Fukuoka is a popular destination in Kyushu. Packed with postcard-perfect sights, the prefecture boasts bustling Hakata and Tenjin, charming Dazaifu and Itoshima, and vibrant Kitakyushu. It’s a city worth visiting, especially for those who want to explore Japan’s best apart from busier cities like Tokyo and Osaka. In this article, we’ll take you through some of Fukuoka's must-visits, from classics to trendy finds and even hidden gems.
Things To Do in Fukuoka 🤗
One of the best things about Fukuoka is its easy access to various sightseeing spots within the prefecture thanks to Hakata Station, a major transportation hub. The city has a subway system and many buses, so you can travel comfortably even without a car.
With that, let’s go ahead and explore some things to do in Fukuoka!
1. Hakata Station / JR Hakata City
You might think, "The station itself is a sightseeing spot?" Yes, Hakata Station is both a transportation terminal and a tourist spot. Hakata Station is lined with large commercial facilities like JR Hakata City, Amu Plaza Hakata, and Hakata Hankyu, so you can fully enjoy shopping for souvenirs and local food here.
The JR Hakata City rooftop garden, Tsubame no Mori Hiroba, also boasts a terrace offering stunning panoramic views of Fukuoka! Don't miss the Tsubame Train, popular with kids and train enthusiasts, and the train observation area. With all these activities to do and fun things to see, Hakata Station really is more than just a station!
2. BOSS E・ZO FUKUOKA
Another popular spot in Fukuoka is the BOSS E･ZO FUKUOKA. It's a multi-entertainment facility stimulating all five senses that opened next to the Mizuho PayPay Dome in 2020.
Packed with amazing attractions, including a 100-meter tube slide that descends 40 meters from the building's roof, BOSS E･ZO FUKUOKA offers experiences you won't find anywhere else!
teamLab Forest Fukuoka
In BOSS E･ZO FUKUOKA is the popular teamLab Forest Fukuoka museum that lets you enter the world of digital art. Use an app to catch and collect animals in the "Catching and Collecting Forest," or move your body and interact with art in the "Athletics Forest."
Packed with even more attractions, BOSS E･ZO FUKUOKA offers the "V-World AREA" for virtual experiences, and the "Oh Sadaharu Baseball Museum" dedicated to baseball legend Sadaharu Oh, the former Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks manager. You can also enjoy Japanese cuisine from restaurants making their Fukuoka debut, making it a place where you can spend the whole day without getting bored!
For a smooth entry, especially on weekends when it gets crowded, we recommend getting tickets in advance.
BOSS E･ZO FUKUOKA
How to get there: A 12-minute walk from Fukuoka City Subway Karashimachi Station
Address: 2-chōme-2-6 Jigyōhama, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0065, Japan
3. Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Surrounded by Hakata Bay and the Genkai-nada Sea, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is a vast national park where you can immerse yourself in Fukuoka's nature. The park offers a variety of leisure facilities like an amusement park, a pool, and zoos. You can also watch out for seasonal flower festivals where you get to see Fukuoka flora in full bloom! It's a popular spot you can enjoy year-round.
There are lodging facilities, restaurants, and athletic fields built in the Light and Wind Square. They also have a campground and other outdoor events, making the park even more enjoyable for travelers and locals alike.
We recommend hopping on a Segway tour that lets you explore the big park! It's a refreshing experience to be enveloped by the comfortable sea breeze. As it's a popular activity, be sure to make a reservation in advance.
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
How to get there: A short walk from JR Uminonakamichi Station
Address: 18-25 Saitozaki, Higashi Ward, Fukuoka, 811-0321, Japan
Another attraction nearby that you can’t miss out on is Uminonakamichi Marine World, where you will be mesmerized by the beautiful underwater world. Get ready to see over 150 different types of sharks, adorable otters, seals, penguins, and more! And remember, when you take photos, make sure to keep your camera flashes off for the sake and safety of the animals.
Uminonakamichi Marine World
How to get there:
By train: From JR Hakata Station: Take the Kagashima Main Line to Kashii Station (11 minutes), then transfer to the JR Kashii Line to Saitozaki and get off at Uminonakamichi Station (20 minutes)
Address: 18-28 Saitozaki, Higashi Ward, Fukuoka 811-0321, Japan
4. Canal City Hakata
Canal City Hakata, a large commercial complex in this port town, is a popular tourist spot among younger ones. It's filled with shopping malls, restaurants, movie theaters, and more, and is always bustling with people thanks to events like fountain shows and live performances.
