Now Reports

Exploring an exciting town like Fukuoka, packed with historical landmarks, great shopping and plenty of places to dine, you can easily slaughter your wallet in a single day. But the best things in life are free! So Fukuoka Now listed up approximately 34 things to enjoy for FREE in Fukuoka, from culture to sightseeing, to museums, language lessons and more! Check back again soon, we’ll add some more as we find them!

FREE! 34 things to do in Fukuoka!
• Tenjin area (5)
• Hakata area (8)
• Momochi area (8)
• Ropponmatsu area (2)
• Other areas (8)
• Online (3)

Tenjin area

Free Lookout and Urban Forest Climb

Prepare for a journey worth taking – quite literally – to the top of the spectacular ACROS Building in central Tenjin. This hidden gem offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the city. To access the rooftop observatory, open only on weekends and holidays, ascend the 809-step outdoor staircase at the rear of the building. This stairway, tucked away in a blanket of seasonal foliage, is an experience in itself that begs to be revisited throughout the year. Before embarking on this adventure, make sure to check the days and hours of operation below.

• ACROS Fukuoka
• 1-1-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• Lookout: open only on weekends, 10:00~16:00
• Step garden: Mar. ~ Oct. 9:00 ~ 18:00, Nov. ~ Feb. 9:00 ~ 17:00 *closed on rainy days or inclement weather, and 12/31~1/2
• https://www.acros.or.jp/english/

See and Touch the Skills of Fukuoka’s Artisans

Situated within the ACROS Fukuoka, this complimentary admission gallery is a proud exhibition space for traditional crafts of Fukuoka Prefecture, including 7 items designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry and 35 items designated by the prefectural governor. Initially housed solely on the second floor, the gallery has grown and expanded, reopening on the first floor in March 2023. This expansion has allowed for an increased variety of special exhibitions, sales events, and workshops, all designed to help visitors deepen their appreciation and understanding of Fukuoka’s rich traditional crafts heritage.
*7 designated by the Minister of Economy: Hakata-ori, Hakata Doll, Kurume Kasuri, Koishiwara-yaki, Agano-yaki, Yame Fukushima Butsudan, Yame Chochin

• Takumi Gallery
• 1F & 2F ACROS Fukuoka 1-1-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• 10:00~19:00
• Closed: Tue. (only 1F), 12/29~1/3
• https://www.acros.or.jp/r_facilities/takumi.php
• https://www.instagram.com/takumi_gallery/

Nihongo Hiroba – Free Japanese Classes

Kokusai Hiroba serves as a vibrant nexus for fostering connections between local Japanese residents and Fukuoka’s diverse international community. It provides a wealth of information and resources, including Japanese language classes for learners at every level. The center’s unique, free talk style sessions offer a platform for participants to delve into various forms of spoken Japanese, from teen slang to regional dialects – all at no cost and with no textbooks required. If you’re keen to participate and engage in this immersive language learning experience, please make sure to reserve your spot in advance by sending an email.

• Kokusai Hiroba (3F ACROS Fukuoka)
• 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month
• 10:30~12:00
• 1-1-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• jfl2_chikujo@yahoo.co.jp
• facebook

FUKUOKA Monument – Photo Spot

Don’t forget to snap a picture at the “FUKUOKA” monument on your next outing – it’s the perfect memento! This attraction is nestled within the scenic Tenjin Central Park, situated in the Nishinakasu district of Fukuoka, near the Fukuhaku Deai Bridge. The park, which underwent a significant renovation in 2019, presents an enchanting view at all times of day. As night falls, the illuminated Kihinkan building casts a beautiful glow, creating an awe-inspiring backdrop against the park.

• Tenjin Central Park, in front of Kihinkan Hall (6-29 Nishinakasu, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka)
• Fukuhaku Deai Bridge (6 Nishinakasu, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka)

Foot Bath at Kego Shrine

For those moments when you’ve been on your feet a bit too long exploring the city, a hidden gem awaits you for some rejuvenation. Tucked away in the tranquil Kego Shrine, you’ll find a complimentary foot bath. It’s an ideal spot to warm your tired feet on a chilly day, or simply to find a moment of serenity. The circulating water, enriched with natural minerals, is also believed to possess antibacterial qualities. To dry off, towels can be obtained for a nominal fee of ¥100. This delightful oasis provides a slice of relaxation amidst the bustling city.

• Kego Shrine
• 2-2-2 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• 9:00~15:30
• https://kegojinja.or.jp/

Hakata area

JR Hakata City Rooftop – Catch a Great View

Uncover a hidden oasis in the heart of Hakata at the JR Hakata City Rooftop. This expansive garden, perched atop the bustling shopping complex and directly connected to Hakata Station, serves as a dual-purpose relaxation and observation space. Train enthusiasts can revel in the constant comings and goings of the railway below. There’s even a railway shrine where travelers can offer a prayer for safe journeys. Encircled by a vibrant display of seasonal flowers, this rooftop garden is the perfect setting for a picnic lunch. Plus, with no admission charge, it’s a treat available to all. Pro tip: This spot offers one of the best vantage points for stunning sunset views!

