Fukuoka is a fascinating place with its vibrant urban landscape, abundant nature, and historical sites. There are many unique experiences and spots that can only be enjoyed in Fukuoka, so you will probably have a hard time deciding where to go on your trip to Fukuoka. Therefore, in this issue, we introduce 30 sightseeing spots in Fukuoka by eight different themes. If you are planning to visit Fukuoka in the future, please read this and use it as a reference for your planning!
Five classic spots
Here are some of the most popular tourist spots that you should keep in mind when traveling to Fukuoka.
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine（太宰府天満宮）
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, less than an hour’s train ride from the Hakata/Tenjin area, is a popular tourist attraction that attracts many worshippers and represents Fukuoka. The shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, known as the god of learning, and is especially crowded with students and families during the Hatsumode (New Year’s visit) and entrance examination season from January to March.
The approach to the temple is lined with long-established souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular place to eat and drink. Particularly worth trying is the famous “Umegae mochi”. It is a baked rice cake filled with red bean paste and branded with plum blossoms. It does not taste or smell of plum blossoms. Many stores specializing in umegae mochi line the approach to the temple, so it is recommended to compare the different types of umegae mochi.
In addition, from mid-February to early March each year, many plum blossoms bloom. These plum blossoms were planted because they were favored by Sugawara no Michizane, and are known as the symbolic flower of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
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. Popular restaurants often have lines, so be sure to be on time.
Ohori Park （大濠公園）
There is Ohori Park, whose symbol is the beautiful vermilion colored Ukimido. It is a beautiful park where nature can be seen from season to season, so we recommend that you take out a drink and bread and enjoy a leisurely picnic.
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park（海の中道海浜公園）
This is a national park with a vast area. It is a great spot for families to enjoy seasonal flowers throughout the year, an area where you can interact with animals, an outdoor swimming pool, and a variety of other experiences. It takes only 30 minutes from Hakata Station.
The park has a large flower garden where visitors can enjoy a variety of flowers depending on the season, and the nemophilas, which are at their best in April, are especially popular with couples. There are also various types of playground equipment, such as trampolines and slides, where children can play to their heart’s content, as well as a mini amusement park for a fee. There is also a large lawn area, so relaxing outside and eating a bakery lunch is also recommended.
Fukuoka Tower（福岡タワー）
“Fukuoka Tower” is also known as a sacred place for lovers. The contrast between the islands in Hakata Bay and the blue sea seen from the observation deck is spectacular, but the night view is also romantic. It is open at night until 22:00 (last admission at 21:30), and there is a heart-shaped photo spot where you can take pictures with the Fukuoka scenery in the background, making it the perfect place for a date.
Unique photogenic spots
In addition to famous tourist attractions, Fukuoka also has photogenic spots and places related to famous anime.
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.
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
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.
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.
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Shrines and temples where you can feel Japanese culture
Japanese shrines and temples are popular as power spots where you can feel special energy. There are many shrines and temples in Fukuoka, and we recommend visiting several during your trip.
Miyajitake Jinja Shrine （宮地嶽神社）
Miyajitake Shrine, a popular photo spot with a superb view, can be reached by train and bus from Hakata Station in about an hour. The spectacular view of the sunset, which can be seen only for a few days, is a must-see. The setting sun illuminates the straight approach to the shrine, creating a fantastic sight that attracts many visitors.
Miyajitake Jinja Shrine is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to business, and many people visit the shrine every year. The shrine is also famous for three of Japan’s best ornaments, including a large shimenawa (sacred rope) weighing 3 tons, a large bell, and a large drum.
Munakata Taisha Shrine（宗像大社）
Munakata Taisha Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and can be reached by a 10-minute cab ride from Togo or Akama Stations; it was registered as a World Cultural Heritage site in July 2017.
It is a place where worshippers come to pray for safe navigation and traffic safety. In addition, the “Shinpo-Kan” (Shrine Treasure House), located within the precincts of the shrine, exhibits and houses sacred treasures such as mirrors and rings designated as national treasures.
Hakozaki Shrine（筥崎宮）
Hakozaki Shrine, one of the three major Hachimangu shrines in Japan, is located in Higashi Ward, Fukuoka City, and is known as a shrine for victory prayers. It is a 3-minute walk from Hakozakigu-mae Station and only 20 minutes from Hakata Station for easy access.
Various festival events are held throughout the year at Hakozaki Shrine. In particular, “Hojoya Festival”, one of the three major festivals in Hakata, held in September, is a big festival that attracts about one million people and the whole town is filled with a lively atmosphere.