There are portrait painting shops too, where various artists do live paintings that you can purchase afterward — it’s the perfect souvenir, one that’s personal and memorable! As for where you can eat or take a break, Canal City Hakata offers a wide array of cuisine such as Japanese, Chinese, and Western. There are cafes and dessert shops to try too like Strawberry Fetish, Tully’s Coffee, Itoshima Farm House UOVO, and more. You could even catch Hakata river cruises nearby to take in more sights and learn more about the history of Fukuoka.
Canal City Hakata
How to get there: A 10-minute walk from both JR Hakata Station and Tenjin Station
Address: 1-chōme-2 Sumiyoshi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0018, Japan
5. Tsunoshima Bridge & Motonosumi Inari Shrine Day Tour
This Tsunoshima Bridge & Motonosumi Inari Shrine Day Tour will take you to some famous spots like the Tsunoshima Bridge which connects the island of Tsunoshima to mainland Japan and is always featured in TV commercials, the Akama Shrine with a history that’s highly respected by the locals, Karato Market that’s known to serve fresh seafood and sushi, and more! This day tour is not in Fukuoka, but departs from Fukuoka and goes to Tsunoshima.
Klook Tip: It’s best to save your tour guide’s contact details just in case you can’t find the bus, your guide, or the meet-up spots when you’re at each attraction stop.
6. Kushida Shrine
Photo Credit: Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Federation
Kushida Shrine, the guardian deity of Hakata, is also known as Okushida-san by locals.
Within the shrine grounds, you can see decorative Yamakasa floats all year round. There's also a sacred spring said to grant longevity to those who drink from it. Around February, the Setsubun Festival will take place, an event where the largest Otafuku mask in Japan is displayed on the torii gate. They say passing through it brings happiness.
Kushida Shrine
How to get there: A 5-minute walk from Gion Station on the Subway Airport Line
Address: 1-41 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026, Japan
7. Yatai along Nakasu Island
Photo Credit: Nichika Yoshida on Unsplash
There are about 100 yatai (food cart) stalls in Fukuoka, and the yatai alley in Nakasu, an entertainment district, is particularly renowned. Around sunset, a vibrant array of yatai stalls come to life, offering a tantalizing taste of Fukuoka's local cuisine.
Not only tourists but also many locals frequent these stalls. It’s a neon-lit district that’s packed with food, drinks, and fun! This is a recommended spot for those who want to enjoy and experience Fukuoka's nightlife.
Nakasu Yatai Street
How to get there: A 10-minute walk from Nakasu-Kawabata Station on the Subway Airport Line
Address: 8 Nakasu, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka-ken, 810-0801, Japan
8. Fukuoka Castle Ruins
The Fukuoka Castle was built by Kuroda Nagamasa, the first lord of the Fukuoka domain. Its stone walls, moat, and many turrets remain intact from the original construction, and it has been designated a National Historic Site.
But aside from its marvelous exterior and architecture, the castle also has an observation deck that offers panoramic views.
Photo Credit: Fukuoka City
Once a diplomatic facility during the Asuka, Nara, and Heian periods, the site of the Kourokan now houses an exhibition hall where visitors can view some artifacts. The area surrounding the main enclosure, including the third enclosure, is known as Maizuru Park. The western side is part of Ohori Park. Both parks are popular recreation spots for locals and are recommended sightseeing spots for those who want to learn about Fukuoka's history or simply want to enjoy some peace and quiet away from the crowds.
Fukuoka Castle Ruins
How to get there: A 10-minute walk from Exit 2 of Fukuoka City Subway Akasaka Station
Address: 1 Jōnai, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0043, Japan
9. Fukuoka Tower
Soaring 234 meters high, Fukuoka Tower is Japan's tallest seaside tower.
The view of Hakata Bay from the 123m observation deck is stunning, and so is the night view of the city seen from here. Another highlight is the various illuminations that tourists and locals alike can marvel at depending on the season.
Known to be a popular date spot, Fukuoka Tower offers couples a chance to create lasting memories. Snap some romantic photos where amazing views provide a picturesque backdrop. For a symbolic gesture, couples can also attach a heart-shaped padlock to the "Promise Fence." The nearby Momochihama Seaside Park and Marizon complex also add to the romantic atmosphere. Take a stroll hand-in-hand through the park or explore the vibrant shops and entertainment options at Marizon. Fukuoka Tower and its surroundings offer a delightful experience for couples, families, and even for those who are traveling solo.
Fukuoka Tower
How to get there: Take Nishitetsu Bus No. 306 from Hakata Bus Terminal Platform 6 (JR Hakata Station) and get off at "Fukuoka Tower" bus stop. The tower is a short walk from the bus stop.
