Saga

Saga Prefecture is an attractive land where a history spanning ancient times and a distinctive culture thrive. Historically, the "Yoshinogari Ruins," the remains of a huge moated settlement from the Yayoi period, convey the romance of ancient Japan to this day. Arita ware and Imari ware, with a history of more than 400 years, continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world as Japan's first porcelain, and kiln visits let you touch traditional skills firsthand. Nature is rich as well, with the prefecture facing two different seas: the Genkai Sea to the north and the Ariake Sea to the south. You can enjoy beautiful scenery of every season, such as the sunset over the "Hamanoura terraced rice fields," selected among Japan's 100 best terraced rice fields, and the unique creatures seen on the tidal flats of the Ariake Sea. The food is not to be missed. Superb gourmet delights nurtured by the rich climate await, including "Saga beef" with top-grade marbling, the translucent "live squid sashimi" of Yobuko, and the melt-in-the-mouth "Ureshino onsen tofu." There are also fine hot springs such as Takeo Onsen and Ureshino Onsen, which have a history of 1,300 years, for moments that soothe body and mind. Attractive spots abound, such as the new-style "Takeo City Library," which houses a Tsutaya bookstore and cafe, and the "Ouo Shrine's underwater torii," where a torii gate stands in the sea.