There has been a sharp cold snap as we enter into November, with influenza and runny noses rife in many schools throughout the prefecture. As we approach the Christmas season there are lots of late-night illumination events and festivals to enjoy around Saga, to keep you festive and busy instead of curled up under your kotatsu every night!

10月03日~02月14日ー　Tosu鳥栖 ー Elegance Fragrance Exhibition @ Nakatomi Memorial Medicine Museum

Originating as a primal tool for detecting danger and distinguishing food, humans have found meaning and beauty within our sense of smell – leading to an evolution from religious rituals, court culture, and the modern perfume industry. Scent has the power to awaken memories and lift the spirit. This special exhibition explores the value associated with scent or fragrance, shaped across different eras and cultures – asking what draws us to elegant fragrances. Admission to the exhibition is separate from general museum admission, 200円 for adults. Free parking is available on site. The museum is also accessible in 40 minutes on foot from Tosu station, or in 10 minutes via taxi (a taxi stand is directly outside the station).

10月24日 ~ 11月27日 ー　Takeo　武雄 ー 2026 Takeo Autumn Kiln Opening

With a history of around 400 years, you can enjoy a glimpse into the methods and works that are unique to the Saga area. The opening schedules for each kiln are different, so please check carefully the information from the Takeo City Tourism Association.

10月02日~11月29日ー　Kashima 鹿嶋　ー　Yutoku Inari Moonlight Night Fox Festival

The entirety of Yutoku Inari Shrine, full of worshippers during the day, becomes a gently lit haven for foxes during the night, for the fox wedding festival. Throughout the event period, the lights and other festivities will be between 20:00~21:00, with last admission at 20:40. Admission is 1500円 for adults, which includes a ticket and fox mask. There is a free parking lot on site.

10月31日 ~ 11月30日 ー　Miyaki　みやき　ー Yamada Himawari Garden Festival

Once more, the famous sunflowers in northern Miyaki town can be seen blooming across the mountain. Reception hours to the field are from 9:00~17:00 (last entry 16:30) with admission being 300円 for adults, and cheaper for children. There is a carpark open throughout the event period, 300円 on weekdays and 500円 on weekends. The Kanmizugawa Yamada Waterslide Park also has free parking for approximately 75 cars.

10月29日 ~ 02月14日 ー　Saga　佐賀 ー Saga Light Fantasy 2026

Once again the annual illumination display running along Saga City’s Chuo Odori will create a beautiful scenic night-time pathway. During the event period various activities and events will take place, with the event area illuminated from 17:00-22:30 each day during the event period.

10月04日〜12月23日　ー　Saga 佐賀　ー　Autumn of Science at Saga City Starry Sky Learning Center

Classes and events related to astronomy and science will be held throughout the event period. A web application must me made on the center’s website, and reception is decided on a first-come-first-serve basis. The center is open from 9:00~21:00 (22:00 on Friday or Saturday).

11月04日 ~ 11月15日 ー　Saga　佐賀 ー Saga Citizen Art Festival

Classical music and brass band performances, dance workshops, and many other cultural and art experiences and events will take place over the weekend. Admission to the Saga City Cultural Hall (文化会館）is free but you must have a numbered admission ticket. More information can be found about the event on their website.

11月21日 ~ 11月22日 ー　Saga　佐賀 ー Maruichi Autumn Mochi Festival

A weekend mochi festival will be held at the Kashin Maruichi Nabeshima Main store in Nabeshima-cho, Saga City. Admission is free and you can enjoy Maruichi’s specialty mochi, a mochi pounding experience, limited collaboration menu items with local stores such as 76pain, Odashi and Ningichi, and Omochi BAR, and other plans. The store is open between 11:00~18:00.

11月29日 ー　Saga　佐賀 ー Classical Ballet: The Nutcracker

A classical winter ballet can be enjoyed as we enter the Christmas season, with a powerhouse company visiting Saga from Ukraine. The performance will be at the Saga City Culture Center (文化会館) and tickets should be purchased from the center in advance. All seats are reserved and are 5000円 each (children under 3 years old cannot be admitted.)