Karatsu travel guide and discussion

I’m going to organize the delicious restaurants I visited during my trip to Fukuoka one by one. From Fukuoka’s representative ramen to must-try foods for the Karatsu drive course, and even famous hamburgers, let’s get started with a review of my fulfilling trip! ✨ 1. Hakata Station Domi-meshi (Donabe) Pot Rice Set Meal 🐟 The first place I’d like to introduce is the Domi-meshi (sea bream pot rice) set meal I enjoyed near Hakata Station! Menu: Domi-meshi Set Meal & Fish Cutlet / Fried Set Review: The freshly cooked, warm pot rice is generously filled with tender and savory sea bream meat. The rice itself is subtly seasoned, so it is really delicious even on its own! The accompanying Chawanmushi (steamed egg custard) was as soft as pudding, and the combination of the crispy fried fish cutlet and tartar sauce was also the best. Finally, I poured warm tea over the toppings (green onions, seaweed, and wasabi) to enjoy it as Ochazuke. The deep, clean flavor was so comforting that it was truly the perfect meal to kick off my trip. 2. Hakata ShinShin Ramen Main Branch - Tonkotsu Ramen 🍜 When you come to Fukuoka, Tonkotsu Ramen is a must! I visited the ShinShin Ramen Main Branch, which is known for its long lines. Menu: Chashu Tamago Tonkotsu Ramen Review: It features the rich and savory taste of pork bone broth. There was absolutely no gamey smell, and the broth had a substantial yet clean flavor that was much less overwhelming than typical Tonkotsu Ramen. The broth soaked well into the thin, non-sticky straight noodles, and it was a perfect combination with the tender Chashu and soft-boiled egg (Ajitama). The crunchy texture of the wood ear mushrooms also added to the fun. Depending on your preference, you can add the chili oil or ginger provided on the table to enjoy the burger without any greasiness until the very last bite! 3. Karatsu Burger - Pine Forest Food Truck 🍔 This is the Karatsu Burger food truck I encountered while driving along the Karatsu Mujika no Matsubara (Pine Forest Road)! Menu: Karatsu Burger (Special Burger) Review: It is a handmade burger made fresh right in front of you at a retro-style food truck situated right in the middle of a dense pine forest. It is generously filled with a freshly grilled patty, egg, ham, and lettuce between crispy buns. In particular, the sweet and salty combination of the special soy-based teriyaki sauce and the slightly spicy pepper aroma instantly captivate your taste buds. Eating a burger outdoors in the forest while breathing in the cool air became an unforgettable special memory. If you visit Karatsu, be sure to stop by! 4. Kiwamiya Hamburg Parco Branch 🥩 Kiwamiya Hamburg is located in the basement of the Tenjin Parco department store in Fukuoka. There is always a long wait, but it is well worth it! Menu: Charcoal-Grilled Hamburg Steak Set Review: Fresh 100% minced Wagyu beef is served lightly seared on the outside. The method involves tearing off small pieces and grilling them yourself on a heated mini stone plate. From the sizzling sound and the bursting juices to the rich flavor filling your mouth, you will be amazed. When eaten with rice accompanied by finely chopped green onions and a special sauce, it is a true rice thief! You can finish off your meal satisfyingly with the miso soup and salad included in the set, as well as the soft serve ice cream for dessert.

#slowtraveling JR Karatsu Station from Saga is 50 minutes (~750 yen). The castle is a 12-minute walk north; the morning market alley runs parallel to the old canal between the station and the water. I did it backwards — castle first at 7:40 a.m. (tower opens 9, but the maizuru-shaped stone walls and the pine grove below are free and empty), then drifted down toward the port as the stalls rolled up their tarps. Karatsu’s in-town market is smaller and calmer than the famous Yobuko one 30 minutes away by bus — no live squid theater, just Genkai Sea catch, salted kelp, homemade umeboshi, and a woman selling tachiuo cured the night before. Stalls run roughly 7:30 to noon, fastest by 8:30. Cash only; bring 1,000-yen notes and coins, no cards at the cloth-topped tables. I bought a paper cone of kakiage (150 yen), a jar of yuzu miso (600 yen), and listened to two fishermen argue about the tide. That’s the whole market: 40 stalls, no loudspeakers, no influencers at that hour. Pair it with Karatsu-yaki pottery — the kiln shops near the castle open at 9:30, cards okay there, but the market doesn’t care about your Visa. A mistake I saw: a couple who drove in at 11:15 found three stalls left and the castle café line 20 deep. The town rewards the 7 a.m. arrival. Would you skip Yobuko’s spectacle for this quieter alley? I did, and the kakiage was warmer.

