Fukuoka sightseeing” is often associated with Hakata and Tenjin, motsunabe (hot pot) and ramen noodles, but in fact there are many sightseeing areas other than the standard ones, such as Itoshima with its rich nature and Kitakyushu, famous for Kokura Castle.
This article will provide a comprehensive introduction to Fukuoka Prefecture, from its standard sightseeing spots to surprisingly unknown places to visit. These are all wonderful places that will make you fall in love with Oka even more, so if you want to enjoy Fukuoka’s original charms to the fullest, please refer to this article to plan your trip.
- Sightseeing Spots in Fukuoka Area
- 1.Ruins of Fukuoka Castle (Fukuoka City)
- 2.Ohori Park (Fukuoka City)
- 3.Uminonakamichi Seaside Park (Fukuoka City)
- 4.Shiga Island (Fukuoka City)
- 5.Shiraito Falls (Itoshima City)
- 6.Sakurai Futamigaura Couple Rocks (Itoshima City)
- 7.Akutoya no Daimon Park Nature Trail (Itoshima City)
- 8.Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
- 9.Houmangu Kamakamon Shrine: Famous for matchmaking! Sacred power spot
- 10.Munakata-taisha: Historic shrine recognized as a World Heritage Site
- 11.Roadside Station Munakata: Fresh seafood and a spectacular view
- 12.Miyajitake Shrine: Shrine dedicated to the god of marriage and fire
- 13.Nanzoin Temple (Kasuya, Sasaguri): Temple famous for its reclining Buddha
- Fukuoka Chikugo Area Tourist Attractions
- 14.Kurume Sake Brewery Tour (Kurume): Lots of unique local sake
- 15.Kurume Kasuri (Kurume) Experience the depth of a traditional craft through hands-on experience
- 16.Kurume Ramen (Kurume): One of the most fierce battlegrounds for ramen in Japan
- 17.Yame Central Grand Tea Garden (Yame): Experience the best tea plantation in Japan
- 18.Kuroki no Oto (Yame): Purple tunnel woven by a 1,200-year-old giant wisteria tree
- 19.Yame Traditional Crafts Museum (Yame): Experience the skill and beauty of traditional crafts
- 20.Yanagawa river cruise (Yanagawa): Feel the history in an emotional boat
- 21.Seiro-mushi (eel steamed in a pot in Yanagawa): Yanagawa’s specialty, the exquisite eel.
- 22.Tachibana Residence of the Lord of Yanagawa Domain (Yanagawa): Experience an Edo Period mansion
- 23.Akizuki Castle Ruins (Asakura)-a cherry blossom viewing spot with beautiful scenery and history
- Sightseeing Spots in Kitakyushu Area
- 24.Kokura Castle (Kitakyushu): Experience the history and culture of this symbol of Kitakyushu
- 25.Mojiko (Kitakyushu): Explore a Meiji Era Port Town
- 26.Hiraodai (Kitakyushu): Enjoy the beauty of natural formations
- 27.Sarakura (Kitakyushu): Recognized as one of the new top three nightscapes!
- 28.Tange Market (Kitakyushu): “Kitakyushu’s Kitchen” where you can find fresh ingredients
Sightseeing Spots in Fukuoka Area
We will introduce sightseeing spots in Fukuoka City, the center of Fukuoka sightseeing such as Hakata and Tenjin, where gourmet food, sightseeing, and hotels are all available, and Itoshima City, where you can relax and enjoy the sea, nature, and a wide variety of gourmet foods.
1.Ruins of Fukuoka Castle (Fukuoka City)
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Did you know that there are actually castle ruins in Fukuoka City?
The ruins of Fukuoka Castle are the remains of the residence of the Kuroda clan, who were the lords of the Fukuoka domain during the Edo period. The area is now maintained as Maizuru Park, but parts of the castle walls and stonewalls still remain. The castle tower has not been restored, but the observatory offers a panoramic view of Fukuoka City.
The park also has a historical museum and a garden, making it an attractive place for sightseeing while experiencing Fukuoka’s history. During the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, many people visit the park to stroll under the beautiful flowers and trees.
2.Ohori Park (Fukuoka City)
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Ohori Park Garden is a garden located in the center of Fukuoka City.
The large site is maintained around a pond, and is visited by many people, from tourists to locals, who come to enjoy jogging, cycling, boating, and other activities. The park also has a Japanese garden, a Noh theater, and an art museum, allowing visitors to experience culture. There are also a variety of cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to take a break.
