Kitahata, birthplace of Karatsu ware

Legend of the Tokusue River Goblins

The Tokusue River runs through the center of Kitahata, and legend says that it is the home of water goblins, or kappa.

Once residing in the upper Yellow River in China, the goblins traveled downstream, crossing over the Korean Peninsula and the Genkai Sea, finally to settle in Kitahata's Tokusue River.

Kappa are portrayed in legend as winsome and mischievous creatures, who enjoy playing pranks on humans, but whose pranks often fail because they are discovered. These humorous, lovable are waiting to meet you at the bridge.
　

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Chinquapin and mountain camellia grow wild in the mountains surrounding Kitahata. Ferns grow on the forest floor, home to many varieties of insects.
The banks of the Tokusue River are home to Mandarin ducks and Kingfishers, as well as fish, including Sweetfish.
Fossilized shark's teeth and Nautilus shells have been unearthed from the river strata, and are on display at the Takeo Space and Science Museum. The Nautilus shell is the largest of its kind in Japan.