Sabae in Fukui Prefecture is known as Japan’s eyeglass capital, and the city is hosting their annual Megane (glasses) Festival in September. This year marks the 120th anniversary of the region’s eyewear industry, and the event promises two full days of celebrating glasses, craftsmanship, and community.
Held at the Glasses Museum and nearby special venues, the festival features everything from a memorial service for used eyeglasses to factory tours, gourmet food stalls, and live music. Eyewear makers from across the region will gather for exhibitions, workshops, and sales of frames you won’t find anywhere else.
Kids can enjoy hands-on craft experiences and choose from about 70 kinds of children’s glasses, while adults can browse the Mega Exhibition, which highlights the full scope of Sabae's local manufacturing from lenses to plating. Additionally, there will be music performances, a glasses fashion show, and even a Macho Grand Prix that celebrates muscles and specs alike.
Visitors can also catch a shuttle to Sabae’s other major events happening that weekend, including the Sabae SDGs Festival and the Sabae Monzen Festival. Admission is free and shuttle buses will be available.
For more information, please visit the official website.
Getting there
The Glasses Museum in Sabae is located approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Sabae Station, or approximately 3 minutes by car from Sabae IC on the Hokuriku Expressway.
/136.1988316,35.9426606,9/397x132?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoiamFwYW50cmF2ZWxtYXBzIiwiYSI6ImNqbXBtOXYxbDB5Z3ozbHFrazJuYWMwOGYifQ.v15fy_mcFWtgopmz8PhwqA)