3.Uminonakamichi Seaside Park (Fukuoka City)
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Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is a vast seaside park located in Higashi Ward, Fukuoka City.
It features a large 12,000 m2 flower garden where visitors can enjoy a variety of flowers each season. Other attractions such as go-carts and SL locomotives are also available, making it a popular place for sightseeing during holidays and trips. There is also a cycling course, so it is recommended to try renting a bicycle to get around the park.
4.Shiga Island (Fukuoka City)
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Shiga Island is located right on the border of the Genkainada Sea and the Sea of Japan, and is famous as the place where the nearby sea was discovered. The natural beauty of the island and its location blessed with the sea make it a great place for seafood and other attractive gourmet foods.
It is also a place where you can relax, drive along crystal clear beaches, and feel refreshed and healed by nature.
There is no Fukuoka City, but there are not many trains or other transportation options, so renting a car is recommended.
5.Shiraito Falls (Itoshima City)
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Shiraito Falls, a mysterious waterfall in an unexplored region of Fukuoka Shiraito Falls, located in Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a waterfall with a drop of about 24 meters, situated about 900 meters above sea level on a hillside of Haganeyama.
Surrounded by a deep forest full of negative ions, this place is truly a healing paradise. It is a recommended spot for those who want to forget the hustle and bustle of the city and refresh their body and soul.
The pure white water splashing and falling down is as delicate and soothing as silken threads.
6.Sakurai Futamigaura Couple Rocks (Itoshima City)
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Sakurai Futamigaura is famous for its mysterious landscape of two huge rocks standing on top of each other. At low tide, visitors can walk across between the rocks, and it is believed that their wishes will come true. During the summer, the contrast between the emerald green sea and white sandy beach is beautiful, and the beach has been selected as one of the 100 best beaches in Japan.
There are many places to enjoy in the surrounding area, including Futamigaura Shrine and souvenirs featuring a couple of rocks.
7.Akutoya no Daimon Park Nature Trail (Itoshima City)
Akutoya’s Daimon Park, also known as “Totoro no Mori,” is a popular tourist spot.
A short walk from the Akutoya no Daimon sightseeing boat ticket booth is Akutoya no Daimon Park (nature trail), where the 180-meter path to the observation deck is “like Totoro’s forest!” The path leading up to the observation deck has become a popular spot since it was first described as “just like Totoro’s forest!
8.Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
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Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is the head shrine of about 40,000 Tenmangu shrines throughout Japan, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning.
Many people visit the shrine during the examination season. History and Culture: Historical spots and cultural facilities such as the Dazaifu Government Office Ruins and the Kyushu National Museum are located nearby.
9.Houmangu Kamakamon Shrine: Famous for matchmaking! Sacred power spot
Houmangu Shrine of the Hearth is a popular shrine for matchmaking and a sacred power spot.
It is the head shrine of about 40,000 Tenmangu shrines throughout Japan, and is believed to bring together all kinds of good relationships, not only between men and women, but also between business and friends. The shrine is located on Mt.
Homan, which has long been revered as a mountain of gods, and there are many spots within its precincts where visitors can feel the mysterious atmosphere. Houmansan also has well-maintained hiking trails, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area as they visit the shrine.
10.Munakata-taisha: Historic shrine recognized as a World Heritage Site
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Munakata Taisha is a historic shrine dedicated to the goddess of the sea.
The island was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2017 as “Munakata/ Okinoshima Island and Related Properties,” comprising Okinoshima, Nakanoshima, and Okitsushima. It is worshipped as a deity that protects the safety of maritime traffic and is especially popular among people involved in navigation. Built on islands in the sea, the shrine is surrounded by a mysterious atmosphere.
11.Roadside Station Munakata: Fresh seafood and a spectacular view
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Roadside Station Munakata sells local specialties and traditional crafts from Munakata and other local Fukuoka Prefecture products. At the adjacent set meal restaurant, seafood rice bowls and set meals using fresh local seafood are popular. There is also a terrace overlooking the Genkai Sea where visitors can take a break while enjoying the beautiful scenery. This place is visited not only by tourists but also by many local Fukuoka residents.
12.Miyajitake Shrine: Shrine dedicated to the god of marriage and fire
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God of marriage: Nationally renowned as a matchmaking spot, it attracts many worshippers. God of Fire: Believed to be the god of fire, this shrine is believed to bring good luck and ward off bad luck.
In addition, the “Path of Light,” made popular by an airline commercial, is a precious sunset spot that can only be seen twice a year, in October and February.