Yobuko squid in Saga is an absolute must-try, and the reason it's so famous is that restaurants scoop the fresh, live squid straight from large water tanks and slice it in a matter of seconds using masterful knife skills. When it arrives at your table, the squid's body is completely "translucent," and the tentacles might even still be twitching slightly. This ultimate level of freshness delivers a crisp, sweet flavor that is entirely different from the white, soft texture of squid that has been sitting out for a while. There's also a very authentic Japanese way to enjoy it in Yobuko: "Once you finish the sashimi portion, you can have the remaining parts either salt-grilled or deep-fried as tempura (for an additional ➕ 300 yen prep fee)." 　　Serving live squid heavily depends on the day's catch and weather conditions. If the sea is rough and fishing boats can't head out, the izakaya's tanks might be empty. As a result, this dish is usually available in "limited quantities" and might not show up on the digital ordering system every day, so you often have to ask the staff directly. Aside from the squid, the other items on the menu are classic Japanese izakaya staples. I personally really loved their gyoza and potato salad, along with a pressure-preserved "Mitsutake" sake. Uoya Dojo - Saga Station South Exit branch is a highly convenient 5-minute walk from the station.

Karatsu City captivated me with its quiet and laid-back atmosphere. My first stop was the Takatori Residence, which perfectly preserved the beauty of a traditional Japanese home. The old wooden structure, tiled roof, and immaculately manicured garden left a lasting impression. Though not overly extravagant, gazing at the garden in harmony with nature truly brought me peace of mind. Afterward, I explored Karatsu Shrine and prayed for a safe journey. I absolutely loved the ambiance created by the vibrant red torii gates and the dense canopy of trees. With historic houses lining the streets, I felt as if I had traveled back in time to old Japan. My final stop, the Former Karatsu Bank, showcased a different kind of charm with its modern architectural style, a stark contrast to traditional designs. The elegant blend of red brick and stonework made it a fantastic spot for photography. While Karatsu might not be a bustling tourist hotspot, it is an incredible city for taking a slow stroll to appreciate its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens. I'd love to visit again in the spring or fall to experience its scenery in a whole new light.

