Outlets and Malls in Fukuoka: The Best Shopping Spots in 2024

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Fukuoka has enjoyable shopping spots and tasty cuisine. This article features the best of Fukuoka shopping by a writer who lived here before. We'll be introducing department stores, shopping centers, and outlet malls including THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU.

Written by

chia

Originally from Chiayi, Taiwan, I majored in history in university. I'm a history geek and otaku living in an old downtown area of Tokyo. I have worked as a journalist for a Taiwanese business magazine, public relations manager for Mos Burger Taiwan, and as a marketer of American skin products in Taiwan. Currently working as a freelance of writer. Visiting castles in my free time. As a storyteller, I only write about things that I saw, heard, and researched myself. Every word of my articles reflects what I personally thought and felt. If you have some time, do read some of my stories.

Fukuoka: A Convenient City for Shopping

It only takes five minutes by subway from Fukuoka Airport―the gateway to Kyushu―to central Fukuoka City.

In recent years, Fukuoka's popularity has risen dramatically. This is due to its delicious cuisine and convenient shopping!

This article introduces carefully selected outlet malls and shopping facilities in the heart of Fukuoka City and within Fukuoka Prefecture. After reading this article, your shopping excursion in Fukuoka will be a memorable experience!

Outlet Malls in Fukuoka

In Fukuoka Prefecture and neighboring areas, there are two main outlet malls: THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU and Tosu Premium Outlet.

Name of Outlet	Access	Access Time	Transportation Cost
THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU	Take the JR train from Hakata or Kokura Station and get off at Space World Station	14 minutes from Kokura Station, 60 minutes from Hakata Station	One-way: 280 yen from Kokura Station; 1,130 yen from Hakata Station
Tosu Premium Outlet (Saga Prefecture)	Go directly by highway bus from Nishitetsu Tenjin Bus Expressway Terminal	About 45 minutes	One-way: 770 yen/ Return: 1,400 yen

Outlets and Malls in Fukuoka

1. THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU
2. Tosu Premium Outlet
Recommended Shopping Spots in Fukuoka
3. AEON MALL Fukuoka
4. AEON MALL Yahatahigashi
5. Canal City Hakata
6. Tenjin Shopping and Entertainment District
7. JR Hakata City

THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU

Have Fun Shopping in Fukuoka! The Area's Best Shopping Spots in 2022

THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU, Kyushu's largest shopping complex, opened in April 2022.

The nearest train station is Space World Station. It is easily accessible from Hakata Station in central Fukuoka City and Kokura Station. Additionally, it only takes 30 minutes from Yamaguchi Prefecture's Shimonoseki Station.

There's also an airport bus departing from Kitakyushu Airport that goes directly to Space World Station. This is why THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU is a convenient shopping spot.

THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU is home to 170 shops, from famous international stores to local Kitakyushu brands.

Among these, six brand-name retailers opened up for the first time in Japan. Additionally, 12 brands opened their first Kitakyushu stores, and nine became outlet mall tenants for the first time. Visitors can look forward to many new and original shops.

If you visit THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU, you can buy reasonably priced brand-name items. You can also learn about popular local products and experience Kyushu's attractive features firsthand.

Recommended brands: URBAN RESEARCH warehouse, Michael Kors, COACH, T-fal, BEAMS OUTLET, and so on.

Tosu Premium Outlet

Picture courtesy of Tosu Premium Outlet

Tosu Premium Outlet is located in Saga Prefecture. But it's easily accessible by buses directly from Fukuoka City.

Picture courtesy of Tosu Premium Outlet

Tosu Premium Outlet has roughly 170 stores, the same number of tenants as the two previously mentioned outlet malls.

It carries a full selection of Japanese brand-name clothes. However, shoppers should take note of the many international select brand shops and sporting goods specialty stores, only available in Kyushu at this one location.

If you're hunting for select brands and sports manufacturers, then Tosu Premium Outlet is the place to go!

Recommended brands: Bally, DIESEL, Onitsuka Tiger, kate spade new york kids, and NOJESS

Recommended Shopping Spots in Fukuoka

If you think heading to an outlet mall is too much trouble, you can enjoy convenient shopping in central Fukuoka City.

Shopping in the city involves less travel time. So, your shopping will also go smoothly while sightseeing!

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AEON MALL Fukuoka

AEON MALL Fukuoka is accessible by direct bus lines from Hakata Station, the Tenjin district, and Fukuoka Airport.

Plus, it only takes 15 minutes to get to the airport from the mall. It's highly convenient because you can drop in for some shopping during the middle of your trip. Alternatively, you can enjoy some last-minute shopping before your flight home.

Many of the tenants at AEON MALL Fukuoka offer duty-free shopping. Visitors of all ages can enjoy shopping alongside delicious food.

