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Cherry Blossoms and Azalea at Ayabe Shrine
The mountain located by Ayabe Shrine is known as "Miyayama" or the shrine's mountain, by the locals. There are about 500 cherry blossom trees and about 700 of azaleas planted, and the whole mountain turns to pink in spring. With the path to the summit lit up with hundreds of lanterns at night, the mountain attracts a lot of visitors seeking to enjoy flower viewing.
Tidal Flat Experience
The tidal range of Ariake Sea is 6 meters. At “Michi No Eki Kashima,” located by Japan’s largest tidal flat of the Ariake Sea, you can play around in the mudflat and enjoy riding a mudflat ski (Gata Ski). Showers are available for the attendants. Group application is welcome. *Available only on Sat, Sun, Public Holidays and Summer School Holidays
Mifuneyama Rakuen Flower Festival
The sight of 200 thousand azalea blooming across the vast field, measuring 5 million square meters, is overwhelmingly beautiful. Besides azalea blossoms in various colors, you will also see cherry blossoms and wisteria.
Daikouzenji Azalea Festival
This temple of Tendai Buddhism became known nationwide as “azalea temple.” 50 thousand azalea bloom across the garden, measuring 75,000 square meters. During the period of azalea festival, many shops selling souvenir goods, foods and plants will open along the 200 meter-long street leading you to the temple.
Azalea at Yutoku Inari Shrine
Higashiyama Park located across the bridge from the main shrine site turns to an azalea garden featuring as many as 50 thousand azaleas. The beautiful view created by 40 kinds of azalea flowers is breathtaking. Wisteria, iris and peony at the Japanese garden will also be in their best time for viewing one after another and the park will be a paradise of flowers.
Arita Ceramic Fair
More than a million people come to enjoy this ceramic fair every year. About 450 pottery shops open along the street (about 4 kilometers long) stretching from Kami Arita Station to Arita Station. There will also be various events such as the local gourmet fair and the table coordination exhibition.
Karatsu Ceramic Fair
In this event, you can fully enjoy the aesthetics of Karatsu pottery, which have been loved by many tea ceremony masters and other cultural figures. Based on the theme of “the marriage between food and dish,” the event features exhibitions and sales of karatsu pottery as well as collaborative events by pottery makers and restaurants.
Rhododendron in Koyaji Temple
Koyaji Temple, which was established by Kukai, is famous for its shakunage (Rhododendron) flowers. The 300 year old shakunage bush is a magnificent sight to behold and every year in April a Shakunage Festival is held.
Peony Festival
This event is held at Kyushu’s largest peony garden named “Botan To Midori No Oka,” where you can see all kinds of peonies from around the world in full bloom. Outside the garden are forest, grass square, bamboo forest and other recreational spaces for kids. The first half of the festival period is the best time to view a tree peony and the latter half for Chinese peony.
Wisteria of Maizuru Park in Karatsu Castle
The wisteria here is over 100 years old, and it is designated as a natural monument of the city. The size of the wisteria trellis is about 500 square meters, and each of the stems with wisteria flowers draping from the ceiling is 1.3 meters long. You will be fascinated by the scenery created by a total of 500 thousand beautiful wisteria flowers.
Azalea Festival in Takenokoba Park
This azalea fair is held in Takenokoba Park when about 10,000 of azalea are in full bloom. There are vegetable markets, open-air concerts as well as bingo games during the fair. You can enjoy the view of islands including Iroha Island in the Imari Bay and Iki & Tsushima Island in the Genkai Sea.
Iris in Yamato Central Park
Hanashobu, or Japanese Iris, bursts into bloom at the Yamato Central Park between late May and mid-June every year and the Hanashobu Garden buzzes with crowds of people who have come to see the flowers. In the approximately 1-hectare garden, you can enjoy an impressionable view of 40,000 Hanashobu, comprising of 100 varieties.
Lavender Fair
Here at China On The Park, you will be fascinated by the wonderful scent and the view of the purple carpet composed of 300㎡ English Lavender field, which spread across the 2,300 square meters field.
Fireflies at Gion River, Ogi-city
During the season, tens of thousands of fireflies are dancing around the Gion River and making such a magical and fantastic view. This is one of the best firefly viewing spots in Kyushu.
Hotaru (Firefly) Park in Miyaki-cho
There is a habitat of fireflies in the northern part of Miyaki-cho. Sometime between May 20th and June 10th will be the best time to see the beautiful lights dancing around.
Yobuko Great Tug of War
The history of this tug of war event traces back to the time when Toyotomi Hideyoshi set up his camp in Nagoya and made the troops of Kato Kiyomasa and Fukushima Masanori compete in a tug of war. It has a history of 420 years and is competed between the land team and sea team. If the land team wins, it is believed to be foretelling the good harvest of the coming year, if the sea team wins, the good catch of seafood. It is held on the first Saturday of June, every year.
