From Fukuoka: Japan's Westernmost Point, Ouo Shrine & Saga Castle

Mainland Japan's westernmost point
Kozakibana Park

Meet at 8:00 at Lawson in front of the Chikushi exit of Hakata Station and depart at 8:10. At Kozakibana Park in Sasebo, one of the four extreme points of mainland Japan, spend about 30 minutes enjoying the sea views and the westernmost-point monument. On clear days you can see as far as the Goto Islands. Then receive your westernmost-point visit certificate at the certificate office (about 10 minutes).

Ouo Shrine and Yutoku Inari Shrine

At Ouo Shrine in Tara, Saga, spend about 80 minutes admiring the three red torii standing in the Ariake Sea. At low tide you can walk to the torii; at high tide they seem to float on the water. Next, explore the crimson buildings and stone-step paths of Yutoku Inari Shrine in Kashima, one of Japan's three great Inari shrines, for about 30 minutes. Depending on the weather, there is a lunch break of about 1 hour near Ouo Shrine or Yutoku Inari Shrine (meal at your own cost).

Saga Castle, the castle on the water

At Saga Castle, one of Japan's 100 Fine Castles, spend about 30 minutes seeing its wide moat and the restored Honmaru History Museum, which shows Edo-period domain administration and samurai life. Admission is free. Afterward, return to Hakata.

※ The schedule may change slightly due to Japanese bus operating-hour regulations.