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 first long weekend in November, when Kita-Nagaya hosts its Autumn Garden Market from 11am to 4pm daily.
Held twice a year in spring and autumn, the seasonal bazaar showcases the works and wares of some 60 chefs and bakers, sommeliers, artisans, writers and artists. In addition to stalls selling handcrafted wares and bustling food and drink dealers, there will be booths for therapeutic massages, haircuts, fortune telling and even kintsugi workshops.
Completely free to enter, the market will be held rain or shine, but may be cancelled in case of inclement weather. Don’t forget to bring some cash and an umbrella with you, just in case.