Xavier Park (Ebis Park) in Sakai City, Osaka

Xavier Park, also known as Ebis Park, was planned in 1947 near the site of the residence of the wealthy merchant Hibiya Ryokei, who is said to have warmly welcomed Jesuit missionary Francisco Xavier when he visited Sakai in 1550. The park was opened in 1949, coinciding with the 400th anniversary of Xavier's arrival in Japan, and was named Xavier Park in his honor.

The park features playground equipment designed to resemble a Nanban ship, evoking the image of medieval Sakai as a city open to the sea.

Additionally, the park is home to several commemorative monuments:
- Monument to Saint Francisco Xavier's Visit: Installed in 1949 during the park's opening to mark the 400th anniversary of Xavier's arrival.
- Sculpture by Jorge Vieira: Titled "The Meeting Point of East and West," this piece by Portuguese sculptor Jorge Vieira symbolizes the encounter between Portugal, located at the western edge of Europe, and Japan, at the eastern edge of Asia. It was exhibited at the Portuguese Pavilion during the 1970 Japan World Exposition and later gifted to Sakai City.
- Sakai Matchlock Monument: This monument honors Sakai as a central hub for matchlock gun production after Tachibana Matazaburo brought the manufacturing techniques of matchlock guns, originally introduced to Japan via Tanegashima, to this area.

It was a curious experience to see international visitors enjoying picnics in the park. We live in an era where traveling abroad has become so accessible—what a blessing! ✨

Xavier Park (Ebis Park)
📍 Address: 1-1 Kushiya-cho Nishi, Sakai-ku, Sakai City, Osaka 590-0949

Post by こりのとりっぷ | Aug 22, 2025