Kita-Nagaya in quaint Nakatsu is a little miracle: traditional Japanese wooden houses in small, narrow alleys, refurbished and preserved, and now filled with independent shops, offices and even a cute little inn for vacation lodging. There’s no better time to explore the area than the weekend just before Golden Week in April, when Kita-Nagaya hosts its Spring Garden Market from 11am to 4pm daily.
Held twice a year in spring and autumn, the seasonal bazaar showcases the works and wares of 47 chefs and bakers, sommeliers, artisans and artists. In addition to stalls selling handcrafted wares and bustling food and drink dealers, there will be booths for clothes dyeing, acupuncture and even fortune telling.
Completely free to enter, the market will be held rain or shine. Don’t forget to bring some cash and an umbrella with you, just in case.