Top Tours & Activities in Saga Prefecture

This is not just a pottery class — it is an immersive cultural experience in Karatsu, a city renowned for its centuries-old pottery tradition (Karatsu ware). You will work side by side with a local master potter in an authentic, working kiln, something rarely open to tourists. A local English-speaking guide will ensure meaningful interaction with the artisan, allowing you to learn about the history, techniques, and spirit of Karatsu pottery. Unlike mass workshops, this experience offers personal attention and the opportunity to create a unique piece of kitchenware with your own hands, which will be professionally fired and shipped to your home. It’s a memorable way to connect with Japanese culture and take home a truly one-of-a-kind souvenir.

"Experience the new appeal of Arita-yaki, where tradition and innovation come together". At Riso Pottery, fourth-generation family head Shinji Terauchi works to create vessels that combine early Imari techniques with modern design, while continuing the history of Ri Sanpei, the founder of Arita-yaki. Combining traditional aesthetic beauty with cutting-edge technology, the vessels have attracted top chefs from around the world. In this experience, you will visit the historic sites of traditional Arita ware and the Tengudani kiln site, and experience the craftsmanship of the artisans up close. We will provide you with a special opportunity to experience the new possibilities of Arita ware, which pursues both function and beauty, with all five of your senses.

In this pottery tour, you will be visiting two of Japan's leading kilns, Arita and Hasami, not only finding your favorite Japanese tableware, but you'll also witness the pottery-making process. Also, engage in Japanese cooking experiences, and deepen by staying in traditional Japanese house. In the day 1, we'll visit Arita, famous for its Arita ware, known for its elegant designs on translucent white porcelain. We will take you to special places like kilns and purveyors to the Imperial Household. Then we'll move to a historical traditional Japanese house in Arita area, experiencing a Japanese cooking session. Let's enjoy Japanese culture together through the preparation of traditional Japanese home-cooked dishes. In the day 2, we'll visit Hasami Klin known for its relatively casual and modern design pottery. You will see various pottery pieces and we will show you a complete table setting in Hasami-yaki style. We'll have lunch at a cafe using elegant Hasami ware.

In this pottery tour, you will be visiting three of Japan's leading kilns, not only finding your favorite Japanese tableware, but you'll also witness the pottery-making process, engage in Japanese cooking experiences, and deepen by staying in traditional Japanese house. First we'll visit Hasami, known for its relatively casual and modern design pottery. Next, we'll visit Nabeshima ware has a history of being presented to shoguns and feudal lords during the Edo period, making it a beloved choice among aristocrats. Finally, we'll visit Arita, famous for its Arita ware, known for its elegant designs on translucent white porcelain. Then we'll move to a traditional Japanese house in Nagasaki city, experiencing a Japanese cooking session. While you'll stay in one traditional house overnight, there are three bedrooms, allowing for separate accommodations. Next morning, we'll offer Japanese food before guiding you to three spots in Nagasaki city. We look forward to your participation.

A moment of indulgence that fills both heart and soul Create lasting memories on your journey with a refined Japanese dining experience. Upgraded with premium ingredients, sashimi, and two chef’s special dishes, the “Saga Tai-meshi Set – Yorokobi” offers a more luxurious version of the “First Tray.” Each dish is carefully prepared with authentic Japanese culinary techniques. For the “Second Tray,” guests may select one of three types of Tai-meshi (Uwajima-style, tempura rice bowl, or earthen pot rice). Meals are served on Arita and Karatsu porcelain or antique tableware—each dish a piece of art. Perfect for couples or friends celebrating special occasions, this meal balances the warmth of Saga’s local flavors with an elegant, extraordinary dining experience. Groups of 10 or more guests will receive sea bream sashimi. Additionally, the ‘Second Course’ will not be selectable; instead, we will serve ‘Sea bream rice cooked in a large earthenware pot’.

