Add Fukuoka, Japan to Your Travel Bucket List for These Unique Adventures!

Japan is a favorite destination among tourists for its rich history, refined cuisine, stunning natural landscapes, and (of course) anime! While Tokyo and Osaka are popular cities for a reason, why not try exploring the rest of the country…starting with Fukuoka? It’s the capital of Kyushu and is most popular for its food and food stalls!

Kyushu Island is the third largest island in Japan, so you’ll want an efficient and cost-effective means of getting around, specifically in Fukuoka. The JR Kyushu Rail Pass allows you unlimited convenient travel all over Kyushu for three, five, or seven days depending on your package. Easily redeem your pass at JR counters at train stations, then you’ll be able to get on and off local and express trains, as well as the shinkansen, while you explore Kyushu.

For areas and trains not covered by the JR Pass, or for when you prefer to explore the city on foot, make sure you have a map handy on your phone using portable 4G WiFi, which we recommend preparing even before your trip.

For an unparalleled view of the city, head over to Fukuoka Tower! It’s Japan’s tallest seaside tower and by far the city’s most popular landmark, so it’s definitely up there on the list of things to do in Fukuoka. View the entire city from 234 meters high and snap Instagram-worthy photos to remember it by. You can also commemorate your visit with a love lock, whether you’re traveling with family, best friends, or loved ones! 

Once the largest castle in Kyushu, Fukuoka Castle now lies mostly in ruins, but it’s still a must-visit! The castle was originally built at the beginning of the 17th century, but today it’s a historical attraction that’s part of Maizuru Park. Pro-tip: the best time to drop by for a visit is between the months of March and April when the park’s trees are blooming with cherry blossoms! 

After paying a visit to Fukuoka Castle, head on over to Ohori Park to chill and take in the view of the pond. Take it from us, the three islands in the middle of the pond are perfect places for photos! There are other nearby attractions that you can explore as well, such as the Fukuoka Art Museum and Ohori Park Japanese Garden.

TeamLab is known for jaw-dropping experiences no matter which location you visit. Fukuoka teamLab Forest is just as impressive with this unique theme! There are two main sections in this teamLab location. First up, the Catch and Collect Forest is inspired by the concept of catching, observing, and releasing, so visitors can use an app to “catch” animals around the space and learn more about them. Next, at the Forest of Motion, visitors can explore the concept of perceiving the world with the body and thinking in three dimensions. Prepare to be amazed by interactive installations whose artworks change with human interaction! 

When in Japan, you must rent out a kimono. You can cruise down the Yanagawa river and take aesthetically-pleasing photos in these beautiful garments and clogs. Or, pay a visit to the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in traditional clothing! There are options for kids and adults, so you can take adorable family photos in kimonos and yukatas!

Get to know more about Fukuoka’s history at Hakata. It was originally a port for Chinese merchant trading, and you’ll be able to learn all about Xie Guoming and his role in Hakata’s history and culture! You can also find the biggest wooden seated Buddha statue in Japan, visit Jotenji Temple and Tochoji Temple, and shop for high-quality teas at Hakata Sakura!

What’s a vacation without a shopping trip? Canal City, also known as the “city within the city,” is the go-to spot for all your shopping needs. This large shopping and entertainment complex has approximately 250 shops, cafes and restaurants, a theater, game center, cinemas, two hotels, and a canal throughout the complex! You can also fill up before or after shopping at the “Ramen Stadium” for a taste of Fukuoka ramen with eight different shops to choose from—talk about a ramen overload!

Take a trip to Nanzoin Temple to visit any of its many chapels and shrines, including the Shichifukujin Temple, where you can pray to the Seven Gods of Good Fortune. You also won’t want to miss out on seeing Japan’s largest Nehanzo—not that you’ll be able to anyway. The massive reclining bronze Buddha statue is 41 meters long and 11 meters high, making it a real sight to behold!

For an outdoor adventure, make the trek to Takachiho Gorge. It’s a narrow chasm by the Gokase River and has formed through the erosion of lava from Mt. Aso. Simply follow the walking trail to get a perfect view of the waterfall and have it in the background of your pics. If you’re afraid of heights, you might not want to look down, but you really won’t want to miss out on the breathtaking view of the river down below! 

The number one dish to have in Fukuoka is Hakata ramen! The city is known as the ramen capital of Japan and the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen itself! Its firm noodles, rich and creamy taste, and soft chashu pork make Fukuoka’s Hakata ramen the best of the best.

Don’t let the language barrier get in the way of you trying out this yummy delicacy. Check out our guide on how to order Ichiran Ramen like a pro!

Another dish you must try when in Fukuoka is Motsunabe. It’s a type of nabemono, or hot-pot dish, made from beef/pork tripe or other offal that’s been stewed with vegetables. It’s one of the city’s signature dishes, beloved by locals and tourists, so don’t knock it before you try it!

If you’re looking for more food in Fukuoka to try, the best places to look are in food stalls or yatai! There are tons of stalls around the city, but the best are in Nakasu Island. Try out dishes like yakitori (grilled chicken sewers), oden (hot pot), and, of course, Hakata ramen—all to be enjoyed with alcohol. Most stalls are open from 6 pm to 2 am and are often closed on Sundays, so keep your dinner plans free. 

If the many attractions to see haven't convinced you to visit Fukuoka yet, then surely the delicious dishes have. Who can resist the taste of authentic ramen, after all? Hurry and satisfy your cravings with a trip to Fukuoka—your taste buds will thank you!