Saga: A Hidden Gem of Ceramics, Castles, and Scenic Countryside

The vibrant red gates and lush greenery surrounding Yutoku Inari Shrine in Saga

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Saga Prefecture, located in Kyushu, is a charming region known for its rich history, traditional craftsmanship, and picturesque landscapes.

Home to world-famous ceramics from Arita and Imari, as well as historic sites like Karatsu Castle, Saga offers a unique blend of culture
and natural beauty.

Visitors can enjoy hot springs, vibrant festivals, and delicious local cuisine, making Saga an underrated destination
worth exploring.

Table of contents

Top Areas to Explore in Saga
Experience Traditional Saga Cuisine
Saga: Basic Information
Transportation in Saga

Top Areas to Explore in Saga

1. Arita and Imari Ceramics

Exquisite porcelain displayed at a traditional kiln in Arita, Saga Prefecture

Arita and Imari are globally renowned for their exquisite porcelain, with a history dating back over 400 years. Visitors can explore the Arita Porcelain Park, traditional kilns, and craft shops.

Don’t miss the Kyushu Ceramic Museum for an in-depth look at this
fascinating art form.

2. Karatsu Castle

Karatsu Castle overlooking Karatsu Bay with cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Perched on a hill overlooking Karatsu Bay, Karatsu Castle is a reconstructed fortress offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

The castle grounds are especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. Nearby, visitors can stroll through the Karatsu Hikiyama Exhibition Hall, which showcases elaborate floats used in the Karatsu Kunchi Festival.

3. Yutoku Inari Shrine

The vibrant red gates and lush greenery surrounding Yutoku Inari Shrine in Saga

Yutoku Inari Shrine is one of Japan’s most impressive Inari shrines, featuring vibrant red structures set against lush greenery.

Visitors can climb the hill for panoramic views or enjoy the serene gardens and koi ponds surrounding the shrine.

4. Ureshino Onsen

A tranquil outdoor hot spring bath surrounded by nature in Ureshino Onsen, Saga.

Ureshino Onsen is a charming hot spring town known for its silky, skin-softening waters.

Visitors can relax in public baths or ryokan, and enjoy local specialties like Ureshino green tea and onsen tofu. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal retreat.

5. Saga International Balloon Fiesta

Colorful hot air balloons soaring over the countryside during the Saga International Balloon Fiesta.

Held annually along the Kase River, the Saga International Balloon Fiesta is one of the world’s largest hot air balloon festivals.

The event features hundreds of colorful balloons from around the globe, creating a spectacular sight against the backdrop of Saga’s countryside.

Experience Traditional Saga Cuisine

Marbled Saga Beef

Saga is famous for its high-quality Saga beef, a luxurious wagyu known for its marbled texture and rich flavor.

Other local specialties include fresh seafood from Karatsu Bay, Yobuko squid sashimi, and onsen tofu from Ureshino. The region is also known for its shochu and traditional Japanese sweets.

Saga: Basic Information

Location

Saga Prefecture is located in northwestern Kyushu, bordered by Fukuoka and Nagasaki Prefectures, with a coastline along the Ariake Sea and Genkai Sea.

Neighboring Areas

Fukuoka, Nagasaki

Best Seasons to Visit

Spring: Cherry blossoms at Karatsu Castle and Yutoku Inari Shrine.
Summer: Enjoy the beaches and fresh squid sashimi in Yobuko.
Autumn: The Saga International Balloon Fiesta and colorful foliage at Ureshino Onsen.
Winter: Relax in hot springs and savor seasonal dishes like onsen tofu and Saga beef nabe.

How to Get to Saga

By Train: Saga Station connects to major cities via the JR Nagasaki and Kyushu Shinkansen Lines.

By Air: Saga Airport offers domestic flights and easy bus connections to Saga City and surrounding areas.

Transportation in Saga

Saga features a reliable network of trains and buses connecting its major cities and attractions. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring rural areas like Arita and Ureshino. Bicycle rentals are also available in towns like Karatsu for scenic coastal rides.