Fukuoka Travel Recommendations

Fukuoka Prefecture is located on the northern shore of the island of Kyushu, Japan. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan region that offers a unique blend of modern urban life and traditional Japanese culture. The capital city, Fukuoka, is known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and delicious food. In this response, we will provide an overview of Fukuoka Prefecture, including how to get there, the best season to visit, and ten must-see places.

How to Get to Fukuoka from Tokyo

Fukuoka Prefecture is easily accessible from Tokyo by air, rail, or road. The fastest way to get there is by air, with a flight from Tokyo to Fukuoka taking just under two hours. Alternatively, you can take the shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Hakata Station in Fukuoka, which takes about five hours. There are also several expressways that connect Tokyo to Fukuoka, with the journey taking approximately 14 hours by car.

Best Season to Visit Fukuoka

The best time to visit Fukuoka Prefecture is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild, and the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are in full bloom. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December to February) can be chilly.

Must-See Places in Fukuoka

Fukuoka Tower

This 234-meter tower is the tallest seaside tower in Japan and offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding sea.

Ohori Park

A beautiful park located in the heart of Fukuoka, Ohori Park is a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and relaxing.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

This historic shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and politician who is revered as the god of learning.

Fukuoka Castle

The ruins of Fukuoka Castle offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.

Nanzoin Temple

This temple is home to the largest bronze statue of the reclining Buddha in the world.

Yanagawa River Cruise

This scenic boat tour takes you through the canals and waterways of Yanagawa, a historic city known for its beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.

Kyushu National Museum

Located in Dazaifu, this museum showcases the history and culture of Kyushu, with a focus on the Yayoi period (300 BC to 300 AD).

Canal City Hakata

This modern shopping and entertainment complex is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of contemporary Fukuoka.

Kushida Shrine

This historic Shinto shrine is known for its elaborate festivals and colorful floats.

Kawachi Fuji-en

This beautiful garden is known for its stunning wisteria tunnels, which bloom in late April to early May.

Nakasu

Nakasu is a popular district in Fukuoka known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious food. It is located in the heart of Fukuoka and is one of the busiest areas in the city. Nakasu is home to a wide variety of bars, clubs, restaurants, and street food stalls.

Cuisines you can enjoy in Fukuoka

Hakata ramen

Hakata ramen is a Fukuoka specialty that is a must-try for ramen lovers. The broth is rich and creamy, made from pork bones boiled for hours. The noodles are thin and straight, making it easy to slurp up the soup. It is usually served with toppings such as chashu (braised pork), green onions, and beni shoga (pickled ginger).

Mentaiko

Mentaiko is a spicy cod roe that is a popular ingredient in Fukuoka cuisine. It is usually eaten as a topping for rice, a filling for onigiri (rice balls), or as a condiment for noodles.

Mizutaki

Mizutaki is a hot pot dish that originated in Fukuoka. The broth is made from chicken and vegetables, and diners add ingredients such as chicken, tofu, and vegetables to the pot to cook. It is usually eaten with a dipping sauce made from ponzu (citrus sauce) or sesame sauce.

Motsunabe

Motsunabe is a hot pot dish made from beef or pork offal and vegetables. The broth is made from miso or soy sauce, and diners add ingredients to the pot to cook. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is popular in Fukuoka.

Saba

Saba, or mackerel, is a popular fish in Fukuoka cuisine. It is usually grilled or fried, and it is often served with a tangy sauce made from vinegar and miso.

Recommended Accommodations in Fukuoka

With The Style Fukuoka

With The Style Fukuoka is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Fukuoka city, just a few minutes’ walk from popular attractions such as Canal City Hakata and Nakasu. The hotel features modern rooms and suites with stylish decor and high-end amenities, including free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.

Hilton Fukuoka Sea Hawk

The Hilton Fukuoka Sea Hawk is a luxury hotel located on the waterfront in Fukuoka’s Hakata Bay. The hotel boasts stunning ocean views from its spacious guest rooms, as well as a range of amenities including multiple restaurants and bars, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool.

The Luigans Spa & Resort

The Luigans Spa & Resort is a luxury resort located on the scenic island of Shikanoshima, just a short drive from Fukuoka city. The resort features spacious rooms and suites with ocean views, as well as a range of amenities including a spa, a fitness center, and multiple restaurants and bars.

Hyatt Regency Fukuoka

The Hyatt Regency Fukuoka is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Fukuoka city, just a short walk from popular attractions such as Canal City Hakata and the Fukuoka Art Museum. The hotel features elegant guest rooms and suites with high-end amenities, as well as multiple restaurants and bars and a fitness center.

Grand Hyatt Fukuoka

The Grand Hyatt Fukuoka is a luxury hotel located in the Tenjin area of Fukuoka city, known for its upscale shopping and dining options. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites with modern decor and high-end amenities, as well as multiple restaurants and bars, a spa, and a fitness center.

Hotel Okura Fukuoka

Hotel Okura Fukuoka is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Fukuoka city, just a short walk from popular attractions such as Ohori Park and the Fukuoka Art Museum. The hotel features elegant guest rooms and suites with high-end amenities, as well as multiple restaurants and bars and a fitness center.

The Gate Hotel Fukuoka Tenjin

The Gate Hotel Fukuoka Tenjin is a luxury hotel located in the Tenjin area of Fukuoka city, known for its upscale shopping and dining options. The hotel features stylish guest rooms and suites with modern decor and high-end amenities, as well as multiple restaurants and bars and a fitness center.

ANA Crowne Plaza Fukuoka

The ANA Crowne Plaza Fukuoka is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Fukuoka city, just a short walk from popular attractions such as Canal City Hakata and the Fukuoka Art Museum. The hotel features elegant guest rooms and suites with high-end amenities, as well as multiple restaurants and bars, a fitness center, and a rooftop garden.

The Terrace Hotel Hakata

The Terrace Hotel Hakata is a luxury hotel located in the Hakata area of Fukuoka city, known for its historic temples and shrines. The hotel features spacious guest rooms and suites with modern decor and high-end amenities, as well as multiple restaurants and bars and a fitness center.

Hotel Nikko Fukuoka

Hotel Nikko Fukuoka is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Fukuoka city, just a short walk from popular attractions such as Canal City Hakata and Nakasu. The hotel features elegant guest rooms and suites with high-end amenities, as well as multiple restaurants and bars, a fitness center, and a rooftop garden.

Conclusion

Fukuoka Prefecture offers a wealth of attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, there is something for everyone here. From the bustling city of Fukuoka to the serene countryside, Fukuoka Prefecture is a destination that should not be missed. With its excellent transport links and friendly locals, it’s an easy and enjoyable place to explore.