Karatsu, Saga

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Map showing location of Karatsu in Saga Prefecture (as of 2006).

Karatsu Castle

Karatsu Castle #2

Karatsu (唐津市; -shi) is a city located in Saga Prefecture on the island of Kyūshū, Japan. Its name, formed by the kanji "kara" (China), and "tsu" (port), signifies its historical importance as a link between Japan and China.

As of May 1, 2005, the city had an estimated population of 132,330 and a population density of 271 persons per km². The total area was 487.42 km².

[edit] History

The city was founded on January 1, 1932.

On January 1, 2005, six towns and one village that belonged to Higashimatsuura District merged with the city to replace the former organization of this city. This merger made Karatsu the largest city in Saga Prefecture.

On January 1, 2006, the village of Nanayama from Higashimatsuura District merged into the city of Karatsu.

[edit] Culture and Tourism

The graceful Karatsu Castle stands watch over this castle town.

Karatsu is famous for its Karatsu Kunchi festival, which runs annually from November 2nd to November 4th and is visited by approximately 500,000 visitors. The festival consists primarily of hikiyama (floats) being carried around the city's narrow streets to cheers of "Enya! Enya" from the spectators. It is also well-known for its pottery.