Kashima Gatalympic
The Kashima Gatalympic is a sports event held in the mudflats in late May to early June. The mudflats of the Ariake Sea have the largest tidal range in Japan and participants play in the mud while participating in an array of fun events that are unique to this bizarre sporting spectacle, such as a Gata Ski race using a unique fishing gear of the Ariake Sea called Gata Ski, bicycle racing, Gata flying game and a treasure hunt in the mudflats. Although it is a free admission event, the participants of the games are required to register in advance (Fee applies).
Mikaeri No Taki Falls Hydrangea Festival
About 40 thousand hydrangea flowers beautifully bloom around the Mikaeri No Taki Falls, which have been selected as one of the best 100 falls of Japan.
Firefly Watching Bus Tour in Ureshino Hot Springs
Ureshino that forms a basin has many firefly watching spots in the outskirts of the hot spring town. In Ureshino, you can join a bus tour which goes around those spots. The bus tour is only available to overnight guests at the hotels and inns in Ureshino. No participation fee is needed and you just need to make a reservation to join the tour.
Oga Lotus Flower in Yoshinogari Historical Park
Oga Lotus Flower was first bred from the seed discovered by the botanist, Dr. Ichiro Oga, at the archaeological ruins in Chiba City in 1951. Oga Lotus Flower which was found in the 2,000 year old ruins. As their flowers close in the afternoon, you get to see them blooming only in the morning.
Lotus Flowers at Shoukouji Temple
Shoukouji Temple is located near Taku Seibyo (Confucian temple) and dedicated to a syncretic form of religions between Buddhism and Shinto. Here you can see Oga lotus and Maihiren lotus. Oga lotus is especially divinely beautiful when seen in the refreshing morning sunlight.
Okawachiyama Furin (Wind Bell) Festival
During this festival, the town of Okawachiyama will be filled with sounds of many attractive wind bells produced by the kilns in the area. Boshi (a container used when firing a ceramic) Lantern Festival, scheduled to be held in mid-July, is going to fill the area with fantastic atmosphere.
Kyushu Firework Festival
This firework festival is one of the main summer events in Karatsu City, Saga. Approximately six thousand fireworks will be in the sky while more than two hundred thousand visitors come and watch. The climax is 2-feet fireworks and set fireworks called Niagara fall. The big and gorgeous fireworks shot off with Karatsu Castle in the background, decorate the summer sky.
International Shower Climbing in Nanayama
In this event, participants will try to reach the goal by walking, swimming and climbing in the nature located along the downstream of Kan’non no Taki Falls. Registration is required to participate in the event.
Takeonoakarimeguri
"Mifuneyama Garden" - the National Site of Scenic Beauty, "Keishuuen Garden" which was selected as one of the top 100 Japanese gardens, "Takeo Shrine/The Great Takeo Camphor Tree", "Takeo Onsen Romontei Gate/New Bldg", "Takeo City Library/Takeo Kids' Library", "Saga Prefectural Space and Science Museum (Yumeginga)", "Takeo City Hall" will be the avenues. Being lighted up by lights of various colors, these sightseeing spots will have new looks which are different from those in the daylight. ※Light-up period and time will be different depending on the avenues.
Saga Castle Town Sakae No Kuni Festival
Events such as energetic YOSAKOI SAGA, parades and Sou Odori Dance, heat up the main street of Saga city, "Saga City Chuo Dori Street" stretching from JR Saga Station to Saga Castle Ruins.
Summer in Imari/Docchan Festival
The port of Imari is known for its busy export of Imari porcelain during the Edo period, and Docchan Festival is held to recreate the life of the port through carrying of miniature shrines by women and dance by citizens. "Docchan" means "to where" and it derives from the story that merchants, who came to Imari, were entertained by the local merchants but couldn't decide where to go because there were so many places of entertainment. The highlight is the carrying of shrines by women and it is a must-see.
Apple Picking
Safe quality apples are cultivated with protection covers and all other necessary cares. Biting into a whole apple is the best way to enjoy the taste. Since ripe seasons vary by the brands, apple picking can be enjoyed for a long period of season. - Apple Picking Fee: Adults 430 Yen / 4 Yrs Old up to Elementary School Children 320 Yen Takeaway 640 Yen --- 1 kg (All-You-Can-Eat Service for Unlimited Time)
Kashima Traditional Arts Festival
It is an event held in Kashima-City, where the most number of traditional arts remain in Saga. Performers from all over Saga will gather on the grounds of Yutoku Inari Shrine to share various traditional arts such as Memburyu.
