Fukuoka, a vibrant city located on the northern shore of Kyushu, Japan, offers an enchanting blend of rich culture, breathtaking nature, and delectable cuisine. If you’re seeking an unforgettable adventure, you’re in the right place! This guide presents the top twelve activities that every traveler must experience while visiting this captivating city. Prepare for an exciting journey filled with stunning sights and delightful experiences that will inspire your wanderlust.
1. Visit the Sasaguri Kyudai Forest
Location: 1009, Wada, Sasaguri-machi, Kasuya-gun, Fukuoka
Opening Hours:
- April to September: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- October to March: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Days Open: Year-round
Access: 25-minute walk from Kadomatsu Station
Step into tranquility at the magnificent Sasaguri Kyudai Forest of Kyushu University. Spanning 17 hectares, this forest is a sanctuary for both flora and fauna. Wander through its trails lined with lush greenery and the rare metasequoia trees, which create magical reflections in the serene waters. This idyllic spot promises breathtaking views, especially during autumn’s foliage explosion.
Sasaguri Kyudai Forest
2. Experience Sunset at Miyajidake Shrine
Location: 7-1, Miyaji Motomachi, Fukutsu-shi, Fukuoka
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Days Open: Year-round
Access: 10-minute bus ride from Fukuma Station
Perched on a hill, Miyajidake Shrine is well-known for its stunning sunset views. Twice yearly, at the end of February and December, sunlight aligns perfectly with the path leading from the shrine’s torii gate to the ocean, creating a remarkable spectacle known as the “Path of Light.” This spiritual site houses Japan’s largest shimenawa and offers a serene ambiance to reflect upon life’s beauty.
Miyajidake Shrine Sunset
3. Marvel at Itoshima Sakurai Futamigaura Meoto Iwa
Location: Shimasakurai, Itoshima-shi, Fukuoka
Opening Hours: Year-round
Days Open: Always open
Access: 45-minute drive from Hakata Station
Itoshima is a picturesque landscape where the twin rocks of Sakurai Futamigaura rise majestically from the sea, symbolizing marriage and harmony. Connected by a sacred shimenawa, these impressive natural wonders capture the essence of love, making it a perfect spot for couples and photographers eager to capture Japan’s captivating seascape.
Itoshima Sakurai Futamigaura
4. Walk through the Wisteria Tunnel at Kawachi Wisteria Garden
Location: 2-2-48, Kawachi, Yahatahigashi-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka
Opening Hours:
- Late April to Early May: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Mid November to Early December: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Fee: - Late April to Early May: 1,500 yen
- Mid November to Early December: 500 yen
Access: 90-minute drive from Hakata Station
The Kawachi Wisteria Garden invites you to a dreamy world of purple blooms. During the peak season, the ethereal wisteria vines cascade down, creating a mesmerizing tunnel that visitors can stroll through. The garden is also home to various seasonal flowers, ensuring a stunning visit year-round amidst nature’s serenity.
5. Lose Yourself in the Wind Chime Festival at Sannoji Temple
Location: 2361, Sasaguri, Sasaguri-machi, Kasuya-gun, Fukuoka
Opening Hours: Year-round
Admission Fee: Free; 500 yen per wind chime
Access: 13-minute walk from Chikuzen-Yamate Station
At Sannoji Temple, immerse yourself in the enchanting soundscape of thousands of wind chimes during the Sannoji Furin Matsuri. This delightful festival showcases beautiful wind chimes adorned with wishes from visitors, resonating in harmony with the gentle breezes of Fukuoka. Capture your own wish with a wind chime and let it drift into reality!
Sannoji Temple Wishing Chimes
6. Escape to Nokonoshima Island Park
Location: Nokonoshima, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sundays and Holidays: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Admission Fee: - Adults: 1,200 yen
- Students (Elementary and Junior High): 600 yen
- Children above 3 years: 400 yen
Access: 10-minute ferry ride from Meinohama Port
Nokonoshima Island Park is a breathtaking escape from urban life. With sprawling fields of flowers blooming throughout the year, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities while being surrounded by natural beauty. In autumn, enjoy the vibrant colors of seasonal blooms, making it the perfect photo opportunity!
