Although Fukuoka has a strong urban image with Fukuoka Tower and large commercial facilities, it is actually filled with spots where you can refresh yourself with a sense of nature. In this article, we will introduce parks, islands, and spots with spectacular views that you can easily visit in Fukuoka, so please take a look at them for your trip.
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Shikano Island （志賀島）
Shikano Island is famous as a scenic spot. It takes about 30 minutes from Hakata Pier by city-operated ferry, and about 40 minutes by car or Nishitetsu bus.
It has become a famous leisure spot for enjoying nature, such as swimming, fishing, and scuba diving. The outer circumference of Shiga Island is approximately 12 km, which can be toured in about an hour by bicycle. Renting a bicycle and cycling around the island is also recommended.
Yanagawa River Rafting（柳川 川下り）
Yanagawa used to be a prosperous castle town. Today, “river rafting” by boat down various parts of the city has become popular, and visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere of a water town in each of the four seasons. It is a spot that is attracting an increasing number of families, school excursionists, and tourists from Japan and abroad.
It takes about an hour to go down the river while listening to the boatman’s boat song and guide as he rows the boat. The boat ride through the space surrounded by trees and under bridges makes the experience a bit more adventurous. You can also view the autumn leaves in fall, and in winter, a “kotatsu boat” with a brazier on board makes an appearance. There are various other river cruise courses available, so please check the official website.
Official website: https://www.yanagawa-net.com/en/cruise/
Nokonoshima Island（能古島）
The island is located just 10 minutes by boat from the port of Fukuoka City. It is known as a place of recreation and relaxation, with flowers blooming in all four seasons. During the warmer months, many people visit the island for swimming, hiking, and insect collecting.
From the observatory at the top of the 195-meter-high peak, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the ocean. Also on the north side of the island is “Nokonoshima Island Park,” popular among families. With a mini zoo, athletic facilities, and flower gardens, it is a perfect spot on a sunny day to experience nature.
Maiduru Park（舞鶴公園）
Maiduru Park, located an 8-minute walk from Akasaka Subway Station and Oyuko-koen Station, is a large park centered around Fukuoka Castle. Various sports facilities such as an athletic field and ball fields are located in the park, and Ohori Park and the Fukuoka Art Museum are adjacent to the park.
The large site is a place known for its seasonal flowers, and especially for its cherry blossoms in spring. About 1,000 cherry trees are in full bloom, turning the entire park pink. You can also see different scenery each season, such as hydrangeas in June and plum blossoms in February.
Fukuoka Zoo and Botanical Garden （福岡市動植物園）
The Fukuoka City Zoo and Botanical Garden breeds and cultivates approximately 160 animal species and 2,600 plant species. Conveniently located less than 30 minutes from Hakata Station, it is a place where citizens can interact with animals and plants. It is a popular spot for children as well, with a variety of animals including kangaroos, tigers, giraffes, and red pandas.
The “Animal Information Center ZooLab” in the park provides information and hands-on experiences to help visitors become familiar with animals. Skeletal specimens are also on display, so you can learn about the mechanisms of the animals’ bodies. There is also a restaurant, café, and gift store, making this a spot where visitors can take a break while enjoying themselves.
Shiraito Waterfall（白糸の滝）
Shiraito Falls, with a drop of about 24 meters, is a famous sightseeing spot in Itoshima City. The sound of the waterfall flowing and the splash of the water are cool, and many people visit the area during the summer as a summer resort. Around the waterfall, you can enjoy playing in the river, fishing for landlocked salmon, and eating Nagashi Somen (fine white noodles served flowing in a small flume). The area is also popular for its autumn foliage, which attracts many visitors who come for a drive or a hike.
