Asobo Saga

15/01/2025

🏔️✨ Discover Kawarake Yama: Saga's Hidden Sacred Mountain! 🙏🌿

Nestled in Kanzaki City, this 429m mountain is more than just a hiking spot - it's a spiritual journey! 🌄💫
Founded by monk Gyoki in 721, Kawarake Yama has been a center of mountain worship for over 1,300 years. The mountain is covered in massive boulders that locals consider sacred, with the entire mountain revered as a divine object. 🪨✨
The coolest tradition? "Kawarake Prayer" - writing wishes on tiny unglazed pottery dishes and leaving them at the mountain's upper shrine! 🍶💌✨ This unique custom allows visitors to connect with centuries of spiritual practice.

At the mountain's base, you'll find the Kawarake Yama Hachitengu Shrine, marking the start of your ascent. As you climb, you'll encounter challenging trails carved into granite bedrock, offering both a physical and spiritual test. ⛰️🔥
Breathtaking views await at the summit, where an impressive giant rock serves as the main object of worship. On clear days, you can take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. 🌅👀
Perfect for those seeking nature, history, and a touch of mystical Japanese culture! 🗻🇯🇵🌸

📌Location: Kanzaki, Saga Prefecture
🚌Access:To reach Kawarake Yama, take a train to Kanzaki Station 🚉. From there, it’s about a 15-minute taxi ride or a 30-minute bus ride to the trailhead. If you're driving, it's just a short drive from the Kanzaki Interchange on the Nagasaki Expressway 🚗🗺️.
🌐 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dKJgVcFFyCkUQeTR7

10/01/2025

🍃🏯 Discover Sueyama Shrine in Arita! 🍃🏯

Sueyama Shrine, also known as Tozan Shrine, is a hidden gem located in Arita Town, Saga Prefecture, celebrated as the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Established in 1658, this beautiful shrine is dedicated to Emperor Ojin and features stunning porcelain torii gates and guardian dogs that showcase the artistry of Arita ware. 🐶✨

One of the highlights is the impressive porcelain torii gate, donated by local potters in 1888, standing at 3.7 meters tall with delicate blue arabesque patterns on white porcelain. 🌟 The shrine grounds are adorned with bronze guardian dogs and lanterns, reflecting the rich craftsmanship of the region.
In autumn, the shrine captivates visitors with stunning foliage that enhances its serene atmosphere. 🍂

Hours of Operation:
Sueyama Shrine is open every day, with the following hours
Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM

📌Location: Kamiarita Town, Saga Prefecture
🚌Access:
About a 10-minute walk from JR Kamiarita Station, or a 7-minute drive from JR Arita Station.
🌐 Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/28a57d5b-1b72-4149-810d-c9444d6f0d3e

08/01/2025

🍵✨ Discover Wataya Besso Suimeiso: A Hidden Gem in Ureshino, Saga! 🏯🌿

🌸✨ Indulge in the ultimate luxury at Wataya Besso Suimeisou in Ureshino, Saga Prefecture! 🏯💖 Experience the bliss of soaking in private onsen baths filled with rejuvenating sodium bicarbonate-rich waters, renowned for their skin-softening benefits. 🛁💦 Relax in beautifully designed rooms surrounded by serene Japanese gardens 🌿🌺, and immerse yourself in traditional culture with activities like tea ceremonies 🍵🎎. Treat yourself to an unforgettable getaway where elegance meets tranquility! 🌟🌈

The hot springs here are legendary - known as one of Japan's three most beautifying baths, offering pure, unrecycled water that promises to transform your skin.
Imagine soaking in indoor and outdoor baths, surrounded by stunning natural scenery, with private options for ultimate relaxation. 🍃🌄

📌Location: Ureshino, Saga Prefecture
🚌Access:
🚉 From Hakata Station:
Take JR Limited Express to Takeo-Onsen Station (about 1 hour 5 minutes) 🕰️
Transfer to JR Shinkansen for a 5-minute ride to Ureshino Onsen Station 🚄
Take a 6-minute taxi ride to Wataya Besso 🚕
🚌 From Ureshino Bus Center:
Walk 10 minutes directly to Wataya Besso 🚶‍♀️
🌐 Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/stays/detail/9e1680cd-bf32-4b56-bf7f-84acaa3808f4

03/01/2025

🎉🌄Experience Yutoku Inari Shrine This New Year! 🎉🌄

Yutoku Inari Shrine is a must-visit destination in Kashima City, Saga Prefecture, especially during the New Year season! 🇯🇵 As one of Japan's top three Inari shrines, making it a popular spot for hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year.
This beautiful shrine features stunning red torii gates that lead you up to the main hall, which is elevated 18 meters above the valley floor. 🏯✨ The scenic path offers breathtaking views of Kashima City and the nearby Ariake Sea. 🌊