Located in the northwestern part of Saga Prefecture, Japan, Karatsu is a historic port city that has served as a gateway to the continent since ancient times. The destination of this journey, Karatsu Castle, stands proudly on a bay that stretches majestically toward the sea from a corner of the city. The castle's silhouette is said to resemble a crane spreading its wings, earning it the beautiful moniker "Maizuru Castle" (Dancing Crane Castle). As I approached the castle grounds with a fluttering heart, the dramatic contrast between the massive, time-tested stone walls and the modern blue sky offered a striking welcome. 1. The Soaring Castle Keep and Solid Stone Walls The symbol of Karatsu Castle, the keep (Tenshukaku), boasts a highly elegant yet imposing presence with its harmonious blend of white walls and dark roof tiles. The construction of Karatsu Castle began in 1602 by Terazawa Hirotaka, a vassal of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and was completed over a span of about seven years. Although the current keep was meticulously reconstructed for cultural tourism in 1966 based on historical research, the massive stone foundation (ishigaki) supporting it is a genuine relic that vividly testifies to the turbulent, war-torn era of centuries past. Looking up at the artificial walls built by tightly interlocking roughly hewn stones without a single gap, you feel a strange, overwhelming sense of awe—as if the pinnacle of contemporary construction techniques and the rugged breaths of the commoners mobilized for the work are still palpable. 2. Historical Whispers Inside the Keep: Artifacts and Records Stepping inside the keep, which now serves as a museum, the history of the lords who ruled the Karatsu Domain and their precious artifacts are showcased under warm, inviting lighting. The first things to catch my eye were the family crest of the Terazawa clan, the castle's first owners, and an antique information board. Next up was a stunning suit of armor from the early 17th century, known as the "Red Lacquer Coated Red Thread Laced Buddha Torso Two-piece Cuirass." Its crimson chest plate and unique helmet design were deeply impressive. Alongside the martial spirit of the warriors who likely wore it into battle, the distinct marks on the top of the helmet hinted at the fierce combat of the era. In another exhibition room, artifacts of the Okubo clan, who ruled Karatsu in the late Edo period, were proudly displayed. These included matchlock guns, the cutting-edge weaponry of their time, and naginata (polearms) boasting sharply curved blades. The chilling gleam of the smoothly forged blades still holds the power to send a shiver down a viewer's spine, even centuries later. Additionally, maps and timelines detailing the urgent troop movements and battle conditions during the Second Choshu Expedition at the end of the Tokugawa shogunate provided a three-dimensional look at the fateful choices the Karatsu Domain faced amid revolutionary upheaval, offering deep immersion for history enthusiasts. Dominating one side of the exhibition hall is the "Hizen Nagoya Castle Folding Screen," an Important Cultural Property of Karatsu City. It vividly depicts nearby Nagoya Castle, which Toyotomi Hideyoshi used as a staging ground for his invasion of the continent during the Imjin War (known in Japan as the Bunroku-Keicho Campaigns). Gazing at the intricate details of the massive fortress where over 140,000 soldiers amassed, along with countless warships, I spent a meaningful moment quietly reflecting on the painful and heavy history shared by Korea and Japan. 3. The Breathtaking Panorama from Maizuru Castle: Nijino Matsubara The absolute highlight of the keep is the 360-degree panoramic view from the top-floor observatory. The moment you step out and gaze past the open railing, a spectacular, soul-cleansing landscape unfolds. On one side, the azure waters of Karatsu Bay stretch endlessly, while right below the castle walls, the tranquil Matsura River flows gently to meet the sea. Most awe-inspiring of all was the panoramic view of "Nijino Matsubara" (Rainbow Pine Grove), a sprawling pine forest stretching along the coast like a lush green carpet in the shape of a bow. Ranked as one of Japan's three major pine groves, this harmony between the verdant forest and the coastline is a masterpiece forged by nature and time. The trio of fluffy white clouds in the sky, the deep blue sea, and the emerald pine forest looked exactly like a colossal natural ink wash painting, keeping me rooted to the spot for quite a while. 4. The Peaceful Vibe of the Moat-Encircled Castle Town Descending from the castle's peak, I enjoyed a quiet stroll along the moat (hori) that embraces the grounds. Beyond the gently rippling waters of the moat, the charming village scenery of Karatsu was incredibly peaceful. Houses perched atop sturdy stone walls, backed by lush green trees, illustrate how this former fortress has seamlessly transformed into a warm community and a tranquil haven for its residents. Walking along the waterway and feeling the cool sea breeze, my travel fatigue melted away like snow, replaced by a profound sense of inner peace. 5. Wrapping Up the Journey My trip to Karatsu Castle was far more than just taking in beautiful scenery; it was a precious, sensory-rich experience of engaging with the city's profound historical narratives and the intense traces of its past. The image of the castle reflected on the calm waters of the moat and the memory of the vibrant Nijino Matsubara viewed from the keep will leave a lasting, deep resonance in my heart. Radiating a quiet yet resilient charm, Karatsu Castle is a premier destination that captures the true essence of deep, local travel—something you simply can't experience in a glitzy metropolis.

Did you know that right now, the area from Hakata Station to Saga is absolutely covered in Mario!? 😳 This is actually a "Super Mario × JR Kyushu" limited-time campaign✨ It only runs until June 30, so I highly recommend checking it out soon if you're interested! 🚉 Hakata Station Area 🟡 Limited Edition Mario "Hakata Torimon" The classic local souvenir gets a Mario makeover! It looks like it would make an amazing gift✨ 🍱 Mario Ekiben (Station Bento) Even the wrapper is super cute, making it the perfect travel companion. 🛍️ Nintendo FUKUOKA Located inside Amu Plaza Hakata, this is the official Nintendo store. It's a dangerously tempting spot for Mario merch lovers🤣 🌊 Karatsu & Saga Area 🦑 Karatsu Exclusive "Squid Rice Crackers" You can only buy these here— an exclusive Mario collaboration! 📸 Limited Photo Spots At Saga Station & Higashi-Karatsu Station, massive photo spots featuring Mario and friends have popped up✨ 💡Honestly, I'm not exactly a die-hard fan who knows every single Mario character, but with both Hakata Station and Saga completely covered in Mario, it was so much fun I couldn't help but snap a ton of photos🤣 Even if you're a "casual fan", the festive vibe makes it totally worth the trip✨ 📍Around JR Hakata Station ~ Saga Station / Higashi-Karatsu Station ⭐︎It's only around until June 30, so I highly recommend you [Save] this post so you don't forget✨

