In addition to famous tourist spots, Fukuoka has many other unique spots that are yet to be discovered. In this article, we will introduce some of the most photo-worthy spots, places related to famous anime, and spots where you can have unique experiences unique to Fukuoka! We will also introduce some lesser-known spots, so please take a look at them for your trip.
Photo Spot Shrine and Temple
Nanzoin（南蔵院）
Nanzoin is an impressive sight with a large reclining Buddha. It is located a 3-minute walk from Kido Nanzoin-mae Station, and can be reached in about 30 minutes from Hakata Station.
The statue of Buddha is called the “Statue of the Reclining Buddha” and was created in 1995. At 41 meters long, 11 meters high, and 300 tons, it is one of the largest bronze statues in the world. It is possible to enter the statue for a fee.
The spacious precincts of the temple are also filled with attractions! Don’t miss the “Dai-Fudomyoo,” which has a very spirited expression, and the “Tunnel of the Seven Gods of Fortune” that connects the Hon-do side and the ing Buddha side. Take your time to visit these spots.
Ukiha Inari Shrine（浮羽稲荷神社）
Ukiha Inari Shrine is located in Jogahana Park in Ukiha City. There are 300 steps leading up to the main shrine, which is about 120m above sea level, and 91 torii gates have been erected.
The contrast between the bright red torii gates and the green nature is beautiful, and the rows of torii gates seem to lead to another world. It is also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring, and has become a hot spot through SNS.
Mitsui Temple（三井寺）
The unique “Mitsui Temple” in Tagawa City, located about a 20-minute walk from Tagawa-Ida Station. Mitsui Temple is famous for its wind chimes, decorated from late April to the end of August, and nicknamed “Furin Temple (wind chime temple)” by the local people. A typical Japanese summer tradition, wind chimes are decorations characterized by the cool sound they produce when the wind blows
About 10,000 wind chimes swaying in a 50-m-long tunnel create a refreshing atmosphere. 10,000 wind chimes will be used for the Pinwheel Festival from October to early February, from fall through winter. Please check out the official Instagram to see how the Wind Bell Festival and Pinwheel Festival are going.
Official instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitsuidera_byodoji/?hl=ja
Koinoki Shrine（恋木神社）
Koinoki Shrine, a 20-minute walk from Hainuzuka Station, is a famous power spot for love fulfillment. Surrounded by heart motifs, it is a very cute and one-of-a-kind shrine. There are also love-related Omikuji (a fortune-telling slip) and fashionable amulets, so we recommend purchasing one to commemorate your trip or as a souvenir.
Spots related to popular anime
Itoshima Totoro’s Forest（糸島トトロの森）
Itoshima Totoro no Mori (Totoro’s Forest) is located in Itoshima, a famous sightseeing area in Fukuoka, inside Keya Daimon Park. It was named for its resemblance to a scene from the world-famous Ghibli film “My Neighbor Totoro”.
Many trees create a fantastic tunnel path. On a clear day, the sunlight will illuminate the scene, creating a very beautiful sight. Please try to take a special picture as if you have entered the world of the artwork.
Kamiari Shrine （神在神社）
This Itoshima shrine is located about a 15-minute walk from Ikisan Station. As you proceed deeper into the wooded area of the shrine grounds, you will see an amazingly large stone called “Shinseki” (meaning “God stone”). Because of the stone’s resemblance to a giant stone in a popular anime scene, it has become a popular power spot in Fukuoka, especially among fans.
Spots where you can experience something unique to Fukuoka
Fukuoka Hakata Food Stalls（福岡博多屋台）
If you go to Fukuoka, enjoy “Yatai (food stalls)”. With more than 100 yatai stalls, Fukuoka is one of the largest food stalls spots in Japan.
Since stalls of various genres are lined up, we recommend that you enjoy visiting several stores at the same time. Although the stores are small, the distance between shopkeepers and customers is shortened and conversation is encouraged at the food stalls.
Many food stalls open in the evening and can be found in various areas of Fukuoka. The most major area, the “Nakasu area,” is close to Hakata Station and has a lively atmosphere as it attracts many tourists. The “Tenjin area” is also home to many food stalls, and is characterized by the large number of locals.
Menus vary from restaurant to restaurant. In addition to standard items such as yakitori and gyoza, many restaurants offer Hakata specialties such as tonkotsu ramen and motsunabe (offal hot pot). Popular stores often have lines, so it is recommended to allow plenty of time to get in. We recommend just walking along the yatai street to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
