Region: Saga

Saga is a prefecture in northern Kyushu, tucked between Nagasaki and Fukouka prefectures. Nearly 15% of Saga is made up of natural parks and is known for its beauty, ski and surf. This prefecture has been called the “home of ceramics”, particularly in the town of Arita, where traditional Arita porcelain is made. Saga is known for a few unique regional foods, such as Yobiko no Ika Ryouri (Yobiko Squid), Mutsugurou no Kabayaki (Charcoaled Mudskipper) and a chicken noodle soup called Dagojiru. Perhaps the most notable aspect of Saga is the annual International Air Balloon Festival that is held there each November. Balloon fanatics from around the world come to compete, and thousands come to watch the spectacle. In the past, there was much futsushu brewed in Saga Prefecture. In recent days, however, there is much more premium sake brewed here, due to the growing amounts of Yamada Nishiki and other high quality sake brewing rice used. There are around 40 sake breweries in Saga. The breweries near mountainous parts of Saga are known for brewing more dry jizake. All Regions »