If you're looking for a special getaway in Saga, 👉 This is the spot. Since it's right by the sea, 👉 It's the perfect place to kick back and take in the view. 📍 Why You Should Go ✔️ Open-air baths ✔️ Ocean views ✔️ Peaceful vibe 📸 The Vibe · Soothing · Relaxing 🚶 What to Do 👉 Soak in the hot springs 👉 Take a stroll 👉 Chill out 💡 In a Nutshell 👉 "The ultimate healing spot in Saga" 📌 TIP · Evenings are highly recommended · Bring your own towel · Enjoy the peace and quiet

I visited the "Former Karatsu Bank" in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture! 📍 1513-15 Honmachi, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture 847-0047 It's just a 7-minute walk from Karatsu Station. The Former Karatsu Bank is an actual bank building dating back to the Meiji era. This bank supported Karatsu's economic development and remained in operation until 1997. It's open every day, and admission is completely free! Designed by Kingo Tatsuno—the same architect behind Tokyo Station—the attention to detail is so incredible that you could spend hours just looking around. Every corner of this space is absolutely stunning, and even the lighting fixtures were super cute. It seems like they also host events inside from time to time!

A vassal said to be deeply trusted by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Terasawa Shima-no-kami Hirotaka, spent seven years to build the magnificent [Karatsu Castle]. From the observation floor of the castle keep, you get a sweeping view of Karatsu City, Karatsu Bay, and Niji-no-Matsubara, so I highly recommend checking it out. When I visited, the cherry blossoms were blooming, but the wisteria will soon be reaching its peak. The wisteria trellis is designated as a natural monument of Karatsu City. You have to climb quite a few stairs to reach Karatsu Castle, but there is also a paid elevator available, making it very accessible for everyone. Take in the majestic beauty of Karatsu Castle❗️ Find your favorite spot and snap some great photos. ▪️ Karatsu Castle 8-1 Higashijonai, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture 21-minute walk from Karatsu Station [North Exit] 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:40 PM) · Castle Keep Admission Fee Adults (15 years and older): 500 yen per person · Maizuru Park Elevator Fee Adults (15 years and older): 100 yen per person (one way) Elementary & Middle School Students: 50 yen per person (one way) · Free for preschoolers and seniors aged 70 and older Sightseeing

For anyone who was curious about it in Yobuko, but didn't have the time to buy it. You can actually buy that fragrance right here in Fukuoka. The highly talked-about "THREE" in Yobuko has a distillery housed in a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese home, making it a spot where you can experience essential oils and fragrances crafted from Saga's local ingredients. When I first spotted it in Yobuko, I just thought, "Oh, what a chic new spot." But the moment I saw it again in Fukuoka, my perspective changed. 　✨ It wasn't just about the luxurious vibe; 　it felt like "taking the lingering magic of the trip home with me." Any regrets I had about not having enough time to buy it in Yobuko completely vanished here, leaving me feeling so satisfied. 🛍️ Also available at Hakata Hankyu. It's incredibly convenient to just drop by on your way home! When I actually visited, the calm and relaxed atmosphere made it so easy to take my time testing and choosing! 💡 Where should you buy it? ▶︎ Yobuko ・Exclusive, limited-edition fragrances available ・A truly special experience ▶︎ Fukuoka ・Plenty of time to carefully choose ・Super easy to stop by on your way back Whether you buy it during your travels or take your time picking it out on your way home. Both are great options, but this method is the perfect way to avoid "missing out." 📍 THREE ・Yobuko (Distillery) ・Hakata Hankyu Souvenir

