10月1日~1月12日ー　佐賀　Saga　ー　Saga Light Fantasy

From late autumn to winter, the city of Saga will be beautifully lit up, centered around Saga City’s central boulevard (approximately 1.6 km of the symbolic road), with spot illuminations at places like Esplatz and 656 Square, voluntary illuminations by stores along the route, and illuminations with the participation of local residents.

10月7日~11月24日 ー　佐賀　Saga　ー　Baisa-o 350th Anniversary Exhibition

Baisao, born in Hasuike Domain, a branch of the Saga Domain, is said to have popularized sencha tea. The artist Ito Jakuchu left behind many works throughout his life, including his masterpiece, Dobutsu Sai-e (Colorful Pictures of Animals and Plants). The two artists, who lived in the same era, shared a deep connection. This special exhibition, held in Baisao’s hometown of Saga to commemorate the 350th anniversary of his birth, will feature approximately 130 pieces, primarily relating to Baisao and Jakuchu. In addition to Kyushu’s largest collection of Jakuchu’s works, the exhibition will also feature works by Ike no Taiga and Tanomura Chikuden, who are said to have been influenced by Baisao.

Saga Prefectural Art Museum Exhibition Rooms 2, 3 and 4. General admission 1500.

11月1〜5日　ー　佐賀市　Saga City ー　Saga International Balloon Fiesta

One of the biggest hot air balloon festivals in Asia is held annually in early November. More than 100 balloons participate in the festival, as well as a non-professional ‘Balloon Fantasia` where balloons shaped like animals or other objects can be seen. A special train station opens up in the city during the duration. This was cancelled in 2024 due to a typhoon but it seems we can enjoy it this year!

11月2〜4日　ー　唐津市　Karatsu City ー　Karatsu Kunchi

One of the biggest autumn festivals in Saga is held in Karatsu on the first weekend in November. Join the crowds to watch the huge floats go past, and join in the merry making. It has been said that residents may warmly invite revellers into their homes for food and drinks during Kunchi – though you may want to ask a Karamatsu JET how true this is! The Kunchi is marked on the representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Japan.

11月７ー９日　ー　佐賀市 Saga City ー 13th Saga City Arts Festival

A wide range of performances will run throughout this event, displaying various talents and crafts. Cyrus’ ballet studio (Fukuoka Kanako) will be performing on the Friday and Saturday – your support in watching them would be appreciated! While admission is free, numbered tickets must be obtained for all events during the festival. Craft and food stalls will be available near the venue too. More information can be found here.

11月1〜5日　ー　伊万里市　Imari City ー　Nabeshima Domain Kiln Autumn Festival

Held in the village of secret kilns, where the traditional technique of the Nabeshima kilns was kept secret from as far back as the Edo period. Many people visit this time of year for the cermaics fair and autumn scenery.

11月9日　ー　佐賀市　Saga City ー　Ureshino Tea Class

Held at the Hotel New Otani (Tsuru no Ma, 1-2 Yokamachi), registration at 10:30 and the class begins at 11:00. 3800 per person covers the tea experience, meal fee, and service charge. Tea professionals will teach you the tricks to brewing delicious green tea, and you can try it yourself. You can also compare and taste several types of green tea to discover the differences and find your favorite. We look forward to your participation with your friends and family, and you can also enjoy a Japanese lunch at the hotel that uses green tea throughout. A souvenir of Ureshino Tea is included!

11月16日　ー　佐賀市　Saga City ー　Saga Traditional Arts Festival (Denshou Geinou Sai)

11月20-24日　ー　有田町　Arita Town ー　Arita Autumn Pottery Festival

Other than Golden Week, this is the best time to go down to Arita and get your hands on their unique ceramic wares. Other than shopping for pottery from Arita’s famous kilns, there are plenty of restaurants to try out, guided tours through the town (1000円 includes the tour and sweets), and four famous kilns to visit.

11月22日　ー　伊万里市　Imari City ー Imari Bay Fireworks

The event will run from 3PM to 8PM in Imari port’s special collaboration area Nanatsu Jima Avenue Zombie Land Saga Yumeginga Paradise. These fireworks are sponsored by Cygames because of the upcoming Zombie Land Saa Yumeginga Paradise movie! Merchandise will be available, and there will be a stage event featuring the cast. Enjoy one of Japan’s largest 3-shaku firework displays!

11月23日　ー　鳥栖市　Tosu City ー　Tosu Heart Light Festa

Celebrating its 17th year, the Heart Light Festa will include special illuminations this year to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Tosu becoming a municipality. There will be live entertainment, many art and light displays, and festival food available for you to try. The illumination time will be 17:30-22:00 and admission is free.