Terraced Fields and Red Spider Lily in Mt. Eriyama
Around the terraced rice fields in the Mt. Eriyama Area, which was listed as one of Japan’s best 100 terrace fields and one of Japan’s best 100 rural landscapes, flaming red flowers of red spider lily decorate the paths running between the rice fields and enhance the rural scenic beauty especially towards late September.
Sekisai・Koushi Festival
This is a traditional event to worship Confucius and the Four Sages, which has been held for the past 300 years at one of the most important cultural properties of Japan "Taku Seibyou (Temple)". In the ceremony, while Gagaku (ancient Japanese court music) is playing, Kenkan and Saikan wearing costumes from the Chinese Ming dynasty will offer seven kinds of food and Amazake. After the ceremony, a festival called "Koushimatsuri" there will be held to show the lion dance and Sekisa No Mai, a dance imported from China.
Imari Ton-Ten-Ton Festival
This festival has been held at Imari Shrine since the Edo period, and it is known as one of the three biggest fighting festivals in Japan.
Dedicating Yabusame
When Yoritomo Minamoto visited Takeo Shrine to pray for victory in the war against the Taira clan, he was encouraged by a white heron serving as a messenger for the shrine. The incident helped Yoritomo win the war, and he sent an imperial messenger to the shrine in appreciation of his victory. In return, the feudal lord of Takeo dedicated a horse, and this story is said to be the origin of this event.
Tosu Nagasaki Kaido Festival
This is a walk-around-the-town event guided by a group of volunteers. Visitors will be able to see the traditional performance art held at each shrine and participate in the Ebisu-meguri stamp rally. The "Clan Card" sold at the site can be exchanged with goods such as travel passes, snacks, and rice balls. During the time of the event, the entire town will be filled with Samurai, merchants, travelers to take people back to the Edo period.
Yoshinogari Fursato Fire Festival
A festival produced by the locals and themed on fire (flame), which is the ultimate foundation of human life. In the festival, you can enjoy a fantastic world of fire with the lighting ceremony, torch march and other events.
Imari Autumn Festival
Imari Autumn Festival is held in late October every year along with Tontenton Festival and is a local festival for the citizens. During the festival there are events such as a parade, carrying miniature shrine by children, “Imari Dance” by some companies and organizations as well as drum performances called “Imari Daiko”. Imari will be full of festival atmosphere with those events and shops.
Autumn Sunflowers (Yamada Himawari-en)
Sunflowers in the Yamada area located in the northern part of Miyaki Town come into bloom sometime between mid-October and mid-November. The sunflowers are planted on the terraced fields by a group of the locals. The large sunflowers that are bright yellow in autumn have a slightly different look from those seen in summer. Creating a great contrast of color with the autumn blue sky and the red colored leaves of Japanese wax trees in the background, they make a wonderful scenic spot. Especially on weekends, the area attracts a lot of photographers and tourists seeking to enjoy and take the photos of the picturesque scenery.
Autumn Foliage at Kankyo Geijutsu No Mori Park
About 50 acres of "Kankyo Geijutsu No Mori," which took about 30 years to be made, is located under Mt. Sakurei. In autumn, more than 10,000 maple trees turn red, yellow, and light green and turn the valley into a whole other world. The little waterfalls and babbling sound as well as the arrangement of the natural stones are exquisite.
Autumn Foliage at Mifuneyama Rakuen
There are about 500 maple trees turning red like fire in the 150,000 square-meter garden that is reminiscent of a landscape painting. The combination of the colors of red, orange, yellow is beautiful. We shine the light on the autumn leaves during certain period of "Autumn Leaves Festival."
Saga International Balloon Fiesta
Saga International Balloon Fiesta is one of Asia's largest hot air balloon events that is held at the beginning of November every year in a riverbed along the Kasegawa River in Saga Prefecture. In addition to the races taken place in early morning and early evening when the airflow is stable, there are an array of fun events to keep visitors entertained, such as a talent show and a public broadcasting of radio shows. Among a number of attractions, the must-see highlight is the La Montgolfier Nocturne, where over a hundred of colorful hot air balloons fly around all together in an early morning and early evening to display fantastic scenery that can be enjoyed only in Saga.
Shichimensou Festival
In autumn, the Shichimenso flowers that grow in colonies on the Higashiyoka Coast tint like a red carpet. The scenery reminds us that the season for the Shichimencho festival has arrived. How about spending some time on the coast of the Ariake Sea to see the so-called "Maple trees of the sea"?
Karatsu Kunchi
The Karatsu Shrine's autumn festival "Karatsu Kunchi Hikiyama Parade" has been registered as UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage "Yama, Hoko, Yatai, float festivals in Japan." This is an annual autumn festival of Karatsu Shrine. The 14 Hikiyama floats from the 1st "Akashishi (Red Lion)" to the 14th "Shichihomaru (Seven Treasures)," parade through the city of Karatsu while calling out to each other to keep the rhythm with flutes and drums. This Hikiyama parade has been designated as a Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Japan and those 14 floats are registered as Saga Prefecture's Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property.
