Karatsu is a classic, old, Japanese castle town that makes a great destination for a day-trip from Fukuoka City. Tickets can be purchased, or transportation cards like SUICA can be use for the scenic coastal train ride from Tenjin or Hakata Station (or anywhere along the Fukuoka Airport and JR Chikuhi Line.) The ride is about 70 minutes from end-to-end, and hugs the coastline and goes through beautiful Itoshima farmland on the way to Karatsu Station.
Stroll the backstreets and walk along the seaside path leading to Karatsu Castle, taking in the magnificent views over Karatsu Bay. Hear stories of Karatsu's history as a whaling town, home to fishermen, samurai, pottery artisans, merchants, and even an ultra-wealthy coal-mining tycoon who built a sprawling mansion not far from the castle.. When the sun starts to go down, wind your way back to town with your guide and head to an unforgettable, casual dinner. You'll pass a unique bank building designed by a famed 19th century Japanese architect who also designed the red-brick European Renaissance-style Tokyo Station and the capital city's Bank of Japan.
Before heading back to Fukuoka City, Itoshima, or staying in Karatsu, dine at a special Karatsu yatai food stall that has been converted into a dining bar near JR Karatsu Station. Their extensive menu includes street food specialties like yakitori, champon noodles and rice dishes, as well as local Karatsu seafood treats that are unique and delicous. Over 50 years ago, the yatai street stalls came out at night and offered food and drinks, serving as local gathering places where people came to mingle and exchange information. Now, they are all in a row in a fixed location, open rain or shine, only in the evening and late into the night. We've selected the very best one for our tour. Capacity is around 12 guests, so you can meet the locals.
Guided by Mr. Kubo Ryosuke, a friendly and warm Saga Prefecture expert tour guide whose ancesters grew rice outside Karatsu City for many generations.
Karatsu Tours start at 2:30pm and finish by around 8pm. The start and end point is JR Karatsu Station, so day-trippers can easily return to Hakata.
Mr. Kubo speaks Japanese, English, some Korean and Chinese, too.
Private Tours for up to 4 guests are priced at $200/per person for the 5.5 hour experience, and include all food and drink.
