Is Fukuoka Japan Fun? Check Out What We Found!

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Fukuoka is a city located on the island of Kyushu in Japan. While it may be smaller than other Japanese cities, Fukuoka is packed with plenty of things to do and see. From its beautiful natural surroundings to its lively nightlife, Fukuoka offers something for everyone. The city is also home to several museums, temples, and other historical sites. It is safe to say that Fukuoka is a city that has something for everyone.

Top 10 Attractions & Things To Do in Fukuoka

Exploring its various attractions is the best way to get to know a city. Fukuoka is no different. Here are 10 of the top things to see and do while in the city:

1. Visit Ohori Park

Ōhori Park is a designated place of scenic beauty and one of Fukuoka's most popular public parks. It's just a few minute walk from the city center. It boasts several attractions, including a trail that circles the large man-made lake, lovely traditional Japanese gardens, beautiful cherry blossoms each spring, and several bridges and promenades leading over the water to quaint islands.

It's a treat to visit at night when these walkways and the park's many pagodas and pavilions are lit up. The park also hosts spectacular fireworks displays in August. Maizuru Park is part of the former Fukuoka Castle grounds and is another popular park in Fukuoka. It's home to several sports facilities and an art museum.

2. Learn Something New at Kyūshū National Museum

Kyushu National Museum is one of the most popular tourist destinations near Fukuoka. It is a museum that contains a variety of exhibits, including art, documents, and relics from prehistoric times to the present day. There is also a café, restaurant, and gift shop on the premises. Some of the most popular attractions at Kyushu National Museum are the exhibits about the history of Fukuoka and its connection to other countries.

These exhibits are interesting and informative, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the culture and history of Fukuoka. You can find several critical national treasures at Kyushu National Museum, including 15th-century Masanobu Kano and other historically significant documents and manuscripts. If you are interested in learning about Fukuoka, Kyushu National Museum is a great place to start.

3. Explore Fukuoka Castle

Fukuoka Castle, also known as Maizuru Castle and Seki Castle, is a beautiful example of a lavish 17th-century hilltop home. It is perched high atop a tall stone foundation overlooking the Naka River. The highlights of a visit include exploring the castle gates, turrets, and ruins within the extensive castle grounds.

There is also an old guesthouse on the grounds that is unique in Japan. The best time to visit Fukuoka Castle is during the Sakura Festival in April when there are beautiful displays of cherry blossoms. If time allows, come back and see the castle when it is illuminated at night. It is truly a spectacular sight.

4. Visit Kushida Shrine

Fukuoka, Japan, is a popular tourist destination for many reasons. Some main attractions include the Kushida-jinja shrine, one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, and the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, a two-week-long celebration in July. The festival is focused on prayers for good health and prosperity. The procession begins at Tochoji Temple, where teams with heavy wooden floats compete in an ancient race throughout the city.

The Shofuku-Ji Temple and Tochoji Temple are notable for their historical significance and spectacular architecture, and both are worth seeing. The Kuroda family's tombs are also a popular tourist attraction in Fukuoka. The clan was a local feudal lord from 1600, and their tombs reflected their wealth and power.

5. Admire the Exhibits at Fukuoka Art Museum

The Fukuoka Art Museum is a great place to view artwork from all over the world. The museum has an extensive collection of paintings, crafts, and glassware from countries such as Persia, China, Korea, and Japan. There are also many critical Western artworks and prints on display.

One of the museum's most important modern pieces is The Madonna of Port Lligat by Salvador Dali. Additionally, many pieces by Andy Warhol and Japanese artists like Fujino Kazutomo are on display. The museum offers English language tours for visitors. It is a great place to learn about the different cultures represented in the artwork.

6. Visit Sumiyoshi-jinja Shrine

Sumiyoshi-jinja Shrine is one of the oldest shrines on Kyushu and is dedicated to the protective divinities of seafarers. The Main Hall, rebuilt in its current classical style in 1623, is impressive and features important national treasures such as an ancient sword and a copper axe.

There are fine views over the River Naka from the shrine, surrounded by a large grove of Japanese cedars and camphor trees. Another highlight is the festival held in October, which includes displays of sumo wrestling.

7. Eat at Fukuoka's Food Markets

If you're looking for a fun and exciting place to explore while in Fukuoka, Japan, check out the city's many fantastic food markets. Yanagibashi Market is the most well-known and is known locally as "Hakata's Kitchen," owing to the many culinary vendors and fresh produce stalls. Another great market to visit is the Nagahama Seafood Market, which offers a fantastic variety of fresh seafood options.

8. Explore Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

The Dazaifu Tenman-gū shrine is a popular spot for students hoping to pass their exams. The shrine is dedicated to the god of education and is located on 3,000 acres of land. The Honden, or main shrine, is the most important structure on the site. It was built in AD 905 and has been replaced for many centuries.

The current structure dates back to 1591. The shrine is also known for its numerous smaller shrines and the Treasury, where many of its most important relics are kept. Other features of the shrine include its attractive gardens, ponds, bridges, and more than 6,000 plum trees. Visitors to the shrine often purchase "umegae mochi," a local delicacy made of grilled adzuki beans.