Kunenan Autumn Open-House
The contrast between the red color of 134 maple trees and the green carpet made with 40 kinds of moss is breathtaking. It's open to public only for 9 days in November.
Autumn Foliage in Daikouzenji Temple
There are more than 500 maple trees planted in the vast garden which is about 75,000 square-meters, and the colors of the autumn foliage and the straw-thatched roof of the temple gives an exquisite contrast. The night illumination light show is also a must-see.
Koushi No Sato Autumn Festival
Nishitani Park is one of Saga’s most famous viewing spots of autumn leaves. As you walk along the pathway that leads from the park into the mountain, you can look at autumn leaves close at hand. The park is visited by many tourists every year. Here you can also enjoy traditional local performing arts, music, workshops and various other events. "Kan-outei", an old community hall located in the park is registered as a Important Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. The interior of this building is usually inaccessible but becomes open to public only during the autumn festival and you can go inside and take a rest here.
Nabeshima Domain Kiln Autumn Festival
Nabeshima Domain Kiln Autumn Festival is held in Okawachiyama, Imari, the porcelain town nestled in the mountain where the traditional porcelain making method of the kiln once owned by the Nabeshima Clan has been handed down since the Edo Period (17th - 19th century). Expressing gratitude toward predecessors who contributed to the development of the town, a porcelain is dedicated to Nipposha Shrine and a memorial ritual for the brushes used for painting porcelains are held as part of the festival. The porcelain fair held during the festival offers porcelains and potteries at 20 to 30 percent discount and attracts a lot of visitors every year. Another great thing you must check out is the beautiful colored leaves in the Okawachiyama area, the national historic site surrounded by mountain cliffs like those you would see in Chinese style landscape paintings.
Arita Autumn Ceramic Fair
This ceramic fair is held with a slightly different atmosphere from Arita Ceramic Fair held in Spring. It won't be as hectic. While enjoying the great hospitality of the local stores and kilns, you can stroll around the town designated as Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Historic Buildings. One of the greatest features of the fair is that one of the famous kilns of Arita open its door to public to show the traditional pottery production method called "Makigamataki."
Yutoku Inari Shrine Ohitaki
Ohitaki is a traditional ritual held at night as a part of the ceremonial offering that has been performed for over 300 years. It is believed that getting close to the divine fire purifies you of sins and foulness. Kashima City's Specialty Fair is held on the same day to promote the city's specialty products.
Yoshinogari Hikari no Hibiki
Taku Seibyo (Confucian Temple) Ohitaki Bonfire
When the priest put the wood piles on fire, it quickly grows into a 10-meter tall pillar of flame, which is said to purify sins and corruptions in our souls. Visit the "Ohitaki, or bonfire" and pray for health and safety of your family for the coming year.
Kagayake (Let it Shine)! Imari Festival
The lights decorating Imari Station Park, Imari Odori Street and the trees along the arcade create dreamy atmosphere in Imari.
Takezaki Kanzeonji Temple Shushoue Oni Matsuri
At this festival, ritualistic festive events such as "Daishouchi" that a man wearing a red coat and disguising as a devil swings a bundle of kashi oak branches to drive away bad lucks, and "Dojimai Dance (Saga Prefecture’s designated important cultural property)," a traditional dance performance by two masked boys, are held.
Onja Onja Bonfire
Kadomatsu and shimekazari, the New Year’s ornaments, are gathered from around the city, piled up on the shrine site and put on fire to offer a prayer for good health and safety of families for the coming new year.
Funa (Crucian Carp) Market
Held every year during New Year's holidays, this traditional market has a history of over 300 years. People buy edible Crucian carp (Funa) here to serve it to the gods as New Year’s offering.
Ureshino Attaka Festival
Hundreds of hand-made lanterns softly light up the streets of Ureshino Onsen. Enjoy the events, local dishes and sake while strolling around this warm and comforting town.
Arita Hiina Dolls Festival
This is an event to celebrate Hinamatsuri (Girl's Festival) by displaying porcelain hina dolls which are unique to Arita. Meissen porcelain hina dolls made by Kakiemon (a famous pottery master) and the world’s largest porcelain hina dolls will be exhibited at the event. In spring, Arita porcelain hina dolls will decorate the shops and kilns in Arita, and restaurants in the area will serve special menus (limited-time offer).
TAKEO・Hiryuugama Kiln Lantern Festival
Hiryugama is known for its kiln of the world’s largest size. At the holy night in February, 6000 lanterns and electric illuminations will together create a fantastic sea of light. There will also be various fun events such as stage shows, a special cafe open only on this day inside the kiln where Takeo desserts can be tasted, or exhibitions and sales of adorable potteries, etc.
