Many places in Japan are known for their distinctive crafts. These also include small town sabaayIn Fukui Prefecture, which is about 3.5 hours by train from Tokyo. Popular as the eyeglasses capital of Japan, Sabe produces over 90% of the frames manufactured in the country. Many eyeglass-shaped signs and objects can be found on the streets of the city. In fact, there is even a museum festival dedicated to the glasses.

You can also explore lacquerware, textiles and Sabe’s beautiful Nishiyama Park with its adorable red panda that serves as its mascot.

It all started in 1905, when a local government official invited skilled glasses artisans to teach them their art. This came as an effort to create new opportunities for local farmers. And this step bore fruit. Today, Sabe has more than 100 companies that cooperate with them to make pairs of glasses.

Sabé’s Megan Museum, located on Megan Street, highlights the dozens of steps involved in making the perfect pair of glasses. It also organizes various events dedicated to the art of spectacles. Eyewear brands, including Boston Club, are also frequently invited to display their designs in popup shops.

The museum also offers workshops for those who want to make their own frame – as a souvenir.

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