1. Beppu Hell Hot Springs (Photos 1–3) ▫️ Beppu Hell Hot Springs is not a hot spring for bathing but rather for sightseeing. It is a tourist attraction where you can admire natural hot springs with different colors, temperatures, and forms. The temperature ranges from about 70 to 100°C, making it impossible to bathe. Instead, you can observe vividly colored hot springs, boiling mud, and steaming landscapes up close. There are a total of 7–8 Hell Hot Springs, each with a completely different theme and atmosphere, making it easy to explore a variety of sights in a short time. Some areas even have spaces for light foot baths. ▫️ Why it’s called 'Hell Hot Springs' The name originated from Beppu residents in the past who described the sight of smoke rising from the ground, red water, and boiling mud as "hell-like (地獄みたい)." The name doesn’t carry a scary meaning but rather reflects the extraordinary and overwhelming natural phenomena. Hell Hot Springs is a popular tourist destination not only for foreign visitors but also for Japanese locals. ▫️ Who would enjoy this · Those who want to see unique Japanese landscapes in a short time · Those who prefer sightseeing over bathing in hot springs ▫️ Things to note · You might be disappointed if you expect actual hot spring bathing · There’s a walking route, so it might be slightly tiring for those who dislike walking 2. Itoshima Bus Tour (Photos 4–8) ▫️ A great one-day course to explore the suburbs without a rental car. A Korean guide accompanies the tour, providing explanations about the area during the journey, making the trip engaging and easy to understand. The itinerary is well-organized without being too demanding, making it suitable for trips with children or parents. ▫️ Tour Information · Approximately 50,000 KRW per person (includes pudding snack) · Departure from Hakata Station ▫️ Travel Route Hakata Station → Futamigaura (Couple Rocks) → Salt Workshop Totan → Kagamiyama Observatory → Imari Porcelain Village (Okawachiyama) ▫️ Highlights · No need to worry about transportation or parking · Covers multiple spots in a day without being physically exhausting · Understanding of locations is enhanced through guided explanations during the trip ▫️ Recommended for · Those who want to explore Fukuoka suburbs without driving · Travelers who find planning itineraries burdensome · Family travelers

Yobuko is famous for its morning market and squid, but the place you should check out now is here. The popular cosmetic brand "THREE" has renovated an old building to create an essential oil distillery and shop. Step inside and you'll be surrounded by natural fragrances 😊 ✨ Unique "Scents" and "Experiences" Found Only Here · Distilling Local Ingredients! Witness the extraction process of essential oils made from Saga-sourced materials in a rare lab. The impressive large distillation machines and the soothing natural aromas are truly captivating. · Exclusive Items! Inside the shop, you'll find THREE's skincare products as well as special herbal teas and goods that are only available here. Perfect for treating yourself or enjoying a relaxing time at home. 🛀 Options to Refresh Travelers · Reset Travel Fatigue! If you're feeling a bit tired from driving, you can sample herbal teas or try out fragrances. Stimulating your senses helps to quickly relieve travel fatigue. · A Rainy Day Haven Even if it rains during your Yobuko sightseeing, you can spend a leisurely and quality time here. 🚶 Just a Walk Away from Yobuko Morning Market Street After enjoying squid, why not add a "post-meal fragrance experience" as your dessert? 🎁 Perfect for Choosing Gifts for Friends The high level of branding here is worth seeing for yourself! 📍 THREE Yobuko, Yobuko Town, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture

We stayed at the Saga New Otani Hotel this time, and the experience was excellent! Our itinerary was mainly spread over two days, with the third day spent purely at the airport preparing for departure. Day 1: We landed at 10:30 AM and arrived at the hotel to drop off our luggage before 12:00 PM. We then visited nearby attractions such as Saga Castle Ruins and a shrine. For lunch, we ate near Saga Station, and in the afternoon, we took a train to Karatsu City. In the evening, we returned to Saga and went shopping and dining at You Me Town. Day 2: After having breakfast at a convenience store, we headed to Hizen-Kashima Station and took a bus to Yutoku Inari Shrine. We spent the afternoon exploring the shrine before returning to Saga, where we shopped and had dinner in the city center before heading back to the hotel.

Stay: Mercure Karatsu / Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture ◼︎ Enjoy the Sea! Spend your day at Higashi no Hama Beach, just a short walk from the hotel, until the evening. The sand here is incredibly fine and silky smooth! The kids loved it so much they ended up burying themselves in the sand like a sand bath 🤣 ◼︎ Indulge in the Hotel Relax in the large public bath and enjoy the buffet with a wide variety of dishes. Since it was the weekend (summer vacation period), there were also fun events like a festival and watermelon splitting! 🍉 This was such a delightful bonus! ◼︎ Hikiyama Exhibition Hall Near the hotel, in front of Karatsu Station, there is an exhibition hall displaying the Hikiyama floats from the Karatsu Kunchi Festival. Be sure to check it out! ✨