AEON MALL Yahatahigashi

If you plan to visit THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU, we recommend heading to AEON MALL Yahatahigashi on the same trip. You can swiftly arrive via a convenient passageway that joins the two malls.

AEON MALL Yahatahigashi values the connection with its hometown Kitakyushu. Shoppers can buy fresh vegetables and fruit from local farmers and processed goods made by nearby companies. There's also sake brewed in Kitakyushu and traditional regional crafts, such as Kokura-ori fabrics.

You'll also find drugstores that are popular among visitors and appliance shops with a full lineup of interesting products.
Sponsored by AEON MALL

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Canal City Hakata

At Canal City Hakata, world-famous brands have teamed up with Japanese brands to create the ultimate shopping experience. There are a total of 250 shops!

The latest trendy items are on display, allowing shoppers to pick up seasonal products.

In addition, there are entertaining events such as a water fountain show and projection mapping.

The food court offers a variety of cuisine. At Ramen Stadium, there's a comprehensive selection of popular ramen dishes from each region of Japan. This is something that hungry shoppers won't want to miss!

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Tenjin Shopping and Entertainment District

Photo by Pixta

The Tenjin Shopping and Entertainment District is home to famous department stores, including PARCO, Daimaru, Mitsukoshi, Iwataya (Main Store), and SOLARIA STAGE. They have a variety of shops, both small and large.

Tenjin Chikagai (Tenjin Underground Shopping Mall) is lined with stores selling various brand-name products, from reasonably priced items to luxury goods.

These shopping facilities meet customers' needs―from children to seniors―making this the preferred shopping area for locals.

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JR Hakata City

Photo by Pixta

JR Hakata City, located inside JR Hakata Station, is comprised of various shopping spots, including Hakata Hankyu, KITTE Hakata, and AMU PLAZA.

Useful Information

If you visit an outlet mall or shopping center, go to the service counter and check if any discount coupons are available.

There might be some complimentary vouchers or services just for international visitors!

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FAQ

What to buy back from Fukuoka?

When souvenir shopping in Fukuoka, consider bringing back a piece of local culture with Hakata Dolls and Hakata Ori Textiles, showcasing the region's intricate craftsmanship. For food enthusiasts, Mentaiko, a spicy cod or pollock roe specialty, offers a taste of Fukuoka's culinary heritage. Yame Tea presents a refreshing option, reflecting the area's renowned green tea production. Explore traditional crafts like pottery and bamboo items for unique gifts. Indulge in Fukuoka's sweets such as yame-chinsuko cookies and wagashi treats, or opt for regional sake from local breweries to savor the flavors of Fukuoka at home.

What is Fukuoka Prefecture best known for?

Fukuoka Prefecture in Japan is renowned for its cultural heritage and culinary specialties. Known for Hakata Ramen, a beloved local dish featuring thin noodles in rich tonkotsu broth, Fukuoka also boasts historical sites like Fukuoka Castle and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, as well as the picturesque canals of Yanagawa. Ohori Park offers urban tranquility with its pond and tea houses. The region's artistic legacy shines through Hakata Ori textiles, Hakata dolls, and traditional crafts. Fukuoka's coastal location ensures a bounty of fresh seafood, including the popular mentaiko. Each year, the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival attracts locals and tourists alike with its colorful parades and traditional performances, embodying the vibrant cultural tapestry of Fukuoka Prefecture.

What is the famous product of Fukuoka?

One of the famous products associated with Fukuoka is "Hakata Ori," which is a traditional woven textile with a long history in the region. Hakata Ori is known for its intricate and finely woven patterns, often featuring geometric designs or motifs inspired by nature. This textile is used to create various products such as bags, accessories, apparel, and traditional obi sashes for kimono. Hakata Ori is highly regarded for its craftsmanship and quality, making it a coveted souvenir for visitors to Fukuoka.

What is Fukuoka signature food?

One of Fukuoka's signature foods is Hakata Ramen, a type of ramen that is famous throughout Japan. Hakata Ramen features thin, straight noodles served in a rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth. The broth is typically simmered for hours to develop a deep umami flavor. Toppings often include slices of chashu (braised pork belly), green onions, pickled ginger, and sometimes a soft-boiled egg. Fukuoka, and particularly the Hakata area within the city, is renowned for its delicious Hakata Ramen, which has become a beloved dish among locals and visitors alike.

Which month is best for Fukuoka?

The best times to visit Fukuoka are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring brings cherry blossoms and pleasant temperatures, perfect for hanami. Autumn offers mild weather, ideal for exploring without summer heat, along with colorful foliage. Both seasons have comfortable weather for sightseeing compared to summer and winter.

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Written by

chia

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