Kyushu's Castle Town Where Samurai and Ceramic Traditions Merge
Karatsu, this charming castle town from the Edo period not only embodies a rich samurai culture, but it is also regarded as a place of ancient ceramic tradition. No way would you have missed a place where such distinctive elements of Japanese culture merge! So, please discover its many historical wonders, crafts of delicate beauty, and must-try local food.
Karatsu flourished as a castle town in the Edo period and as a shipping port for coal in Meiji period. Even today, the history of Karatsu can be seen in architectures which remain throughout the town, in pottery art, and in the traditional festival. The symbol of the city is Karatsu Castle which has been standing on a small mountain overlooking the town since it was originally built in 1608. Many people visit here to enjoy seasonal flowers too, especially cherry blossoms and wisteria. Inside the castle, there are a museum where you can learn its history and an observatory offering a magnificent view of Genkai Sea and Niji no Matsubara (thousands of pine tree tunnels). Niji no Matsubara is regarded as one of the best three pine groves in Japan. With the length of 4.5 km and width of 0.5 km, approximately one million black pine trees stretch along the Karatsu coastal line. Kagamiyama Observatory is the best place to appreciate a breathtaking view of Niji no Matsubara with the blue clear sea.
Designated as Japan's traditional crafts, Karatsu pottery is a popular ware for its simple and earthy look. There are about 70 pottery studios in the town. Visit one of the most established kilns and observe the traditional techniques handed down for more than 400 years.
Karatsu Kunchi Festival is the biggest festival of Karatsu town with over 400 years of history and is designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Property. Gorgeous floats modelled after dragons and giant sea creatures are carried throughout the town. The massive floats are on display at Hikiyama Exhibition Hall.
Karatsu flourished as a castle town in the Edo period and as a shipping port for coal in Meiji period. Even today, the history of Karatsu can be seen in architectures which remain throughout the town, in pottery art, and in the traditional festival. The symbol of the city is Karatsu Castle which has been standing on a small mountain overlooking the town since it was originally built in 1608. Many people visit here to enjoy seasonal flowers too, especially cherry blossoms and wisteria. Inside the castle, there are a museum where you can learn its history and an observatory offering a magnificent view of Genkai Sea and Niji no Matsubara (thousands of pine tree tunnels). Niji no Matsubara is regarded as one of the best three pine groves in Japan. With the length of 4.5 km and width of 0.5 km, approximately one million black pine trees stretch along the Karatsu coastal line. Kagamiyama Observatory is the best place to appreciate a breathtaking view of Niji no Matsubara with the blue clear sea.
Designated as Japan's traditional crafts, Karatsu pottery is a popular ware for its simple and earthy look. There are about 70 pottery studios in the town. Visit one of the most established kilns and observe the traditional techniques handed down for more than 400 years.
Karatsu Kunchi Festival is the biggest festival of Karatsu town with over 400 years of history and is designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Property. Gorgeous floats modelled after dragons and giant sea creatures are carried throughout the town. The massive floats are on display at Hikiyama Exhibition Hall.
