BEST Things to Do in Fukuoka Japan

Fukuoka, the main city in Kyushu Island of Japan, surprised me with an array of interesting things to do. Talk of great beaches, mountainous island with high tectonic activity, the rich culture preserved in and around the shrines, best cuisine and spectacular night views – it is all in one city! It is easy to come up with a quick list of the best things to do in Fukuoka even if you are there just for a day. I did exactly that. Read on to know why Fukuoka Kyushu is worth visiting.

Fukuoka History in Brief

Before visiting Fukuoka, I dug into the history of Fukuoka a bit to understand the city’s past and how it has evolved with time. Fukuoka City holds the distinction of being regarded as one of Japan’s oldest cities, possibly serving as a prehistoric capital.

History of Fukuoka is etched with evidence of numerous thwarted invasions alongside a bustling trade hub that fostered peaceful international relations, owing to its strategic proximity as the nearest port to China and Korea. Often referred to as the Port of Dazaifu, linking back to the town of Dazaifu situated 15 km southeast of Fukuoka, historical archives trace Dazaifu’s administrative capital status back to 663 A.D.

Dazaifu Shrine

Fukuoka Meaning: It is interesting to note the meaning of Fukuoka. Fukuoka in Japanese comprises two kanji characters: fuku meaning “good fortune” or “blessing,” and oka meaning “hill” or “ridge.” Thus, “Fukuoka” roughly translates to “fortunate hill” or “blessed hill.” This name possibly reflects the auspiciousness or prosperity associated with the area.

With time Fukuoka city has progressed leaps and bounds. Fukuoka tourism seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. I have travelled here and plan to visit again for a richer experience.

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Fukuoka Things to Do

You will find these links helpful:

Fukuoka Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Fukuoka: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide

Fukuoka Tours: Day Trips and Excursions

Temples in Fukuoka

Tochoji Temple Fukuoka

One of the main attractions in Fukuoka is the seated wooden Buddha statue, the Fukuoka Daibutsu, in Tochoji Temple. This awe-inspiring 10.8-meter-tall Buddha is a focal point and a symbol of the temple. Tochoji Temple holds a significant place in Fukuoka’s history as it was established by Kobo Daishi, a revered Buddhist monk who played a vital role in spreading Buddhism in Japan.

Tochoji temple entrance is marked by a magnificent gate adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors, setting the tone for the temple’s grandeur. The vermilion 5-storey pagoda and Rokkakudo Hall, with its extraordinary roof structure are other architectural highlights of Tochoji Temple. The main hall features traditional Buddhist architecture, showcasing elegant design elements and serene interiors conducive to meditation and prayer. The temple offers omamori (amulets) and souvenirs, which you can purchase for blessings or as souvenirs.

Tochoji Temple is located in a bustling area of Fukuoka, yet once inside the temple grounds, I experienced a serene and contemplative ambiance.

Address: 2-4 Gokushomachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0037, Japan
Geographical Coordinates: 33.594842558350656, 130.4143877
Timings: Open every day. 9 AM to 5 PM (last entry 4.45 PM).
Tickets: This is a free sight.

Tochoji Temple

Shofukuji Temple

Shofukuji Temple holds the distinction of being the first Zen temple established in Japan. Shofukuji was founded in 1195 by the Chinese Zen monk Eisai, who introduced the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism to Japan. It’s revered as the birthplace of Rinzai Zen in the country. The temple features traditional Zen architecture, with the main hall, meditation halls, and surrounding structures reflecting classic Chinese design elements. Shofukuji is known for its serene gardens, designed to inspire tranquility and reflection. The temple grounds harmoniously blend nature with minimalist design. Despite being located in an urban area, Shofukuji Temple offers a tranquil escape zone.

What you can do in Shofukuji Temple:

• Engage in Zen meditation sessions
• At times, the temple arranges tea ceremonies, allowing visitors to participate
• Experience the ritualistic aspects of Japanese tea culture

Address: 6-1 Gokusho Town, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka.  A 5-minute walk from Fukuoka City Subway’s Gion Station.
Geographical coordinates: 33.59776419208353, 130.4145729460366
Parking facilities: Parking available for 10 cars
Timings: Open every day. 8 AM to 5 PM.
Tickets: This is a free sight.

