Fukuoka started as two settlements on opposite sides of the Naka River. Before merging in 1889, the castle town of Fukuoka occupied the west bank and the trading, port town of Hakata occupied the east bank. Due to its geography – access to trade with other East Asian cities via the East China Sea, the sheltered waters of Hakata Bay, and inland access via river – the area became a busy trading post and cultural center.
Located on the northern tip of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka offers visitors to Japan a warm, laid-back vibe that stands in contrast to the frenzy and sensory overload of Japan’s larger cities. Still, Fukuoka city has plenty if you’re looking to indulge your senses. And when you need a break from the sights, sounds, smells, and world-class flavors of Japan’s sixth largest city, retreat to the serene environs of greater Fukuoka Prefecture’s outlying islands and green spaces. Here are a few recommendations when visiting this destination.
Explore the coast of Fukuoka
Shikanoshima, Nokonoshima and Futamigaura Beach
Fukuoka is regarded by foreigners as one of the world’s friendliest cities, due, in large part, to its sunny, coastal lifestyle. Nearshore islands, like Shikanoshima and Nokonoshima, provide easy escapes from the urban bustle of Fukuoka city, and picturesque beaches, like Futamigaura, add a touch of romance to your adventure. Reached by ferry or by a single road, Shikanoshima is a quiet, rural island whose beaches can get crowded during the summer. Circle the island on a lazy car ride (25 mph limit) or enjoy the island’s natural beauty on a rented bike. The island is also known for its swimming, snorkeling, and diving spots. When you’ve worked up an appetite, duck into one of the many seafood restaurants along the streets near the harbor. Visitors can stop to smell the flowers at another offshore getaway, Nokonoshima Island, just across the bay from the mainland. Famed for its sunflowers in the summer and cosmos flowers in the fall, Nokonoshima is a colorful destination for the outdoor enthusiast, whether it’s swimming, camping, or hiking. A bit further flung, but still just a 40-minute drive from the airport, is Futamigaura Beach in Itoshima, where the sunset views might be the most romantic in Japan. A white torii gate dedicated to the creation deities Izanagi and Izanami frames two, giant “married-couple” rocks joined by a Shimenawa rope, which has become a symbol of marital happiness.
Experience the city’s culture
Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle
Just inland from Hakata Bay, in the Chuo district of Fukuoka city, is the 100-acre Ohori Park, whose centerpiece is the 55-acre Ohori pond. The park features a 1.25-mile path that rings the pond and several stone bridges connecting a series of islands through the pond’s center. In the park’s southeast corner is the Fukuoka Art Museum, which has a permanent collection of Japanese and Western art. To the west is the breathtaking Ohori Japanese Garden, whose stone work, waterfalls, and sublime design make it a frequent stop for visitors and locals. Just east of Ohori Park is Maizuru Park, the location of the Fukuoka Castle ruins. Built in the 16th century, the castle was mostly torn down during Japan’s rapid industrialization in 1871. At the south end of the castle ruins is Gokoku Shrine, a peaceful Shinto sanctuary with well-maintained grounds.
Dazaifu Tenmangu
One of Fukuoka Prefecture’s most renowned attractions is Dazaifu Tenmangu, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the spirit of Sugawara no Michizane, a Heian politician, poet, and academic who was defied as Tenman Tenjin, the god of learning. Dazaifu Tenmangu is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines. Each year, more than 10 million visitors pass through the shrine’s torii (gate) and onto a pond designed in the shape of the kanji (Chinese written character) for “heart.” Plum trees feature throughout the sprawling park grounds, including the well-known “flying plum tree” that is said to be the first to blossom each year and, according to legend, flew from Sugawara no Michizane's home to be with him when he was in need.
Akizuki Castle Ruins & Hiraodai
Surrounded by the sea on three sides, it’s easy to forget that Fukuoka Prefecture has picturesque mountains that provide lots of opportunities to hike and explore. The Akizuki Castle ruins in Asakura is a wonderful destination to visit, especially during autumn. The site is the former home of the Akizuki clan, a feudal family who once ruled over much of Fukuoka Prefecture. It’s also said to be the site that inspired the work of filmmakers Akira Kurosawa and George Lucas. About an hour’s drive from Fukuoka city, Asakura and the Akizuki Castle makes for a great day trip into Japan’s country culture and feudal past. Further north, in Kitakyushu, nature lovers can visit Hiraodai and hike along an elevated plateau known for its white limestone scattered over green meadows. Underfoot are limestone caves that can be explored, including the famous Senbutsu Shonyudo.
Hakata Machiya Furusato-kan
In Fukuoka city, visit Hakata Machiya Furusato-kan, a folk museum that recreates traditional neighborhood units from the late Meiji era. The museum is spread over three replica machiya (traditional Japanese townhouses), which house historical photographs and displays of traditional Hakata culture. Artisans are also on-hand to demonstrate traditional Hakata arts and crafts.
Food
If you visit Fukuoka without trying Hakata ramen, have you really been to Fukuoka? Hakata ramen is a legendary dish made of a super savory tonkotsu (pork-bone broth) and thin, straight noodles. It is often topped with green onion, pickled ginger, a boiled egg, and garlic. Depending on your noodle preference, you can order your noodles harder or softer. With six locations across Fukuoka, Shin Shin ramen shop is a delicious and convenient way to satisfy your Hakata ramen fix. Another option would be to stop in at Ramen Stadium in the Hakata ward, where you’ll find many Hakata-style ramen restaurants.
Fukuoka Delicacies & Yatai Hopping
As the second-largest fig-growing region in Japan, Fukuoka Prefecture is renowned for their figs, and they don’t get much sweeter than toyomitsuhime figs. Toyomitsuhime figs were developed in Fukuoka and are similar in sweetness to melons and grapes. Other Fukuoka delicacies include, kiwis, strawberries, unagi (freshwater eel) and Yamecha green tea. In the city, open-air food stalls called yatai are a must to satisfy your foodie cravings. In the Tenjin area in the Chuo district, are dozens of yatai. The eight-to-12-seat yatai are assembled every evening and taken down every night. It’s very easy to spend a night yatai hopping until you’ve had your fill.
Fall in love with Fukuoka
These are just a few to get your love affair started. The prefecture and its largest city are destinations that have flown under the radar for a long time but are now seeing some shine as visitors spread. Fall in love with Fukuoka. Visit Hawaiianairlines.com and book your ticket soon.