13.Nanzoin Temple (Kasuya, Sasaguri): Temple famous for its reclining Buddha
Located in Sasaguri Town, Kasuya County, Fukuoka Prefecture, the giant Reclining Buddha, modeled after the image of the Reclining Buddha, is one of the symbols of Fukuoka Prefecture. The temple has a history of over 1,200 years, and various Buddhist statues and cultural assets can be seen on the temple grounds.
The expansive grounds include a garden and a pond, where visitors can stroll and enjoy nature to the fullest.
Fukuoka Chikugo Area Tourist Attractions
14.Kurume Sake Brewery Tour (Kurume): Lots of unique local sake
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Kurume City in Fukuoka Prefecture has long been known as a region where sake brewing has flourished. There are many sake breweries in the city, each brewing unique local sake.
Experience Tradition and TechnologyThe sake brewery tour allows visitors to observe the traditional sake brewing process. Visitors can experience the careful handiwork of the toji (master brewer) and the use of state-of-the-art equipment in sake brewing, both of which are usually unavailable to visitors.
At the Taste Tasting Corner, visitors can taste the local sake that each brewery is proud of. Visitors can enjoy the different tastes of different brands and production methods, and find their own favorite sake.
15.Kurume Kasuri (Kurume) Experience the depth of a traditional craft through hands-on experience
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The Kurume Kasuri Experience allows visitors to fully appreciate the appeal of Kurume kasuri.
Kurume City in Fukuoka Prefecture is known for its Kurume Kasuri, a traditional handicraft. Kurume kasuri is a beautiful textile characterized by its indigo dyeing and kasuri pattern weaving techniques.
At the Kurume Kasuri Experience, visitors can learn the traditional techniques of indigo dyeing and weaving kasuri patterns under the guidance of a craftsman. By experiencing the process of dyeing the threads and weaving the patterns, visitors will understand the depth of Kurume kasuri.
16.Kurume Ramen (Kurume): One of the most fierce battlegrounds for ramen in Japan
Kurume City in Fukuoka Prefecture is known as one of the most competitive ramen areas in Japan. Among these, Kurume ramen attracts many fans with its unique, rich flavor.
Kurume ramen features a rich broth made by slowly cooking pork bones and chicken bones. The long simmering process melts the flavor from the marrow and creates a deep flavor. The extra-fine noodles that go well with the soup are another characteristic of Kurume Ramen.
The thin noodles allow you to fully appreciate the flavor of the rich broth. Another attraction of Kurume ramen is the variety of topping toppings. In addition to the standard toppings such as chashu pork, boiled egg, and kikurage mushrooms, you can also enjoy original toppings at each restaurant.
17.Yame Central Grand Tea Garden (Yame): Experience the best tea plantation in Japan
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Yame is the production center of Yame tea, which boasts the largest production of tea leaves in Japan. At Yame Central Grand Tea Garden, visitors can stroll through the vast tea fields and experience tea picking. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of each season: sprouts in spring, sunshine in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscape in winter. In addition, visitors can experience a tea ceremony and purchase tea-based sweets and souvenirs.
Access: 50 minutes by bus from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station
18.Kuroki no Oto (Yame): Purple tunnel woven by a 1,200-year-old giant wisteria tree
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Kuroki’s giant wisteria tree is over 1,200 years old, and is the oldest giant wisteria in Japan. The purple flowers that bloom under the wisteria trellis are a sight to behold.
The best time to visit is usually from mid to late May. During this period, the trees are lit up and a fantastic atmosphere can be enjoyed. There are many other tourist spots in Kuroki-cho. Kuroki Hot Springs and Kuroki Dolls are also recommended to visit.
Access: Approx. 40 min. by bus from JR Bungo Takada Stn.
19.Yame Traditional Crafts Museum (Yame): Experience the skill and beauty of traditional crafts
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Yame is a region where various traditional crafts, such as Yame weaving and Yame dyeing, flourish. At the Yame Traditional Crafts Museum, visitors can observe artisans making traditional crafts. Visitors can also try their hand at Yame-weaving and Yame-dyeing.
Access: 40 minutes by bus from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station
20.Yanagawa river cruise (Yanagawa): Feel the history in an emotional boat
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The Yanagawa river cruise is a river cruise on a traditional “donko boat” that travels the waterways of Yanagawa. Yanagawa is attractive for its townscape that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. Visitors can enjoy the town houses lining the river and the scenery of the waterway at a leisurely pace.