7. Pay Homage to the Great Buddha at Nanzoin Temple
Location: 1035, Sasaguri, Sasaguri-machi, Kasuya-gun, Fukuoka
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Admission Fee: Free (500 yen to visit the hall under the lying Buddha)
Access: 3-minute walk from Kidonanzoin-Mae Station
Nanzoin Temple is home to the world’s largest bronze reclining Buddha, measuring a staggering 41 meters long and 11 meters high. This impressive statue represents the teachings of Buddha and creates an atmosphere of tranquility. Explore the temple grounds and experience the spirituality that resonates from every corner.
Nanzoin Temple Great Buddha
8. Explore Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Location: 18-25, Saitozaki, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka
Opening Hours:
- March 1 to October 31: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- November 1 to February: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Fee: - Adults: 450 yen
- Seniors (over 65): 210 yen
- Student admission: Free
Access: Short walk from Uminonakamichi Station
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, known as the city’s playground, offers various attractions, from bicycle rentals to stunning flower fields. The expansive park features seasonal blooms, including nemophila, canola flowers, and the breathtaking cherry blossoms during spring. Spend a delightful day enjoying nature, picnicking, or engaging in outdoor fun with family.
9. Enjoy a Boat Ride in Yanagawa Castle Town
Location: 1-6, Mitsuhashimachi Shimohyakucho, Yanagawa-shi, Fukuoka
Opening Hours:
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Last boat departs at 4:00 PM
Days Open: Year-round
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 1,600 yen
- Children (5 years – elementary school): 850 yen
Access: 5-minute walk from Nishitetsu-Yanagawa Station
Dubbed “the Venice of Kyushu,” Yanagawa boasts picturesque canals lined with lush greenery and blossoming flowers. Take a scenic boat ride down the canals, surrounded by historic sites and charming scenery, and do not miss tasting the local specialty, unagi (eel), for an authentic culinary experience.
10. Visit Ukiha Inari Shrine
Location: 1513-9, Ukihamachi Nagarekawa, Ukiha-shi, Fukuoka
Opening Hours: Always open
Days Open: Year-round
Access: 30-minute walk from Ukiha Station
Ukiha Inari Shrine is famous for its striking 90 vermillion torii gates that lead visitors up a scenic mountain path. Climbing the 300 steps to the shrine rewards you with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valley and lush rice fields. This stunning backdrop is perfect for cherry blossom enthusiasts during the season.
11. Discover the Wonders of teamLab Forest Fukuoka
Location: 810-0065 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Jigyohama
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 2,200 yen
- Children under 15: 800 yen
Access: Tojinmachi Station
The teamLab Forest in Fukuoka is a manifestation of art and technology, providing an immersive experience with its stunning light displays and interactive exhibits. Explore two main zones: the “Catching and Collecting Forest” and “Athletics Forest,” where you can interact with artistic installations, creating unique memories in this digital art haven.
Sannoji Temple Wishing Chimes
12. Savor Fukuoka’s Cuisine at Yatai Stalls
Experience Fukuoka’s culinary culture at the famous Yatai stalls, where you can indulge in mouthwatering traditional dishes. More than 100 food stalls fill the streets, offering ramen, oden, gyoza, yakitori, and much more. As night falls, the vibrant ambiance draws travelers to taste the rich flavors of Fukuoka, providing a delightful gastronomic adventure.
Fukuoka is filled with unique experiences that are just waiting for you to discover. Whether you’re exploring its lush nature, indulging in local cuisine, or immersing yourself in cultural heritage, Fukuoka promises an adventure that will linger in your memory long after you return home. Don’t hesitate to leave your comments or share your experiences below, and explore more travel-related content on our website!