Fukuoka Trip Tips

History

Fukuoka Prefecture has long been a center of exchange. During the Edo period (1603-1867), it flourished as a commercial center and a diverse culture blossomed. From the Meiji period to the Showa period (1926-1989), industry developed and the Kitakyushu Industrial Zone was formed. After World War II, manufacturing and the coal industry flourished, and after the oil crisis, the city expanded into the field of advanced technology. Fukuoka City is highly rated as one of the world’s most livable cities. Fukuoka Prefecture offers an attractive living environment with nature, low land prices and cost of living, and a concentration of commercial facilities.

Culture

Traditional events are deeply rooted in Fukuoka Prefecture, with events such as the Hakata Dontaku Matsuri and Hakata Gion Yamakasa attracting many tourists. There are also facilities where visitors can enjoy Kabuki and Noh plays, as well as the National Museum and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences. With professional baseball, soccer, basketball, and rugby teams, visitors can also enjoy watching sports. The traditional food culture is also an attraction, represented by the Hakata Dontaku Festival and yatai (food stall) culture. Local specialties include Hakata dolls, Hakata textiles, spicy cod roe, tonkotsu ramen (pork bone ramen), and steamed eel.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

It is a historical shrine and one of the most important cultural properties in Japan. It is dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, known as the god of literature. Throughout the year, the shrine is visited by approximately 10 million worshippers, including students preparing for entrance exams. There are many souvenir stores on the approach to the temple.  

Itoshima (island)

Located in the northern part of Fukuoka Prefecture, Itoshima City is a scenic regional city, surrounded by a beautiful coastline, lush green mountains, and a natural environment where agriculture and fishing are thriving. Fishing, agriculture, and livestock farming are thriving in the area, and the fish, vegetables, and meat of Itoshima are described as “delicious. The city is a comfortable place to live where nature and convenience are in harmony, and the sea and mountains offer opportunities for surfing, fishing, and hiking. 2010 saw the merger of the two cities into Itoshima City, which is conveniently located within 30-40 minutes by train from the center of Fukuoka City. It is also an attractive tourist destination, hosting a variety of events such as outdoor music festivals and craft festivals, and offering a variety of leisure spots for swimming, surfing, driving, and outdoor activities. Blessed with nature, Itoshima City is recommended as a destination for spiritual healing.

Ruins of Fukuoka Castle

Fukuoka Castle was built by Nagamasa Kuroda, the first lord of Fukuoka, and is also called “Maizuru Castle” because it resembles the shape of a crane when viewed from Hakata Bay. Today, the castle’s stone walls and the observatory at the site of the main keep are open to the public. This castle and the surrounding area of about 480,000 square meters are designated as a national historic site, and the remains of turrets, stonewalls, and other structures still remain. Although there is no existing castle itself, Fukuoka Castle is a sightseeing spot where visitors can enjoy turrets, stonewalls, and other cultural assets, as well as seasonal flowers.

Mojiko Port Retro

Mojiko Port in northern Fukuoka Prefecture flourished as a center of international trade in the Meiji era (1868-1912), and was home to historical buildings, businesses, stores, and restaurants. JR Mojiko Port Station was designated a National Important Cultural Property, and in 1995 was revitalized as a new tourist attraction, Mojiko Port Retro.

Hakata Ramen

Hakata ramen is a typical noodle dish of Fukuoka and is especially famous. It features a pork bone broth-based soup and the perfect combination of sticky, thick noodles. There are numerous ramen restaurants where you can enjoy tonkotsu ramen. In addition, bean sprouts, green onions, gyoza (dumplings), and seasoned eggs are common toppings for Hakata Ramen.

Motsu nabe

Motsu nabe is a typical Fukuoka nabe dish, in which the entrails (beef entrails) are simmered in a special broth of soy sauce, miso, or salt. The motsu has a unique texture and is usually enjoyed with grated ponzu (Japanese citrus juice) or sesame sauce. Especially on cold winter days, motsu nabe is a warm and tasty meal.

Mentaiko

Mentaiko, or spicy cod roe, is pickled spicy fish roe. It is one of Fukuoka’s representative ingredients and can be enjoyed over rice or as a snack. In particular, many tourists buy mentaiko as souvenirs.

Horumon-yaki

Horumon-yaki is a type of yakiniku (grilled meat) in which the entrails (offal) are grilled and seasoned with salt or sauce. Chicken horumon and pork horumon are widely enjoyed, and there are many restaurants specializing in horumon-yaki in Fukuoka. It is a must-try dish for hormone lovers.

Eel kabayaki

Eel kabayaki is a popular local delicacy. The sauce and the degree of broiling differ from restaurant to restaurant, making it fun to compare. The price is a little high, but the taste is exceptional and worth a try.

Mizutaki

Mizutaki is a typical local dish of Fukuoka Prefecture. It is a local dish of chicken and vegetables stewed in a pot and served with ponzu (Japanese citrus juice). This dish was originally spread by foreign ships visiting Nagasaki and later introduced to Fukuoka. Mizutaki is a type of nabe dish in which chicken and vegetables are placed in water or hot water without any particular seasoning, and brought to a boil to bring out the flavor from the ingredients.

