Fukuoka

Travel Guide

Fukuoka
Fukuoka
Fukuoka
Fukuoka
Fukuoka

Visit this seaside destination, which is home to ancient temples, peaceful gardens, beaches, exciting nightlife areas and lively shopping districts.

Fukuoka blends a modern attitude with ancient traditions. Visit centuries-old temples, relax in ornamental gardens, browse boutiques and sample a music-loving nightlife scene. Fukuoka straddles the Naka River on the shores of Hakata Bay on Japan’s Kyushu Island. It’s an amalgamation of two towns, Fukuoka castle town and Hakata, which joined as one in 1889.

The ruins of the 17th-century Fukuoka Castle in Maizuru Park provide a glimpse into a bygone era. Enjoy a panoramic city view from the observation deck of Fukuoka TowerOpens in a new window. It rises above Momochi Seaside Park, a man-made beach with a selection of casual dining options. Nearby is Fukuoka Yafuoku! Dome, home of the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks baseball team.

Spread throughout the city are temples and shrines dating as far back as the 1st century. Among the most important are Hakozaki Shrine, Kushida Shrine, Shofukuji Temple and Tochoji Temple. Learn about the lifestyles of city residents at the Fukuoka City Museum. Step back in time to the Meiji era at Hakata Machiya Folk Museum. Spot dolphins, sharks and other aquatic creatures at Marine World Uminonakamichi.

Poke around spice shops, handicraft stores and kimono artist workshops at Kawabata Shopping Arcade. Less than a 10-minute walk away, the architecturally striking Canal City mall shelters fashion outlets of international brands. Relax at lakeside Ohori Park and the peaceful Rakusi-en Garden. Alternatively, have fun with the family at Kashii-kaen amusement park.

When night falls, hop between glitzy bars in the Tenjin district. Discover an unpretentious scene at traditional izakaya bars and mentai rock venues on Oyafuko Dori street. Feast on Hakata ramen (pork soup and noodles), yakitori (skewered chicken) and tempura at a yatai food stand. Sample fresh seafood at Nagahama Fish Market or try unagi (eel).

Reach Fukuoka by flying to Fukuoka Airport, 4 miles (6 kilometers) from the city center. Arrive in July to watch the city’s seven neighborhoods compete in an extravagant float race during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival. Enjoy cherry blossoms in March and April.

Where to stay in Fukuoka

Default Image

Hakata Ward

4.5/5(79 area reviews)

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Hakata Ward. If sightseeing is on the list, Canal City Hakata is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Higashi-Hie Station or Fukuoka Airport Station to see more of the area.

Hakata Ward
Default Image

Tenjin

4.5/5(13 area reviews)

Unique features of Tenjin include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Solaria Plaza or Yatai while you're exploring the area.

Tenjin
Default Image

Hakata Ekimae

Hakata Ekimae is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Canal City Hakata and Amu Plaza Hakata.

Hakata Ekimae
Default Image

Chuo Ward

4.5/5(27 area reviews)

Chuo Ward is a destination travellers like for its shopping, and you might hop aboard the metro at Akasaka Station or Sakurazaka Station to explore sights like Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka.

Chuo Ward
Default Image

Nakasu

Get to know Nakasu by checking out its shopping, river views and restaurants. Consider a visit to nearby sights like Canal City Hakata or Marine Messe Fukuoka during your time in the area.

Nakasu
Default Image

Daimyō

While you're in Daimyō, take in top sights like Solaria Plaza and jump on the metro at Akasaka Station to see more of the city.

Daimyō

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Reviews of Fukuoka

4.5
Top destination
5 - Excellent
43
5 - Excellent 53%
4 - Good
37
4 - Good 46%
3 - Okay
1
3 - Okay 1%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Prang

Quiet place. I didn't had much time staying there since there eas Coronavirus outbreak :( poorly. I'll be back again next time when I have a trip in Kyushu again :)

4/5 - Good

BVB

Lots of possibly to see and for good food.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Love it

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

City as a whole made us feel welcome, great breakfast

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Nice and lovely city. People super friendly

4/5 - Good

Thajcha

Nice city. Tradition ramen.