Taku and Kanzaki: Confucius Shrine and Hometown of Ancient Romance in Saga's Inland Area

Taku Seibyo: A Rare Existing Confucius Shrine, Only 3 in Japan

"Taku Seibyo (Taku Confucius Shrine)" in Taku City, Saga Prefecture, is a Confucius shrine built in 1708 (Hoei 5), designated as a National Important Cultural Property. It is a precious cultural property as existing Confucius shrines exist in only 3 locations nationwide: Yushima Seido (Tokyo), Ashikaga Gakko (Tochigi), and Taku Seibyo (Saga).

History of Taku Seibyo

Taku domain lord Taku Shigefumi established the Confucius shrine and domain school "Togen Shosha" for the purpose of "promoting learning and developing human talent." Functioning as a domain school that produced many talented individuals, it conveys the tradition of learning of Saga domain to the present. The Confucius ceremony "Sekiten" is held every April and November.

Strolling Around the Seibyo

"Taku Shrine" and "Taku City Local Museum" are in the vicinity of Taku Seibyo, allowing learning of Taku's history and culture. Seasonal nature including spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage can also be enjoyed.

Kanzaki City and Yoshinogari

Kanzaki City (Kanzaki-shi), also in the inland area like Taku City, is the nearest city to "Yoshinogari Historical Park." The city is also a production area for Kanzaki somen (one of Japan's three great somen), with the tradition of hand-stretched somen continuing.

Access

Nearest station for Taku City is JR Karatsu Line "Taku Station" (approximately 20 minutes from JR Saga Station). Nearest station for Kanzaki City is JR Nagasaki Main Line "Kanzaki Station."