✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Karatsu.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of culture, history and fun when you visit Karatsu.
With vibrant festivals, stunning landmarks and mouth-watering cuisine, this charming coastal city is a treasure trove of experiences just waiting to be discovered.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Karatsu:
1. Karatsu Castle
A majestic hilltop castle located in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the castle grounds and take in the sweeping views of the city. Inside the castle, you’ll find various exhibitions detailing the history and culture of the area.
Don’t miss: The spectacular cherry blossoms that bloom around the castle in the spring. It’s one of the most popular spots in Karatsu for hanami (cherry blossom viewing).
Insider travel tips: Visit in the fall to witness the stunning autumn foliage.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs and steep inclines to navigate when exploring the castle grounds.
Consider purchasing a combined ticket that includes admission to the nearby Karatsu Ceramic Art Museum for additional savings.
2. Karatsu Shrine
Karatsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Karatsu in Saga Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The shrine is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Visitors can walk through the grounds of the shrine and admire the intricately carved wooden buildings and gateways.
The main hall of the shrine, called the Honden, is particularly impressive, with its thatched roof and ornate decoration. The shrine also features a large pond and several smaller gardens dotted around its grounds.
Don’t miss: One of the most popular attractions at Karatsu Shrine is the Torii gate which stands at the edge of the pond.
The Torii gate is a traditional Japanese gate that marks the entrance to a sacred space. Visitors can walk through the gate and along the path that leads to the main hall of the shrine.
Another highlight of the shrine is the wooden bridge that spans the pond, which provides a great photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Karatsu Shrine is during the cherry blossom season in spring or during the autumn foliage season in November.
The shrine can get crowded during these times, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Visitors should also make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the grounds of the shrine.
3. Nijino Matsubara
Nijino Matsubara is a stunning pine forest located along the coast of Karatsu in Saga prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride through the forest and take in the beautiful coastline views. A path runs along the edge of the forest, offering stunning views of the ocean.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit during the spring cherry blossom season, when the trees are in full bloom and the forest is transformed into a pink wonderland.
Insider travel tips: – Rent a bike from one of the nearby shops and explore the area on two wheels.
4. Hikiyama Exhibition Hall
Hikiyama Exhibition Hall is a museum that displays gigantic floats that are used during Karatsu Kunchi, a famous autumn festival held in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the amazing craftsmanship and decoration of the Karatsu Kunchi floats that showcase the traditional arts and culture of the region.
The exhibition hall offers different types of floats, ranging from historical floats to modern ones.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the exhibition is the “Kangi-tenka-mairi,” a ritual dance performed on top of the float during the Karatsu Kunchi festival.
It is believed to bring good fortune to the town and its people.
Insider travel tips: – Check the schedule for the workshops on how to make miniature Karatsu Kunchi floats.
5. Former Takatori Residence
Former Takatori Residence is a traditional Japanese house in Karatsu, Saga Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the tatami-matted rooms, sliding doors, and other architectural elements that make up this historic residence.
Don’t miss: The Japanese garden on the premises is a must-see and is particularly stunning during the autumn season.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit in the morning when the sun is shining on the garden and the house is quieter. Don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering!
6. Kagamiyama Observatory
Kagamiyama Observatory is a stunning hilltop observatory situated in Karatsu, Japan that offers panoramic views of the cityscape and the Karatsu Bay.
What to see or do: At Kagamiyama Observatory, you can get lost in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and take in the natural beauty of the region.
The observatory is also a fantastic spot for taking photos of the city and the water beyond.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stop by the souvenir shop at the observatory where you can purchase unique local goods and souvenirs as a memento of your trip.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit Kagamiyama Observatory during sunset or sunrise for a truly unforgettable experience. Additionally, the observatory is a popular spot during the summer months, so be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly.
Finally, if you’re looking to experience the beauty of the region free of charge, consider visiting during one of the many free admission days offered throughout the year.
7. Yobuko Morning Market
A traditional morning market located in the fishing town of Yobuko in Karatsu City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander the stalls of fresh seafood and produce, enjoy local street food delicacies, and shop for souvenirs such as pottery and traditional crafts.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to try a bowl of locally harvested uni (sea urchin) or have it freshly prepared for you by a vendor.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early for the freshest selection, and consider bringing cash as many vendors do not accept credit cards.
Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the friendly merchants, and be sure to ask for recommendations on their favorite products or restaurants in the area.
8. Nanatsugama Caves
Nanatsugama Caves are a unique natural wonder in the city of Karatsu, Japan.
