Fukuoka

From the iconic Fukuoka Castle ruins to the tranquil beaches of Itoshima, the city seamlessly blends modernity with tradition.Renowned as the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen, Fukuoka is a haven for food lovers. Explore bustling yatai (food stalls) along the riverside, savor fresh seafood from local markets, or enjoy shopping in trendy districts like Tenjin.

Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, attending traditional festivals, or discovering Kyushu’s history, Fukuoka provides an unforgettable experience as the gateway to southern Japan.

Top Areas to Explore in Fukuoka

1. Hakata

• Why Visit: The historic and cultural heart of Fukuoka.
• Highlights:
  • Kushida Shrine: The centerpiece of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
  • Canal City Hakata: A massive shopping and entertainment complex.
  • Hakata Ramen: Enjoy the original tonkotsu ramen at local shops.

2. Tenjin

• Why Visit: Fukuoka’s trendy downtown area, perfect for shopping and nightlife.
• Highlights:
  • Tenjin Underground Shopping Mall: A sprawling network of shops and cafes.
  • Acros Fukuoka: A unique green building with rooftop gardens.
  • Nightlife: Explore stylish bars and izakayas in the area.

3. Dazaifu

• Why Visit: A historic town known for its ancient temples and cultural heritage.
• Highlights:
  • Dazaifu Tenmangu: A shrine dedicated to the god of learning.
  • Kyushu National Museum: A modern museum showcasing regional history.
  • Umegae Mochi: Try this local sweet at shops near the shrine.

4. Itoshima

• Why Visit: A serene escape with beautiful beaches and local crafts.
• Highlights:
  • Futamigaura: A scenic beach with the iconic “married rocks.”
  • Local Cafes: Enjoy farm-to-table dining with ocean views.
  • Outdoor Activities: Surfing, cycling, and hiking.

Experience Fukuoka Cuisine

Fukuoka is a food lover’s paradise. Start with Hakata ramen, a rich pork-bone broth paired with thin noodles. Visit yatai (food stalls) for local favorites like yakitori, oden, and tempura. Fresh seafood, including mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and sashimi, is best enjoyed at Yanagibashi Market.

For dessert, try Umegae mochi, a sweet rice cake filled with red bean paste, or Amaou strawberries, famous for their sweetness. Don’t miss mizutaki, a hearty chicken hot pot perfect for colder months.

Fukuoka: Basic Information

Location
Fukuoka is located in northern Kyushu, offering easy access to other destinations in the region.

Neighboring Areas
Saga, Oita, Kumamoto, Nagasaki

Best Seasons to Visit

• Spring (March to May): Cherry blossoms at Maizuru Park and along the Naka River.
• Autumn (October to November): Enjoy autumn leaves at Aburayama and Dazaifu Tenmangu.
• Summer (June to August): Experience vibrant festivals like Hakata Gion Yamakasa.

How to Get to Fukuoka

By Air
Fukuoka Airport is just 10 minutes from the city center by subway, offering both domestic and international flights.

By Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
The Sanyo Shinkansen connects Fukuoka (Hakata Station) with major cities like Osaka (2.5 hours) and Hiroshima (1 hour).

By Ferry
Ferries link Fukuoka with Busan, South Korea, as well as other parts of Kyushu and Japan.

Transportation in Fukuoka

Fukuoka’s compact layout makes it easy to navigate:

• Subway: Covers key areas like Hakata, Tenjin, and the airport.
• Buses: Nishitetsu buses provide extensive coverage, including Dazaifu and Itoshima.
• Taxis: Convenient and relatively affordable for short distances.
• Walking: Many attractions, especially in Tenjin and Hakata, are within walking distance.