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Fukuoka: 12 Exciting Things to Do, Places to Visit, and Local Food

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Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu, is a popular travel destination for its historical shrines and festivals, delicious food, as well as excellent shopping spots and entertainment. We introduce 12 things to do and must-visit places, as well as four local eats to try in the central Hakata area.

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Fukuoka: Sightseeing, Food, and Shopping in Kyushu's Largest City

Fukuoka Sightseeing Spots

Photo by Pixta

Fukuoka is the largest prefecture in the Kyushu region. Fukuoka City, the capital and center of the prefecture, is a metropolis operating as the travel hub of Kyushu.

The city is divided to the west and east of Naka River and is respectively known as “Fukuoka” and “Hakata.” In recent years, the city’s entertainment facilities were enriched with the opening of Marine World Uminonakamichi and Gundam Park Fukuoka.

Fukuoka is accessible in two hours by plane and about five hours by bullet train from Tokyo. The city center is quite close to the airport, so the area has great accessibility.

This article will introduce 12 fun things to do in Hakata and central Fukuoka along with recommended foods to try!

Things to Do in Fukuoka City

1. Visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Fukuoka’s Spiritual Heart
2. Kushida Shrine: See the Largest Otafuku Mask in Japan
3. Marine World Uminonakamichi: Marvel at Beautiful Sea Creatures
4. The Sea Dragoon: Visit One of Japan’s Largest Athletic Towers
5. Shikanoshima Island: Explore a Famous Historical Site
6. Nokonoshima Island Park: Relish Seasonal Flowers
7. Tenjin: Shop at Famous Department Stores
8. Canal City Hakata: Enjoy Events at Ramen Stadium
9. Gundam Park Fukuoka: Dive into the World of Anime
10. Ohori Park: Admire Spectacular Scenery
11. Fukuoka Tower: Be Amazed by the Night View
12. Momochi Seaside Park: Enjoy Exciting Activities
Extra! Itoshima: A Place of Scenic Beauty near the City
Must-Try Foods in Fukuoka
Weather in Fukuoka and Recommended Clothing
Transportation in and around Fukuoka



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1. Visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Fukuoka’s Spiritual Heart

Fukuoka: 12 Destinations, Fun Things to Do, and Local Food

Photo by Pixta

Daizaifu Tenmangu Shrine is visited by hundreds of people annually to pray for academic success and examinations. Sugawara no Michizane, famously known as the deity of academics, is enshrined here. This sacred spot is especially famous for the view of its splendid plum blossoms in full bloom during March.

Rows of shops line the shrine road including ones where you can eat umegae mochi, a rice cake with red bean filling that is a local specialty. Starbucks Dazaifu Tenmangu, designed by the celebrated architect Kengo Kuma, opened in recent years and has become one of the area’s must-see spots.


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2. Kushida Shrine: See the Largest Otafuku Mask in Japan

Five Things to Do at Kushida Shrine

Kushida Shrine is the stage for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa and Hakata Okunchi Festival, two summer festivals in Hakata that are famous nationwide.

There are several things to see on the shrine grounds. The well water flanked by cranes is a miraculous fountain said to grant longevity after drinking. Gorgeously crafted yamakasa festival floats, which change in shape and construction yearly, are also kept on the grounds.

Winter is when the shrine displays what is known as the largest Otafuku in Japan (a mask designed to look like a plump woman’s face used in Japanese theatrical arts). It is believed that good fortune will be bestowed on you when walking through this mask.


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3. Marine World Uminonakamichi: Marvel at Beautiful Sea Creatures

Fukuoka

Picture from Unforgettable! 3 Family-Friendly Amusement Facilities In Fukuoka

Marine World Uminonakamichi is an immersive aquarium that feels like you’re underwater and spending time with sea creatures.

The various exhibits are based on the concept of “the ocean around the Kyushu region," featuring local sea life like seals and squid. You can also enjoy desserts inspired by these marine animals! Please read this MATCHA article for more details.

