Saga is the capital of the prefecture, located in the south east. The city was merged in 2005 and as well as expanding fourfould in size it became very long from north-to-south, bordered by Fukuoka and the Ariake Sea at each end. The northern part of the city is mountainous, part of the Sefuri Mountains that comprise some of Kyushu’s Chikushi Mountain range.

The city centre contains the Shoko Building that houses SPIRA, the Prefectural Office Kencho, and Saga Castle. A convenient hub, Saga city boasts shopping centres, dining and nightlife, government services, and many tourist attractions. It’s also really easy to access the rest of Kyushu and beyond via the JR station, Bus Center, and Saga Airport.

Places of Interest

• Tafuse River – the Tafuse River runs through Northern to Central Saga City, and has scenic trails on either side of it. The trails are good for biking, running, and walking, and the small parks and pavilions which line them make great spots for picnics during hanami season. Many residents of Saga City name the Tafuse River among their favorite places in the city to view cherry blossoms and fall foliage.
• Kono Park – a small park by the Tafuse River, Kono Park has a children’s amusement park, a tea house, a miniature version of the Japanese driving school, and a small zoo. Another hanami favorite.
• Yamato Aeon – A huge shopping center located in Yamato town, a part of Northern Saga City. The mall is sometimes referred to by its old name, “Yamato Jusco”. Major draws include one of Saga City’s two major movie theaters, a large Daiso, a Home Off, and a smattering of restaurants.
• Saga Prefectural Library – across from Kencho is the prefectural library. On the first floor you can find a lovely organic café called Day’s Kitchen.
• Saga Castle – the castle ruins and Saga Castle History Museum that has reconstrcuted the main keep are in the city centre. There are frequently new exhibits to take a look at, and huge tatami rooms you can enjoy a quiet afternoon in. They offer audio guides in multiple languages at the front desk.

Eateries

• Pizzeria Da Gino – reservations required, as it’s a small spot and fills up quickly. Very delicious pizza! If you can’t get a table, you can order delivery/takeout.
• Around S-Platz – also known as “Snack Street”. There are a ton of fabulous restaurants and bars located around here. G Collection, the only real club in Saga, is also located in this area.
• Saga University – Attached to the Saga University Art Museum (SUAM) is a nice café with lots of natural light called Sones. The building is made almost entirely of glass, and is easy to spot from the large road.
• gasse kuu – A super small and homely cafe tucked away in a residential area. Definitely a local haunt. The owner sometimes hands out snacks to guests!
• Hungry Bowl – a popular student spot, you can fill up on a bowl of rice and assorted meats for relatively cheap. The fried chicken is delicious!
• 赤ちゃん – Akachan is a bento shop inside the Shirayama shopping arcade close to the Shoko Building. A cosy little shop run by an older couple, it’s a great place to grab lunch if you’re in Saga for JET meetings/events!

Local Events and Traditions

• Saga Balloon Fiesta – held annually along the Kase River in Northwestern Saga. A temporary station is set up to access the festival, though it can also be reached by bike (if you’re up for it) or by car.
• Illuminations – around late October/early November the whole of Saga City centre gets lit up with lights and displays.
• Koinobori – around early May, head North towards the mountains to see the red bridge as they put up many koinobori (carp streamers) above the river.
• Saga Sakura Marathon – The Sakura Marathon and Fun Run begin at the Sunrise Park sports stadium in March, with the Marathon continuing on to Yoshinogari.

Getting Around

Saga Bus Station is next to the train station, and has many lines. Getting around Northern Saga City is a little less convenient than the rest of the city, as there are fewer bus lines and things are more spread out. The best options are car and bike. Most lines will get you next to/close to Kencho. For ALTs living in the Government Worker Housing, you can take a bus from the station and be home within ~15 minutes, or ~30 by bike.