Fukuoka, a vibrant metropolis nestled on the northern shores of Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost major island, presents a compelling blend of historical significance and contemporary dynamism. For centuries, it has served as a crucial harbor, fostering a rich cultural exchange and solidifying its position as a gateway to Japan. The city’s unique identity stems from the 1889 amalgamation of two distinct entities: the bustling port city of Hakata and the traditional castle town of Fukuoka. This union forged a multifaceted urban landscape, where ancient traditions harmonize with modern innovation.
Fukuoka is celebrated as a culinary paradise, boasting an impressive street food scene and a diverse restaurant culture. The city’s gastronomy is a testament to its coastal location and agricultural abundance, offering a plethora of local delicacies that tantalize the taste buds. Among the must-try dishes are the iconic tonkotsu ramen, a creamy and flavorful noodle soup, and the delicately seasoned mentaiko (cod roe), a local specialty. Beyond its gastronomic delights, Fukuoka offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from serene shrines and verdant parks to stunning coastlines and captivating islands.
Here are the 10 top things to do in Fukuoka, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of this remarkable Japanese city.
1. Visit the Buddha at Nanzoin Temple
Nestled in the verdant hills of Sasaguri, just outside of Fukuoka, lies Nanzoin Temple, home to one of the world’s largest bronze statues: a colossal reclining Buddha. This awe-inspiring figure, weighing over 300 tons, is a rare sight in Japan, where seated Buddha statues are more common. The reclining pose, prevalent in Southeast Asian Buddhist traditions, symbolizes the Buddha’s passing into Nirvana.
Nanzoin Temple is a popular destination for pilgrims embarking on the scenic three-day Sasaguri Pilgrimage, a journey that winds through Mount Wakasugi, encompassing 88 sacred sites. However, the temple is also easily accessible as a standalone visit, offering a tranquil escape from the city. Within the temple complex, visitors can explore the captivating 500 statues of the Buddha’s disciples, each with unique expressions and poses, and the serene Inari Shrine, dedicated to the god of rice and prosperity.
- Address: 1035 Sasaguri, Kasuya District, Fukuoka 811-2405, Japan
- Phone: +81 92-947-7195
2. Try Hakata Ramen
No culinary journey to Fukuoka is complete without indulging in the city’s signature dish: Hakata ramen, also known as tonkotsu ramen. This hearty and flavorful noodle soup is a testament to Fukuoka‘s vibrant street food culture.
Tonkotsu ramen is characterized by its rich, creamy broth, meticulously crafted from slowly simmered pork bones. This laborious process extracts the essence of the bones, creating a broth that is both intensely flavorful and remarkably smooth. The broth is paired with thin, firm ramen noodles, spring onions, tender braised pork belly (chashu), and pickled ginger (beni shoga), creating a symphony of textures and flavors. With hundreds of ramen shops scattered throughout the city, Fukuoka offers an endless array of tonkotsu ramen experiences, each with its unique twist on this beloved dish.
3. Visit Hakozaki Shrine
Hakozaki Shrine, a venerable Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Hachiman, stands as a testament to Fukuoka‘s rich history and cultural heritage. Founded in 927, it is recognized as one of Japan’s most culturally significant shrines, exuding an aura of serenity and spiritual significance.
The shrine is a majestic sight throughout the year, but it truly comes alive during two of Fukuoka‘s grandest festivals: the Tamaseseri Festival in the New Year and the Hojoya Festival in the autumn. These festivals attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, transforming the shrine grounds into a vibrant spectacle of traditional music, dance, and religious ceremonies. During the Hojoya Festival, the path leading to the shrine is lined with over 600 stalls selling souvenirs, handmade crafts, and tantalizing street food, creating an immersive cultural experience.
- Address: 1-chōme-22-1 Hakozaki, Higashi Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0053, Japan
- Phone: +81 92-641-7431
4. Visit Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, a sprawling oasis of greenery and coastline, offers a refreshing escape from the urban landscape of Fukuoka. Originally a Japanese military base, the area was transformed into a public park in 1972, becoming a beloved destination for families and nature enthusiasts.
The park boasts a diverse array of attractions, including an outdoor waterpark (open during the summer months), a colossal outdoor playground, go-kart rides, and various other recreational activities. Spanning over 700 acres, the park is adorned with trees that burst into bloom during the spring, creating a picturesque setting for hanami (flower viewing) celebrations. Visitors can rent bicycles and explore the park’s extensive network of bike paths, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Fukuoka.