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4. The Sea Dragoon: Visit One of Japan’s Largest Athletic Towers

Sea Dragoon

Picture courtesy of the PR Times (Japanese)

The Sea Dragoon is an athletics facility built in March 2022. We recommend visiting The Sea Dragoon and Marine World Uminonakamichi together since both facilities are located within Uminonakamichi Seaside Park.

The observation deck lets you see a sweeping view of Hakata Bay and the Genkai Sea. The deck is a 17-meter-tall athletic tower, making it one of the tallest in Japan.

Another attractive feature is the 92 athletic activities installed around the facility. There’s even a mid-air bicycle stroll, walls for climbing, and the option to have a picnic in the sky. This is the perfect spot for enjoying activities with family members.

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5. Shikanoshima Island: Explore a Famous Historical Site

Shikanoshima

Photo by Pixta
Shikanoshima Island in Hakata Bay is situated beyond Uminonakamichi Seaside Park via a sandbar. It is a small island around ten kilometers in circumference.

This land is where the emperor of the Han Dynasty in ancient China discovered the gold seal gifted to Himiko, the Queen of Japan. It is revered as a key place in Japanese history.

There are historical shrines, stone monuments, and a beautiful beach on the island. We also recommend taking a casual drive around the island.

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6. Nokonoshima Island Park: Relish Seasonal Flowers

Hakata, Fukuoka 2023 Edition: Top 12 Sightseeing Spots and Food

Photo by Pixta
Nokonoshima Island Park is located on Nokonoshima Island, a remote island accessible in ten minutes by ferry from Fukuoka. You can admire seasonal flowers throughout all four seasons here.

Additionally, there are tons of popular facilities in the park, including Omohide Street to enjoy the old townscape of ancient Japan. There’s also a petting zoo that will delight kids!


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7. Tenjin: Shop at Famous Department Stores and a Unique Underground Mall

Tenjin Shopping District

Photo by Pixta

Some of Kyushu’s biggest shopping spots are scattered within Fukuoka City. Among them is Tenjin, a bustling downtown district home to various small and large retailers alongside famous department stores. These include PARCO, Daimaru Department Store, Mitsukoshi Department Store, Iwataya Honten, and SOLARIA STAGE.

TENJIN CHIKAGAI, a mall spanning 590 meters underground, houses a diverse selection of brands and products at reasonable price ranges to luxury goods.

The Former Fukuoka Prefectural Public Hall Kihinkan and Fukuoka City Red Brick Culture Museum are located near the Tenjin area. You can also experience the history of modern Japan here!

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8. Canal City Hakata: Enjoy Events at Ramen Stadium

Fukuoka OUTLET Guide!

Canal City Hakata is another shopping spot in Fukuoka, rivaling Tenjin in popularity. There are as many as 250 shops in the complex with several attractions, including Ramen Stadium. This is a comprehensive food court serving popular styles of ramen from nationwide.

Dynamic fountain shows and events are typically held daily at the Sun Plaza Stage on B1F.

Marinoa City Fukuoka, an outlet mall, and AEON MALL, a popular shopping mall, are also in the city. Please take a look at this MATCHA article for more information on shopping spots in Fukuoka.

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9. Gundam Park Fukuoka: Dive into the World of Anime


Gundam Park Fukuoka opened in April 2022 inside Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport FUKUOKA. Immerse yourself in the world of the popular animated series “Mobile Suit Gundam” at this brand-new entertainment facility.

The park is split into three areas. GUNDAM SIDE-F is the shopping area, VS PARK WITH G is the sports entertainment area, and namco is the amusement area. There are many different ways to enjoy this park inspired by the iconic anime series Gundam.


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10. Ohori Park: Admire Spectacular Scenery

Ohori Park

Photo by Pixta
Ohori Park is a place of relaxation for Fukuoka residents. The park was formerly an inlet of Hakata Bay developed in 1929.

