The Best Travel Guide to Fukuoka

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Fukuoka

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Overview

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Fukuoka The guide was updated: 2024-07-18

Sitting proudly on the shores of Hakata Bay, Fukuoka is a city ablaze with the neon glare of the 21st century, moving at a slower and much more manageable pace than its better-known siblings from Honshu. There are plenty of Japanese flavours to be had here, both figuratively and in the very direct sense of the word, along with a lot of uniquely local flair for those looking to cast their nets wider than the staples of Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka.

Facts

Population:	Metro area: 5.4 million (2023)
Currency:	Japanese Yen (JPY)
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Emergency, Fire Brigade: 119 Police: 110
Newspapers:	Yomiuri Shimbun (ENG): japannews.yomiuri.co.jp Mainichi (JPN national): mainichi.jp/english Nishinippon Shimbun (JPN): www.nishinippon.co.jp
Opening hours:	Business hours are generally from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm and Saturday from 9am–12:30pm. Banks are open weekdays between 9am and 3pm. The bigger department stores and the malls have extended opening hours.
Tourist information:	Fukuoka City Information Centre 2 Chome−1−1, Tenjin, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka +81 92 751 6904 Opening hours: daily 9:30am–7pm

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Section in Fukuoka

Chuo-ku Ward, located west of the Nakagawa River, is the commercial and entertainment hub of the city. At its heart lies the district of Tenjin to which most visitors will undoubtedly be drawn, lured by the bright lights of its bars and restaurants and the excellent array of boutiques.

Fukuoka Tower

Fukuoka Tower

Admire the lustre of the city from the 360-degree observation deck. The tower was built in 1989 as a monument of the Asian Pacific Expo and is 234 metres high and covered with mirrors.

Fukuoka Castle

Fukuoka Castle

At the Fukuoka Castle, you can see the few remains of this early 17th-century hilltop castle. Although there isn't much left in the way of the original structure, the gardens and the view alone are worth the visit.

Shrines and Temples

Shrines and Temples

Marvel at the elegant beauty of the many shrines and temples dotting the city. Do not miss the Hakozaki Shrine, Kushida Shrine, Shofukuji Temple, and the Tochoji Temple.

Fukuoka Art Museum

Fukuoka Art Museum

The Fukuoka Art Museum hosts current as well as permanent exhibitions of modern and pre-modern art. Here you can also visit the Kids Corner, eat at the restaurant and buy something in the bookshop.

Yanagawa

Yanagawa

Just 45 minutes south of Fukuoka city you will find Yanagawa city, known for the waterway that crosses it in two directions. A trip on one of the small boats is a must, as well as a visit to Ohana, where you will find Shoto Park. While in Yanagawa, try the delicious unagi (eel) dishes which the city is renowned for.

Fukuoka City Museum

Fukuoka City Museum

Fukuoka City Museum is a fantastic museum that gives an interesting insight into the history and culture of the area. The museum offers both permanent and special exhibitions.

Hakata Machiya Folk Museum

Hakata Machiya Folk Museum

Hakata Machiya Folk Museum offers interactive displays which showcase the life and times of the Meiji era (1868-1912). This is the place to visit if you want to learn more about the life and culture of Hakata.

Marine World

Marine World

Marine World Uminonakamichi is a city aquarium that gives meaning to the secrets of the sea. It is home to diverse marine life, including sharks and whales. You will also get to watch dolphin and sea lion shows.

Nokonoshima Island

Nokonoshima Island

Nokonoshima is a really beautiful place. This island has great walks and cycling routes where you can enjoy the richness of the Japanese countryside.

Hakata District

Hakata District

The Hakata district is where you will find the bulk of small artisan shops in which you can purchase some fine handcrafted souvenirs. Your first port of call should be the Kawabata Shopping Arcade, in which there are a number of stalls selling all manner of goods.

Fukuoka Festivals

Fukuoka Festivals

There are two annual major events that bring international acts to the city and attract a large number of visitors. Dontaku takes place at the beginning of May and Yamasaka is a huge event lasting two weeks in July. If you are around at this time of the year make sure to check out what's on the programme.

Ohori Park

Ohori Park

Come here for an evening walk or join the active runners on the popular jogging track. This park provides a great opportunity to flee from the hustle of the city and enjoy a minute for yourself.

Shofukuji Temple

Shofukuji Temple

The oldest Zen temple in all of Japan (completed in 1195), Shofukuji boasts pleasant temple grounds which contain charming old Japanese buildings, along with a green park and pond. Entry is free of charge, but most buildings cannot be accessed by visitors.

Momochi Seaside Park

Momochi Seaside Park

Momochi Seaside Park is a waterside development with cafes, restaurants, and beach volleyball facilities. It is also where one will find Fukuoka's easiest and fastest-to-reach city beach. The splendid Fukuoka Tower lies only a stone's throw away from the promenade.

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