Porcelain Hiina Dolls Festival
This festival of porcelain hina doll is held in Okawachiyama, the home of many hideaway kilns. Porcelain dolls unique to each kiln will be exhibited and sold.
Saga Joka (Castle Town) Hina Dolls Festival
The beautiful and gorgeous hina dolls only found in Saga such as the one that has been passed down in Saga Domain Nabeshima family and the one decorated with Nabeshima Komon (Nabeshima pattern) or Saga Nishiki (Saga’s traditional silk fabric) are gathered to be exhibited.
Flower Viewing at Imari Baien / Fujino'o Plum Orchard
Here you can take a stroll around the orchard while enjoying the blossoms of plum trees. From above the hilly part in the orchard, you can enjoy the superb panoramic view of the orchard and the town of Imari. The orchard also overlooks the nice view of Mount Koshidake, which is referred to as “a Mount Fuji in Imari.”
Ume (Plum Tree) Festival in Ureshino Miyuki Park
Miyuki Plum Garden, a part of the vast Miyuki Park, has about 400 plum trees including “Yaekoubai” and other plum variations gifted from Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture.
Plum Trees in Mifunagaoka Bairin (Plum Orchard)
Mifuneyama Bairin is a plum orchard of about 16.5 hectares spreading over the eastern foot area of Mt. Mifuneyama. About 3,000 plum trees come in full bloom from around mid-February until March and a plum flower viewing event will be held in the area.
Ogi City Misato Ushio Bairin (Plum Orchard)
Ushio Bairin (Plum Orchard) is said to have the longest history of plum cultivation among other orchards in Saga prefecture. The beauty of the orchard can be enjoyed in various ways; the whole scenery of the orchard with a great contrast between the white and light pink colors of plum flowers, pretty little petals admired close at hand and the grandness of the trees seen from below.
Kashima Sakagura (Sake Brewery) Tourism
6 sake breweries in Kashima City open their doors to public at the same time and hold various events where visitors can enjoy tasting and purchasing sake (fees are charged in some parts of the event). Welcoming events are held at Hizen Hamashuku and Yutoku Monzen Shopping Street.
Okayu Dameshi (Fortune Telling)
Okayudameshi is a 1,200 years old ritual held in spring at Chiriku Hachiman Shrine. The shrine is known as one of the three major shrines around Japan hosting this ritual event. The shrine's sacred golden bowl is filled with rice porridge and dedicated to the shrine hall. The surface of the rice porridge is divided into four sections each of which designates each of four areas in the northern Kyushu; Chikuzen (North), Chikugo (South), Hizen (West) and Higo (East). People forecast the harvest and the weather of the year by looking at how the surface of the porridge is molded in a few weeks.
Cherry Blossoms of Tashiro Park
With as many as 600 cherry trees in full bloom, Tashiro Park will be packed with a lot of visitors seeking to enjoy flower viewing. The trees will also be lit up at night during the best viewing period.
Cherry Blossoms at Ogi Park
This is a famous park set up by Motoshige Nabeshima who was the 1st lord of the Ogi Clan, and the 2nd lord Naoyoshi Nabeshima. In spring, 3000 cherry blossom trees bloom all at once, and it is the only place in Saga that was chosen as "Japan's one of 100 best Sakura viewing spots" From the end of March to Early April, not only people from Saga Prefecture but also a lot of people from different prefectures come to see the cherry blossoms.
Cherry Blossoms at Niiyama Park
About a hundred of Someiyoshino Cherry blossom trees bloom profusely. The 60-meter-long bridge here called “Aiaibashi" is widely believed to bring good luck in love and has been very popular.
Cherry Blossom in Mt. Kagamiyama
5,000 trees of Someiyoshino bloom here. The observatory on the summit overlooks a panoramic view of Karatsu City. Also, the path along the hillside is lined with cherry trees on both sides, which make a tunnel of cherry blossoms.
Cherry Blossoms in Sakuragaoka Park in Arita Town
The lawn-covered park will be decorated with Yaezakura (double-flowered cherry). Many families visit here to enjoy flower viewing and barbecue. You can also enjoy grass skiing in the park.
Cherry Blossoms of "Sakura No Sato" in Shiroishi town
In the "Sakura No Sato (cherry village)" area, about 650 cherry trees planted along the forest road will be in full bloom in spring and attract a lot of visitors seeking to enjoy flower viewing. The area also commands a great view of Mt. Unzen in the distance.
