Remember those Hakata dolls? Sawara Ward is not just Fukuoka’s largest ward. It has some interesting stories to tell.
Sawara Ward is made up of neighborhoods. These neighborhoods each boast unique points. There is the Seaside Momochi area. It is home to the iconic Fukuoka Tower. There is also the Fukuoka City Museum. The Nishijin/Fujisaki area has a bustling shopping district. You will also find convenient transportation. The Muromi River area is famous for ice goby fishing. People jog or stroll along the river. The Noke/Kamo area has peaceful residential neighborhoods. Mount Sefuri’s natural beauty can be enjoyed all year. It is in the southern part of Sawara Ward.
Let’s dive deeper into what makes Sawara Ward special. The Nogouchi River Valley is a refreshing oasis. People escape the summer heat there. It is not far from Fukuoka’s center. This ravine is 3.2km long. It has a maintained hiking trail. It is a great place for a relaxing nature walk. You can enjoy the diverse landscape. There are waterfalls, deep river waters and natural rocks. The birds sing a healing song. The deep green forest forms a backdrop. You can relax to the sound of the mountain stream.
Magarifuchi Dam Park is another interesting location. It is a 30-minute walk from Nogouchi River Valley. The park has ample parking. There are also restrooms. At the foot of the dam you will find natural greenery. Seasonal delights include cherry blossoms in spring. You can also see autumn leaves in the fall. The embankment rises into the sky. Birdwatching is ideal here. You can pack a picnic lunch. You can relax here all day.
The Kajiwara Hakata Doll Workshop is also located here. Hakata dolls have a rich history of over 400 years. The dolls are made out of Earthen clay. These figurines are characterized by their soft texture. Shouji Kajiwara owns the workshop. He is a nationally recognized traditional artisan. He is a central figure in the Hakata doll world. You can experience painting your own Hakata doll here. Figurines include animals such as dogs and cats. The clay comes from Mt. Aburayama. The paints are mixed with binding agents. This ensures vibrant color.
Wakky Suki No Sato is another point of interest. It is a 20-minute walk from the Kajiwara Hakata Doll Workshop. Local Wakiyama farmers sell their products here. About 100 local producers run the shop. City dwellers and farmers come together here. Wakiyama Rice was once offered to Emperor Showa. It is cultivated with pure spring water from Mt. Sefuri. The climate has significant temperature variation. This gives the rice a delicious flavor. The shop offers over 100 items. You can find vegetables, flowers and Hakata dolls.
Yamataka Shoyu is a soy sauce brewery. It is an 8-minute drive from Wakky Suki No Sato. Fukuoka is known for its sweet soy sauce. This brewery has used traditional techniques for over 100 years. They sell rich, flavorful soy sauce. They have traditional soy sauces. They also have innovative flavors. These include sashimi soy sauce, dashi-flavored soy sauce and butter soy sauce. In 2019, Yamataka Shoyu reopened after renovations. There is now a small restaurant. You can enjoy Japanese-style set meals. You can also try soy sauce pudding and soy sauce cakes.
So, Sawara Ward blends urban life with natural beauty. It offers unique experiences. From river valleys to traditional crafts, Sawara Ward invites exploration.