Temples in Fukuoka Japan

Kushida Shrine Fukuoka

If you have time enough to see just one shrine in Fukuoka let it be the Kushida Shrine. I spent a beautiful evening in the shrine soaking in the spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty. Kushida Shrine offers a profound insight into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Fukuoka, providing a window into Japan’s rich Shinto traditions. As a visitor I could partake in traditional rituals, such as offering prayers and purchasing omamori (amulets) for various blessings.

Kushida shrine is nestled amidst serene grounds adorned with lush greenery, creating a peaceful ambiance despite its central location in the bustling city. There are exhibitions and displays within the shrine grounds, showcasing traditional artifacts and providing insights into local customs and beliefs. Kushida Shrine is dedicated to the deity of Amaterasu and Susanoo, with a special focus on the deity of commerce and industry, Ohata Nushi-no-Mikoto. Many visitors seek blessings for business success and prosperity here.

The shrine boasts traditional Japanese architecture, featuring intricate designs and a graceful aesthetic that reflects its ancient roots. One of its prominent features is the Mikoshi Hall, where portable shrines (mikoshi) are housed and displayed during festivals. These elaborately decorated mikoshi are carried through the streets during processions.

Timings: Open every day. 9 AM to 5 PM.
Address: 1-41 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026, Japan
Geographical coordinates: 33.593598061979954, 130.4104159846579
Tickets: It is a free sight.

Kushida Shrine Fukuoka

Kyushu National Museum

The Kyushu National Museum, located in Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, stands as a prominent cultural institution showcasing the history and heritage of Kyushu, Japan’s southwestern island.

The museum has a modern architecture with contemporary design elements – like the unique glass entrance design, blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and reflects the island’s cultural identity. The expansive exhibition halls inside feature both permanent and rotating displays, carefully curated to highlight Kyushu’s diverse history and cultural significance. The museum’s collections include a wide array of artifacts, ranging from ancient pottery, ceramics, and tools to historic documents and artworks. Many exhibits incorporate multimedia and interactive displays, making the museum experience engaging and informative for visitors of all ages.

Timings: 9.30 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Mondays and New Year Holidays
Tickets: Adults 430 Y Children 130 Y
Address: 4 Chome-7-2 Ishizaka, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0118, Japan. Located five-minute walk distance from Tenmangu Shrine

Kyushu National Museum Pic credit: https://www.japan-guide.com/

Fukuoka Beach

The city is bordered by the Sea of Japan, East China Sea to the north, east, and west. Therefore, each of its coastlines has a unique character. Breath taking views and outdoor activities can be enjoyed in the beaches of Fukuoka, which has a mild climate.

You can include some of the well-known ones to your list of things to do in Fukuoka:

Momochi Beach: Situated near Fukuoka’s city center, it’s a man-made beach offering a beautiful view of the city skyline. It’s part of the larger waterfront area known as Momochi Seaside Park. Momochihama Park, with its blend of natural beauty, modern architecture, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions, offers a pleasant escape by the sea. Locals and tourists assemble here for stunning views of the ocean and a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, providing a relaxing and picturesque environment.

Dominating the skyline, Fukuoka Tower within the park stands as a prominent landmark and offers panoramic views from its observation deck. During warmer months, the beach becomes a popular spot for sunbathing, picnics, or water activities like swimming and beach volleyball.

Address: 2 Chome-902-1 Momochihama, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka, 814-0001, Japan
Geographical Coordinates: 33.59534399091486, 130.3510019079474
Timings: Open all day
Entrance Fee: This is a free sight

Shikanoshima Island Beaches: Accessible by a bridge from the mainland, Shikanoshima Island near Fukuoka features multiple beaches.

Shikanoshima Beach, located on Shikanoshima Island, is a scenic coastal destination with calm waters. Sweeping around Hakata Bay the Shikanoshima island connected to the Kyushu scenic island offers cycling, snorkelling, diving and spectacular views. The beach overlooks Fukuoka Dome and Fukuoka Tower across the sea.

Mekari Beach: Located in Itoshima Peninsula, Mekari Beach is known for its picturesque setting and relatively calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The whole area around Mt. Kojo, including Moji Castle ruins, is made into a park that stretches to the waterfront. The sunset over Hibiki-nada Sea, nightscape and the view from the observation deck are breathtaking. Mekari shrine is worth a visit.

Keya Beach: A nice swimming beach to hang out with families located about an hour and half outside of downtown Fukuoka. It has old Japanese style Beach houses that you can rent that include hot showers, a safe for your valuables, and a table where you can eat food. Nestled in a small bay near Keya no Oto, this beach is also famous for its unique rock formations and tranquil atmosphere.

