Kawasaki, town in Tagawa district, Fukuoka prefecture, Japan
Kawasaki is a small town in Fukuoka Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, with homes spread across hilly and mostly mountainous terrain. Quiet streets and simple buildings characterize the area, while fertile soil and flowing rivers support local farming of vegetables, fruits, and rice.
The town traces its origins to small villages that merged to form Kawasaki Village in the late 1800s and became an official town in 1938. A devastating river embankment failure in 1960 after heavy rains caused significant losses and prompted major changes in flood management practices.
Kawasaki's name refers to 'river and cape', reflecting its geographic location. Residents share local recipes and participate in events like the Kawasaki Pan-Paku Bread Fair, where visitors can enjoy fresh bread and dishes made from vegetables and fruits grown in the town.
Kawasaki is easily reached by train, bus, or car and sits close to major cities like Fukuoka and Kitakyushu with straightforward routes through countryside. Visitors can explore local products at markets and restaurants like Laputa Farm, which serves over 60 dishes made from regionally grown ingredients.
A notable part of local history is the 15th century Zen monk Sesshu, who lived in the mountains near Kawasaki and created Gyoraku-en, a Japanese garden with distinct views for each season that is protected as a national treasure. Built as a symbol of peace during an era of warfare, the garden remains a calm space for visitors today.
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