Introducing a 9-day road trip that starts in Fukuoka and goes around Kyushu in a counterclockwise direction! Kyushu is packed with hot springs, spectacular views, and delicious food, making it the perfect companion for a road trip. The scenery changes every time you drive, so it's like traveling through the world of a RPG, so we recommend it. Highlights of the Trip⭐️ ・Explore the World Heritage Site of Gunkanjima and the Amakusa-Goto region ・Enjoy delicious local cuisine ・Relax with a hot spring tour 📅Travel Itinerary Day 1: Fukuoka (Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Itoshima) Day 2: Saga (Arita Porcelain Park, Yobuko Squid) Day 3: Nagasaki (Gunkanjima and the night view of Mt. Inasa) Day 4: Kumamoto (Amakusa Shiro Museum) Day 5: Kumamoto (Kumamoto Castle and Kurokawa Onsen) Day 6: Kagoshima (Sakurajima and Kirishima Shrine) Day 7: Miyazaki (Sun Messe Nichinan, Takachiho Gorge) Day 8: Oita (Explore Yufuin and Beppu Hell Tour) Day 9: Fukuoka, Kitakyushu (Moji Port and Yaki Curry) 🏨 Accommodation Enjoy the local flavors of each prefecture. Check out the ryokans in Kurokawa Onsen and Ibusuki in particular! 🍴 Nearby Gourmet Spots Nagasaki Champon, Kumamoto Ramen, Miyazaki Chicken Nanban, Kagoshima Kurobuta Pork, and more—all perfectly aligned with the theme of "Conquering Local Cuisine." 📌 Useful Information Distance: Approximately 1,500 km (based on approximately 200 km per day) Highway Tolls: Approximately ¥20,000-¥25,000 (with ETC) Gas: Approximately ¥15,000 Accommodation: Approximately ¥10,000 per night Total Cost: Approximately ¥150,000 If you have the time, you can also travel from Kagoshima to Yakushima. Avoiding toll roads and staying in budget hotels will help keep costs down. Traveling around Kyushu is an essential route for any Japan trip. It's the perfect size for a long vacation. Experience this "divine journey" packed with hot springs, gourmet food, and breathtaking views during your next long weekend! #Kyushu Trip #Japan Travel Guide #Road Trip #Hot Springs Tour #Scenic Spots #Couple Trip #Local Food #Japan Travel Guide

1️⃣ Terraced Rice Fields of Hamanoura · A stunning natural landscape featuring terraced rice fields 🙇🏻♀️ · The scenery is so beautiful that it's a highly recommended spot 💛 2️⃣ Marine Pearl Yobuko · A place where you can enjoy breathtaking views while on a cruise ✨ 3️⃣ Mercure Karatsu Hotel · A highly recommended budget-friendly option when traveling in the northern region 💙 · The public bath facilities are very clean and perfect for relaxing 🥰 4️⃣ Ide Champon · Although it's a champon noodle restaurant, their rice dishes are also delicious!

⭐️Location: Kakami Mountain Observatory (Japan 〒847-0022 Saga, Karatsu, Kagami, 鏡山山頂) 🍯Details: ✔️Perfect for a leisurely walk while enjoying the serene lake view😇 ✔️Free admission and breathtaking scenery from the top💙 ✔️Not accessible by public transportation; renting a car is highly recommended🙌🏻 ✔️It takes about 10 minutes to walk to the observatory🔥

⭐️Location: Kankyo Geijutsu No Mori Park (667 Kyuragimachi Hirano, Karatsu, Saga 849-3115, Japan) 🍯Information: ✔️There is an admission fee to enter! ✔️This place is the result of one person's effort to create a beautiful environment, and it's especially stunning during the autumn foliage season📸 ✔️The garden's water is very clean, making it a perfect spot for taking photos👍🏻 ✔️Highly recommended for a stroll to fully experience nature✨

⭐️Location: Kankyo Geijutsu No Mori Park (667 Kyuragimachi Hirano, Karatsu, Saga 849-3115, Japan) 🍯Details: ✔️A quiet and scenic spot where you can enjoy a 15-minute walking course🌳 ✔️Especially beautiful in autumn, making it a perfect place for true relaxation🙌🏻 ✔️Located in the mountains, it's difficult to access via public transportation, so renting a car is recommended🍃 ✔️The garden is well-maintained, making it great for sightseeing and taking stunning photos✨

⭐️Location: Mercure Saga Karatsu (4 Chome-9-20 Higashikaratsu, Karatsu, Saga 847-0017, Japan) 🍯Details: ✔️The breakfast offers a wide variety of options, highly recommended! 👍🏻 ✔️Guests can enjoy the first-floor lounge for free. ✨ ✔️There is a large public bath, recently remodeled, making it very clean and spacious. 🔥 ✔️The view from the rooms is very scenic and beautiful, perfect for a relaxing stay. 😌

