Buzz
Fukuoka, located in northern Kyushu, is one of Japan's most famous tourist destinations. The city offers peaceful scenery, breathtaking natural beauty, numerous intriguing historical sites, and a rich cultural heritage with impressive local cuisine.
Not only is Fukuoka the largest city in Kyushu, but it has also long been a vital port city in Japan and a bustling economic and commercial hub. Rebuilt after World War II, Fukuoka today is modern, livable, and particularly appealing to tourists. In this article, Mytour shares information about some of the most notable destinations in Fukuoka, which you can reference and jot down in your travel notebook.
Canal City Hakata
Canal City Hakata is a renowned shopping and entertainment complex in Fukuoka. Known as a 'city within a city,' Canal City Hakata offers numerous highlights for international tourists, including over 250 shops, cafes, theaters, gaming zones, cinemas, sculptures, fountains, and a tranquil canal flowing through the area.
Adjacent to Fukuoka's entertainment district and nestled within the city's retail and commercial hub, Canal City Hakata naturally stands out as a top tourist attraction and a thriving commercial center.
Fukuoka Castle
Located in Maizuru Park in the heart of the city, Fukuoka Castle is one of the most fascinating attractions, drawing numerous visitors. The castle was initially constructed in the early 17th century under the orders of Kuroda Nagamasa, the feudal lord of Chikuzen (part of modern-day Fukuoka). During the Edo period, Fukuoka Castle was the largest castle on Kyushu Island.
The best time to visit Fukuoka Castle is around late March to early April, when Maizuru Park is adorned with cherry blossoms. The castle, steeped in history with its sturdy stone walls and cherry blossom trees shading the majestic gates, is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Ohori Park
Ohori is a vast park located in Chuo-ku, the heart of Fukuoka. Established in 1926, Ohori is now one of Japan's most beautiful ecological parks, serving as a favorite relaxation and recreation spot for both locals and tourists.
Ohori Park features a large lake with trees reflecting on its surface. The land in the middle of the lake is connected by elegant stone bridges to walking paths. The trail around the lake is particularly ideal for a leisurely stroll or a walk with your pet.
Fukuoka Tower
Fukuoka Tower is recognized as the symbol of the 'heart of Kyushu Island.' Standing at 234 meters tall, it offers an ideal vantage point to take in the panoramic views of Fukuoka City. Completed in 1989, it is the tallest tower along Japan's coastline. Designed by Nikken Sekkei, the tower was constructed on a plot of land near Hakata Bay.
The tower features three observation decks: at 116 meters, 120 meters, and the highest at 123 meters above ground. Fukuoka Tower is engineered to withstand earthquakes up to 7.0 on the Richter scale and wind speeds of 65 meters per second. It also served as a primary filming location for the Japanese movie Godzilla vs SpaceGodzilla (1994).
Additionally, Fukuoka is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks, such as Dazaifu Tenmangu, Akizuki Castle, and the ancient Ozuka Tomb. The city is also blessed by nature, offering opportunities for marine sports, mountain climbing, and sightseeing at attractions like the Chikugo River, Hirao Plateau, Mount Hikosan, and limestone caves. Planning a trip to Japan with Fukuoka as your destination will undoubtedly be a decision you won't regret!