- Address: 18-25 Saitozaki, Higashi Ward, Fukuoka, 811-0321, Japan
- Phone: +81 92-603-1111
5. Take the Ferry to Ainoshima
For a unique and memorable day trip from Fukuoka, consider a visit to Ainoshima, an island affectionately nicknamed "Cat Island" due to its abundant feline population. A short 40-minute ferry ride from Shingu Port transports visitors to this charming island, where cats roam freely, adding to its quirky appeal.
The island is small enough to explore on foot in a couple of hours, revealing picturesque shrines, historical landmarks, and dramatic coastal scenery. Along the way, visitors can relax in the island’s cafes and restaurants, while enjoying the company of the numerous cats that lounge and wander throughout the island.
- Address: Ainoshima Island, Ainoshima, Shingu, Kasuya District, Fukuoka 811-0118, Japan
6. Wander Ohori Park
Ohori Park, a serene oasis in the heart of Fukuoka, offers a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park’s centerpiece is a large pond, which was once part of the moat surrounding Fukuoka Castle. Visitors can stroll along the pond’s perimeter, taking in the scenic views, or rent swan-shaped paddle boats or rowing boats for a leisurely excursion on the water.
Within the park’s boundaries, visitors can also explore the Fukuoka Art Museum and the Ohori Park Japanese Garden. The Japanese Garden, requiring a small admission fee, showcases the quintessential elements of traditional Japanese landscape design, including meticulously manicured maple and cherry blossom trees, winding paths leading to a serene shrine, a symbolic torii gate, and a traditional tea house.
- Address: Japan, 〒810-0051 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Ohorikoen, 1−9
- Phone: +81 92-741-2004
7. Soak in an Onsen
After exploring the diverse attractions of Fukuoka and its surrounding areas, indulge in the rejuvenating experience of soaking in a local onsen (hot spring). Fukuoka offers a variety of onsen options, catering to different preferences.
Hakata Onsen, a rustic establishment founded in 1958, offers a traditional onsen experience, stemming from the accidental discovery of thermal waters during well-digging. For a more immersive nature experience, Kirara Hoshino Onsenkan boasts baths overlooking the surrounding mountains, providing a serene and picturesque setting. Regardless of the chosen onsen, visitors are provided with towels and designated spaces to store their belongings, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience.
8. Travel to Nokonoshima
Nokonoshima, a small island nestled in Hakata Bay, is another delightful day trip destination from Fukuoka. The island is easily navigable on foot or by bicycle, offering stunning panoramic views of the ocean.
Nokonoshima Island Park, the island’s main attraction, is renowned for its vibrant floral displays, showcasing over 300,000 species that bloom throughout the year. The island is also known for its fresh produce, which is readily available at local markets and restaurants. Visitors can savor the island’s culinary offerings, including the Noko burger, freshly caught fish, and traditional bento boxes. A quick 10-minute ferry ride from Meinohama Ferry Passenger Terminal transports visitors to this island paradise.
- Address: Japan, 〒819-0012 Fukuoka, Nishi Ward, Nokonoshima
- Phone: +81 92-881-2494
9. Shop at Tenjin Underground Mall
The Tenjin Underground Mall, a sprawling subterranean shopping complex, offers a unique and convenient retail experience in Fukuoka. Opened in 1976, the mall is easily accessible via Tenjin Subway Station and is directly connected to most major stations, including Fukuoka Airport.
With over 150 shops, cafes, and restaurants, the mall is a perfect destination for souvenir shopping and escaping inclement weather. The underground mall is seamlessly connected to the numerous department stores in the Tenjin area, providing a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to navigate the district. Don’t forget to explore the above-ground stalls for even more shopping opportunities.
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Address: Japan, 〒810-0001 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Tenjin, 2-chōme11 1号2号3号
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Phone: +81 92-711-1903
10. Catch Some Sumo Wrestling
Sumo wrestling holds a significant place in Fukuoka‘s sporting culture, with the city being one of only six locations in Japan to host the prestigious Sumo Grand Tournament (Kyushu Basho) annually. The tournament takes place over two weeks in November, offering visitors a chance to witness the raw power and artistry of this ancient sport.
During the tournament, it’s not uncommon to spot off-duty sumo wrestlers around the city, adding to the excitement. Securing tickets for the tournament requires proactive planning, as they go on sale in October and tend to sell out quickly. Even if you can’t attend the tournament in November, qualifying matches are held throughout the year, offering additional opportunities to experience the thrill of sumo wrestling.
