Saga Prefecture
Located in northern Kyushu and easily accessible by train or Shinkansen, Saga Prefecture offers a peaceful alternative to Japan’s more crowded destinations. Known for its historic towns, beautiful ceramics, and wide-open landscapes, Saga invites travelers to slow down and explore its timeless charm — from misty hot springs and ancient kilns to vibrant festivals and coastal views.
A Quiet Escape in Kyushu
Located in the heart of Kyushu, Saga Prefecture welcomes travelers with a diverse blend of scenery, culture, and local charm. Nature lovers can explore Ramsar-listed wetlands like the Higashi Yoka Tidal Flat and the serene Niji-no-Matsubara in Genkai National Park.
Each autumn, Saga bursts into celebration with the Karatsu Kunchi Festival, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and the spectacular Saga International Balloon Fiesta, one of Asia’s largest hot air balloon events.
The prefecture is world-renowned for its beautiful ceramics, including Arita-yaki, Imari-yaki, and Karatsu-yaki — with many studios and museums to explore.
After sightseeing, unwind in Ureshino Onsen, famous for smooth skin, or soak in Takeo and Furuyu hot springs, loved by locals and travelers alike.
Karatsu
Takeo Onsen
Ureshino Onsen
Arita
Yutoku Inari Shrine
A coastal castle town known for the dramatic Karatsu Kunchi Festival and the scenic Niji-no-Matsubara pine forest. Don’t miss the seaside views from Karatsu Castle.
Famous for its 1,300-year-old hot spring and iconic red gate, Takeo Onsen blends tradition with relaxation in a peaceful town atmosphere.
Renowned for its silky waters said to beautify skin, Ureshino offers a perfect mix of wellness, tea culture, and small-town charm.
The birthplace of Japanese porcelain, Arita is filled with kilns, galleries, and history that dates back over 400 years.
One of Japan’s top three Inari shrines, Yutoku Inari impresses with its vivid red buildings dramatically perched on a hillside.
Local Favorites
Saga Balloon Festival
Terraced Rice Fields
Ureshino Onsen
Takeo Onsen Romontei
Karatsu
Saga Prefecture Seasons
🌸 Spring
10°C to 20°C
Sakura Season: Late March to early April
☀️ Summer
22°C to 32°C
Hot, humid, with some rainy days and lively summer festivals.
🍁 Autumn
15°C to 25°C
Autumn Leaves: Late October to late November
❄️ Winter
4°C to 12°C
Cool and dry — snow is rare but possible in the mountains
Out There and Worth It
How to get to Saga
Getting to Saga is easy and hassle-free, whether you’re coming from Fukuoka, Tokyo, or elsewhere in Japan. Located just west of Fukuoka, Saga is connected by train, bus, and highway, making it a smooth stop on your Kyushu adventure.
The fastest way from outside Kyushu is by flying into Fukuoka Airport, then taking a local train or highway bus. The JR Limited Express Midori or Kamome trains run directly from Hakata Station to Saga Station in about 40–50 minutes.
If you’re traveling within Kyushu, regular local trains and buses connect Saga with nearby cities like Nagasaki, Kumamoto, and Karatsu. Driving is also a great option if you want to explore Saga’s countryside and hot spring towns at your own pace.