During your visit, take a moment to enjoy the traditional Japanese garden filled with beautiful peonies that bloom in spring and winter. 🌸 Don’t miss the vibrant atmosphere as locals and tourists alike come to pray for prosperity and good fortune in the new year!
Yutoku Inari Shrine also hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Hatsu-uma Festival in February. 🎊

Hours of Operation:
Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM ⏰
Admission Fees: Free entry!Access:

📌Location: Yutoku Inari Shrine, Kashima City, Saga Prefecture
🚌Access:
By Train: About an hour from Fukuoka's Hakata Station to Hizen-Kashima Station. 🚆
From Hizen-Kashima Station: A bus (10 minutes) or taxi (approximately ¥1,600) will take you to the shrine. 🚖
🌐 Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/384be0c4-1a8c-4019-8e2c-dbc90083261e

01/01/2025

🎍🎉🎊Happy New Years🎍🎉🎊
Experience the Art of Onigiri at Wataya Besso Ryokan 🌸🏨

At Wataya Besso Ryokan in Ureshino, Saga, you can indulge in exquisite onigiri crafted by Yoshie Kamiya, known as the "God of Onigiri." 🍙👨‍🍳 These delicate rice balls are paired perfectly with the famous Ureshino tea, creating a unique culinary experience. 🍵☕️

Enjoy the traditional Japanese setting and savor the local flavors that highlight the best of Saga's rice and tea culture. This special pairing is a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting the area. 🌟👌

The event, which lasts about an hour, allows guests to enjoy onigiri made from locally produced rice and Ureshino tea in a tranquil setting. 🏠🕒
Book your stay and taste the art of onigiri making! 📅📸

🕰️ Hours of Operation: Please refer to the website below
📌Location: Ureshino City, Saga Prefecture
🚌Access:
Take the JR Limited Express to Takeo-Onsen Station, then transfer to the JR train to Ureshino Onsen Station. From there, it's a 6-minute taxi ride
Alternatively, you can take a JR bus from Takeo-Onsen Station to Ureshino Bus Center, which is about a 10-minute walk to Wataya Besso
🌐 Website: https://wataya.co.jp/facility/onigirikamiya

30/12/2024

Discover Saga by Train: A 2-Day Itinerary 🚂🇯🇵

Explore Saga Prefecture with our 2-day train itinerary! Start at Karatsu Castle 🏯 and enjoy the scenic views of the Genkai Sea. Visit Hoto Shrine 🛡️ on Takashima Island and savor fresh seafood at Hoto Oyasumidokoro 🍽️ and spend the night at Takeo Onsen 🛀, a historic hot spring area, and explore Mifuneyama Rakuen garden 🌳.

On Day 2, tour the Takeo Onsen Romon Tower Gate 🏯, visit Takeo Shrine with its 3,000-year-old camphor tree 🌳, and stroll through Arita Uchiyama District 🏙️.
End your day with a unique "powder snow" shaved ice dessert at Eki Café Sarayama in Kami-Arita Station 🍦. Consider taking the Futatsu Boshi 4047 sightseeing train for an extra special experience 🚂.

From August 2024 to January 2025, there is a discount campaign for the Saga Area: up to 20% off per person per night (max ¥5,000) until February 16, 2025, or until coupons run out. 🎁

※Only those residing in Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia are subject to this discount campaign.

Book now and enjoy Saga's rich culture, stunning porcelain, and traditional festivals! 🎉

https://www.agoda.com/travel-guides/japan/saga-prefecture/discover-saga-by-train-a-complete-2-day-itinerary/
Take a look at the accommodation booking link in the comments section below!

Journey through Saga’s spiritual hotspots, savoring the stunning coastal views and sweets along the Omura Line.

27/12/2024

🎈 Join Us at the Saga International Balloon Fiesta! 🎉

Get ready for the Saga International Balloon Fiesta, happening soon along the beautiful Kase River just outside Saga City! 🌟 This exciting event has grown to attract around 907,000 spectators each year since its inception in 1978.
Experience the thrill of over 100 hot air balloons from around the world, featuring stunning designs and colorful displays. Don’t miss the enchanting Balloon Fantasia, where unique character balloons take to the skies! 🌈✨

Join us for the special night event, La Montgolfier Nocturne, where illuminated balloons dance to music. 🎶🎇 You can also participate in Balloon Classes to learn about hot air ballooning and even help inflate a balloon!
The festival is free to attend, with free parking available at the venue (small fees may apply during peak times). 🚗💨
Mark your calendars for this unforgettable celebration of hot air ballooning in Saga! 🌍❤️

