What kind of city is Fukuoka?
Fukuoka has many charming cities, such as Kitakyushu, Itoshima, and Dazaifu. Among them, the main city is Fukuoka City.
Fukuoka City is accessible by plane or bullet train. It takes about two hours to reach from Tokyo by plane.
Fukuoka City is broadly divided into three areas: Hakata, Tenjin, and Nakasu. Each area has its own unique features and attractions, so it is recommended to visit these areas when exploring Fukuoka.
Tourist Spots
SEASONAL
1. 放生会
Hojoya: Fukuoka's Autumn Festival
Higashi Ward
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Hojoya, an excellent opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of the most captivating festivals in Japan, held annually in September. This article introduces the charm of Hojoya to foreign travelers, delving into its beautiful traditions, enchanting night atmosphere, local food culture, and how to visit this festival.
 Address |
1-22-1 Hakozaki, Higashi Ward, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture Open Google Map |
|---|---|
| Event Period | Thursday, September 12, 2024 – Wednesday, September 18, 2024 |
2. 天神
Tenjin Fukuoka's economic and cultural center and a source of fashion and trends for young people
Chuo Ward
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Tenjin is Fukuoka’s representative downtown area and the center of youth fashion and culture. Brand-name stores, department stores, restaurants, and cafes line the streets, where one can enjoy shopping and dining.
There are also underground shopping malls such as the Tenjin Underground Mall, making it a comfortable place to spend time even on rainy days.
Things to do in Tenjin at Night
| Address |
Tenjin, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0001 Open Google Map |
|---|---|
3. 中洲
Nakasu One of the largest entertainment districts in western Japan
Hakata Ward
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Nakasu is the area between the rivers flowing through Fukuoka City and is Kyushu’s largest downtown area. At night, the area shines with neon lights and is crowded with many bars, clubs, and izakaya (Japanese style pubs). You can also experience Hakata’s typical yatai (food stall) culture here.
For locals, it is the center of nighttime entertainment, and for tourists, it is a valuable place to experience Japanese night culture.
Things to do in Nakasu at Night
| Address |
11 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture Open Google Map |
|---|---|
4. 博多駅
Hakata Station Fukuoka's transportation hub and shopping area
Hakata Ward
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Hakata is one of the central districts of Fukuoka City and a major transportation hub for Kyushu. The area around Hakata Station is home to a large shopping mall, office buildings, and many restaurants, making it the economic and cultural center of Fukuoka.
For locals, it is the center of daily life, and for tourists, it is the place to experience local culture such as Hakata Ramen and Hakata textiles.
Things to do in Hakata at Night
| Address |
1-1 Hakata Eki Chuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan Open Google Map |
|---|---|
5. 福岡の屋台
Yatai (food stalls) Fukuoka's Unique Food Culture
Around Tenjin Station, Nakasu-Kawabata Station
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Fukuoka City is famous for its “yatai” stalls. Yatai are small, mobile eateries offering a wide variety of Japanese food.
They offer local delicacies such as ramen, gyoza, yakitori, and other dishes at reasonable prices. They are open until late at night and are very popular among locals and tourists alike, as they allow them to experience Fukuoka’s food culture.
How to Enjoy Fukuoka Food Stalls（Yatai）
| Address |
Around Tenjin Station, Nakasu-Kawabata Station, Kushida Shrine-mae Station Open Google Map |
|---|---|
| Official Site | Yatai (food stalls) |
6. 福岡タワー
Fukuoka Tower The tallest tower in Fukuoka
Momochihama
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When visiting Fukuoka City, make sure to visit Fukuoka Tower, a symbol of the area, along with its beautiful scenery. Located in the heart of Fukuoka City, its overwhelming presence captivates many tourists.
| Address |
2 Chome-3-26 Momochihama, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka, 814-0001 Open Google Map |
|---|---|
7. 海の中道マリンワールド
Marine World Uminonakamichi - Night Aquarium
With the arrival of summer, Marine World opens its doors at night, promising special encounters with the creatures of the sea. This article introduces the charm of the summer-only night aquarium, providing information for an unforgettable experience.
| Address |
18-28 Nishitosaki, Higashi Ward, Fukuoka Prefecture Open Google Map |
|---|---|
| Event Period | July 15th (Sat) to July 17th (Mon/Holiday) July 22nd (Sat) to August 31st (Thu) Weekends and holidays from September 1st to September 24th |
8. キャナルシティ博多
Canal City Hakata An urban theater where water and nature are in harmony
Hakata Ward
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Canal City Hakata, located in Fukuoka City, is one of Fukuoka’s premier shopping and entertainment complexes.
