7 Ways to Experience the Modern & Ancient in Fukuoka
See All That Fukuoka Has to Offer
One of the largest cities in Japan, Fukuoka has tons to offer in the form of parks, attractions, historical landmarks, food and shopping. It’s a largely modernized city, which is reflected in the buildings, young population and its attraction for technology startups.
While it’s no Tokyo in terms of population or density of things to do, Fukuoka is the perfect place to travel off the beaten track as it’s attracted tourists from all over the world who are hungry for a city that boasts an independent spirit and attractive nightlife.
These are a few of the many attractions and things to do in Fukuoka, no matter what your age or taste.
Fukuoka Castle Ruins
Situated inside Maizuru Park, the Fukuoka Castle Ruins attract visitors wishing to learn about Japan’s feudal past while enjoying the beautiful scenery in the process. Once the largest castle on the island of Kyushu, all that remains now are a few turrets, gates, walls and its 3,000-foot-long moat, which surrounds the interior part of the castle.
Visitors can enjoy walking along trails and gazing out from lookout spots year round, although the most popular time to visit is in the spring. At the end of March, cherry blossom season starts, blanketing the surrounding areas with pink flowers.
Shofukuji Temple
Another must-see piece of historic architecture, the Shofukuji Temple was the first zen Buddhist temple in Japan. Zen was introduced to Japan by the priest Eisai who studied its technique in China.
While visitors aren’t allowed inside the sacred temple itself, the exterior of the temple and the surrounding buildings alone are worthy of admiration. The Sanmon gate has a small koi pond and bridge leading up to it and Butsuden Hall, with its cloud dragon painted ceiling, also houses a few historic statues of Buddha.
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Ohori Park
Every major city has a centrally located park to enjoy and Ohori Park is Fukuoka’s. Featuring a large pond surrounded by a walking path, the park is where locals and tourists alike can go to relax and unwind in the midst of a bustling harbor metropolis.
Small islands connect to the main park with elegant stone bridges punctuated with decorative pavilions.
There are also a number of attractions located within the park including the Fukuoka Art Museum, Japanese Garden and Gokoku Shrine, which all charge separate admission fees.