📌Location: Saga City, Saga Prefecture
🚌Access:
From Saga Station: Take a local train to Balloon Saga Station, which is only a 5-minute ride.
🌐 Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/8a8f6420-a54b-46f8-93cb-699d5ec8c776

25/12/2024

🎉🏹 Experience Ninja Village Hizen Yumekaido! 🎉🏹

If you're a ninja enthusiast or just looking for a unique adventure, Ninja Village Hizen Yumekaido in Ureshino, Saga Prefecture, is a must-visit destination!
🏯 This theme park transports you back to the early Edo period, with authentic medieval buildings and characters that bring the era to life. 🎭 You can also hone your ninja skills with shuriken (ninja star) throwing classes, blowgun training, and other interactive activities. Don't miss the live ninja shows featuring acrobatics, storytelling, and performances with flashing swords and trap doors.

📸Dress up as a ninja and take part in photo shoots. Kids can rent ninja suits and enjoy a fun-filled day of cosplay. 👧🏻On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, kids aged 6-12 can join the Kids Ninja Academy, where they learn ninjutsu, participate in shuriken and blowgun training, and receive a ninja certificate. The enrollment fee includes entrance, training, and a free toy sword.

🕰️ Hours of Operation:
Weekdays: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Weekends and Public Holidays: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Closed on Tuesdays (except certain holiday periods).
🎟️ Admission Fees:
1,100 JPY for junior high school students and older
600 JPY for children aged 3 to elementary school students
Additional fees for some activities; a "Book of Tickets" is recommended for better value.
📍 Location: Ureshino City
📍 Access: Approximately 5 minutes by car from local hotels; no nearby train or bus stops.
🌐 Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/868541fb-56a4-4c91-bf59-c00b273514a6

23/12/2024

🌳Must-Try Experiences in Saga Prefecture, Japan🌳

Imagine indulging in local flavors like Saga Beef and Yobuko squid sashimi 🍜🍽, then exploring the historic towns of Arita and Imari to delve into Japan's rich porcelain history 🎨. After a day of discovery, unwind at luxurious hot spring resorts such as Furuyu Onsen Oncri or Ureshino Yadoya 🛀🍵.

Take a stroll through the breathtaking Mifuneyama Rakuen garden, visit the ancient Takeo Shrine, and marvel at the panoramic views from Karatsu Castle 🌳🏯. For a taste of tradition, head to Hizen Hamashuku for sake tastings 🍶 and explore the scenic Forest of Environmental Art and Ouo Shrine with its unique submerged torii gates 🌲🏞️.

From August 2024 to January 2025, enjoy Japan's domestic travel discount program: up to 20% off per person per night (max ¥5,000) until February 16, 2025, or until coupons run out. 🎁
Only those residing in Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia are subject to this discount campaign.

Make sure to add these must-try experiences to your Japan travel list!✨

https://www.agoda.com/travel-guides/japan/saga-prefecture/must-try-experiences-in-saga/

Take a look at the accommodation booking link in the comments section below!

Explore hot springs, mouthwatering cuisine, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a rich porcelain-crafting heritage.

20/12/2024

🌳✨Discover the Environmental Art Forest in Karatsu! 🌳✨

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Sakei in Karatsu City, Environmental Art Forest is a stunning natural space known as the "Maple Forest." 🍁 Over 40 years in the making, this beautiful area offers breathtaking views throughout the seasons. In spring, enjoy fresh greenery, and in autumn, witness over 10,000 maple trees bursting into vibrant colors! 🌈

Explore two scenic walking courses: a short course (about 15 minutes) and a long course (about 30 minutes). 🚶‍♀️💚 The trails provide a refreshing escape while showcasing picturesque landscapes of water and forest. Don’t miss the enchanting views from the Fuyu-yu Mountain Villa, perfect for capturing memorable photos! 📸✨
Immerse yourself in nature and art at this beautiful destination! 🌲💖

Hours of Operation:
Open Daily: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Admission: ¥700 for adults, ¥300 for students
Parking: Free parking available for up to 150 vehicles

📌Location: Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture
🚌Access:
By Train: Take the JR Karatsu Line from Saga Station to Kyūragi Station. The journey takes about 40 minutes.
🌐Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/3468331e-8dd5-4312-9397-4077b823c43b

18/12/2024

🚴‍♂️🍵 Discover the perfect blend of cycling and tea tourism in Ureshino Town, Saga Prefecture!