Cherry Blossoms in Kouno Park
The site of Kouno Park was originally built as a secondary residence of Naomasa Nabeshima, the 10th lord of the Saga Domain. The site was donated to Saga city in 1923 to be developed as a park. And, now it has cafes, playgrounds and other facilities to be enjoyed. And, the park is well-known for the cherry blossoms in Spring.
Cherry Blossoms of Nagoya Castle Ruins
Nagoya Castle Ruins is scattered with many atmospheric stone walls and has about 400 Someiyoshino cherry blossom trees and other plants that will come in full bloom in spring. The site is adjoined by Saga Prefectural Nagoya Castle Museum and the cafe “Chaen Kaigetsu,” which features an authentic tea ceremony room and a Japanese garden. The surrounding area also has many sites of old battle camps of famous feudal warlords. As the area is also a part of “Kyushu Olle Karatsu Course,” it would be a good idea to have a walking tour around here. Also worth checking out here is the night time lighting up of Nagoya Castle Ruins, which is held only during a certain period.
Cherry Blossoms at Mifuneyama Rakuen
About 2,000 cherry trees will be lit up at night in Kyushu’s largest light show and colorfully decorate the foot of Mt. Mifuneyama. You will be able to enjoy a succession of stunning scenes at the prestigious garden that is historically associated with the Nabeshima Family of Takeo.
Cherry Blossoms in Seikei Park
Koreyoshi Takatori, "The Coal King” from Taku City, put an enormous amount of his own private fund and developed this park. It features Kanoutei, the public hall housed in a traditional style building which is a designate national tangible cultural property, a folk museum and other cultural facilities. In spring, you can enjoy the beauty of the scenic park decorated with about 400 trees of Someiyoshino cherry blossoms.
Okawachiyama Spring Ceramic Fair
This is the annual pottery fair held by 30 kilns of the secret pottery village registered as Japan Heritage, Okawachiyama. You can purchase the pottery at reasonable prices. There will also be an exhibition of new pottery works themed on spring and a shopping stamp rally held along with the fair. You will also be able to enjoy the scenic beauty of Okawachiyama area with cherry blossoms in full bloom at the time of the fair.
Wisteria in Maki (Maki no Ofuji)
Japanese wisteria comes in full bloom at the site of Maki Town Tenmangu Shrine. The vine tree of wisteria here is estimated to be about 120 years old and designated as a valuable tree of Saga Prefecture and Tosu City.
Uranosaki Station Sakura Tunnel
Somei Yoshino which covers the railroad tracks of "Matsu-ura Railway, Uranosaki Station" was planted when the station first opened, and it has been protected by the locals. Approximately 80 of them decorate the scenery of the train. Whether you look at the scenery from inside the train or to look at the train going by with cherry blossom in the background, they both have its own way to be enjoyed and Japanese railroad fans love it. At its best season "Sakura Station Festival" will be held.
Okawachiyama "Imari Ceramic Fair"
This event is held during the Golden Week holidays in the village of the secret kilns, Okawachiyama, recognized as Japan Heritage. Arita Ceramic Fair is held at the same time and the village will be filled with people.
Takeo Akari Festival
Light shows are held at various locations in Takeo city; Take Shrine, The Great Camphor Tree of Takeo, Takeo Onsen Hoyomura and others. At Mifuneyama Rakuen, you may enjoy special light show projected on the pond surface. Join a stamp rally and collect the stamp at each event venue.
6km of cycle road which was created on the site of the Former Japan National Railways Saga Line. 1200 cherry blossom trees at both sides of the road creates a tunnel for everyone to enjoy.
One cherry blossoms tree right in the center of a wide-spreading tea plantation. This double cherry blossom tree takes pride in its 100 years old and a height of 13 meters. In early April, a festival called "Yoshida no sato no Hyakunen Sakura" is held near this cherry blossom tree, and sales of local agriculture products or Ureshino Tea are conducted.
Arita Sarayama Festival
"Bon Odori" is where people dance when skillfully hold and clang plates of Arita wares on both hands. Starting from the group of the district which is on duty, other groups consisting of men and women of all ages dances the Bon Odori and parade around the town. This is an autumn festival that is particular to Arita, the town of pottery.
The 2nd Saga Ishinmatsuri Festival
In 2018, a new type of "Matsuri" was created as an occasion for all citizens to participate so get themselves closer to great historical figures of Saga during Meiji Restoration period, and also to get closer to the future's hopes. Performances such as "Jidai Gyoretsu" which displays the traditional costumes of Saga's great historical figures, or the "Light-up" and "Dance" which express and connect the will of great historical figures to the future, will be available.
Flowers of about 200 trees in the plum garden of Kagami Shrine, which is related to the Tale of Genji, will bloom. From mid-May ~ late June, "Ume-chigiri" where plums can be harvested is held. Visitors to the shrine can spectate this for free. ●Goshuin stamps can be received.
