Source: gtknj
Saga in Japan is located on the island of Kyushu. It is known for its pottery and traditional ceramics mostly and not as much as a tourist destination. You will be surprised how much you can find and enjoy in Saga. Here are our top fifteen things to do on your Saga adventure.
1. Enjoy the Views at Saga Prefectural Government Observation Deck
Start off seeing the city of Saga from the outside. This will give you an idea of how big the city is and any landmarks you may see from above when you go to the Saga Prefectural Government Observation Deck. Be amazed and then head onto our next recommendations.
Information
- Name: Saga Prefectural Government Observation Deck.
- Address: 1-1-59 Jonai | Sage Prefectural Government, Main New Administrative Bldg, Saga 840-8570, Saga Prefecture
- Website:http://www.pref.saga.lg.jp/web/sougouannnai/sagakenhonchousya.html#_=_
2. Visit the Saga Castle History Museum
Learn the history of Saga at the Saga Castle History Museum. You will learn about the fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate and meet the residents who work there. This museum was one of the largest wooden reconstructions of Japan.
Information
- Name: Saga Castle History Museum
- Address: 2-18-1 Jonai, Saga 840-0041, Saga Prefecture
- Price: Free
- Website: http://www.sagajou.jp/#_=_
3. Learn More History at Saga City History and Folklore Museum
Our other top museum is different for one’s taste. The Saga City History and Folklore Museum focuses on more stories behind the history of the city. Take a tour, check out the exhibits, and really take a look at the immaculate interior design.
Information
- Name: Saga City History and Folklore Museum
- Address: 2-9 Yanagicho, Saga 840-0823, Saga Prefecture
- Website: http://sagarekimin.jimdo.com/#_=_
4. Visit the Village at Dongurimura
At Dongurimura, you will find much for everyone to enjoy. It is basically “the acorn village” which includes an animal farm, restaurant, and entertainment. This is a great venue when a music festival comes to town.
Information
- Name: Dongurimura
- Address: 2234-67 Yzuriha Mitsusemura, Saga 842-0303, Saga Prefecture
- Price: 300 yen
- Hours: 10am-530pm
- Website: http://www.dongurimura.com/main
5. Tour the 8 Shrines at Saga Shrine
If you are interested in history and the gods, then let us inform you that Saga Shrine is actually government enforced. Its purpose is that it enshrines two lords and it has 8 other sub-shrines on site. They are all worth a look!
Information
- Name: Saga Shrine
- Address: 2-10-43 Matsubara, Saga 840-0831, Saga Prefecture
- Website: http://www.sagajinjya.jp/#_=_
6. Visit Yodohime Shrine
There is not only one shrine in Saga. A visit to Yodohime Shrine will bring you to what is essentially a huge park. The shrine has both Buddhist and Shinto shrines. A stop at the river nearby is a great add-on to your day.
Information
- Name: Yodohime Shrine
- Address: 1-1 Yamatocho Kawakami, Saga 840-0214,Saga Prefectur
- Website: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yodohime_jinja
7. See the Inside of a Castle
Shrines or a castle? We hope you visit both but and Saga Castle is another great historical site. The best part is the gate of the killer whale. Head to the towers for a view. Shall we say more?
Information
- Name: Saga Castle
- Address: Jonai, Saga 840-0041, Saga Prefecture
- Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saga_Castle
8. Go Out to Eat
Going out to eat in Saga at least once for an impeccable meal needs to be on your to-do list. The city of Saga has many restaurants, and they are well known for the local Saga beef, a rare fish called mutsugoro, and ikizukuri which is a special way of serving sashimi.
9. Spend a Day at Kono Park
For an outdoor excursion, Kono Park will not disappoint. Choose from the teahouse, children’s amusement park, and the animal zoo. You can opt to barbecue also and bring a whole group along. This park has plenty of space.
Information
- Name: Kono Park
- Address: Kamizono, Saga 840-0806, Saga Prefecture
- Price: Free
- Website: http://en.japantravel.com/saga/kono-park-saga/4142
10. Go Shopping
Don’t miss the chance to do some shopping. You can find many local shops around the city and especially in Youme Town. There are clothing shops, souvenir stores, and a hobby shop where you can find “strange” goods. Don’t miss the ¥100 store for cheap deals.
11. Visit the Graves at Kodenji Temple
Kodenji Temple is a family temple in Saga where you can witness their graves and tombs. See the famous tree, called Hachitaro, and if you come in February, the plum blossoms surround the grounds.
Information
- Name: Kodenji Temple
- Address: 1112-1 Honjomachihonjo, Saga 840-0027,Saga Prefecture
- Price: 300 yen
- Hours: 8am-6pm
- Website: http://www.saga-tripgenius.com/tourism_search/koudenji-temple.html
12. Enjoy a Picnic at Sagajo Park
Not far from the museum, you will find Sagajo Park. Choose from walking, running, or lounging among the cherry blossoms. The park is home to many festivals and also, Saga Castle which is one of our top attractions in our list! The park itself if romantic and great for taking a break from the city.
Information
- Name: Sagajo Park
- Address: Jonai, Saga 840-0041, Saga Prefecture
- Website: http://sagajoupark.com/
13. Take a Nightly Tour at Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine, also known as the Gion Shrine, is another stop we recommend you make. This shrine has a sanctuary, an offering hall, and over a hundred lanterns that get lit at night. This shrine is open 24/7 which makes it unique. Come here for a visit at nighttime first!
Information
- Name: Yasaka Shrine
- Address: 1-16 Yanagimachi, Saga 840-0823, Saga Prefecture
- Price: Free
- Website: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3903.html
14. Find a German Town at Arita Porcelain Park
Arita Porcelain Park is a minor theme park with a German town theme. It does incorporate Japanese products also, but there is a major focus on European flare. Escape out of Saga and into this new world when you visit.
Information
- Name: Arita Porcelain Park
- Address: Arita town, Saga Prefecture,Japan
- Website: http://www.arita.or.jp/index_e.html
15. Head to the Top at Karatsu Castle
Karatsu Castle was built at the end of the Edo period and still stands today. It is also known as the “Dancing Crane Castle”. The castle had been torn down in the past when there was a change in power. There are five floors and a space for exhibits.
Information
- Name: Karatsu Castle
- Address: 8-1 Higashijonai, Karatsu, Saga Prefecture 847-0016, Japan
- Price: 400 yen
- Holiday: Dec.29-Dec. 31
- Website: http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/location/spot/castles/karatsu.html
For a city trip that offers many shrines, castles, and parks to explore, Saga is the perfect fit. Take a weekend, day, or long term trip and take in the history when you visit. We promise you a great time.
Have a good trip and travel!
