of the Sakae subway station in 1957 further established Sakae as a vital commercial and entertainment hub in Nagoya.

The 1980s marked a cultural renaissance for Sakae, with the establishment of numerous cultural institutions, including art galleries and theaters. The iconic Oasis 21 complex, completed in 2002, became a symbol of Sakae's modernity, blending functional urban space with innovative design. This period saw an increase in tourism, attracting visitors to Sakae's vibrant nightlife and shopping experiences.

Today, Sakae is a bustling metropolis that balances its rich history with modern advancements. It hosts various cultural events, including the Nagoya Festival and Sakae Matsuri, which celebrate the area's heritage. The presence of traditional tea houses alongside contemporary shopping centers illustrates Sakae's unique character as a neighborhood that honors its past while embracing the future.

Sakae is conveniently located in the heart of Nagoya, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From Nagoya Station, take the Higashiyama Line (light blue) subway and travel just two stops to Sakae Station. Alternatively, the Meitetsu Nagoya Station also offers connections to Sakae via the Nagoya City Bus network, with multiple lines serving the area.

Sakae is well-served by public transport, including the subway and buses. The Sakae Station is a major hub for the Higashiyama Line and the Nagoya City Subway's Meijo Line (purple). Bicycles can be rented from various locations, allowing for easy exploration of the area. Walking is also a great way to discover local shops and restaurants, as many attractions are within a short distance.

Sakae is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Be particularly cautious around crowded shopping areas, where pickpocketing can occur. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant is always advisable.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies. Major hospitals are located nearby, such as Nagoya City Medical Center. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available throughout the area for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress smartly and modestly; casual wear is acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect at temples and shrines, following any posted guidelines. Public Transport: Do be polite, and offer your seat to the elderly or pregnant women. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do bow slightly when greeting locals; handshakes are also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Nagoya-style chicken wings (tebasaki) and Nagoya cochin. Don’t waste food or be overly loud in restaurants.

To experience Sakae like a local, visit the Oasis 21 shopping complex, which boasts a stunning 'Spaceship Aqua' design. Don’t miss the underground shopping arcades, where you can find unique shops and local delicacies. Engage with locals by trying out karaoke at one of the many establishments in the area, as it's a popular pastime. For a unique taste of the local culture, enjoy a coffee at one of Sakae's themed cafes.