100 years old weeping red plum tree with height of 6m and tree girth of 1m. Right next to this old tree, an old-timer 60-year-old tree will bloom and entertain the eyes of visitors.
There are plum trees 700m upstream of Kyuragi Dam. About 300 plum trees will bloom beautifully. Plum harvesting can be enjoyed in June. (Advance registration is required for plum harvesting)
About 60 trees in Karyu Park and 80 trees in the surrounding area of the Sports Park upstream of Kyuragi Dam will bloom. There are also a spring water collection site and hydrophilic revetment in the Sports Park.
At the Hirabaru area, amazing old plum blossoms trees of traditional houses can be seen. At Yoshimura's Residence, there is a pink weeping plum blossoms tree which is about a hundred years old、softly spreading out its branches.
Keishuen Garden, the garden created by Kinsaku Nakane, who is called "Kobori Enshu of Showa Era". The shapes of red plum blossoms, white plum blossoms and weeping blossoms being amazingly placed everywhere in the garden, and the old mossy trunks bring an even deeper feeling to the garden. Be sure to the enjoy the garden in early spring, where the tea plantation is arranged with Mifuneyama as the view, along with the large waterfall that flows into the pond from the slope of the mountain which is surrounded by the fresh aroma of plum blossoms.
The gorgeous garden being decorated by colorful azaleas will soothe the hearts of visitors as stone structure, large and small waterfalls, flowers and tea plantations that color the season will create beauty in the approximately 9900 square meter site.
70 cherry blossoms trees, which is said to be the best in Kyushu, in the genuine Japanese garden of about 9,900 square meters will create a beautiful scenery.
The approximately 9,900 square meters Japanese garden created by Kinsaku Nakane. The museum floating on the pond is also worth seeing. At Yoko Museum, pottery events are also held.
The Japanese garden in Yutoku Inari Shrine. A variety of flowers can be enjoyed throughout the year at the beautifully landscaped garden. ●Goshuin stamp can be received
This shrine is one of Japan's three largest Inari Shrines (Sandai Inari) together with Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kasama Inari Shrine. The bright vermilion color of the monument is very impressive, and major monuments such as the shrine, the worship hall, the tower gate, etc. are lacquered. Cherry blossoms and Taiwan cherry blossoms in the outer garden are the spring traditions.
The "Japanese garden" beside the main hall is a full-scale garden with small streams and bridges. 600 pots of hydrangeas will bloom one after another and it is enjoyable until late June. This is a very picturesque spot. Moreover, a lot of hydrangeas are also found on the river beside the precincts. This is beautiful spot even on rainy days.
Yutoku Inari Shrine is one of Japan's three largest Inari Shrines (Sandai Inari). In autumn, red leaves not only dye the precincts in red, but also bring a different color to the Japanese garden.
In the precincts, apart from Japanese white pine trees, old white plum blossoms trees also bloom beautifully. Also, this is also a popular spot of Sutra copying and Goshuin stamps. ●Goshuin stamps can be received
In the precincts of Tanjoin Temple, you can feel the seasonal flowers such as plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, wisteria, etc. Sutra copying can also be experienced together with flower viewing.
About 300 cherry blossoms trees in the garden will bloom and the garden crowded with people coming for flower viewing during the season. At the period best for viewing in late March, admission is allowed until 9pm, so cherry blossoms can be enjoyed at night. The cherry blossoms reflected in the faint light of lanterns are very beautiful.
Rows of cherry blossoms trees lining up along the large moat surrounding the Ruins of Saga Castle. A lot of cultural facilities such as art museums, history museums, Saga Castle History Museum, etc. are available inside and around the garden. You can enjoy strolling around the castle town in the beautiful scenery.
About 400 cherry blossoms trees, which were donated by Kanto Kawasoemachi Jinkai following the opening of Saga Airport, lining up for 1,700m parallel to the runway.
There is a lot of rare types of cherry blossoms around Hotarumi Bridge along Tafusekawa River. Take a break in the park after enjoying a walk.
It is a popular park where people can enjoy cherry blossoms and other various ways to spend time. You can bring your own ingredients and charcoal for barbeque.(Reservation required)
Cherry blossoms planted beside the waterway on the east side of "YouMe Town Saga"in Hyogokita, Saga-shi. 25 Somei Yoshino trees that were relocated by the Gas bureau will bloom beautifully. They will be illuminated during the "Cherry blossoms festival".
Approximately 220 cherry blossoms trees such as Somei Yoshino bloom in the center of Karatsu castle. The place is crowded with people who come to enjoy the elegant figure of Karatsu castle and cherry blossoms.
About 40 Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms trees of over 30 years old will be in full bloom. As they are located 300 meters above sea level, you can also see the Karatsu Bay.