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine through the beauty of the four seasons. This Seasonal Chef’s Choice Course features dishes crafted with the freshest local and seasonal ingredients. Each dish is prepared with skill and care, showcasing the essence of Japanese culinary art and hospitality. The menu changes with the seasons, allowing you to enjoy a new experience every time you visit. The course concludes with Sea Bream Chazuke, a specialty unique to our sea bream restaurant, which often leaves overseas guests deeply impressed by its refined flavor and presentation. Enjoy the shifting seasons of Japan and the blessings of local ingredients through this exquisite dining experience. Highlights: Seasonal ingredients from the sea and mountains of Japan Beautiful presentation using Arita and Karatsu ware, highly appreciated by overseas guests Experience “authentic Japanese cuisine” through the chef’s craftsmanship Duration: Approximately 110 minutes

The special tour of the Kakiemon kiln offers a rare opportunity to visit the workshop area, which is normally closed to the public, and experience the 400 year tradition and craftsmanship of the Kakiemon style. You will get an up close look at the production process of Kakiemon style ceramics, which feature the "Akae" (red overglaze enameling) technique developed by the first Kakiemon, Sakaita Kakiemon, and the milky white "Nigote" porcelain body. The sight of skilled potters and painters carefully creating works of art is a perfect example of the fusion of tradition and innovation. In addition, you will be treated to tea and sweets served in the pottery of the kiln. The general manager will explain the history and culture of the Kakiemon style, and you will gain a deep understanding and be moved by the content. Please enjoy this special moment, which is a combination of the depth of tradition and the skill of the craftsmen.

The "Real Sake Brewery Study Abroad" program is a "super short-term brewery experience" in which you will experience the real sake brewing process at a sake brewery and receive freshly pressed sake that you have made yourself delivered to your home. ■Advantages of the experience ・You can enter the brewery, which is off-limits only to brewery workers, as an exchange student. ・You will be able to taste the very freshest sake, which can only be tasted in the brewery! ・It's like being a real brewer! You can have a real sake brewing experience! ・Sake that you were involved in making yourself will be delivered to your home! ・LSG will take pictures of your experience, so you will have a special memory! ・A guide will be on hand to give you a guided tour of the brewery. ・A tour of the area is also available for those who wish to explore! (Optional participation)

The Genemon Kiln Special Experience offers a rare opportunity to visit the kiln's normally closed workshop and experience the beauty and tradition of its over 150-year-old techniques. You will be able to observe the production process at close range, performed by skilled craftsmen, and enjoy the charm of the distinctive "Sotodami" technique. In addition, you can enjoy a tour of the non-public Imari Pottery Museum, guided by the pottery's staff, and enjoy the many historical works on display. After the experience, you can enjoy the hospitality of the pottery using beautiful vessels. Please enjoy this special time when you can feel the history and technology of Gen-emon Pottery with all five of your senses.

Have an exquisite kaiseki meal in a restaurant owned by an antiques dealer. Served on Arita ware, lunch is made from rich local ingredients, perfectly complemented by Japan's finest porcelain. Afterward, visit Gen-emon Kiln to learn about porcelain. [Highlights] - Feast on an exquisite kaiseki lunch prepared by a local chef - Admire an impressive selection of Arita ware representing different periods and styles - Learn about each piece of Arita ware in detail while dining in a private room used for tea ceremonies - Meet the owner, view his prized collection, and buy some antiques if you like - Visit Gen-emon Kiln to see where some of the tableware used during the lunch is produced

This is a special experience that allows you to get in touch with the tradition and technology that the famous Arita Yaki Porcelain Manufacturer Koransha, founded in 1879, is proud of. You will visit the insulator factory, which is not normally open to the public, and see the history of the innovative technology that created Japan's first porcelain insulator. You can also learn about the background of the art that was highly praised at the World Expo and the history of Koransha while enjoying a tea ceremony in the VIP room, which is not normally open to the public. This is a luxurious and intellectual experience that allows you to experience the fusion of the beauty of traditional Arita-yaki pottery and the technology that supports the power and communications infrastructure.

