You may not have heard of the Saga Collective yet, a group of craftsmen and producers on a mission to share Saga Prefecture’s rich history, traditions, and products.
If you have not heard of them, they are definitely someone to keep an eye on. Because their artisanal approach built on traditions and combined with an innovative mindset has already gained them much following.
And what is nobler than the Saga Collectives philosophy of “Creating products that make everyday life a little more beautiful”? Isn’t it something we all dream to achieve? The good news is they have already started, and the even better news is, they are not just doing this domestically, but have a plan to also reach an overseas audience. So whether you are here in Japan or not, you will have a chance to discover this unique brand from Saga Prefecture.
Where is this “Saga Prefecture”?
A legitimate question. As most of us, when visiting Japan, tend to plan our trips around famous destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto or Hiroshima. This often makes us miss out on some of the lesser-known places, the off-the-beaten-track, the ones full of local culture. And Saga Prefecture is exactly that.
Located in Kyushu and being its smallest prefecture Saga is still a well-kept secret. But with amazing Events and Products coming from the area, it comes at no surprise that Saga is slowly being discovered. Especially, as people are looking to find getaways when staying at nearby Fukuoka. And rightly so.
But what is Saga Prefecture Famous for?
Probably the most famous towns in Saga are Arita and Imari. Also being called the birthplaces of Japanese ceramics. Having a reputation for their beautiful and artisan porcelain.
But that’s not all, as with its diverse scenery, Saga prefecture is also home to some of the best Sake Brewers, Yuzu Products and has a long history of outstanding green tea producers. Which in fact, is the reason that this small prefecture has decided to create the Saga Collective.
The Saga Collective and its people
This group consists of artisan producers and creatives trying to preserve Sagas culture and traditions. With an aim to promote and showcase the best the Saga prefecture has to offer. And yes, it comes at no surprise after meeting some of them I have been immensely impressed with the products, but even more with the people who make them and their passion. With a few products standing out o course, especially having a personal weak spot for Ceramics, Yuzu and Japanese Sake.
Saga Collective products to watch out for!
Porcelain
I was especially surprised by the ceramic bento box made by Arita Porcelain (有田焼). With a truly contemporary design, they still manage to keep the traditional feel. And with a wide range of plates and dishes, including Sake cups, Arita Porcelain is really one of my personal highlights within this collective.
Sake
And speaking of Sake cups, they have the matching beverage too! With Tenzan Sake, an old standing brewery making Nihonshu since 1875. You will not just find delicious premium Sake, but also a Sparkling Sake variety, comparable to french champagne.
Green Tea
For those not that interested in alcoholic beverages, the collective has you covered with an array of Green tea varieties, you won’t be left thirsty. Have a look at Tokunaga Seicha or Onohara Seichadonya for more information. They are both worth a trip, but if you cannot make that the good news is there is an online shop too!
Yuzu
A very Japanese ingredient and favor, one we often do not know before visiting Japan. In the family of citrus fruits its both refreshing and dare I say good for your health? So if you do get the chance, make sure you try it. Especially if you can get your hands on any of the Yuzu Citrus Products from Mifukuan as they are amazing. With their “Yuzu Kosho” a kind of spicy chili and yuzu paste, something you will crave for a long time.
Conclusion
Saga Collective’s aim to make everyday life a little more beautiful is not just admirable but can be found in each maker’s product. With attention to detail, passion, and kindness they are carrying their vision forward and I cannot but highly recommend keeping an eye on them.
With all these amazing products I am curious to see what else this small prefecture has to offer. With their skill to manage to fuse history and functionality to bring their product into today’s everyday life, this is definitely a destination worth traveling too.
For more information also visit their official Homepage, where you can also find all People involved and more details about each product.
