Saga is a city located in the south of Japan and is the capital of Saga Prefecture. Of course, the area - like the rest of Japan - has a long history, but the city as we know it was officially founded in 1889. It’s home to more than 200,000 people and brings in plenty of visitors every year. So what’s there to explore in Saga? Well, one large attraction is Saga Castle, which was built in the late 1500s. You can visit the castle and explore Saga Castle History Museum, which will tell you all about its history. When you’re looking for a relaxing ambience, head to Kakurin-tei tea house, which overlooks a pond. There’s plenty more to explore in this city, so keep on reading to check out the best things to do in Saga, Japan.
1. Go hiking at Mount Tenzan
Let’s start our list off with Mount Tenzan. If you like the outdoors and sports, then this is a great activity for you. Mount Tenzan has an elevation of 3,432 feet (1.046 meters) and is a popular spot for various outdoor activities in the Saga area. It’s a popular spot for skiing during the winter season, but it’s also a great place to go for a hike in the warmer months. You can take in the greenery around you and look out over the city. We recommend taking a picnic lunch to enjoy a meal mid-hike.
2. Learn about the history of Saga at Saga Prefectural Art Museum
Saga Prefectural Art Museum opened its doors in 1970 with the aim of sharing information about the area’s history, art, and folk traditions. We recommend checking out the permanent exhibit, the History and Culture of Saga, where you’ll see artefacts, dioramas, and models which will tell you the history of the area. The museum also has an extensive art collection, including sculptures and paintings. Once you’ve finished perusing the exhibitions, you can head to the tea house outside and enjoy a warm beverage.
Saga Prefectural Art Museum
Address: 1 Chome-15-23 Jonai, Saga, 840-0041, Japan
Website: Saga Prefectural Art Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
3. Be wowed by the view from Saga Prefectural Government Observation Deck
For those who want to look out over Saga or get some great photographs during your trip, you should head to Saga Prefectural Government Observation Deck. The observation deck sits atop Saga Prefectural Government Office, the tallest building in the city. The deck provides 360-degree views of the area, and on a sunny day, you can even see all the way to Mount Unzen. There’s also a restaurant on the same floor if you want to stop for a bite.
Saga Prefectural Government Observation Deck
Address: 1-1-59 Jonai, Saga-shi, Saga Prefecture
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 10pm; Sat: 10am - 10pm; Sun: 10am - 9pm
4. Learn some history at Saga Castle History Museum
Saga Castle History Museum is located within Saga Castle, which dates back to the early 1600s. Today, the museum is a reconstruction of the castle’s main palace. The museum showcases artefacts relating to the area’s history, specifically during the Edo and Meiji periods. The castle itself is, of course, stunning - take in the beautiful wooden architecture and the significant amount of tatami mats that line its floors - more than 700!
Saga Castle History Museum
Address: 2 Chome-18-1 Jonai, Saga, 840-0041, Japan
Website: Saga Castle History Museum
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
5. Visit Saga Shrine
Next on our list is Saga Shrine. It was built in dedication to the 10th and 11th lords of the Saga Domain and is located centrally in the city. Notable features include the two canons outside, which were built to commemorate the area’s role in the development of weaponry. If you happen to visit on the 31st of December, you’ll catch government officials firing the canons in celebration of the New Year.
Saga Shrine
Address: 2-10-43 Matsubara, Saga 840-0831 Saga Prefecture
Website: Saga Shrine
Price: Free
6. Check out Mitsuse Le Vert Farm Dongurimura Village or "Acorn Village"
Mitsuse Le Vert Farm Dongurimura Village, or Acorn Village, is a theme park modelled after a small village in Southern France. In fact, when you first enter the theme park, you’ll come across a wine exhibition where you can not only learn about winemaking, but you can also try some of the 10 available varieties. And there’s plenty more to explore! Learn about the production of milk and ice cream, go horseback riding, or enjoy a meal at the restaurant. If you’re travelling with kids, there are plenty of activities for the tots to enjoy, including a playground.
Mitsuse Le Vert Farm Dongurimura Village ("Acorn Village")
Address: Mitsusemurayuzuriha, Saga, 842-0303, Japan
Website: Mitsuse Le Vert Farm Dongurimura Village
Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 10am - 5pm (closed on Wed)
7. Have some fun at Kono Park
If you’re looking to get outside with the kids, then head to Kono Park. It was built back in 1846 as a villa for the Lord of Saga, and today it is the only children’s amusement park in the city. There are plenty of rides to keep the kids amused, as well as a zoo. And there are beautiful grounds to explore. We highly recommend visiting during cherry blossom season - thousands of cherry blossom trees line Tabuse River, so both you and the kids can have an enjoyable day surrounded by the sakura trees.
Kono Park
Address: 4 Chome-1-3 Kamizono, Saga, 840-0806, Japan
Website: Kono Park
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 9:30am - 5pm (closed on Tue)
Price: Free
8. Hit the slopes at Tenzan Ski Resort
Situated on the northern slopes of Mount Tenzan is Tenzan Ski Resort. The mountain is a popular spot to go skiing and snowboarding, and the resort has been providing downhill fun for locals and tourists since 1989. The area doesn’t get much snow, so the slopes use fake snow. If you don’t have any equipment, don’t worry because you can rent everything you need at the resort.
Tenzan Ski Resort
Address: 2338-6 Fujicho Oaza Ichikawa, Saga, 840-0503, Japan
Website: Tenzan Ski Resort
9. Be amazed by the exhibits at Saga Balloon Museum
One of the things Saga is most known for is Saga International Balloon Fiesta, an annual hot air balloon competition that draws people from all over the world. So it’s no surprise that Saga is also home to a balloon museum. Saga Balloon Museum is Japan’s first museum dedicated to balloons. You’ll not only find a variety of hot air balloons on display, but there is also a flight simulator and a theatre where you can watch past hot air balloon competitions.
Saga Balloon Museum
Address: 2 Chome-2-27 Matsubara, Saga, 840-0831, Japan
Website: Saga Balloon Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
10. Take a stroll through Higata Yoka Park
Situated near Ariake Sea, Higata Yoka Park is a great place to stretch your legs on a nice day. There’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy, including a water park, playground equipment, and giant slides. There’s also a reproduction home from the Edo period, which houses a museum that showcases animals found in the sea and other artefacts related to the area. The park also has a lookout from where you can see beautiful views of the sunset, which is a perfect way to end your afternoon of fun.
Higata Yoka Park
Address: 2885-2 Higashiyokacho Oaza Shimokoga, Saga, 840-2221, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Saga offers so much to explore
From shrines to museums dedicated to air balloons, Saga certainly offers visitors plenty to explore. And there are loads of activities that the whole family can enjoy. So pick your favourite options and plan your itinerary based on these best things to do in Saga, Japan.
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