Ukimido Hall is a scenic spot located inside the park. You'll also find the Fukuoka Art Museum, a Japanese garden, a Noh theater, and a boathouse. There’s also a Starbucks and Ohori Terrace, which houses restaurants and a kimono rental shop.

Take a walk around the park’s massive pond. You can observe how residents spend their day, whether strolling with their dogs, jogging, or walking on the pathways.


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11. Fukuoka Tower: Be Amazed by the Night View

Hakata, Fukuoka 2023 Edition: Top 12 Sightseeing Spots and Food

Photo by Pixta
Fukuoka Tower is a landmark of the city. You can get an extensive view of the ocean and streets of Fukuoka from the tower’s observation deck. The city's night view from 123 meters above the ground is gorgeous!

The area and tower are illuminated during the winter, making it a popular illumination spot.


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12. Momochi Seaside Park: Enjoy Exciting Activities

Hakata, Fukuoka 2023 Edition: Top 12 Sightseeing Spots and Food

Photo by Pixta
Momochi Seaside Park, as its name suggests, is a seaside park where visitors can appreciate the ocean in an urban atmosphere. There are restaurants and a marine sports shop dedicated to beach sports. Moreover, you can enjoy a barbecue at the park!

In the area, you'll also find the Fukuoka Tower, Fukuoka City Museum, and Fukuoka Dome—a baseball and concert venue.

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Extra! Itoshima: A Place of Scenic Beauty near the City

Itoshima

Photo by Pixta

Itoshima is accessible in about 30 to 40 minutes by train from central Fukuoka City. This is a scenic place of beauty that you’ll want to visit alongside Fukuoka City.

There are multiple things to see in the area, including Sakurai Futamigaura, Shiraito Falls, and the outdoor facility Forest Adventure Itoshima. Trendy cafes and restaurants can be seen dotted along the seaside.

Many artists have studios and galleries showcasing pottery, furniture, and more in this city. The Itoshima Craft Fes (Japanese) is an event centered around crafts held annually in October.

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Must-Try Foods in Fukuoka

1. Food Stalls

Hakata, Fukuoka 2023 Edition: Top 12 Sightseeing Spots and Food

Photo by Pixta
When you hear about specialties in Fukuoka, what immediately pops into people’s minds are the Hakata food stalls.

The development of the food stall culture in Hakata was initially sparked by portable stalls along the road following the end of World War II amid food shortages. Currently, over 100 food stands are concentrated in three areas: Nakasu, Tenjin, and Nagahama.

It’s a charming experience to taste ramen and yakitori (skewered chicken) cooked in front of you on the other side of the counter. It also creates a fun atmosphere with your seatmate.

We've introduced how to travel around each area and a list of recommended shops in the MATCHA article below. Be sure to check it out!

2. Hakata Ramen

Top 8 Must-Try Ramen In Fukuoka, Kyushu - Recommended By An Expert

When it comes to food in Fukuoka, you cannot miss out on trying Hakata tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen.

Many popular restaurants in the city compete with their ramen's flavor. The main location of Hakata Ikkousha, a prominent ramen restaurant that has expanded to Asia and the United States, is one such restaurant located in the city.

Hakata Issou Hakata Station East Main Store is another popular restaurant. It is distinguished by a pork bone broth (pictured above) that is as frothy as a cup of cappuccino with a robust and rich flavor. This taste has captured the hearts of many customers.

Refer to the MATCHA article below and give ramen in Fukuoka a try!

3. Motsunabe Offal Stew

Fukuoka-Hakata: Six Things To Enjoy In A Vibrant Downtown Area

Picture courtesy of Fukuoka City

Motsunabe (offal stew) is a Fukuoka dish that rivals Hakata ramen in popularity.

Motsunabe is a hot pot dish made with entrails and organ meat (“motsu”) from beef or pork as the main ingredient. Generally, hot pot is consumed during the cold season in Japan. However, this dish is eaten year-round in Fukuoka and Hakata. There are countless restaurants specializing in motsunabe throughout the city.

