Other Spots
A feature on the three most popular tourist spots in Saga Prefecture that look great on social networking sites
Saga Prefecture is dotted with many spectacular spots where history and nature have been beautifully fused together. In particular, we would like to draw your attention to three famous places: Yutoku Inari Shrine, the Oouo Shrine Underwater Torii, and the Hamanoura Terraced Rice Fields. These spots combine historical value, natural beauty, and stunning visuals that look great on social networking sites. In this article, we will introduce some of the must-see spots in Saga Prefecture that will also appeal to Instagramers and photographers.
1. Yutoku Inari Shrine
- The contrast between the vermillion shrine and the spectacular view
Yutoku Inari Shrine, located in Kashima City, Saga Prefecture, is one of the three most famous Inari shrines in Japan, and is a popular spot that attracts around 3 million visitors a year. In particular, the vermillion torii and magnificent shrine buildings are distinctive, and the beauty of the shrine is overwhelming from the moment you arrive.
The magnificent gate and main shrine
When you step into the precincts, the gorgeous gate will catch your eye. The design, which is reminiscent of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, is beautifully finished down to the smallest detail, with the Arita ware guardian deities placed on either side. The spot where you can see the gate and main shrine together is a popular photo spot.
The 1,000 torii gates are sure to look great on Instagram
The 300-meter approach to the inner sanctuary from the main shrine is lined with a variety of large and small torii gates, creating a mysterious atmosphere. At sunset, the orange sky and vermillion torii gates create a spectacular view that is sure to look great on Instagram. You can also take beautiful photos that make use of perspective with a smartphone, so anyone can easily take a photo that looks great.
The beauty of each season
From cherry blossoms in spring to hydrangeas in summer, autumn leaves in autumn and snowy landscapes in winter, Yutoku Inari Shrine offers a different charm to enjoy in each season. In particular, the autumn leaves season is a time when the shrine buildings and the colorful autumn leaves blend together to create a scene that captivates visitors.
2. Oouo Shrine
- Mysterious torii gate floating in the sea
The “Oouo-Jinja Undersea Torii” in Taracho is a fantastic torii that rises up out of the Ariake Sea, and is a spectacular spot that has been called “Saga's Uyuni Salt Flats”.
Different appearances at low and high tide
At low tide, the sea recedes and a mysterious scene appears where the torii is reflected like a mirror. This beautiful reflection is sure to look great on social media. At high tide, the torii gate appears to be floating on the sea, creating a scene that makes you feel as if you have wandered into another world.
A perfect collaboration with the sunset
At sunset, the silhouette of the setting sun and the torii gate create a magical atmosphere. The contrast between the orange and purple sky and the sea is a truly photogenic moment. This shot of the sunset has also proved popular on Instagram, and it is a spot you definitely want to take a photo of when you visit.
The beauty of each season
One of the charms of this place is that it shows a different face in each of the four seasons. Whether it's the refreshing atmosphere of the summer sky or the tranquil winter sea, you can experience something new every time you visit.
3. Hamanoura Terraced Rice Fields
– A spectacular view of Japan's traditional landscape
The Hamanoura Terraced Rice Fields in Genkaicho, Saga Prefecture, are a spot that has been selected as one of Japan's 100 best terraced rice fields, and the beautiful scenery is like a work of art.
The beauty of the terraced rice fields spreading out in steps
The view of the approximately 283 terraced rice fields stretching out in steps down to the coast is overwhelming. This beauty, which could be called the original landscape of Japan, is a miraculous landscape created by nature and the activities of people.
The spectacular view of the water surface lit up by the setting sun
The greatest charm of the terraced rice fields of Hamanoura is the spectacular view at sunset. The moment when the water in the terraced rice fields reflects the setting sun and shines golden is breathtakingly beautiful. This spectacular view, which has also been called “the mirror of the sky”, is a popular spot on social networking sites.
Enjoy a new perspective with drone photography
Recently, there has been an increase in the number of tourists who use drones to take overhead shots of the terraced rice fields. When viewed from the sky, the geometric beauty of the terraced rice fields really stands out, and you can take attractive shots that will gather lots of likes on social networking sites.
Take a trip to these scenic spots in Saga Prefecture that will stay with you forever
These three spots are some of the many scenic spots that Saga Prefecture is proud of. The majestic atmosphere of Yutoku Inari Shrine, the mysterious underwater torii gate of Oouo Shrine, and the traditional Japanese scenery created by the terraced rice fields of Hamanoura. All of these are scenic spots that you will want to capture in photos.
In the age of social networking, these spots are perfect for taking photos that “pop”. However, the beauty of these places cannot be fully conveyed through photographs alone. We encourage you to visit these places in person and experience their charm for yourself. A trip to these scenic spots in Saga Prefecture is sure to soothe your heart and bring you new discoveries and inspiration. Why not visit these beautiful places and share your wonderful moments with us?
Sightseeing
