Sasebo, Japan
Sasebo City is Japan’s second largest city in Nagasaki Prefecture located in the northwest of Kyushu, which is the westernmost island. The incredible 3D landscape including its two magnificent mountains, Mt. Eboshi and Mt. Shokan near the coast along with Sasebo Port which opened in 1889 as the first post-war trading port in Western Japan attracts many tourists.
Kujuku Islands, that were designated as Japan’s westernmost national park on the sea in 1955 has coastlines that are often intricate, and breathtakingly beautiful and are the greatest assets of Sasebo City. Regardless of the weather the arcade is the perfect place for souvenir shopping where you can buy almost anything that your heart desires. Each January 2nd there is Hatsuuri which is a bargain sale starting in the early morning. You can buy foods, clothes as well as large items or you can also have a meal or take a coffee break at one of the eateries or coffee houses around the arcade.
It is imperative that you experience the pride of Sasebo, Mikawachi Pottery which has a history that goes back almost 400 years and is a work of art. The techniques of Mikawachi Pottery pieces are made using the traditional technique including Karakoe and Sukashibori (carved openwork) and these incredible pieces are still being produced today.
And lastly the aquarium in the Saikai Pearl Sea Center exhibits many creatures and has a Touching Pool in which you can actually touch the creatures, and a tank for learning how to feed the fish.. It also houses Fune-no Tenjikan (Ship Museum) that presents the history of ships through models and videos. Also visit the pearl harvesting corner where you can try your hands at harvesting a pearl from a pearl oyster farmed in Kujuku Islands ninety-nine islands.