Hakata Gion Yamakasa

This festival is held every July, and huge Yamakasa (floats) are paraded through the city. Local residents gather together for a grand parade, and visitors can also create their own Yamakasa and experience Yamakasa-pulling.

Hakata Sennen-mon Gate

The Sennen-mon Gate is a symbol of Fukuoka City and is modeled after the torii gate of Munakata Taisha Shrine. Visitors can climb to the top of the gate and enjoy the surrounding scenery.

Fukuoka Tower

Fukuoka Tower is a landmark of Fukuoka City and offers a beautiful view of the city from its observation deck. When visited at night, the tower is illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere.

Fukuoka Castle

Fukuoka Castle is a historical fortress. Inside the castle is the Fukuoka City Museum, where visitors can learn about the history and culture of Fukuoka. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful rows of cherry blossom trees during the cherry blossom season.

Itoshima (island)

Located near Fukuoka City, Itoshima is an area of beautiful coastline and nature. Visitors can enjoy beach resort experiences, surfing, and hiking.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Tenmangu Shrine in Dazaifu City is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. A beautiful garden spreads out in the precincts of the shrine, where visitors can feel the culture and history of the area.

Fukuoka City Museum

The museum offers visitors the opportunity to view exhibits related to Fukuoka’s history and culture, with a particular focus on the archaeological heritage of Fukuoka.

Shopping

Fukuoka has many shopping malls and shopping streets for shopping enthusiasts. The Tenjin area and Canal City Hakata are recommended.

Spring

Cherry blossom viewing spot

In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in parks and shrines in Fukuoka City. Among them, the cherry blossoms in the ruins of Fukuoka Castle and Kashi-gu Shrine are especially beautiful and crowded with people who come to view the blossoms.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, is crowded with students who wish for academic success. If you visit during the cherry blossom season, you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossom viewing.

Summer

Sea bathing

In summer, you can enjoy swimming in the beautiful beaches of Itoshima. Akutaya Beach and Shima Beach in Dazaifu City are recommended.

Fukuoka Gion Festival

The Fukuoka Gion Festival, held in July, is a grand festival where visitors can enjoy the Yamaboko procession and food stalls.

Autumn

leaves changing color (colour)

Fukuoka has many places famous for their autumn foliage, especially around Munakata Taisha Shrine and Nakasu Kawabata Yasunari Museum of Art, where beautiful autumn leaves can be enjoyed.

Outdoor Activities

During the cooler fall season, there are many places to enjoy mountain climbing and hiking.

Winter

Hakata-ben

Hakata-ben, the dialect of Fukuoka, has its own unique words and phrases that are different from those of other regions. Understanding and using Hakata-ben when interacting with locals is a good way to experience local culture.

Hakata doll

Hakata dolls are traditional dolls traditionally made in the Hakata area. These beautifully dressed dolls are popular as gifts and decorations.

Hakataori

Hakataori is a traditional silk fabric woven in Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City. It is characterized by colorful patterns and is used for obi belts and accessories.

Yatai culture

In Fukuoka, many food stalls (yatai: food stalls) appear at night. These stalls offer visitors a chance to enjoy local dishes such as ramen and motsunabe, and a chance to get to know the locals.

Academic Culture of Dazaifu City

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in Dazaifu City is a shrine dedicated to the god of learning and is visited by many students and students preparing for entrance exams. Academic pilgrimages are held here to pray for academic success, which is believed to bring good luck to the worshippers.

Festivals and Events

Many festivals and events are held in Fukuoka. For example, tourists enjoy lively, traditional festivals such as Hakata Gion Yamakasa and Hakata Dontaku Yoiyama.

Airplane

Fukuoka Airport is located in Fukuoka City and operates both domestic and international flights. Fukuoka Airport is only about 10 km from the center of Fukuoka City, making access very convenient.

Shinkansen

Fukuoka is home to Hakata Station, which is also the intersection of the South Kyushu Shinkansen and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. Nozomi, Sakura, and Shinkansen trains from Tokyo to Hakata run frequently, and Shinkansen trains from Osaka to Shin-Osaka are also available.

JR

In addition to the Shinkansen, Fukuoka can be accessed by JR Kyushu’s conventional and limited express trains. The Kagoshima Main Line, Nagasaki Main Line, and Chikuhi Line cover Fukuoka City.

Express Bus

Many express buses also run to Fukuoka. Express buses from major cities run to terminals in Hakata and Tenjin, providing access at relatively reasonable prices.

Subway and City Bus

Fukuoka City has subways and city buses that are convenient for sightseeing in the city. Subways are especially useful for access to downtown areas and tourist spots.

Cab

Cab services are plentiful and convenient in Fukuoka City. They are also widely recognized as a safe means of transportation in Japan.

Bicycle

Fukuoka City has a well-developed environment for bicycles, and exploring the city by bicycle is a fun way to get around.