Saga Area
Saga Area Tourist Spots
The Saga area is a fascinating region with a rich history and culture that has been passed down from ancient times to the present day. There are many places to visit, including the Yoshinogari Historical Park, where you can experience the remains of a large-scale moated settlement from the Yayoi period, the Kyushu Ceramic Museum, where you can learn about Japan's representative ceramic culture, and the Ogi area, which is full of atmosphere. There are also many other spots that will fascinate visitors, such as the Saga Balloon Museum, where you can enjoy the world-famous Saga International Balloon Fiesta, and the Daikouzenji Temple, which will help you to calm your mind.
1. Yoshinogari Historical Park
Yoshinogari Historical Park is a valuable archaeological park where you can experience life in Japan during the Yayoi period. It is the largest Yayoi period village in Japan, surrounded by a 2.5km-long moat, and has been designated as a special national historic site.
In the park, watchtowers, pit dwellings, and raised-floor storehouses have been faithfully reconstructed, allowing visitors to see what Japan was like over 2000 years ago. In particular, the 12-meter-high watchtower offers a panoramic view of the Saga Plain, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery from the perspective of the people of that time.
In addition, in the exhibition room, visitors can see valuable excavated items such as bronze swords, bronze casting molds, and urn coffins. In addition, there are also hands-on programs such as 'making magatama' and 'lighting a fire' held every day, so you can experience ancient techniques. There is also a large lawn and picnic area in the park, making it a great spot for families.
2. Saga Castle Ruins
The Saga Castle Ruins are the remains of Saga Castle, which was the residence of the Nabeshima clan, the feudal lords of Saga during the Edo period. The Saga Prefectural Museum is also located here, so you can learn about the history and culture of the time.
At the Honmaru History Museum, you can see a model of the castle and valuable historical materials, giving you a glimpse of the prosperity and technological prowess of the Saga clan. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, making it a beautiful spot to enjoy the scenery.
3. Saga Balloon Museum
Saga City is famous for the Saga International Balloon Fiesta, which is held every autumn. At the Saga Balloon Museum, you can learn about the history of this event and how hot-air balloons work.
There is a full-size hot air balloon on display in the museum, and you can even take a commemorative photo in the basket. There is also a virtual reality hot air balloon experience corner, where you can have a simulated experience of a walk in the air. This is a spot where you can experience the technology and history of hot air balloons, and feel your dreams for the sky.
4. Daikouzenji
Daikouzenji is an old temple of the Soto sect of Zen Buddhism, founded in 1608. The main hall, kitchen and gate, which have been designated as important cultural properties, are the main attractions. These historical buildings and the garden called “Chigirien” are also very popular as photogenic spots that look great on social networking sites. In spring, around 50,000 azaleas bloom in full glory, and in summer, 500 hydrangeas bloom with blue flowers. The autumn leaves are also magnificent, and the garden is a popular photography spot for photography enthusiasts. Within the garden, there are spots with unique names such as “Lying Dog”, “Fountain of Love”, “A Hundred Year Old Tree on a Rock”, and “Heart of a Firm Promise”, which stimulate the curiosity of visitors. The 127-step staircase and Japanese garden are a perfect location for photos, combining a historic atmosphere with nature.
5. Mise Area
The Mise area, located at the northernmost tip of Saga City, is a plateau area at an altitude of about 400m, and is a place where you can be healed by the rich nature and the warm people of the local area. You can enjoy the charms of nature in each of the four seasons, such as the beautiful scenery of terraced rice fields, fruit picking experiences, and a campsite in the mountains.
In this area, you can pick blueberries, apples, chestnuts and other fruits. You can also experience the wonders of nature that you can't experience in the city, such as the greenery of the trees, the sunlight filtering through the trees, and the coolness of the shade of the trees. In spring, the moss phlox and cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, and in summer you can enjoy outdoor experiences at the Yamanaka Campground. There are also hot spring facilities scattered around, and you can enjoy a day trip bathing, making this a hidden tourist spot in Saga where you can enjoy the beauty of nature in each of the four seasons.
6. Ogi Area
The Ogi area is famous for its Ogi yokan (sweet bean jelly). There are many long-established Japanese sweets shops that have been in business since the Edo period, so you can enjoy the traditional taste of these sweets.
In addition, Ogi Park is famous for its cherry blossoms, and in spring around 3,000 cherry trees come into bloom. The Kiyomizu Garden, the garden of the Ogi Nabeshima family located within the park, is also a quiet spot where you can enjoy the beauty of a Japanese garden. Furthermore, in summer you can see the magical sight of fireflies dancing, which captivates visitors. In autumn the changing leaves are also beautiful, and you can feel the transition of the seasons just by taking a stroll through the park.
Sightseeing
