Saga International Balloon Fiesta | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

Saga International Balloon Fiesta

Be amazed by the stunning beauty of balloons floating in the sky! This is Asia's largest sky sports event, offering a truly breathtaking experience.

17 Sep 2026 See More

I had long dreamed of seeing the world-famous Saga International Balloon Fiesta after watching it on a travel show. On this fall trip to Kyushu, I specifically arranged to take the distinctive “36+3” train there. Unfortunately, despite all the planning, the event was canceled just before it began because high river levels had affected the venue.

Although disappointed, I still couldn’t give up and went to the site. It felt bittersweet to see the temporary Balloon Saga Station, which had been opened especially for the festival. On the vast, empty field, I occasionally saw a few skilled balloonists who had traveled from various countries and were itching to fly, launching a handful of hot air balloons when they had the chance. The scene felt both lonely and a little romantic.

Perhaps this is what travel is really like. Having something left unfinished gives me a reason to visit Saga again. After leaving the venue, I headed into the city to visit the Saga Balloon Museum, where the many interactive exhibits allowed me to fulfill some of my longing for the sky. I hope that next time, I’ll truly be able to stand in the breeze and see the sky filled with colorful hot air balloons.

Other Reviews by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

Takeo Onsen Station Café Kairodo

A café located inside Takeo Onsen Station on the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen line, offering a convenient place to relax while waiting for your train. Inside, you can enjoy treats such as gelato made with Amaou, a premium strawberry from Fukuoka known for its clean, refreshing sweetness. The café also serves full meals, including dishes like the Saga Beef Steak Sukiyaki-Style Set Meal.
- Saga
- Cafés
17 Sep 2026 See More

I once rode the dreamlike Kyushu sightseeing train “Futatsu Boshi 4047” and tried the delicious bento that won the Kyushu Bento Competition. Ever since then, I had longed to visit KAIRODO, the place behind it. Enjoying it on the train had its own special charm, but for Taiwanese people accustomed to hot food, it still felt like it was missing that satisfying warmth.

This time, I made a special trip to Takeo Onsen, so of course I had to visit the original KAIRODO location inside Takeo Onsen Station. I ordered the Saga beef bento I had been dreaming of and asked the staff to heat it up. The moment I opened the piping-hot bento, its aroma immediately filled the air, and the first bite was truly unforgettable.

Unlike the rich fat of some wagyu, which can easily become too heavy, the marbling in Saga beef is extremely fine and evenly distributed. The meat is tender yet retains a light, savory aroma and sweetness, making it hard to stop eating slice after slice. It completely satisfied my taste buds. If you’re also a train enthusiast or food lover, don’t miss this understated eatery when visiting Takeo Onsen.
Takeo Shrine

It is a 1200-year-old shrine located at the eastern foot of Mt.Mifune. Takeuchi no Sukune, the main deity, is known as the god of the longest life span in Japan and is said to bring good fortune, good luck, and protection from bad luck.
- Saga
- Shrines & Temples
17 Sep 2026 See More

I recommend taking a morning stroll through the peaceful town of Takeo Onsen. When I walked to Takeo Shrine, there were almost no tourists, only a few local residents stopping by to pray, adding to the mysterious and solemn atmosphere. The shrine grounds are tranquil and elegant, especially the strings of charming, romantic umbrella-shaped fortunes swaying gently in the breeze. It was an unforgettable and beautiful sight.

After visiting the main shrine, don’t forget to continue along the quiet path behind it. The towering trees on both sides fill the air with phytoncides. After a short walk, you’ll see the magnificent sacred Great Camphor Tree of Takeo, which is more than 3,000 years old. Standing before the enormous tree and looking up, quietly feeling the mysterious power and serenity of nature spanning thousands of years, is a wonderful experience that cleanses the body, mind, and spirit.
Takeo City Library and Historical Museum

Takeo City Library is a new type of library featuring a café and the Tsutaya bookstore where visitors can purchase books, magazines, and other interesting items. Making good use of wood, the structure has a warm and cozy feeling in its expansive reading room. An enormous number of books fill the impressive bookshelves built from the floor to the ceiling.
- Saga
- Museums
17 Sep 2026 See More

Starting from Takeo-Onsen Station, if you want more freedom to explore this small town, consider renting a bicycle from the tourist information center at the station. I chose to start from the hot spring inn Kyoto-ya, and after a short walk, I arrived at Takeo City Library. You can also visit the nearby Takeo Shrine along the way.

Known as one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, it seamlessly combines a public library with a Tsutaya bookstore. The soaring wooden interior and curved bookshelves are magnificent, while sunlight streams through the large floor-to-ceiling windows into the book-filled space. As I walked around, local residents quietly and comfortably browsed and read books, with the aroma of coffee drifting nearby. The atmosphere was incredibly relaxing. If you want to take photos, remember to use the designated photo spots so you don’t disturb others.

What surprised me most was the separate library next door designed especially for children, combining playful charm with stylish design. This cultural place, where modern arts and culture blend seamlessly with everyday local life, has an unforgettable charm, filled with the gentle scent of books.