In Saga Prefecture, tucked away in the tranquil mountains of Kyushu, lies a cultural treasure known to those who seek depth over spectacle. Here, natural hot springs and traditional craftsmanship coexist in perfect harmony.

Ureshino Onsen, Takeo Onsen, and the historic pottery town of Arita offer a journey where the warmth of the hands—whether in shaping clay or drawing hot spring water—can truly be felt. These are places that leave a quiet yet lasting impression. Whether you stay for one or two nights, this is a journey into Japanese aesthetics, serenity, and the quiet art of living well.

Ureshino Onsen – A Silken Soak in Japan’s Famous “Beauty Bath”

Ureshino Onsen is renowned across Kyushu for its skin-smoothing waters, often celebrated as one of Japan’s top “beauty baths.” Rich in sodium bicarbonate, the water has a uniquely silky texture that gently embraces the skin—leaving it soft and smooth after each soak.

Many ryokans here offer kakenagashi (free-flowing hot spring water direct from the source), and visitors can also enjoy footbath cafés and public day-use baths, making it easy to relax no matter your travel style.

Stay in a serene riverside ryokan or a sleek, modern hot spring inn, where traditional meets contemporary comfort. Dinner features a variety of local flavors—from tender Saga beef and delicate onsen tofu, to elegant courses infused with Ureshino green tea. Each dish offers a quiet moment of nourishment and appreciation.

Ureshino is not only known for its waters, but also as one of Japan’s premier tea-producing regions. Strolling through the lush tea fields and sipping a freshly brewed cup at a local shop brings a sense of calm that warms you from within—an experience that lingers long after your visit.

Takeo Onsen – A Retro Hot Spring Town Steeped in History and Architectural Beauty

Just a 30-minute drive from Ureshino brings you to Takeo Onsen, a town where elegance and nostalgia meet. Welcoming visitors at the entrance is the striking Takeo Onsen Romon Gate, with its vivid red color and fusion of Japanese and Western design. Designed by Kingo Tatsuno, the architect of Tokyo Station, it sets the tone for a refined and memorable visit.

The onsen water here is a gentle alkaline spring—smooth on the skin yet deeply warming. Takeo’s historical bathhouses, such as the Takeo Onsen New Bathhouse, preserve the ambiance of Japan’s Meiji and Showa eras, offering a timeless experience that feels like stepping back into a more graceful age.

Beyond the baths, the town features cultural facilities like the acclaimed Takeo City Library and art galleries, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking quiet reflection, inspiration, and calm sophistication.

Arita – A 400-Year-Old Village Where Porcelain and Craftsmanship Converse

Just a short drive from Takeo lies Arita, a historic town that has been the heart of Japanese porcelain for over 400 years. Known as the birthplace of Japan’s first porcelain, Arita-yaki is celebrated for its delicate overglaze painting and the luminous translucence of its white porcelain.

Strolling through the town reveals a landscape dotted with artisan kilns, galleries, and antique shops—each a place where you can feel the warmth of craftsmanship in every carefully made vessel.

At destinations like the Arita Porcelain Park and Arita Sera, visitors can browse and purchase works directly from local kilns. For a deeper connection, hands-on pottery workshops offer the chance to create your own one-of-a-kind piece—making for a uniquely personal and creative travel experience.

Seasonal festivals, including the Arita Ceramic Fair in spring and the Autumn Pottery Festival, provide even more opportunities to experience the depth of this cultural tradition. Visiting during these times allows you to fully immerse yourself in the living heritage of Japanese ceramics.

A Quiet Journey Through Saga – Healed by Hot Springs and Handcrafted Porcelain

Traveling from Ureshino to Takeo and Arita in Saga Prefecture offers more than sightseeing—it’s a gentle, soul-soothing experience that lingers quietly in the heart. Soak in mineral-rich hot springs, feel the care of artisans through porcelain, and discover the subtle luxury of slowing down. For those seeking a journey of quiet reflection and refined beauty, this route through Saga is the perfect choice.