Kyushu Street Food: Yatai Food Tour in Karatsu (Saga)

Near the Higashi Matsuura Peninsula in Saga Prefecture, Karatsu was once a thriving castle town acting as the gateway to Korea and China. Today, this tranquil seaside city boasts spectacular coastal scenery, cultural landmarks like its historic castle, unique artisanal crafts like e-garatsu pottery, and a fascinating food scene. To taste the authentic local flavors, look no further than Karatsu City’s Yatai Mura, a cluster of street food stalls tucked under railroad tracks only about 20 minutes on foot from Karatsu Castle. After meeting your guide and the rest of the group, you’ll stroll to the yatai area, where you’ll visit up to two stalls, one of which is famous for its extensive menu comprising 50 unique dishes. Try local delicacies like squid shumai dumplings, avocado with boiled octopus, and shellfish dishes, or chow down on regional Kyushu staples like champon, a Chinese-inspired noodle dish that originated in Nagasaki. Your guide will be there to snap photos upon request and offer recommendations on sightseeing and other food attractions in the area so that you make the most of your time in Kyushu.