Karatsu

This coastal city in Saga Prefecture on Kyushu, Karatsu sits on Genkai-nada bay with scenic viewpoints across the surrounding area and UNESCO World Heritage sites within reach in the wider region. Its name — combining the Japanese words for "China" and "port" — reflects its long history as a trading hub linking Japan with continental East Asia, a role that shaped the city's character and position on the island of Kyushu.

• Population117,663
• Nearest water0.2 km
• Nearest mountain2.5 km
• UNESCO within 50 km2