HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Imari and Arita’s Cultural Treasures
Join a three-day tour to experience the cultural treasures of two of Kyushu’s fascinating prefectures
Kyushu Tourism Organization
While some people think Japan has a homogeneous culture mainly shaped by internal cultural influences and traditions, a visit to Saga or Nagasaki Prefecture will open your eyes to a long history of cultural exchange with other countries.
For example, Saga Prefecture’s Imari and Arita areas flourished thanks to the Korean ceramic artisans who brought over their expertise and craftsmanship, leading to a centuries-old porcelain tradition. Families like Hataman Toen and Kakiemon (the latter which goes back 15 generations) continue the cultural legacy of producing high-quality porcelain.
In Nagasaki, Glover Garden reflects the contributions of a Scotsman to the Japanese industrial revolution, and the vibrant Chinatown in downtown Nagasaki exemplifies the culinary imprint of Chinese culture on its streets and cuisine. In Nagasaki's high-end ryotei restaurants, you can watch a mesmerizing and graceful dance by the geiko (geisha entertainers) while enjoying a delightful spread of shippoku-ryori, a traditional meal that blends Japanese flavors with influences from China, Portugal, and the Netherlands.
From the hidden porcelain village of Okawachiyama to the many prized kilns in Arita, one-of-a-kind tea ceremonies in Ureshino, a traditional welcome by the geisha of the Nagasaki Kenban, and reminders of contact with western countries in Nagasaki, this three-day adventure will show you a whole new side of Japan.
How to get there
From Hakata Station, go to the adjacent Hakata Bus Terminal. Take the Showa Bus Imari-go to the Imari Station bus stop (about 1 hour and 50 minutes). From there, switch to the Saihi Bus and ride to Okawachiyama (about 15 minutes).
Okawauchiyama, Imari-shi, Saga-ken Arita-cho, Saga-ken, Ureshino-shi, Saga-ken, Nagasaki-shi, Nagasaki-ken