Address: 2-chōme-3-26 Momochihama, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka, 814-0001, Japan
10. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
Enshrining Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is a popular tourist spot in Fukuoka, always bustling with many worshippers.
The shrine grounds feature spots connected to Sugawara no Michizane, like the Tobi-ume (Flying Plum Tree) and the Go-shin-gyu (Sacred Cow) statue. The Treasure Hall also displays about 50,000 valuable items like swords and manuscripts.
Inside the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is a line of trendy spots perfect for photos. You can also find shops selling sweets made with Fukuoka's famous Amaou strawberries, or grab a coffee at the stylish Starbucks designed by architect Kengo Kuma. While you’re at it, make sure to try the famous Umegae Mochi — there are many shops nearby selling them.
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
How to get there: A 5-minute walk from Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station
Address: 4-chōme-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0117, Japan
11. Kamado Shrine
Kamado Shrine has become a popular tourist spot in recent years as the sacred place of the popular manga Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. Because the name is the same as that of the main character of the show, Tanjiro Kamado, it has become a sacred pilgrimage spot among fans.
Homan-gu Kamado Shrine is also known for matchmaking. People pray for reunions or encounters with loved ones at the Reunion Tree within the shrine grounds. There’s also a stylish amulet hall that has a wide variety of cute amulets. Feel free to buy one (or some) for yourself and your loved ones.
Kamado Shrine
How to get there: Take the Mahoroba-go community bus from Nishi-Tetsu Dazaifu Station for approximately 10 minutes
Address: 883 Uchiyama, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0115, Japan
12. Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones
Photo Credit: WeiChan on AdobeStock
Sakurai Futamigaura, a popular tourist spot in Fukuoka's Itoshima, is also chosen as one of the “100 Best Beaches of Japan.” The white torii gate standing in the sea belongs to Sakurai Shrine, and the two rocks seen beyond it are called Meoto Iwa (Married Couple Rocks). They are said to represent the divine couple, Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto. The sight of the sunset sinking between the Meoto Iwa is mystical and cleansing for the soul.
Accessible in about an hour from Hakata, this is a must-visit scenic spot for a Fukuoka sightseeing trip. Consider adding it to your driving route too if you're planning on doing a scenic Fukuoka road trip!
Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones
How to get there: Approximately 22 minutes by car from Maebaru Interchange
Address: Shima Sakurai, Itoshima, Fukuoka 819-1304, Japan
13. Palm Tree Swing
Popular as an Instagrammable spot in Fukuoka, the Palm Tree Swing in Itoshima is a must-see scenic attraction alongside Sakurai Futamigaura.
This swing hangs between two palm trees and allows you to take pictures with the beautiful ocean spreading out before you. The swing is located on the premises of the Zauo Itoshima Honten restaurant, where you can enjoy barbecue and fresh Fukuoka cuisine. You get to enjoy delicious food while gazing at the ocean.
Palm Tree Swing
How to get there:
By Car: 30 minutes from Fukuoka Urban Expressway Fukutsu Exit
By Train: Take the Showa Bus Nishiura Line from JR Kyudai Kenkyu Toshi Station to the Zauo Honten-mae bus stop and get off. Walk a short distance.
Address: 79-6 Oda, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka, 819-0203, Japan
14. Arahito Shrine
Located in Naka River City, Arahito Shrine is the origin of the Sumiyoshi Sanjin (Three Sumiyoshi Gods) and the oldest shrine. It is believed to bring blessings for success in work, and prosperity in business. It’s also popular for its matchmaking amulets.
Until early December, there is a limited-time event called 'Koi Bonbori' (Love Lanterns) where visitors pray for matchmaking blessings. In summer, wind chimes are placed everywhere. It's a hidden gem tourist spot in Fukuoka that is worth visiting, even if it requires a little extra travel.
Arahito Shrine
How to get there: From Hakata Station, take the JR Hakata Minami Line and get off at Hakata Minami Station, then transfer to a bus and get off at Milica Roden Nakagawa. After that, go for a 5-minute walk
Address: 6-20 Nakasu 3-chome, Nakagawa-shi, Fukuoka 811-1253, Japan
15. Miyajidake Shrine
Miyajidake Shrine is located in Fukutsu City in Fukuoka. It is said to have been founded approximately 1,700 years ago and is known as a deity of good luck who can overcome any obstacle. It gained sudden fame when it appeared in a commercial featuring the Japanese boy band Arashi in 2016.
Photo Credit: Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Federation
The main attraction is the 'Path of Light,' which can only be seen twice a year. If you want to see the best views at Miyajidake Shrine, then visit or stay until the sun sets — it’s a surreal view that’s best captured with your eyes.