It is said that Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered Date Masamune to bring and plant this cheery blossom tree as an apology for relocating the temple when he sent troops to Korea.
The "Kinuboshi Hyakunen Cheery Tree"located at the community square on the mountainside of Kinuboshiyama is the wild cherry tree with a trunk circumference of 3.8m and said to have an age of 100 years old.
The characteristics of Kawazu cherry blossoms are that they bloom early and have a darker pink color than Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms. At "Hotaru Bridge" 1km downstream from "Mikaeri No Taki Falls" along the Ikisa River, the arrival of spring is announced a little earlier.
Taking its pride as one of Kyushu's most prominent waterfall, being selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls, Mikaeri No Taki Falls is a secret spot of autumn leaves in autumn. Fully enjoy the beauty of natural colors and falling waterfalls.
A thousand cherry trees are in full bloom, and the trail leading to the top is a tunnel of cherry blossoms. From the observatory, you can see from Tosu City to the eastern part of Saga plain.
There are Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms blooming at the lakeside of the dam. You can enjoy hot spring and the meals while observing cherry blossoms at "Torigoe Ryokan Sumika-no-Yado" which is located at the lakeside.
Cherry bloosoms alongside Kamenoko Pond in Kisshoji Temple are popular as a sakura-viewing spot in Kiyama Town. Also, approximately 1000 rhododendrons in full bloom attract a lot of visitors in April.
Kisshoji Temple is also known as the temple of rhododendrons, and approximately 1000 rhododendrons in full bloom attract a lot of visitors in April. Also, you can have an unusual and valuable experience of Gojodo Meguri, which you will be walking in the basement under Daijihi Hall(Main Temple).
This place has a lot of cherry blossoms and azaleas. Japanese paper lanterns are placed from mid March to early May, and it is very crowded with people enjoying flower viewing. This place also has a children's amusement park and it is loved by the locals as a place to relax and refresh.
This is a park where 400 trees of 37 kinds of cherry blossoms from around Japan are planted. You can enjoy various kinds of cherry blossoms from mid March to late March.
This tree is approximately 900 years old. It is said that it was brought back from Mibudera Temple in Kyoto. It is called "Myojo Zakura" (cherry bloosom of morning star" for the petals which look like the stars that appear at dawn when the tree is lit by the light of the bonfire under the tree.
In early April, "Spring Pottery Market" is held and each potter exhibits and sells their new spring-themed products. As it is the most beautiful season when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, it is very crowded with tourists.
How about taking a walk in Hanyo park while enjoying the autumn leaves and finding your favorite pottery?
A weeping cherry blossoms tree in the precinct of Nichiren Kuon-san Jissoin Temple. This beautiful weeping cherry blossoms is a must-see.
You can see the splendid view of approximately 450 Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms and Yae cherry blossoms. This is the best spot of cherry blossoms in the city.
Sakurayama Park behind the Takeo Romon Gate is filled with 500 Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms and Yae cherry blossoms in full bloom, and it is a popular spot for hot spring visitors to take a walk. Takeo Hot Spring Romon Gate and New Building in vermilion and white color are gorgeously decorated by the cherry blossoms.
Located behind Takeo Hot Spring, the whole mountain beautifully turns red. There is a strangely shaped rock rising on the top of the mountain, and you can see the lovely heart-shaped washbasin at Konpira-gu Shrine, which is, people who know will know, for the fulfillment of love.
100 cherry blossoms blooming along the 100m approach to the shrine. Their branches lying on top of one another over your head, creating the stunning tunnel of cherry blossoms. The arched stone gate you will find at the end of the stone-paved approach to the shrine is valuable in the history of stone building, and it's designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Approximately 100 Kawazu cherry trees in China On The Park are characterized by a bright pink color that blooms a little earlier than other cherry trees such as Somei-yoshino.
"The park built on the site of the World Ceramics Expo. People with family and friends come and enjoy walking and picnic. There are about 380 cherry trees in the park, and especially the view of cherry blossoms of more than 200 cherry trees at the entrance is spectacular. "
"Climb the steep stairs of 153 steps to the mountain-top to overlook the cityscape of Ogi Town from there. You can also enjoy the cherry blossoms in the parking lot in front."
"There are Somei-yoshino and weeping cherry blossoms around the observatory, and the panoramic view from the observatory has a beautiful contrast with the vast wheat field in Saga Plain that spreads far away from the cherry blossoms. You can also see the cherry blossoms in Ogi Park in the city in the distance."
"During the cherry blossom season, the water around the wooden sidewalk for nature observation warms up, and mudhoppers become active. The cherry blossoms along the embarkment here, combined with the scenery of the sea, bridges, Ariake coastal road, and Rokkaku bridge make a unique view point of cherry blossom in Saga."