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Also recommended for dates! Romantic Spots
Fukuoka is a perfect place to enjoy a romantic atmosphere, with its many beautiful landscapes, including areas facing the sea and spots surrounded by nature.
Mount Sarakura（皿倉山）
Mount Sarakura is the most famous night view spot in Fukuoka. Mt. Sarakura has been selected as one of the three best nightscapes in Japan, and from the observation platform at the summit of the 622-meter-high mountain, you can see the night view of the entire city of Kitakyushu.
You can take the cable car up to the top of the mountain, so you can see the night view on the way to the observation deck. It is a nice point to be able to easily enjoy the beautiful night view without a car.
Itoshima（糸島）
The peninsula is located in the northwestern part of Fukuoka Prefecture. It is now a hot area with a variety of tourist spots, from magnificent natural scenery to the latest instagrammable spots and cafes.
The seaside area, where Sakurai Futamigaura, a popular power spot, and Palm Beach the Gardens, a resort mall complex, are concentrated, is ideal for a driving date because of its spectacular scenery. There are also a variety of other hands-on workshops and activities to make your trip memorable.
Mojiko Retro（門司港レトロ）
In addition to the beauty of the port and retro cityscape, the area offers many interesting spots, including local delicacies such as yaki curry, and facilities such as art galleries and museums. Mojiko Retro can be reached in about an hour from Hakata Station by Shinkansen bullet train.
We especially recommend the Mojiko Retro Observation Deck. At 103 meters above the ground, the glass-walled observation deck offers a spectacular view of the Mojiko cityscape, as well as the Kanmon Bridge and the Sea of Japan.
The sunset is breathtaking as the sun gradually sets and the sky turns red, and from there it transforms into a romantic, illuminated nightscape at night. Especially in winter, Mojiko’s streets glow romantically with illuminations, making it a popular date spot.
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Recommended for family trips! Places to have fun with kids
If you come to Fukuoka on a family vacation, you will want to visit spots where children can also have fun. There are many park facilities and amusement parks for families.
Marine World Uminonakamichi（マリンワールド海の中道）
This is a large aquarium located in Uminonakamichi Seaside Park. The highlight of this aquarium is the dolphin and sea lion shows, which are very popular among children. With Hakata Bay as the backdrop, visitors can enjoy a sense of freedom as if the pool and the sea are connected. A sea lion stage is set up right in front of the bleachers, so you can enjoy the performances right in front of you.
The large aquarium that runs through the first and second floors of the museum is also famous, and is quite impressive even for adults. The cute sea otters moving around freely are also a must-see. There are also stores and restaurants inside the museum, so we recommend that you plan a full day of fun together with Uminonakamichi Seaside Park.
ABURAYAMA FUKUOKA
“ABURAYAMA FUKUOKA” opened in 2023 and is an outdoor facility with a campground and farm. The grounds include accommodations, a café, and activity areas, and can be enjoyed for a full day. We especially recommend the experience of interacting with the animals! You can enjoy milking cows, feeding sheep, horseback riding, and other valuable up-close experiences with the animals.
Fukuoka Anpanman Children’s Museum in Mall（福岡アンパンマンこどもミュージアムinモール）
The Fukuoka Anpanman Children’s Museum in Mall, located in the Hakata Riverain Mall, can be reached in 5 minutes by train from Hakata Station, making access very convenient. The facility is directly connected to Nakasu Kawabata Station, so it is safe even on rainy days. Inside the facility, where the world of Anpanman has been completely recreated, visitors can meet Anpanman characters, play games, and play on the playground equipment.
Children who are fans of Anpanman will definitely be very satisfied with this space, as they can also enjoy meals named after Anpanman characters.
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Natural spots
Although Fukuoka has an urban image, there are many natural attractions such as parks, islands, and spots with spectacular views that you can easily visit!
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/
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.
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.
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Spectacular hole-in-the-wall spots
Fukuoka is rich in local cuisine and sightseeing spots, but it is also attractive for its abundant nature. There are many hidden spots with spectacular views.
Fukuma Beach （福間海岸）
Fukuma Beach in Fukutsu City is also known as “Kagami no Umi (Fukutsu Sea Mirror)”. It is so called because the sky and people are reflected on the shallow beach, creating a mirror-like view. It is a famous photo spot where beautiful pictures can be taken when the conditions of high tide, low tide, and no wind are met.
Official website: https://kagaminoumi.com/en/
Fudoike Pond in Itoshima （糸島の不動池）
Fudoike Pond in Itoshima is a popular power spot. It is a mysterious sight with trees growing out of the surface of the water. The trees bend and twist, giving the pond a lively appearance, as if it were alive. The view changes depending on the time of day and the weather, so you will have to wait until you get there to see what kind of view you will get.
