Known for its natural beauty, Takeo is a picturesque city in the Saga Prefecture. Explore its historic shrines, admire the colorful landscapes of a traditional Japanese garden or soak in the healing waters where powerful leaders have gone to recharge.
Things to do in Takeo
Admire a piece of Takeo’s history at the Takeo Shrine. It’s the oldest shrine in Saga City and features a sacred tree that’s over 3,000 years old. The “Couple Cypress” is another notable natural landmark, where two cypress trees are entangled and give the image of a happily-married couple.
Takeo Onsen has lured in the likes of powerful feudal lords, craftsmen and soldiers for over 1,300 years, as its silky waters contain a high concentration of sodium bicarbonate. Unwind with a trip to one of the public bathhouses, then visit the Takeo Onsen Shinkan to see tiled Roman baths and tatami-covered rest areas in its museum galleries.
Enjoy a scenic stroll around Arita Porcelain Park, which offers a small taste of Germany with its European-themed architecture. This expansive park also gives you a chance to browse works from the Meiji Period, tour a sake brewery or admire traditional Arita-yaki pottery.
Walk amongst the beautifully-landscaped Keishu Garden, where a tranquil pond is surrounded by a tea plantation and seasonal displays of colorful foliage. Next door is the Yoko Museum, full of ceramics, porcelain and works of art made from jade dating back to ancient China.
Getting around Takeo
Exploring Takeo is best done by car, bus or on foot. Fukuoka Airport is 1.5 hours away by car or train, while the JR Kyushu Jet Ferry service takes three hours to reach Busan.