Karatsu, Japan Cruise Port

Karatsu is a scenic coastal city located on Kyushu Island in the Saga Prefecture. Its major port was once a main passage between China and Korea and acted as a mecca for trade between the three nations. Today it’s still a prominent hub for trade and a great venue for cruises and tourism. The Karatsu Castle stands as the city’s major structure with magnificently towering walls that overlook the entire region. The outskirts of the city boast some of the finest beaches in the Saga Prefecture, particularly Hamatama which is centrally located and close to a major train stop. A 170-meter arcade can be found near Karatsu Station which has many small shops around it that specialize in regional souvenirs. Korean-influenced pottery known as Karatsu Yaki is popular in the city with their original productions dating back to the late Muromachi period during the first half of the 16^th century.

• While their renowned Karatsu Kunchi Festival happens outside of cruise season, the Karatsu Hikiyama Exhibition Hall displays the festival’s 14 large floats all year long.
   
• Discover the beauty of the city’s famous pottery at the Karatsu-yaki Pottery Gallery. See the great artwork on display, learn about the history, and even try your hand at creating your own masterpiece.
   
• Take in the unparalleled beauty of the Niji no Matsubara Pine Grove, a five-kilometer stretch of thousands upon thousands of pine trees planted along Karatsu Bay.
   
• Dare to test your mettle on Mount Kagamiyama, a flat-topped mountain in central Karatsu. At the base there are beautiful flowers and ceramic shops while the 284-meter summit offers an outstanding view of the pine grove and bay area.