During the river cruise, visitors can also taste the famous “Seiro-mushi (eel steamed in a pot in a pot of broth)” and “river fish dishes.
Access: 10 min. walk from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Sta.
21.Seiro-mushi (eel steamed in a pot in Yanagawa): Yanagawa’s specialty, the exquisite eel.
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Yanagawa is known as the birthplace of seiro-mushi (eel steamed in a bamboo basket).
Eels steamed in a seiro have a fluffy texture and an exquisite taste with a sweet and spicy sauce. There are many restaurants in Yanagawa where you can taste seiro steamed eel. Each restaurant offers its own specialties and tastes, such as the way it is grilled and the way the sauce is prepared.
Access: within walking distance from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station
22.Tachibana Residence of the Lord of Yanagawa Domain (Yanagawa): Experience an Edo Period mansion
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Edo Period: This mansion was the residence of the Tachibana clan, lords of the Yanagawa domain. Visitors can experience the architectural style and culture of the great mansions of the Edo period. The expansive garden offers beautiful seasonal views. In addition, materials and artifacts related to the Tachibana family are on display.
Access: 10 min. walk from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Sta.
23.Akizuki Castle Ruins (Asakura)-a cherry blossom viewing spot with beautiful scenery and history
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Akizuki Castle Ruins is known as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring, and the collaboration of the castle ruins with cherry blossoms in full bloom is breathtaking. From the castle ruins, visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of the Yame Plain. Visitors can also see historical structures such as stonewalls and moats.
It is also recommended to visit the Akizuki Museum and Akizuki Onsen spa in the vicinity of the Akizuki Castle Ruins.
Access: Approx. 40 min. by bus from JR Bungo Takada Stn.
Sightseeing Spots in Kitakyushu Area
24.Kokura Castle (Kitakyushu): Experience the history and culture of this symbol of Kitakyushu
Located in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Kokura Castle is a historical castle that is a beloved symbol of Kitakyushu.
Kokura Castle was built by Tadaoki Hosokawa, a general in the Warring States period. The castle architecture, which gives a sense of the prosperity of the time, is a precious reminder of Japan’s history. Around Kokura Castle, there is a beautiful Japanese garden. Visitors can enjoy a historical stroll while admiring the seasonal scenery.
The area around Kokura Castle is also rich in historical and cultural attractions such as Tanzako Park and the Seicho Matsumoto Memorial Museum.
アクセス: JR小倉駅から徒歩約10分
25.Mojiko (Kitakyushu): Explore a Meiji Era Port Town
Mojiko’s retro cityscape will make you feel as if you have stepped back in time to the Meiji and Taisho eras. Visitors can tour historical buildings such as the former Mojiko Station Building and the former Osaka Merchant Marine Building.
Also recommended are the seafood dishes and Moji’s specialty “Yaki Curry” (grilled curry), which you can enjoy while looking out over the Kanmon Straits!
Access: within walking distance from JR Mojiko Station
26.Hiraodai (Kitakyushu): Enjoy the beauty of natural formations
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Hiraodai is dotted with oddly shaped rocks and caves, and is one of the three major karsts in Japan. There are various hiking trails where visitors can walk around and enjoy nature to the fullest.
The observatory also offers a panoramic view of the city of Kitakyushu and the Kanmon Bridge.
Access: 40 minutes by bus from Nishitetsu Kitakyushu Station
27.Sarakura (Kitakyushu): Recognized as one of the new top three nightscapes!
The night view from Mt. Sarakura has been recognized as one of the “New Three Great Night Views of Japan” and the “100 Best Night Views” by the “Secretariat of the New Three Great Night Views of Japan and the 100 Best Night Views”, and is a new trend in sightseeing in Fukuoka.
From the top of Mt. Sarakura, a magnificent night view of Fukuoka City can be seen. It is called the “Million Dollar Nightscape” because of its beauty. Sarakura is easily accessible by a ropeway. Sarakura and enjoy the night view while walking in the air.
Access: 50 min. by bus from Nishitetsu Fukuoka Sta.
28.Tange Market (Kitakyushu): “Kitakyushu’s Kitchen” where you can find fresh ingredients
Tange Market is a lively market in Kitakyushu City. It offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits. In addition to shopping at the local market, visitors can also enjoy interacting with the locals.
Inside the market, you will find a variety of gourmet restaurants where you can enjoy fresh ingredients, such as seafood rice bowls and grilled curry.
Access: 10 min. walk from JR Kokura Station