Doyama （洞山）
Ashiya-cho’s Cave Mountain was formed when two islands that were originally separated became connected to the earth. It features a large cave 10 m high, 12 m wide, and 30 m deep, created by weathering, and when you get close, you can feel the power of nature. The surrounding area is a popular fishing spot that attracts many anglers.
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Indoor facility for rainy days
It often rains during your trip. Fukuoka has many indoor spots close to stations.
NOBOLT
With an area of approximately 4,000 ㎡ and a height of approximately 20 m, it is one of the largest indoor sports and athletic facilities in Japan. A total of 16 types of attractions are available, including attractions for physical enjoyment and athletic areas for children. From Japan’s first attraction to trampolines and bouldering, this is a spot where visitors can enjoy themselves all day long.
Since it is expected to be crowded on weekends and holidays, advance reservations from the official website are recommended. You can also see the details of the playground equipment and fees in the facility, so please check it out.
Official website: https://www.taito.co.jp/NOBOLT
Kyushu Railway History Museum（九州鉄道記念館）
The Kyushu Railway History Museum is located in Mojiko Retro District. It features a red brick building constructed in the Meiji era. The museum exhibits nostalgic trains, railway-related materials, and models.
There are a variety of indoor exhibits and hands-on experiences, including a driving simulator and the Kyushu Railway Grand Panorama. In particular, the Meiji era train is a must-see. The 1909 train on display is surrounded by dolls of passengers and conductors from that era, making it a very realistic space to enjoy.
On a fine day, visit the “Miniature Train Park” where you can experience riding on five miniature trains. You can experience driving the trains in authentic facilities equipped with signals and other equipment. The mini trains are modeled after trains still running in JR Kyushu today, making this facility a must-see for railroad enthusiasts.
Kitakyushu Museum of Natural History & Human History（北九州市立いのちのたび博物館）
Renovated in March 2023, it is one of the largest museums dealing with natural history and history in western Japan. It is conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from “Space World Station”. Inside the museum, the history of life from the birth of the earth to the present is constantly on display, and special and special exhibitions are also held.
The museum features a realistic view of the world of living creatures, including a diorama of a moving dinosaur and large stuffed specimens of living creatures. The dinosaur skeletons are particularly impressive! Enjoy learning about the evolution of life through these highly entertaining exhibits.
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Recommended Shopping Spots
Fukuoka offers a wide variety of shopping experiences. With many stores offering the latest fashions, delicious gourmet foods, and local specialties, there are plenty of spots for shopaholics to enjoy.
Canal City Hakata（キャナルシティ博多）
On an area of about 43,500 square meters, this complex offers a variety of things to do, including a shopping mall, movie theater, theater, amusement facility, and hotel. It is 3 minutes from Kushida-jinja-mae Station, but you can also walk there from Hakata Station.
In the center of Canal City Hakata, lined with colorful buildings, flows a 180-meter canal. On the waterfront stage, events by performers, live music and a dynamic fountain show will be held. The fountain show, which incorporates 3D projection mapping, is a must-see.
River Walk Kitakyushu（リバーウォーク北九州）
A large-scale commercial complex located in Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City. Surrounded by lush greenery and history, including the Murasaki River, Kokura Castle, and Katsuyama Park, it is a great location not only for shopping, but also for a refreshing visit to feel nature.
At night, it is very popular for the beautiful illumination of Kokura Castle in front of it. Located not only in a movie theater, stores, and gourmet restaurants, but also in a theater and art museum, it is a multi-purpose space that can be used for a variety of purposes. If it starts to rain while you are sightseeing at Kokura Castle, why not turn to River Walk Kitakyushu?
JR Hakata City Amu Plaza Hakata（JR博多シティ アミュプラザ博多）
In addition to restaurants and shopping areas, this commercial complex includes a movie theater, rooftop garden, and cultural facilities. The facility is directly connected to Hakata Station and sells a wide range of souvenirs, making it a great spot to visit before returning from a trip.
The restaurant floor is very large and offers all kinds of restaurants, including not only Japanese and Western cuisine, but also cafes and izakaya (Japanese style pubs). The rooftop garden is also a hidden gem. It has beautiful flowerbeds with seasonal flowers, as well as viewing and photo spots for children to enjoy.
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Discover how to enjoy each season
Japan has four distinct seasons, each with different scenery and things to do and enjoy. Each time you visit Fukuoka, you can enjoy different attractions. If you are wondering which season to visit, here is an article that explains in detail how to enjoy each season.