This dish is popular among people on diets since offal has few calories and is cooked with a hefty portion of vegetables. As for restaurants, shops such as Motsunabe Ooyama, expanding to locations near Hakata Station and Tenjin, and Hakata Motsunabe Ikkei (Japanese), renowned for its roasted offal, have been gaining popularity even amongst locals.

Mizutaki, a Fukuoka hot pot dish made by boiling chopped chicken and vegetables in a cloudy chicken broth, is another popular dish.

4. Mentaiko Cod Roe: Perfect as a Souvenir

Fukuoka Gourmet Food

Photo by Pixta

Mentaiko is adapted from Korean-style karashi mentaiko (spicy cod roe), made by marinating roe from Alaska pollock in red chili peppers. It was developed to appeal to the Japanese palate and can be eaten raw or lightly seared.

Mentaiko is currently sold at supermarkets throughout Japan. However, the first place to create Japanese-style mentaiko was Fukuya, a manufacturer based in Fukuoka City. This is why Fukuoka is now regarded as the mentaiko capital.

Mentaiko is sold at various locations in the city. If you’re interested in delving more into the ingredient, we recommend visiting Fukuya Nakasu Honten or Ganso Hakata Mentaiju to enjoy a diverse selection of mentaiko dishes.

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Weather in Fukuoka and Recommended Clothing

Fukuoka is relatively warm, but temperatures hover around 30℃ in the summer, with several days where it becomes incredibly hot. Temperatures remain high around September, so make sure to wear short-sleeve shirts, polo shirts, and other cooler clothes.

On the other hand, average temperatures in the winter are in the single digits and will get fairly cold. Please bring jackets, puffer coats, or other warm clothing.

Transportation in and around Fukuoka

Fukuoka Transportation

Photo by Pixta

If you plan to travel to Fukuoka from Tokyo, heading there by plane is the most convenient route. However, there’s also the option of traveling by Shinkansen (bullet train) or a car rental. Please take a look at this MATCHA article for additional details.

Fukuoka City has a robust transportation system that makes it convenient to travel by bus or subway. For example, you can take a Nishitetsu Bus or a 100-Yen Loop Bus. You can also utilize the Nishitetsu railway line, Fukuoka City Subway, or the JR Line.

Check out flights from Tokyo to New Chitose Airport now: skyticket
Check out information on the JR PASS for overseas visitors to utilize unlimited rides at a value!

Additionally, you can visit Beppu, a city home to Japan’s leading hot springs, and Kurokawa Onsen by train in around two hours from Fukuoka City. We recommend booking a car rental service. This is especially true if you'll be traveling around the region since many places in Kyushu are difficult to travel by train alone.

MATCHA has a coupon to rent a vehicle from Nippon Rent-A-Car, one of Japan’s leading rental car companies. Readers will receive a 10% discount, so please be sure to use it!

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Additional Travel Preparations! Hotels and Wi-Fi

Recommended for Couples: 15 Stylish Hotels in Fukuoka

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

Once you’ve decided which destinations to visit in Fukuoka and booked your plane or train tickets, the next thing to prepare is your accommodations.

If you’re looking for an accommodation or hotel in Fukuoka at a value, please check out Booking.com or Agoda.

Find a Fukuoka hotel on Booking.com
Find a Fukuoka hotel on Agoda

Places offering free Wi-Fi in Japan are limited. Therefore, overseas visitors will find it handy to rent a pocket Wi-Fi during their travels. MATCHA has a coupon for NINJA WiFi (English) that gets you a great discount of 20% off! Please take advantage of this opportunity.

Fukuoka: 12 Exciting Things to Do, Places to Visit, and Local Food





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Enjoy Your Trip to Fukuoka!

Fukuoka is home to many must-see sights and attractions within and outside the city. Refer to this article when planning your trip to Fukuoka and enjoy it to the fullest!

This is a rewritten version of an article published on August 15, 2016.
Main image courtesy of Pixta

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