Experience the true spirit of Tosu, a charming city in Saga Prefecture, known for its warm atmosphere and vibrant local food scene. This exciting 2-hour bar-hopping tour will take you through the best-loved spots in the city, from cozy yakitori bars to hidden gems offering regional drinks and flavors. During the tour, you’ll visit two hand-picked establishments, where you’ll receive 1,000 yen per stop for food and drinks, letting you sample Tosu’s finest offerings without any extra cost. Enjoy perfectly grilled skewers, sip on local sake, and end the night with a comforting bowl of ramen, all while learning about Tosu’s rich culinary culture from a friendly local guide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your city, this tour offers a fun and tasty way to explore Tosu’s nightlife. Don’t miss the chance to experience the city like a local—book your tour now and get ready for a night of unforgettable flavors!

Enjoy a walking tour around the Karatsu Port area! Explore the town, including a mansion with exquisite ranma carvings and gorgeous ceiling paintings, and Karatsu Castle, which faces one of the most beautiful pine groves in Japan. Afterward, stop by a sake bar featuring Karatsu ware. Karatsu-yaki can also be purchased at the store next to the bar and will be a wonderful memory. You can also optionally create an original art frame using pieces of Karatsu-yaki. You can also take home a souvenir of a sustainable and creative Japanese tradition. Why not spend a day with your guide in Karatsu, a city full of Japanese charms such as castles, pottery, and sake?

Saga’s local delicacies to enjoy during your journey. “Saga Sea Bream Set – Iwai,” featuring seasonal ingredients from Saga and sea bream from the Genkai Sea, is the perfect “travel feast” for guests seeking an authentic yet compact Japanese dining experience. Each dish is carefully prepared with traditional Japanese culinary techniques. The “First Tray” uses seasonal ingredients, while the “Second Tray” allows guests to choose one of three types of Tai-meshi (Uwajima-style, tempura rice bowl, or earthen pot rice). The dishes are beautifully presented using Arita and Karatsu ware, allowing guests to experience Japanese culture through food, tableware, and hospitality. Groups of 10 or more guests will receive sea bream sashimi. Additionally, the ‘Second Course’ will not be selectable; instead, we will serve ‘Sea bream rice cooked in a large earthenware pot’. With a duration of about 40–60 minutes, it’s ideal for lunch between sightseeing activities or before travel.

Book Your Journey to the Yoshinogari Ruins Now! Embark on a fascinating journey to the Yoshinogari Ruins, one of Japan's most important archaeological sites. Experience the allure of ancient Japan as you explore reconstructed buildings, sacred spaces, and hidden treasures that date back thousands of years. With the guidance of a local expert, you’ll uncover the mysteries of early Japanese civilizations and witness the profound cultural heritage that shaped the nation. This unique tour offers you the chance to step into history, connect with the past, and feel the mystique of Japan’s earliest societies. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure—book your tour today and dive deep into the heart of ancient Japan!

The “Saga Sea Bream Set – Kirameki” offers a premium dining experience, perfect for special occasions during your journey. Upgraded from the “Yorokobi” course with sashimi and two chef’s dishes, the “Kirameki” course adds Saga beef steak and grilled eel, totaling nine exquisite dishes. The beauty and variety of the “First Tray” are truly breathtaking. The “Second Tray” lets guests choose one of three Tai-meshi styles (Uwajima-style, tempura rice bowl, or earthen pot rice), offering a dining experience that delights all five senses. For groups of 10 or more, “Tai sashimi” will be included, and the “Second Tray” served as “Tai-meshi cooked in a large earthen pot.” Ideal for anniversaries, celebrations, or entertaining important guests, this elegant course showcases Saga’s finest ingredients and offers a memorable Japanese dining experience. Duration: Approximately 100–120 minutes