⭐️Location: Kakami Mountain Observatory (Japan 〒847-0022 Saga, Karatsu, Kagami, 鏡山山頂) 🍯Details: ✔️This observatory offers a stunning view of Karatsu city✨ ✔️A must-visit spot if you're exploring the northern Saga region😍 ✔️The walking trail leading to the observatory is incredibly scenic🍃 ✔️You can enjoy the beautiful color of the sea along with the town in one view💙

⭐️Location: Kakami Mountain Observatory (Japan 〒847-0022 Saga, Karatsu, Kagami, 鏡山山頂) 🍯Details: ✔️The view of the ocean from the observatory is absolutely stunning, making it worth the climb☺️ ✔️It takes about 10 minutes to walk up to the observatory‼️ ✔️The observatory is free to enter, which is a great bonus✨ ✔️There’s a café on the first floor of the observatory, perfect for a refreshing break😍

✒️ Convenient access from Fukuoka City! ✒️ Enjoy a luxurious all-inclusive stay✨ Some might think Karatsu is far, but many people commute to Fukuoka City from there, making it surprisingly accessible✨ Think of it like commuting from Kanagawa or Chiba to Tokyo🤔 Located in Karatsu, the Mercure Saga Karatsu Resort greets you with an impressive ceiling painting of Karatsu Kunchi as soon as you step inside! This time, I experienced their all-inclusive plan, which includes dinner, breakfast, drinks and snacks at the lounge, access to the large public bath, and activity experiences🥹 From the room, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Karatsu City🩵 The large public bath also has a sauna, and after your bath, you can relax in the relaxation lounge with a drink🧖 For dinner, you can savor local delicacies from Saga and Karatsu, such as "Saga Beef Yaki-Shabu" and "Squid Pressed Crackers," giving you a full travel experience. Saga is known for its delicious seafood, so make sure to indulge😋 The lounge available to guests also offers alcohol, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy some adult time! 📍 Address: 4-9-20 Higashi-Karatsu, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture ⏰ Check-in: 15:00 / Check-out: 11:00

Experience the vibrant green reflections 💚 Unique experiences you can't have in Kyoto 🪑 It's not just Rurikoin! There's a place in Saga where you can enjoy exclusive green reflections 💚 "Forest of Environmental Art" is a private forest spread across the slopes of a mountain, designed to minimize artificial elements and create a pure "forest space" 🌳 The highlight here is undoubtedly the reflection at Fuyuu Sansou 🪞 You can capture the fresh green reflections reminiscent of Kyoto's Rurikoin while seated on a chair, especially when there are no other visitors around 🪑 Although the best season here is autumn for the foliage, it's unlikely you'll get a chance to sit during that time 😭 Take advantage of the quieter season during the fresh green period for this rare experience! Outside the building, the forest boasts over 10,000 trees including maples, Japanese maples, and ginkgoes, accompanied by the soothing sounds of waterfalls and streams, creating a serene atmosphere ✨ Including the walking trails, you'll need more than an hour, so plan your visit with ample time 🚗 📍 Address: 667 Hirano, Kyuragi-cho, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture 💰 Admission: 700 yen ⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

It is divided into the West Wing and the East Wing, the West Wing has a relaxing atmosphere, while the East Wing is newer and better equipped. As it is now a Chateraise Hotel, you can enjoy welcome cake and ice cream 😋 (if you check in by 17:30, you can enjoy welcome cake) The rooms are bright with light and have a modern and stylish interior. The spa lounge and infinity pool, which are only available to guests staying in the East Wing, are amazing, so a swimsuit is a must! ️You can drink as much natural water as you want in the large bath and spa. 📍 Karatsu Seaside Hotel 182 Higashikaratsu 4-chome, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, 847-0017 #Hotel Reviews

Here's my personal guide✅ to viewing the wisteria blossoms 🌸 at Saga's Karatsu Castle. I hope it helps with your trip! 📍Karatsu Castle, located on a hilltop in central Karatsu. The castle's upper tower and lower roofs resemble the head, body, and wings of a white crane, earning it the nickname "Dancing Crane Castle." 📅Bloom Time: Late April to mid-May, with the best viewing period lasting about two weeks. To see the wisteria in full bloom, be sure to check the bloom forecast for the year in advance so you don't miss the peak season. 🚗Transportation: From Fukuoka, take the JR to Karatsu Station. From there, it's about a 10-minute bus ride to Karatsu Castle. 💰Admission: Entry to Karatsu Castle Park is free. If you want to climb the castle tower, you'll need to purchase a ticket, which is very affordable and offers a panoramic view of the wisteria blossoms. 📷Photo Spots: The front of the castle tower is an excellent photo spot, where the ancient architecture and wisteria complement each other, creating photos with a historical ambiance. Under the wisteria tunnel, stand beneath the flower clusters and shoot upwards with the blue sky as your backdrop for stunning portraits. By the park's stone bridge, the water reflects the wisteria, creating a poetic and beautiful scene. 🍡Food: Try local specialties like Karatsuyaki tile crackers, which have a unique shape and crispy texture. There's also fresh kaisendon (seafood rice bowl), with various sashimi laid over rice for a sweet and satisfying bite. ❤️I hope everyone has a wonderful spring memory at Karatsu Castle!

