Top reasons to visit Imari
- Imari Shrine: A significant spiritual site, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's cultural and religious practices.
- Imari Pottery: Renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, this local art form is a must-see for culture enthusiasts.
- Okawachiyama: A scenic village known for its traditional pottery workshops, perfect for exploring nature and artistry.
- Märchen Village: A whimsical attraction ideal for families, featuring charming architecture and engaging activities.
- Local Markets: Vibrant markets where visitors can experience authentic cuisine and shop for unique souvenirs.
Find great hotels near Imari
Explore a delightful range of accommodations in Imari, Saga Prefecture, where you can choose between modern hotels and traditional ryokans. Whether you're seeking a hot spring retreat, a comfortable base for business travel, or a family-friendly experience, Imari offers various options. Notable establishments include the Imari Grand Hotel and the charming Arita Guesthouse, ensuring a memorable stay tailored to your needs.
- Sunwest Hotel Sasebo: Sunwest Hotel Sasebo is a well-rated 3-star hotel, offering a comfortable and convenient stay approximately 21km from Imari. This hotel features a blend of modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, including breakfast and lunch at the on-site restaurant. For entertainment, the hotel provides Pay Movies, Digital TV, and LED TVs in the rooms, ensuring a relaxing experience after a day of exploring the area.
- Hotel Bliss Villa Hasami: With an impressive guest rating of 9.2, Hotel Bliss Villa Hasami stands as an inviting 3-star accommodation located around 21km from Imari. The hotel offers an accessible on-site restaurant, serving breakfast alongside full breakfast options for a delightful start to your day. Guests can unwind with entertainment provided by multiple televisions, including flatscreen options, enhancing the overall comfort of their stay. Its serene environment and thoughtful amenities make it an excellent choice for a relaxing getaway.
- Mercure Saga Karatsu Resort: Mercure Saga Karatsu Resort, a 3.5-star hotel, is ideal for those wishing to indulge in a hot spring-themed vacation experience. Situated roughly 19km from Imari, this property boasts a natural hot spring, allowing guests to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of an onsen. The indoor public onsen provides a tranquil escape, complemented by the hotel’s comprehensive amenities for a rejuvenating stay. The combination of relaxation and comfort makes this hotel a noteworthy option for travellers.
Where to stay near Imari
Imari, located in Saga Prefecture, offers a delightful blend of culture and history, making it an ideal destination for family and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the charming streets of Imari city, visit the enchanting Märchen Village, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local markets. With its friendly atmosphere and rich heritage, Imari promises an unforgettable experience filled with unique adventures and picturesque spots just waiting to be discovered.
- Sasebo: Located approximately 21 kilometres from Imari, Sasebo is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly attractions and outdoor experiences. The city sees a steady flow of tourists year-round, peaking in March to April and during the summer months of July. Visitors flock to Sasebo for its entertainment-themed venues, including a popular shopping mall and resort. Among its highlights are a delightful theme park and historic sites, perfect for families looking to explore both fun and culture.
- Takeo: A mere 16 kilometres from Imari, Takeo is a charming city that offers outdoor adventures and family activities. The visitor influx is fairly consistent throughout the year, with a notable increase in April and during the late summer months of August to September. Takeo's public market and shopping centres provide a taste of local life, while attractions like the visitor centre and theme park ensure that there's something for everyone. The city's blend of adventure and leisure makes it a must-visit for those seeking a well-rounded travel experience.
- Arita: Just 11 kilometres from Imari, Arita is renowned for its historical significance and outdoor entertainment options. The city experiences a consistent number of tourists, with peaks in March to April and September. Arita is famed for its beautiful public markets and spas, providing unique experiences for visitors. The nearby private gardens and history museum offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the area. Families will appreciate Arita's focus on both enjoyment and education, making it an ideal stop on your journey.
Things to do in Imari
Shopping
In Imari, visit the Imari Shopping Street for local crafts and ceramics. If you're up for a drive, head to the Matsuura Shopping Centre, about 24km away, where you can find a variety of shops offering fashion and unique souvenirs.
Recreation
In Imari, the Seiryuu no Yu offers tranquil hot spring baths surrounded by lush nature, ideal for relaxation. Nearby, the Imari Onsen provides soothing therapies and traditional Japanese wellness experiences, allowing visitors to rejuvenate while enjoying the serene atmosphere of the Saga countryside.
Adventure
In Imari, explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills with hiking trails that offer stunning views. Experience traditional pottery-making in local workshops, where you can create your own Imari ware. Don’t miss the chance to try local delicacies at vibrant markets, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Nightlife
In Imari, the vibrant Izakayas serve delicious local cuisine alongside drinks, creating a lively atmosphere. The quiet charm of traditional tea houses offers a unique experience, while karaoke bars invite you to join in the fun with friends. Explore the local nightlife and enjoy the warm hospitality of the region.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Imari
To save money on your trip to Imari, consider visiting during the cheaper months of April, June, and September, avoiding the pricier May, August, and December. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia, especially on Wednesdays for the best rates. Utilise Expedia’s search filters to find eco-friendly options that suit your budget, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Exploring local parks and markets can provide enjoyable free activities, ensuring a memorable stay without breaking the bank.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Imari are April, June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May, August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Imari about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Imari is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Imari is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search wizard to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will present you with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Imari hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in and around Imari
Imari, located in Saga Prefecture, is an ideal destination for family-friendly and outdoor activities, offering a mix of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore Imari Shrine, renowned for its spiritual significance, and delve into the artistry of Imari pottery. Additionally, a visit to the scenic Okawachiyama adds to the charm of this vibrant area, making it a perfect spot for those seeking entertainment and nature.
- Mikaerino-taki: Located 16km from Imari, Mikaerino-taki is an enchanting forest that offers a sense of adventure and connection with nature. Wander through lush greenery, explore scenic trails, and enjoy the calming sound of cascading water, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Imari Shrine: Nestled within the heart of Imari, this shrine showcases the region's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can admire its beautiful architecture, participate in traditional rituals, and soak in the serene atmosphere that surrounds this sacred site.
- Ōkawachiyama: This historic village is steeped in culture and artistry, renowned for its traditional ceramics. Stroll through the picturesque streets, observe local artisans at work, and gain insight into the age-old craft that defines this charming community.
Best time to go to Imari
The best time to visit Imari is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Imari
Travelling to Imari, Saga Prefecture, is convenient with three major airports nearby. Kumamoto Airport (KMJ) is situated 105km away, with excellent hotels like the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kumamoto and Crowne Plaza ANA Kumamoto New Sky, both approximately 9 and 16km from the airport, respectively. Fukuoka Airport (FUK), located 61km from Imari, features luxurious options such as the 5-star Grand Hyatt Fukuoka, just 3km away. Lastly, Nagasaki Airport (NGS) is 43km from Imari, with the 4-star Hotel New Nagasaki and 3.5-star Hotel Forza Nagasaki both about 19km from the airport, ensuring comfortable stays and easy access to transport services.