Karatsu is a beautiful historic city in the Saga prefecture, on Kyushu Island, nestling along the coastline. A fascinating place brimming with old-world charm and culture, its pottery is prized amongst collectors of Japanese ceramics, its beautiful hilltop castle boasts majestic views of the Ariake Sea and its pine-forested coastline is wonderful to explore. The ideal destination to soak in the essence of Japan, our collection of the best places to stay in Karatsu are picked for their authentic feel.

The name of a place often contains rich truths about the inception of the place itself. Karatsu is no different. Translated roughly as "East Asian port", it is one of the closest Japanese cities to the Korean peninsula and in former days served as a major stopping point for traders on their way to the mainland. Its proximity to both Korea and China led to the building of Nagoya Castle in the 17th century, ordered by a warring overlord prior to the invasion of the mainland. Though now merely a glorious ruin sitting amidst green parkland, there is a fascinating museum there that is well worth checking out.

The epicentre of Karatsu is its castle, sitting on top of a hill overlooking Karatsu Bay and the Ariake Sea. Built in 1608, it was elegantly reconstructed in 1966 and boasts some of the finest panoramic views in all of Japan. It is best to visit at the onset of springtime when the grounds bloom with wisteria and burst with cherry blossom. The Yobuko Fish Market, a treasured local institution, is a must-see, where you can buy the famous sashimi-style squid. Be sure to get there early in the morning for the pick of the day! While you're exploring the city, stop off at Arupino - just opposite the train station - and buy some locally-made Karatsu pottery.

The surroundings of Karatsu offer a lot to the keen explorer. The beautiful coastline is bearded with the black pine trees of Nijinomatsubara Forest and is one of Karatsu's most popular destinations. The Udono Sekibutsu Statues, carved into the face of a mountain rock, is also worth seeing. Be sure to head south of the city, to Ouchi Town, to see the sublime sight of the Mikaeri Falls. Head down to the harbour to catch one of the boats that make their way out to the Nanatsugama Limestone Caves, seven natural monuments of Japan, 7 caves formed by the raging waves.

What not to miss

• Explore the ruins of Nagoya Castle amidst the green parkland it nestles in. There is a fascinating museum there that is worth visiting.
• Stroll down the gorgeous tree-covered coastline and drink in the sunset bleeding against the sky.
• Make your way south of the city to the Mikaeri Falls.
• Head down to the Yobuko Fish Market, nice and early in the morning, and buy some sashimi-style squid.
• Take a boat out to the Nanatsugama Limestone Caves and marvel at how the waves formed them.
• Climb up the top of Karatsu Castle and enjoy the panoramic views of Karatsu Bay and the Ariake Sea.
• Buy some Karatsu pottery at Arupino, just opposite the train station.

A charming port town well worthy of a visit. To start planning your trip browse through our collection of the best places to stay in Karatsu.

The best places to stay in Karatsu

For an apartment or villa

• Check out our partner Booking.com to see if they have any villas or apartments in the nearby area.

Travel information

• The best time to go is during the springtime when the temperature ranges between 9 and 23 degrees and the cherry blossom is in the full bloom.
• Fly to Fukuoka International Airport, take the Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line to Meinohama and transfer to the JR Chikuhi Line, getting off at Karatsu.
• If you want to rent a car we recommend contacting our partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Kyushu
• or the best places to stay in Japan
• or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Karatsu