🌸🏞️ Imagine pedaling through scenic streets and surrounding mountains, sipping on a refreshing cold-brew tea made right from your special tea bottle. 🍵☕️
Rent your bike at Shimomura Cycles and choose from road bikes, cross bikes, and e-bikes. 🚴‍♀️🚴‍♂️ The special tea bottle lets you make and drink cold-brew tea on the go from 13 different Ureshino teas with free refills at local shops. 🏙️🛍️

Cycle around the charming town, taking in the beautiful scenery and visiting unique tea spaces like Tenchadai, a tea table on a hill overlooking the town. 🏞️🌄 For the more adventurous, explore the surrounding mountains and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. 🌲🏔️
This unique experience is part of Ureshino's "Tea Tourism" initiative, designed and sustained by local residents. 🙏❤️ Enjoy the local culture and stunning views as you pedal through this picturesque town. Make your trip to Ureshino a memorable blend of cycling, tea, and Japanese culture.

🕰️ Hours of Operation:
Weekdays and Weekends: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed on Weds (except certain holiday periods).
🎟️ Rental Fee:
1,300 JPY
📍 Location: Ureshino City
📍 Access: Approximately 5 -15 min on foot from the nearby ryokan, 5 min car ride or 15min bus from Ureshino-Onsen Station
🌐 Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/27689dc6-a1ce-49a6-81dc-e6d3e5a70f02

16/12/2024

🌸Planning a trip to Japan? Discover Saga Prefecture with our 3-day guide!🌸Have a look at our recommendations below:

Day 1: Takeo City - Visit JR Takeo-onsen Station 🚂, Takeo City Library 📚, and the historic Takeo Shrine with its 3,000-year-old camphor tree 🌳.

Day 2: Arita and Imari - Experience the beautiful Arita ware/pottery 🎨, visit Imari Station 🚂, and see the Automaton Clock "Marion" ⏰.

Day 3: Karatsu City - Explore JR Karatsu Station 🚂, and the Nakazato Tarouemon Tobo pottery studio 🧾.

From August 2024 to January 2025, there is a discount campaign for the Saga Area: up to 20% off per person per night (max ¥5,000) until February 16, 2025, or until coupons run out. 🎁
Only those residing in Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia are subject to this discount campaign.

Book now and enjoy Saga's rich culture, stunning porcelain, and traditional festivals! 🎉

Take a look at the accommodation booking link in the comments section below!

Start your adventure with a ride on the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen to explore the best of Saga Prefecture on a fulfilling 3-day tour.

11/12/2024

🌸🏯Discover the Historic Daikouzenji Temple and Chigiri-en Garden in Japan! 🌸🏯

🏯🌸 Explore Daikouzenji Temple, founded by Gyōki in 717 CE, with a rich history spanning over 1,300 years. 📜✨ The temple is home to an 11-faced Avalokitasvara statue and 900-year-old guardian statues. 🌳🏞️ Behind the temple lies the Chigiri-en Garden, featuring over 50,000 azaleas in spring, hydrangeas in summer, and vibrant autumn leaves. 🍂🌺 Enjoy the seasonal beauty and serene atmosphere of this botanical garden. Perfect spot for photography and a peaceful escape! 📸🌼

Whether you're seeking spiritual reflection or simply a relaxing day in nature, Daikouzenji offers something for everyone. 🧘‍♀️🌿 Be sure to take a leisurely stroll through the garden paths, immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes that change with the seasons. 🌈✨ Capture unforgettable moments and create lasting memories at this enchanting destination!

📌Location: Kiyama Town, Saga Prefecture
🚌Access:
By Train: From Kiyama Station (JR Kagoshima Main Line), it takes about 10 minutes by car or taxi to reach the temple.
🌐Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/f7db24e8-0b49-4d46-a285-1715f87e892b

06/12/2024

🌿🏞️✨ Discover the Enchanting Nuino Ike in Japan!

🌿🏞️✨ Come visit the enchanting Nuino Ike in Saga, Japan! This historic pond, dating back to the Heian period, is home to the Itsuda Shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of everything that flows: water, music, eloquence, and knowledge. She is often depicted playing a traditional Japanese lute called a biwa, symbolizing her patronage of music and the arts. As the sole female deity among the Seven Lucky Gods, Benzaiten is revered as a significant figure in Japanese Culture🎶

🌸🐟 Surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flora, Nuino Ike offers breathtaking scenery, especially with its natural spring water and "Hōjōchi" release pond. 🌊🐠 Steeped in legends of dragon gods and ancient lords, this pond was revived in 2001 and is now a vibrant ecosystem and registered heritage site. 🏛️🔥 Visit to experience its serene beauty, the unique blend of nature and history, and the tranquil atmosphere that makes it a perfect escape from the city. 🌳🏞️
Perfect spot for photography, with its picturesque landscapes and serene ambiance. 📸

