Chikugo Area Route

Enjoy the Instagram-worthy sweets at this highly-rated shop that puts their "cocoro" (“heart”) into their chocolates.

Located in a repurposed Edo Period building that was originally a sake shop, this is a place that introduces the history and charming towns of Yame-Fukushima, and at the cafe, you can enjoy Yame's pride - "Yame Dento Hon Gyokuryo" green tea. There are also 3 different spaces that can be used either individually or by groups (for a fee).

At Hirokawa Indigo Market, there are lots of goods and local souvenirs on sale, including the famous Kurume "Kasuri" patterned fabrics and Yame green tea. It's also possible to get information on tours of the Kurume Kasuri ateliers. At Sato Cafe Machiko no Oyatsu, enjoy a selection of baked goods and light meals made with locally sourced Hirokawa produce. Take-out is also available. The restrooms are also quite spacious.

Since the Edo Period, Ohana was the residence of the Tachibana family, the feudal lords of the Yanagawa clan. The whole property is currently designated as a national scenic spot named Tachibana-shi Teien, where many tourists come and visit.

Koinoki Shrine was built as a sub-shrine to Mizuta Tenmangu Shrine, and is the only shrine in the whole of the country with a god of love deity enshrined. People think that Michizane Sugawara must have been missing the Emperor and his family and this shrine is dedicated to finding success in love and relationships. Lots of young people enjoy visiting the shrine, particularly to wish for success in love, and to take pictures of the heart-festooned main shrine.