Excursion Introduction to karatsu tour at Fukuoka

Board your coach and commence the approximately 70 minutes journey to Former Takatori House. This structure is the former home of Koreyoshi Takatori (1850 - 1927), a successful coal baron. This residence is a National Important Cultural Property and is an important structure teaching visitors about the period when Karatsu flourished as a coal producing area. Visitors to the Takatori House can see a structure with an exquisite design complete with a restored Western-style room with a plaster ceiling, cedars doors with paintings, transoms decorated with animals, reliefs of plants and a Noh stage. Visitors will not be disappointed by the grandeur of the modern Japanese-style architecture.

Re-board the coach and a short drive will take you to the Nakazato Taroemon Kiln.The Karatsu-yaki ware is one of the Japan's three great tea ceramics along with the Raku-yaki ware and Hagi-yaki ware. Fondly named Chato, literally tea ceramics, Karatsu-yaki ware has been loved by masters of the tea ceremony from ancient times. The Karatsu-yaki ware is believed to begin in Mount Kishidake adjacent to Kitahata in Karatsu.

Your tour concludes with an approximate 60-minute journey back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Karatsu, Saga Prefecture on Kyushu, Former Takatori House, Nakazato Taroemon Kiln-tea ceramics

Note

Please note: This tour involves moderate amount of walking (approximately 1.0km or 0.6miles) with around 60 steps at the various sites and a few to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Shoes must be removed when entering Former Takatori House and Nakazato Taroemon Kiln. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. The tour sequence may vary. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility. Nakazato Taroemon Klin is closed on Wednesday and every 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday, therefore it will be replaced with a visit of Nakano Tochi Klin (Pottery Workshop).