When visiting Japan for the first time, many travelers may feel inclined to focus exclusively on Tokyo. While exploring Tokyo and other prominent cities like Osaka and Kyoto is undoubtedly rewarding, Japan offers many experiences beyond these eastern hubs. A notable destination that deserves attention is Fukuoka. As one of Japan’s oldest and culturally rich cities, Fukuoka should be included in your travel plans for Japan.
Where is Fukuoka?
Fukuoka is located on the far western side of Japan, on Kyushu Island in (fittingly) the Kyushu region. The city is Fukuoka Prefecture’s capital and is Japan’s sixth-largest city. It has recently surpassed Kyoto in terms of population, making it the first city west of the Kansai region to do so.
Because it’s close to mainland Asia, Fukuoka was a central cultural hub in ancient Japan, marking it as one of the country’s most important gateway cities. It served as the waypoint for international travel and trade and was the nation’s largest port city for many years. It cannot be overstated how important the city was to Japan as it opened its doors to the rest of the world.
Canal City Hakata
Opened in 1996, Canal City Hakata is Fukuoka’s most significant retail environment and most successful tourist attraction. Called “a city within a city”, Canal City Hakata is an enormous shopping mall that includes clothing boutiques, restaurants, hotels, movie theatres, and the titular canal that runs through it. Whatever you could ever want in a day trip, Canal City most definitely has it. While the East Building has closed down in recent years, there are still more things to do in Canal City that could ever be accomplished in a single weekend. Make sure to save up before you visit!
Hakata Old Town
The polar opposite of Canal City, Hakata Old Town, is pure history. Fukuoka was the most significant port trade city in 13th-century Japan, with centuries of history and culture. Hakata Old Town has preserved what was once the city’s hub and features countless shrines, temples, and classical architecture for visitors to explore. The city may be a bustling modern metropolis, but Hakata Old Town is a living piece of its ancient past.
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Nakasu Yataigai
Japan is undoubtedly famous internationally for its fantastic food, and Nakasu Yataigi is no exception. Nakasu Yataigai is a food lover’s paradise, featuring a vibrant street filled with neon lights, enticing aromas, and numerous vendors. You can find various delicious options here, from skewers and oden to Hakata’s renowned tonkotsu ramen, made with pork and pork bones. This food stall street offers everything you could desire to eat. Additionally, the Naka River flows gently through the center of Nakasu Yataigai, creating a picturesque and dreamlike atmosphere.
Sakurai Futamigaura
Located north of Itoshima City lies Sakurai Futamigaura, a famous national treasure that has become one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations. The beach ranks as one of the best in Japan, and it is also home to massive white torii gates that stand out wonderfully against the sparkling blue sea.
Past the torii gates is Meotoiwa, or Couples Rock, a twin-rocked islet that resembles a man standing with his wife. The two rocks are held together by a long shimenawa rope, making them perfect for photographers to visit. Sakurai Futamigaura has many restaurants, eateries, and shops, so the beach makes for a perfect day trip for couples.
Nanzoin Temple
Nanzoin Temple may not be the first place tourists think of when they think of Kyushu, but it offers an incredible experience for those traveling there. The temple is home to the world’s largest bronze statue, depicting the Buddha reclining peacefully as he enters nirvana.
This impressive statue measures 41 meters (135 feet) long and weighs over 300 tons, dwarfing anyone beside it. Visiting the temple is a serious yet solemn experience, as guests must remove their shoes before entering. The temple also features sand from the 88 temples along the famous Shikoku pilgrimage. Therefore, visiting Nanzoin Temple feels like visiting all of them in one place.
Why should I visit Fukuoka?
You should visit Fukuoka for its rich culture, historical significance, and exciting activities. Although the western part of Japan lacks the fame of Tokyo and Osaka, it offers a wealth of culture, history, and excitement. Fukuoka boasts some of the best food in the country, fantastic shopping centers, and awe-inspiring religious sites.
As a vital port for trade and commerce, Fukuoka has developed a unique cultural identity that sets Japan apart from other regions. While it may seem distant from Tokyo, a good book and a fast shinkansen can make the journey quick and enjoyable. Have you ever been to Fukuoka? If so, where did you go? Did you visit Canal City? We would love to hear about your adventures in the comments below!