9. Take in the views from Fukuoka Tower

A visit to Fukuoka Tower is a must for anyone interested in getting a bird's eye view of the city and its surroundings. The tower, 234 meters tall, offers three observation decks from which visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of the cityscape.

The highest deck, in particular, provides stunning views of Hakata Bay that are even more impressive at sunset. After taking in the views, spend some time admiring the tower's illuminations. You'll be treated to a dazzling display of lights, including swimming fish or the Milky Way, reflected off the 8,000 half mirrors covering the structure's exterior.

10. See some Aquatic Life at Marine World Uminonakamichi

The Marine World Uminonakamichi aquarium in Fukuoka is a great place to explore the marine life of Kyushu. It contains more than 70 tanks, the largest of which holds more than 20,000 creatures. There are numerous species of local fish, as well as sharks, seals, sea lions, and otters. The aquarium also offers animal shows in its Marine Theater.

After exploring the aquarium, visitors can enjoy the Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, which is famous for its displays of flowers and animals. Families with kids may want to visit Fukuoka Municipal Zoo and Botanical Garden for more animal-viewing fun.

Top 4 Day Trip Ideas from Fukuoka

In addition to all the great things to do in Fukuoka, there are also many excellent day trip options that can be enjoyed from the city.

1. Beppu & Yufuin Onsen Tour

The tour takes you to some of the most exciting highlights in the towns of Beppu and Yufuin, including Lake Kinrinko and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. You'll travel comfortably in a private air-conditioned vehicle and get tips on where to find the best hot springs and local food specialties. This is a great way to see both towns in one day without having to wait around for public transport. You'll get an insider's view of the best Beppu and Yufuin offer.

2. Nagasaki Tour

Do you want to explore the beauty and history of Nagasaki? You can do so in privacy and comfort with a tour from Fukuoka. This tour will give you all the information you need to know about this destination and provide insight into Japanese culture and daily life. You'll also get to try some delicious food and drink along the way! It's the perfect way to connect with this fantastic country and create memories that will last a lifetime.

3. Kyushu Beppu Suginoi Onsen Tour

Kyushu Beppu Suginoi Onsen Tour is a great way to visit some of Kyushu's best onsens. With transfers included, you can relax and enjoy an itinerary that includes Yufuin onsen village and Beppu's popular hot spring area. A highlight of the trip is a visit to the open-air bath of Suginoi Palace, which offers incredible views of Beppu Bay. This tour is perfect for anyone looking to relax and enjoy the best onsens Kyushu offers.

4. Yamaguchi Private Tour

The Yamaguchi Private Tour is a great way to see the sights of Yamaguchi in one day. With a government-licensed and experienced English-speaking guide, you can explore Yamaguchi more efficiently. The tour includes a full-day chartered car tour with an experienced guide who will share the modern and traditional sides of the Japanese country.

You will begin your day with a morning pickup from your hotel in Fukuoka or anywhere else. Then, you will visit Yamaguchi's famous sites, including Tsunoshima-bridge, Motonosumi Inari Shrine, Iwakuni Castle, Akiyoshi Limestone Caves, and Karato sea market. The private guide will customize the tour to your interests.

Top 3 Places To Stay in Fukuoka

There are several great places to stay in Fukuoka, depending on your budget and preferences. Below are three of the best options:

1. Hilton Fukuoka Sea Hawk

In addition to stunning views of Hakata Bay, Momochihama Beach, and the Fukuoka Yafuoku! The Hilton Fukuoka Sea Hawk Dome baseball stadium offers upscale accommodations and amenities. This high-rise hotel features chic, contemporary rooms with flat screens, Wi-Fi (fee), mini-fridges, and city or bay views. You can upgrade to a room with a sitting area or opt for a polished suite with a living room, whirlpool tub, and/or kitchen. Some rooms and suites come with tatami floors. Club quarters include access to a lounge with perks such as breakfast.

2. Mitsui Garden Hotel Fukuoka Gion

The Mitsui Garden Hotel Fukuoka Gion is a refined and elegant hotel situated across from a shopping mall in the city center. The hotel is within easy walking distance of the Gion subway station and just 4 kilometers from the 17th-century Fukuoka Castle. The sleek rooms in the hotel come equipped with Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs, as well as mini-fridges and tea and coffee-making facilities. They also have comfortable sitting areas with sofas. Guests at the Mitsui Garden Hotel Fukuoka Gion can enjoy a meal at the polished on-site restaurant or relax at the modern bar.

There is also a communal bathhouse available on-site with indoor and open-air baths and saunas. For added convenience, there are coin-operated laundry facilities available on-site. A delicious Japanese and Western-style breakfast buffet can be enjoyed for an additional charge. Guests can also take advantage of parking and massage services at this fabulous hotel.

3. Best Western Plus Fukuoka

The Best Western Plus Fukuoka is a great place to stay if you're looking for a convenient location near the train station and shopping mall. The rooms are comfortable and equipped with Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a mini-fridge. If you need to do some laundry, there are 24-hour coin-operated facilities on site. And if you're looking for breakfast or parking, both are available.

In Conclusion

Now that you know a little more about Fukuoka, Japan, we hope you'll consider visiting this amazing city! Whether you're interested in soaking in the hot springs, exploring the castle, or simply doing some shopping, Fukuoka has something for everyone. We wish you all the best on your adventure, have fun, and take care!

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