Niji no Matsubara: One of Japan's Three Great Pine Groves, White Sand and Blue Pines of Karatsu Bay

Niji no Matsubara: One of Japan's Three Great Pine Groves Adorning Karatsu Bay

"Niji no Matsubara (Rainbow Pine Grove)" spreading along Karatsu Bay in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, is a pine grove where approximately 1 million black pine trees grow over approximately 4.5 kilometers long and approximately 500 meters wide. Designated as a National Special Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument, it is one of "Japan's Three Great Pine Groves" alongside Miho no Matsubara (Shizuoka) and Kehi no Matsubara (Fukui).

History of the Pine Grove

Niji no Matsubara is said to have begun when Karatsu domain lord Terazawa Hirotaka planted pines for windbreak and sand control in the early Edo period (1600s). A pine forest with over 400 years of history, pine protection and cultivation continues today.

Strolling and Ocean Swimming in the Pine Grove

Walking paths are developed within the pine grove, allowing enjoyable experiences walking through filtered pine sunlight. Ocean swimming can also be enjoyed in summer at the sandy beach adjacent to the pine grove. The scenery of Karatsu Bay visible through the pine grove is also exceptional.

Combined Tourism with Karatsu Castle

"Karatsu Castle (Maizuru Castle)" adjacent to Niji no Matsubara is a castle built in 1608. From the castle tower, a full view of Niji no Matsubara and Karatsu Bay can be seen at a glance — an excellent photo spot.

Access

Nearest station is JR Chikuhi Line "Niji no Matsubara Station." Two stops from Karatsu Station (approximately 5 minutes). Karatsu Castle is approximately 15 minutes on foot from Karatsu Station.