The caves were formed through erosion caused by waves and wind, which resulted in a series of seven sea caves along the coastline.
What to see or do: One can explore the caves and marvel at the beautiful rock formations. The unique shapes created by the water and wind are astonishing, and the interplay of light and shadows is mesmerizing.
Don’t miss: Visitors shouldn’t miss the opportunity to take the boat trip that takes them around the caves. The 30-minute ride provides a unique perspective and vantage point to view the caves from the sea.
The ride is particularly beautiful during sunset.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable and sturdy footwear as some places in the caves can be slippery. It is also advisable to bring a jacket as it can get chilly inside the caves.
It is better to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
9. Yobuko Ohashi Bridge
Yobuko Ohashi Bridge is a picturesque suspension bridge located in Karatsu, Japan. It spans over the Yobuko Bay and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
What to see or do: The main attraction of Yobuko Ohashi Bridge is the stunning views it offers.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll across the bridge and admire the panoramic views of the bay, mountains, and nearby islands.
The bridge also has a viewing platform where tourists can take photos and enjoy the scenery.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the bridge at sunset when the sky turns into beautiful shades of pink and orange. The reflections of the sunset on the water create a mesmerizing sight that is not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Yobuko Ohashi Bridge is during the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are relatively small.
10. Karatsu City Museum of History and Folklore
A museum that displays the history and culture of Karatsu City, Japan.
What to see or do: – Exhibitions that showcase the daily life, festivals, and crafts of Karatsu City.
Don’t miss: The Karatsu Kunchi Matsuri exhibit, which features the 14 festival floats used in the annual festival that takes place in November.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and December 28 – January 4.
11. Genkai Quasi-National Park
Genkai Quasi-National Park is a protected area located in Karatsu, Saga Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The park boasts diverse natural scenery such as beaches, cliffs, wetlands, and forests. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and bird-watching.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the park is the Nijo-no-Matsubara pine forest, located on the beach. It is one of the largest pine forests in Japan and offers stunning views of the sea.
Another must-see is the Hado Misaki viewpoint, which offers a panoramic view of the coastline.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable.
12. Hikiyama Float Museum
Hikiyama Float Museum is a museum in Karatsu that showcases the traditional Hikiyama floats used in the Karatsu Kunchi Festival.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a variety of Hikiyama floats up close and learn about the history and craftsmanship behind them. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience traditional Japanese festival music and games.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the floats up close and appreciate the intricate detailing and artistry that goes into each one.
The museum also offers workshops where visitors can try their hand at traditional Japanese crafts.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and avoid the midday heat. The museum is located within walking distance of Karatsu Castle, so consider visiting both attractions on the same day.
If you are visiting during the Karatsu Kunchi Festival in November, be sure to catch the floats in action during the festival procession.
13. Todoroki Falls
Todoroki Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Karatsu, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a short hike to reach the falls and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Don’t miss: Be sure to bring your camera and capture the breathtaking views of the waterfall. You might even be lucky enough to see a rainbow arching over the falls on a sunny day.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Todoroki Falls is in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, or in the fall when the leaves change color.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the hike can be steep in some places. There are also several other hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
14. Karatsu Fish Market
A bustling fish market in the city of Karatsu, located in Saga Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander through the market and observe the local fishermen and fishmongers hawking fresh seafood caught just off the coast of Karatsu.
The market offers a wide variety of seafood, including sashimi-grade tuna, squid, octopus, mackerel, and a variety of shellfish.
Don’t miss: Live seafood auctions, where you can witness the intense bidding wars over the best catches of the day.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to get the freshest seafood and to avoid the crowds that tend to arrive later in the day.
Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept credit cards. Try the local specialty, ikanago (sand lance), which is often sold grilled or skewered.
15. Hado Misaki Lighthouse
Hado Misaki Lighthouse is a well-known attraction in Karatsu, Japan. It is a historic lighthouse located on a beautiful peninsula overlooking the Sea of Japan.
What to see or do: While visiting Hado Misaki Lighthouse, visitors can take in breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding coastline.
The lighthouse itself is a beautiful structure that is worth exploring, and there are also several walking trails nearby that offer stunning views of the natural beauty of the area.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of visiting Hado Misaki Lighthouse is watching the sunset over the sea.
The combination of the beautiful colors of the sky and the peaceful sound of the waves crashing against the shore is truly unforgettable.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Hado Misaki Lighthouse is during the autumn months when the foliage surrounding the lighthouse is at its most vibrant.