Welcome to Saikai! We welcome you to the small towns of Oshima, Oseto, Saikai, Sakito, and Seihi. Here we have fantastic views, foods, and culture to explore. Let’s hear from some of the Saikai ALTs on their must-go spots around Saikai!
Click here to visit Saikai’s local city website for more information on events, tourism, and city specific rules and practices on topics such as disaster prevention and evacuation etc.
Oshima
Karl recommends going to Studio Hikobae (カフェ＆菓子工房 ひこばえ) for a bite to eat. Nestled in the hills of Oshima and run by a sweet elderly couple, this cafe offers tasty food and cakes. Pictured here is one of their lunch specialties, their French Toast which he recommends! If you are ever in the area, do stop by and say hi! Oshima also offers various farm-picking activities such as hand picking your own tomatoes. If you would like to try to be a farmer for a day be sure to stop by during the various cropping seasons.
Seihi
Bio Park has a special place in our hearts as Saikai ALTs’ for better or for worse. You can see many different types of animals and insects here. If you want to spend time walking around with nature and animals, this is the place to be. For the more adventurous among us, head out to Tashima Camping Island where you can spend the night on your own island. Have fun with their adventure activities on land, swim in the sea, then clean up in a traditional barrel bath. Just you and your friends to fend for yourselves until you’re collected at the end of your trip. Saikai Bashi Park on the other hand is home to one of the premium Cherry Blossom spots in all of Nagasaki, if not Kyushu. People come from all over to walk around and enjoy the falling leaves that overlook the magnificent twin Saikai bridges that span over the dangerous whirlpool-filled waters below. As you head more inland, Sohonzan Shrine has a massive tori gate that will make you double take as you’re driving through Seihi. Behind the gate you will feel at peace as you walk leisurely throughout the grounds hearing nothing but the sound of nature all around you.
Saikai
The first spot to visit on a trip to Nagasaki is the Mikan Dome. Packed full of information on the area with an emphasis on Saikai’s sustainability goals, it’s also where you can purchase locally-produced goods such as fruits, vegetables, and pottery. When you’re driving through Saikai don’t forget to stop at the most delicious sweet shop around. I Said Sweets Cafè or お菓子のいわした, has heavenly cakes and a warm atmosphere. You can enjoy various Saikai-themed cakes that showcase the uniqueness of Saikai. If you would like an outdoor experience take your cakes to go and head to Isonoura Park. This is a great spot to visit for a day out during cherry blossom season, a must-visit on any tour of the cherry blossom spots of Nagasaki. Rent a bike and enjoy the scenic 5km loop around Isanora Lake taking in its beautiful groves, head off the beaten track and walk along the gorge below the dam and get some unique views of the suspension bridge, or have a BBQ in the park on the edge of the crystal clear water. Another cafe to visit is Hoget. Hoget is Saikai’s newest and hottest coffee stop with a reservable workspace. A unique building selling fantastic coffee and cakes, or if you fancy something savoury pick up a locally made bagel. Regularly hosting events that showcase Saikai’s shops, food stops, and locally produced crafts. It’s a great spot to grab a picture for your socials. Save some camera storage for Nanatsugama Limestone caves as they are one of the must see spots in Saikai. You will feel as if you are on an adventure as you travel your way through the many tunnels in the cave only to be met with a beautiful bridge and view of the forest after you exit. Be sure to wear comfy clothes and grab a Ramune drink on your way out after the small hike.
Oseto
Dee recommends coming to Oseto if you want to see a beautiful sunset like no other. As you drive down Route 202 or famously nicknamed Sunset Road be sure to stop at Yukinouradoro Park and Shirikusarikaihin Koen Camping Ground for a breathtaking view of the sea that is so beautiful that locals say that once you sit down your butt will rot as you’ll never want to stand up again. Looking to escape the heat then be sure to check out Tsugane Waterfall in the summer. The short walk to the base of the waterfall takes you through a small cave tunnel and along a forested path before arriving at the plunge pool where you can paddle in the shallows. For the audiophiles, the place to go is the Sound Shower Museum. Nestled amongst the scenic mountains East of Oseto you can enjoy a massive selection of vinyl, cassette, and CDs which you can listen to on their wide selection of players and incredible speakers. There is also a tour through the history of music audio devices with their collection of over 500 items that is worth taking part of. Heading off the main island Matsushima is a must-visit for any park lover. Only a short ferry ride from Oseto enjoy walking around the island on your way to Japan’s Smallest Park and take in the breathtaking views of the East China Sea. Just be sure not to miss the last ferry back.
Sakito
There is no place better for a view of the sea and beyond than the 33rd Parallel North Observation deck. The winding roads and bridges will bring you to a picturesque scene like no other. Whether in the early mornings or in the evening, this is a great place to walk around and see the many islands off the coast of Saikai. Great during the day, and stunning during sunset, Kaihin Beach truly shines due to its completely open ocean views. There are many beaches around Saikai but this one is unbeatable once evening comes. As you drive around Nagasaki you will pass by rare and beautifully crafted bus stops, and fortunately you will be able to spot them as you drive around Sakito as well. Many visitors travel across the two bridges leading off the main island to visit the Sakito arakabu fish bus stop. Home to many cute cats and an amazing view of the sea, waiting for the local bus has never been so exciting.
You’ll find no place like Saikai anywhere else. It’s a city still connected with many local traditions and its history with many families living there for hundreds of years. As you drive through the small coastal towns you will be met with a great view of lush farming lands and workers doing their best to grow the freshest fruits and vegetables around. Sustainability is an important aspect of everyday life to maintain the beautiful nature that Saikai is known for. As you travel through Nagasaki be sure to put Saikai on your places to go.