These Fukuoka beaches offer a mix of natural beauty, recreational activities, and stunning vistas, making them popular Fukuoka sightseeing spots for locals and tourists alike, especially during the summer months.

Fukuoka Beach

Fukuoka Parks

Maizuru Park

Maizuru Park, nestled in the heart of Fukuoka City, is a serene and historically rich park known for its natural beauty with tranquil ponds, lush greenery, well-maintained gardens and significant cultural sites providing a peaceful escape within the city. Maizuru Park houses remnants of Fukuoka Castle, once a mighty fortress, which hold historical significance dating back centuries. The park also features reconstructions of samurai residences, offering insights into the lifestyles and architecture of feudal Japan.

Reserve a day to journey to the Fukuoka Castle Ruins. The main landmark in Maizuru Park, also known as Maizuru Castle, was built by the Japanese military leader Nagamasa Kuroda in 1601. It is an ancient part of Fukuoka City that will delight history buffs. If you are visiting during Spring head to Maizuru Park for the gorgeous views of Cherry Blossom trees.

During spring, Maizuru Park becomes a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). Maizuru Park occasionally hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and performances, adding vibrancy to the park’s ambiance. There are amenities such as restrooms, benches, and informational signage, ensuring a comfortable visit for tourists and locals alike.

Address: 1-4 Jonai, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0043, Japan
Geographical coordinates: 33.586882166279565, 130.3828698926053
Timings: Open 24 hours.
Entrance fee: Free admission

Ohori Park

Ohori Park is an urban oasis renowned for its scenic beauty, historical significance, and diverse recreational offerings. The park’s centerpiece is a large, picturesque lake encircled by walking paths and adorned with bridges, creating a serene and idyllic atmosphere. During spring, the park bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors as cherry blossoms bloom, drawing crowds for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnics. Ohori Park encompasses remnants of Fukuoka Castle’s moat and walls, that offer glimpses into the area’s feudal past. Japanese gardens within the park feature meticulously pruned trees and serene water features.

Fukuoka Castle, initially the residence of Daimyo Kuroda Nagamasa, served as Fukuoka’s ruling seat until the Meiji era began in 1868. Although designated a National Historical Site in 1957, most original structures within the inner castle had deteriorated, been demolished, or destroyed by fire.

The Fukuoka Art Museum situated within Ohori Park hosts exhibitions showcasing both Japanese and international art. There are cafes and tea houses within the park, a Starbucks too, offering refreshments and a chance to enjoy scenic views while dining.

Address: Japan, 〒810-0051 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Ohorikoen
Geographical coordinates: 33.587100265806264, 130.37655043068418
Timings: Open 24 hours.
Entrance Fee: Adults – 250Y, children – 120 Y.

Fukuoka Food

Fukuoka is the best place in Japan for street food. For a taste of Fukuoka’s delicacies stop by one of Fukuoka’s many yatai (outdoor dining stalls). These open-air food stalls offer a casual dining experience, serving local dishes like yakitori (grilled skewers) and mentaiko (spicy cod roe).

Renowned for its rich tonkotsu (pork bone broth) noodles, Fukuoka is a haven for ramen enthusiasts. The dish has thin, firm noodles in cloudy white pork broth, topped with finely chopped Welsh onions and slices of barbecued pork.

For those of you who love beef, Motsunabe is not to be missed. It is a dish made of beef intestine cooked slowly in a soup base flavored with soy sauce and miso. Add vegetables before the dish is consumed to enhance the experience.
Visit: Motsunabe Rakutenchi Tenjin WEST BR. Address: Japan, 〒810-0021 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Imaizumi, 1 Chome−19−18.

Mizutaki, another beef-based delicacy, is a nabe (or hot pot) with broth made from chicken boiled slowly on the bone. When the base is finished, chicken, vegetables, and other ingredients are added and the mixture is dished up from a simmering pot.

Last but not the least the prefecture’s many fine varieties of sake and shochu (distilled liquor), moreover, make a fine complement to any local meal.

Fukuoka Food

When to visit Fukuoka

While visiting Japan during Cherry Blossom season is undeniably breath taking, for a deeper dive into Fukuoka’s cultural essence, time your visit to coincide with the Fukuoka city’s main festivals. The festivities during these times have a captivating allure that can truly enchant you.

Fukuoka Festivals

The Hakata Dontaku Festival takes place on May 3-4. One of the oldest festivals celebrated, the origin dates back to the twelfth century. Residents’ parade through the city dressed in a variety of costumes, attracting as many as two million spectators.

Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, another local festival, almost 760 years old! Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival takes place in the first half of July. Ten-meter-tall yamakasa (giant parade floats) decorated with brightly colored traditional figurines are positioned for display throughout the city. The festival culminates with an exciting race between the men carrying mikoshi (portable shrines) weighing as much as a ton each on their shoulders.
Address: 1-41 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuka Prefecture 812-0026, Japan

Fukuoka Festivals

Nearby Fukuoka Attractions

From Fukuoka city, several nearby destinations offer diverse experiences within easy reach. Consider a JR Rail Pass if planning to explore multiple destinations in Kyushu, as it can offer cost-effective travel on JR trains. These nearby destinations from Fukuoka showcase a blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, catering to various interests and providing an enriching experience beyond the city.

Kumamoto

Distance: 114 km, approximately 1-1.5 hours by train.
Attractions: Kumamoto Castle, Suizenji Jojuen Garden, and the Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Centre showcase history, culture, and craftsmanship.

Aso Nakadake Crater

Distance: 146 km, around 2-3 hours by train and bus.
Attractions: Aso boasts the world’s largest volcanic caldera, with Nakadake crater offering hiking trails, stunning views, and an active volcanic experience.

Arita

Distance: 81.6 km, around 2 hours by train.
Attractions: Known as Japan’s pottery capital, Arita offers a rich ceramic heritage, pottery workshops, and the Kyushu Ceramic Museum.

Nagasaki

Distance: 156 km, approximately 2-3 hours by train.
Attractions: The Peace Park, Atomic Bomb Museum, Glover Garden, and the historic Oura Church are must-visit sites in this historically significant city.

Kitakyushu

Distance: 71.7 km, around 30-50 minutes by train.
Attractions: Mojiko Retro Town, Kokura Castle, and the Tanga Market are among the highlights of this vibrant city.

Where to stay in Fukuoka

Fukuoka offers accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels and traditional ryokans. Whether you prefer the convenience of central locations, the bustling city vibe, or a more serene seaside retreat, the city provides various options to suit different travel styles and preferences.

Some popular areas to consider for a stay are: Hakata District, Tenjin area, Nakasu district, Daimyo area, Waterfront areas.

We had a comfortable stay in Hotel Forza. It is located near the main train station, it’s convenient for transportation, shopping, and dining.

Where is Fukuoka located?

This city located on the northern shore of the island of Kyushu in Japan. It serves as the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture and is situated facing the Genkai Sea, making it an important port city in the region.

How to reach Fukuoka Japan?

The city’s accessibility via air, rail, road, and sea makes it easily reachable, allowing travelers to choose the transportation mode that best suits their itinerary and preferences. Fukuoka Travel is convenient due to its accessible transportation options:

By Air: Fukuoka Airport (FUK): Served by domestic and international flights, Fukuoka Airport is conveniently located near the city center.
By Train: Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The Sanyo Shinkansen connects Fukuoka City to major cities like Osaka and Tokyo. Hakata Station is the city’s primary Shinkansen hub. We reached by bullet train from Okayama and then left by train to Kumamoto. We availed the JLR facility.
Local Trains: JR Kyushu and Nishitetsu Railway operate local and regional train services within Kyushu, offering access to neighboring areas.
By Bus: Highway Buses: Several highway bus services connect this city to other cities in Kyushu and mainland Japan, providing an affordable travel option.
By Sea: Ferry Services: Some ferry routes link Fukuoka to nearby islands, offering scenic sea travel options.
Getting Around: Subway and Buses: Fukuoka has an efficient subway system and bus network, facilitating convenient travel within the city.

Parting Thoughts about Attractions in Fukuoka

In Fukuoka Japan, the possibilities for discovery and delight seem boundless. While parting I did feel one day in Fukuoka is too less time to fully experience the serene parks, historic temples, the vibrant festivals and culinary adventures! Fukuoka city in Japan encapsulates a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. I couldn’t complete my list of things to do in Fukuoka. So, if I have the good luck to return to Japan again, I would definitely plan to visit this captivating destination in the heart of Kyushu once more.

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Indrani Ghose is an Indian Travel Writer and Blogger based in Bangalore, India. She has written for numerous publications across the globe – including Lonely Planet, The National UAE, Whetstone Asia, Deccan Herald. You can follow her on her social media handles Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook to see the wonderful destinations, beautiful offbeat places and get instant updates about them.