Known as the “City of Water,” its unique water features and a diverse array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options are part of its charm.
Enjoy Canal City Hakata
| Address |
1 Chome-2 Sumiyoshi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0018 Open Google Map |
|---|---|
9. 中洲 博多舟
Nakasu Hakatabune The only houseboat in Hakata
Chuo Ward
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Nakasu Hakatabune is the only houseboat service in Hakata. This yakatabune cruises along Hakata Bay and Naka River, offering a beautiful night view of Fukuoka while enjoying delicious local food and beverages.
| Address |
4-6 Nishinakasu, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0002 Open Google Map |
|---|---|
| Official Site | Nakasu Hakatabune |
10. 博多リバークルーズ
Hakata River Cruise Tour the streets of Fukuoka elegantly by water bus
Nishinakasu
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Hakata River Cruise is a sightseeing boat ride that can be enjoyed on the Naka River, which flows through the center of Fukuoka City.
The view from the river offers a panoramic view of the city, and the night view is especially beautiful.
| Address |
6-3-1 Nishinakasu, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0002 Open Google Map |
|---|---|
11. 北九州
Kitakyushu Fukuoka's second largest city
Kitakyushu City
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Kitakyushu City is located in the northern part of Fukuoka Prefecture and has a history of industrial revolution. Visitors can tour industrial heritage sites such as Mojiko Retro and the Yawata Steel Works, as well as parks rich in nature and unique museums.
For locals, the area is steeped in industrial and cultural history, and for tourists, it is a place where they can learn about the history of Japan’s modernization.
Things to do in Kitakyushu at Night
| Address |
Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture Open Google Map |
|---|---|
Fukuoka's Local Cuisine
Tonkotsu Ramen Ramen noodles with pork bone broth
Tonkotsu ramen, originating from the Hakata district in Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of the most beloved types of ramen across Japan. The hallmark of Hakata ramen is its rich and creamy pork bone broth paired with thin noodles.
With its deep, flavorful taste and unique aroma, it is loved by many Japanese people and tourists alike. If you visit Fukuoka, be sure to try authentic tonkotsu ramen.
Popular Tonkotsu Ramen Shops
Ichiran
Shinshin
Motsunabe Hot pot dish using hormone (offal)
Motsunabe is a specialty hot pot dish from Hakata in Fukuoka City. It features beef or pork offal (organs) cooked in a soy sauce, miso, or salt-based broth, along with plenty of vegetables such as cabbage, chives, and tofu.
For Fukuoka residents, it’s a beloved dish enjoyed for its flavor and stamina-boosting properties.
Popular Motsunabe Restaurants
Yamanaka
Mizutaki A type of traditional Japanese hot pot dish
Mizutaki is a famous hot pot dish from Hakata in Fukuoka City. It involves simmering chicken, vegetables, and tofu in a broth, which is then enjoyed with ponzu or sesame sauce. The broth, rich with chicken flavor, is the highlight of this dish. Fukuoka residents often enjoy mizutaki at home, especially during the colder months, for its comforting and healthy qualities.
Popular Mizutaki Restaurants
Hanamidori
Yakitori
Yakitori, a beloved dish throughout Japan, holds a special place in Fukuoka. This dish features skewered and grilled meats and vegetables, seasoned with either a soy-based sauce or salt. You can choose the meat and vegetables, so enjoy a variety of yakitori!
Popular Yakitori Shop
Yakitori Hachibei
Udon One of Japan's traditional noodle dishes
Udon is a traditional Japanese noodle dish, characterized by thick, soft flour noodles. Ramen is the most famous noodle dish in Fukuoka, but for the locals, udon is also a very familiar noodle dish.
Popular Udon Shops
Makino Udon
Sukesan Udon
West
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Daytime Spots in Fukuoka