Within the shrine grounds are a lot of sights, including the largest Shimenawa (sacred rope) in Japan, as well as large drums and bells, all of which are worth seeing. The shrine gets crowded with tourists during February and October, but outside of those times, it's actually a lesser-known tourist spot.
Miyajidake Shrine
How to get there: From JR Fukuma Station, take a Nishitetsu bus and get off at Miyajidake Jinja-mae bus stop, then walk for about 6 minutes
Address: 7-1 Miyaji Motomachi, Fukutsu, Fukuoka 811-3309, Japan
16. Mount Sarakura
Sarakura-yama is a popular spot in Kitakyushu City, known for its "10 Billion Dollar Night View." Apart from sightseeing, you can also enjoy a hearty picnic at the mountaintop as you take in the views.
You can reach the summit via cable car or slope car, and on clear days, you can see all the way to the Kanmon Strait from the observation deck. Recognized as a "Lover's Sanctuary," it's also a romantic spot that’s perfect for couples on a drive date.
Mount Sarakura
How to get there: Approximately 5 minutes by car (taxi) from JR Yawata Station
Address: 1481-1 Ogura, Yahatahigashi-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka 805-0057, Japan
More things to do and must-visits near Fukuoka! 🤩
1. Miffy Celebration Events at Huis Ten Bosch 🐰
In case you missed out on the Miffy Celebration Events at Huis Ten Bosch last 15 March to 30 June 2024, you can still head over to Nijntje Cafe, where you can enjoy Miffy-inspired food and drinks like french toast, cake, parfait, teas, fruit sodas, and rice meals.
To cap off your visit, make sure to stop by Nijntje Shop and get limited-edition merchandise and souvenirs such as Miffy stuffed toys, keychains, headbands, and more!
2. Mission Deep Sea at Huis Ten Bosch 🫡
Thrill-seekers will love this attraction that opened at Huis Ten Bosch just last 29 March. Mission Deep Sea is an adrenaline-pumping ride that will play on your senses through the screen, sound, and motion ride seats.
The story will take you on deep-sea exploration in search of the vessel Orion, which is 13,000 meters down. There will be a mission leader who will guide you through the search, so don’t worry so much about not knowing where to go or how to start. Just sit back, relax, and have fun with the mission!
3. Kyushu Mojiko Fireworks Festival 🎆
Our last event only happens once a year — the Kyushu Mojiko Fireworks Festival! This festival is one of the most popular fireworks displays in Kyushu, which is why it’s a must-experience for tourists and locals alike. Happening annually in August, Marvel at the beautiful symphony of lights that will paint the sky with many colors and shapes. The view will be spectacular and picture-perfect, so make sure to plan ahead to catch it! It happens annually on 13 August.
Kyushu Mojiko Fireworks Festival
When: 13 August 2024
Where: Mojiko side and Shimonoseki side of the Kanmon Strait
FAQs on Fukuoka
How long will it take from Tokyo to Fukuoka?
The travel time from Tokyo to Fukuoka depends on the mode of transportation you choose. A popular route is by bullet train, also known as the Shinkansen, but some also opt to take a plane.
- By plane: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
- By bullet train: About 4 hours and 30 minutes
If you take the bullet train, the Nozomi train will usually pop up as this is the fastest option. You can either book a one-way Shinkansen ticket (around USD 155) or use the JR Pass for Whole Japan (around USD 337) as Tokyo to Fukuoka route is included.
How long will it take from Osaka to Fukuoka?
If you're coming from Osaka to Fukuoka, it'll only take around 2 hours and 30 minutes by Shinkansen because it's much nearer compared to Tokyo. You can either get a one-way Shinkansen ticket which will cost around USD 100 or if you're planning to go to other areas and with unlimited train rides, you can opt for these passes:
What is Fukuoka famous for?
Fukuoka is famous for many things, including:
- Food: Fukuoka is known for its delicious seafood, especially ramen and yakiniku.
- Natural scenery: Fukuoka is home to beautiful natural landscapes, such as Hakata Bay and Kyushu National Park.
- Culture: Fukuoka has a rich cultural heritage, with many historical sites and traditional festivals.
- Shopping: Fukuoka is also a great place to shop! From traditional markets to modern malls, you'll have endless choices to shop about. One popular place to shop is the Hakata Kawabata shopping street.
Is Fukuoka foreigner-friendly?
Yes, Fukuoka is a very foreigner-friendly city. There are many tourist facilities and services available for visitors and a number of people in Fukuoka speak English as well but it wouldn't hurt to learn a few key Japanese phrases!
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