📌Location: Shiraishi Town, Saga Prefecture
🚌Access:
From Saga City: Take the national highway or local roads to Shirishi Town. The journey should take around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
🌐Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/2679cdc8-fbb0-41aa-9bf1-f9c06ada46c2

04/12/2024

Beneath a Canopy of Maple Trees - Fall Foliage at Kunenan and Niiyama Shrine

For a brief 9 days each year, the garden and residence, Kunenan, opens its gates to the public allowing visitors to bathe in a tranquil ambiance amidst a backdrop of fall colors.

Kunenan is a designated “Place of Scenic Beauty” and was formerly the house of a Saga businessman. It took 9 years to construct which is where its name, meaning “9-year retreat,” comes from.

Following the one-way route, guests can enjoy views of the traditional residence - its thatched roof, mud walls, open verandas - and the meticulously landscaped Japanese garden with around 700 trees.

Outside of Kunenan a bit further up the road lies Niiyama Shrine, another area surrounded by colorful maple trees. Enjoy the delight of fall’s cool touch while sipping a warm cup of matcha tea at one of the food stalls.

Kunenan’s public open days are announced on the Kanzaki Tourism homepage. Note that the timing of the maple’s color change varies each year and may not align with the open days.

【For more information】🔎
🔖Fee:
Kunenan -1,000 yen, Niiyama Shrine - Free
Hours:
📌Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CiX4QMcb4pEjumLG8
🚌Access:
Public Transportation - From Kanzaki Station, take the special shuttle bus to Kunenan Entrance. 300 yen each way.
Rental car - About 10 minutes by car from Kanzaki Station
🌐Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/6f1ff039-4f3e-479f-a910-a22590f6e27c

27/11/2024

🍵✨ Discover Ureshino Tea Tourism: A Unique Cultural Journey 🌿🍃

Experience the magical world of Ureshino tea in Saga Prefecture, where centuries-old tea traditions meet innovative tourism! 🌿💚 This extraordinary destination offers visitors an immersive journey through Japan's most fascinating tea culture, blending stunning landscapes, traditional experiences, and local hospitality. Explore a 580-year tea heritage that transforms simple tea drinking into an unforgettable cultural adventure! ✨🍃
During your visit, you can participate in tea ceremonies held in four different architecturally diverse venues, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding tea fields. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bicycle and explore the picturesque tea fields while enjoying refreshing cold-brew Ureshino tea. Additionally, you can engage in traditional workshops with tea masters in unique settings, such as pottery kilns or scenic tea houses.

Visitor Information:
🕒 Best Visiting Season: Spring and Autumn for optimal tea experiences
🚗 Recommended Duration: 2-3 days for full immersion
Location & Access:
🗺️ Location: Ureshino City, Saga Prefecture 📍
🚉 Access: Direct train from Fukuoka, approximately 90 minutes
🌐Website (please select English for translation):
https://www.asobo-saga.jp/experiences/detail/78f8fdc4-775f-4070-b61d-858ff005577a

20/11/2024

The Village of Secret Kilns

Discover the hidden gem of Okawachiyama, known as the "Village of Secret Kilns," nestled in the mountains of Saga Prefecture 🏞️✨!
This charming village, just outside Imari, is steeped in history and renowned for its exquisite Nabeshima-yaki porcelain. Originally established by the Nabeshima clan during the Edo period, Okawachiyama was designed to keep the secrets of porcelain-making safe from outsiders. Today, you can stroll through its picturesque cobblestone streets lined with over 30 pottery workshops, where artisans craft beautiful ceramics that reflect centuries of tradition🏺💙.

Explore local pottery workshops to find unique pieces of Nabeshima ware, each showcasing stunning craftsmanship🛍️. Don't miss a short hike to Nabeshima Hanyo Park for breathtaking views of the village and its historic kilns, surrounded by lush greenery🌳. Plus, be sure to check out the pyramid-shaped monument honoring the Korean potters who contributed to this rich heritage🏺. Whether you're a ceramics enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, Okawachiyama offers a serene atmosphere perfect for art appreciation and relaxation🌸!

【For more info】🔎
📌 Location: Okawachiyama on the map
🚌 Access: About a 15-minute bus ride from Imari Station or a 10-minute taxi ride.
🌐Website (please select English for translation):
https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/6f1d92bf-01fe-44ed-aaf9-59a1c55b40d7