Saga, Japan, usually refers to Saga Prefecture or Saga City. It is located on the northwest side of the Kyushu region of Japan, bordering the Genkai Sea to the north, the Ariake Sea to the south, Fukuoka Prefecture to the east, and Nagasaki Prefecture to the west. It covers an area of approximately 2,440.68 square kilometers. It has jurisdiction over 10 cities and 10 towns, with a population of about 832,800. The prefectural emblem is composed of three "力" characters, the prefectural flag features camphor tree flowers, the prefectural bird is the magpie, the prefectural tree is the camphor tree, and the prefectural flower is the camphor tree flower. Saga, Japan has many tourist attractions worth visiting. Here are some recommendations: Historical and Cultural Sites · Saga Castle: Located at 2-18 Jonai, Saga City, the remaining parts are important cultural properties. Here, you can experience Japan's rich history.  · Karatsu Castle: Also known as "Maizuru Castle," it was built in 1608 and took seven years to complete by the first lord of the Karatsu Domain. The fifth floor of the castle tower is an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the Genkai Sea and Matsuura Lagoon. Maizuru Park, surrounding the castle, is a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing.  · Taku Seibyo: Along with "Ashikaga Gakko (Tochigi Prefecture)" and "Shizutani Gakko (Okayama Prefecture)," it is known as one of Japan's three major Confucian shrines. It has been listed as a National Important Cultural Property. The pillars and beams of the vermillion-lacquered buildings are decorated with auspicious patterns such as dragons, giraffes, and phoenixes, giving it a magnificent appearance.  · Yoshinogari Historical Park: Here lie the ruins of Japan's largest moat settlement from the Yayoi period. Surrounded by a 2.5 km-long moat, reconstructed observation towers, pit dwellings, and raised storehouses allow visitors to fully experience the atmosphere of the Yayoi period.   Hot Spring Resorts · Takeo Onsen: With a 1,300-year history, this is a mildly alkaline hot spring with clear and smooth water. The "Romon" gate, designed by Kingo Tatsuno, the same architect who designed the Bank of Japan and Tokyo Station, has also been designated as a National Important Cultural Property.  · Ureshino Onsen: One of Japan's three major "Bijin-no-Yu" (hot springs for beautiful skin), located at 2202-55 Shimojuku Otsu, Ureshinomachi, Ureshino City. Here, you can enjoy the beautifying effects of the hot spring.  Natural Landscapes · Niji-no-Matsubara: One of Japan's three major pine groves, with 1 million black pine trees growing along the coast. Planted by the first lord of the Karatsu Domain in the 17th century to protect against wind and waves, the top of the mountain is a natural oxygen-rich park.  · Mount Kagami Observatory: Located on Mount Kagami in Karatsu City, legend has it that Princess Sayohime bid farewell to her lover here. A bronze statue of Sayohime stands at the summit, and visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of "Niji-no-Matsubara" from above. Religious Sites · Yutoku Inari Shrine: Along with "Fushimi Inari Shrine" and "Kasama Inari Shrine," it is known as one of Japan's three major Inari shrines. Approximately 3 million people visit each year. The bright vermillion architecture stands out against the backdrop of green trees.

A cafe located about a 5-minute walk from Karatsu Station☕️ On weekdays, it's usually quiet even during the day, so you can relax. Since there are hardly any cafes like this nearby, it seems to get busy on weekends. Coffee and cheesecake cost around 1600 yen🍰 《KARAE TABLE》 📍Location: 1783 Kyomachi, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture ☎️Phone: 0955538067 💰Price: 1000 yen - 2000 yen ☕️Atmosphere: Easy to use even for one person 🔌Facilities: No outlets, Wi-Fi needs to be confirmed 🚗Parking: None (Look for nearby coin parking)