Karatsu 2.54

Karatsu is a city located in Saga Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, Japan. Its name, formed from the Japanese word roots 唐 kara (China, or continental East Asia in general), and 津 tsu (port), signifies its historical importance as an ancient trading port between Japan with China and Korea. The central area of Karatsu, which does not include the former cities and villages of Higashimatsuura District, has a population of 78,386.As of October 1, 2016, the city has an estimated population of 121,684 and a population density of 250 persons per km². The total area is 487.42 km².On January 1, 2005, the towns of Chinzei, Hamatama, Hizen, Kyūragi, Ōchi and Yobuko. and the village of Kitahata (all from Higashimatsuura District) were merged into Karatsu.On January 1, 2006, the village of Nanayama (from Higashimatsuura District) was merged into Karatsu.GeographyDue to its proximity to mainland Asia, Karatsu has long been known as a stopover to Korea and China. Mountains: Mt. Sakurei (887.1 m), Mt. Hachiman (763.6 m), Mt. Tonbo (535 m)