• JR Hakata City Rooftop
• 1-1 Hakataeki-chuogai, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• 10:00〜22:00 (Jan. 4 ~ end of Feb 10:00~21:00)
• https://www.jrhakatacity.com/translation/
• https://www.instagram.com/hakatatsubamenomori/
▷Kyushu Live – Canal City to Hakata Station Sunset Walk

Hakata Port Tower – landmark of Hakata Port

Hakata Port Tower, a renowned local landmark, offers a sweeping view of Fukuoka City and Hakata Bay from its free-to-access observation deck located 70 meters above ground. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of Fukuoka Tower at 234m, it’s conveniently located and easily accessible from Tenjin and Hakata. In 2020, the tower’s lighting was upgraded to full-color LEDs that change hues to reflect the seasons and special events – expect fresh blue in spring and summer, transitioning to warm orange in fall and winter. The window glass, too, has been replaced with transparent tempered glass, enhancing the clarity of the view. Also worth checking out is the Hakata Port Bayside Museum on the first floor. Free of charge, it offers a glimpse into the significant role of the Port of Hakata through informative panels and intricate models.

• 14-1 Chikkohonmachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• Open: 10:00~17:00 (last entry 16:40)
• Lighting of the tower: Sunset – 24:00
• Closed: Wed. (if Wed. is holiday, the following weekday), 12/29~1/3
• https://www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/kowan/somu/hakata-port/port_museum.html#01
• https://twitter.com/port_of_hakata

Ryuguji – A Temple with Mermaid Bones

Ryuguji, formerly known as Ukimido, is a sea-adjacent temple steeped in legend. It’s said that in 1222, a mermaid caught in a fishing net was interred at Ukimido, seen as a symbol of good fortune. The temple’s current name, Ryuguji, stems from the phrase “Ningyo ha Ryugu no Tsukai,” or “a mermaid envoy from the Ryuguji.” The purported bones of the mermaid are preserved within the temple, and visitors can request to view them by arranging a phone call (in Japanese) ahead of time.

Please note that public access to the temple is suspended until May 14, 2023, due to the mermaid bones being loaned to the Fukuoka City Museum. Consequently, the mermaid bones will be available for viewing at Ryuguji Temple from June 2023 onwards. If you wish to visit, it’s advised to confirm in advance by calling 092-291-1003.

• Reisenyama Ryuguji
• 4-21 Reisenmachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• 8:00 ~ Sunset
• 092-291-1003 * NOTE: to see the bones, contact the temple by phone in advance.
• https://bunkazai.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/cultural_properties/detail/91%e3%80%80

Ambitious Video Art in Canal City

A work by Nam June Paik, a world-renowned artist who established the art genre of video art, has a large installation in the atrium space connecting the shopping and office areas of Canal City Hakata. The work is titled “Fuku/Luck, Fuku=Luck, Matrix. It debuted in 1996 and was restored in 2021. The various fragments of images extracted by Pike are dizzyingly intertwined on the screen, creating a kind of chaos.

• Canal City Hakata
• Video air time: 12:00~13:00, 15:00~16:00, 18:00~19:00
• 1-2 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• https://canalcity.co.jp/service/concept

Canal City Hakata – Dancing Fountains

Experience an immersive fountain show at Canal City, happening twice hourly on the establishment’s basement level. The Canal Aqua Panorama, commencing at 19:30, stands as one of Japan’s grandest 3D projection mapping displays. This spectacle leverages state-of-the-art projection mapping technology, a colossal 2,500-inch screen, concert-hall quality acoustics, and vibrant lighting to create a truly breathtaking experience. Visitors can appreciate the full scope of the fountains from the first, second, or third floors or feel their immense power from an up-close vantage point on the basement level.

• Canal City Hakata
• 1-2 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• 10:00~22:00
• Schedule: https://canalcity.co.jp/english/fountainshow

Hakata Gion Yamakasa “Kazariyama” (decorative floats) on display year-round

The Hakata Gion Yamakasa is one of the most beloved summer festivals in Fukuoka. The festival features two types of Yamakasa: the “Kaki-Yamakasa,” mobile floats that traverse Hakata’s streets during the festival period (July 1 to July 15), and the “Kazariyama,” elaborately decorated, stationary floats.

You can appreciate the Kazariyama, a symbolic facet of the traditional Hakata festival, throughout the year at the “Zenzai Hiroba” in Kawabata Shopping Street. In this shopping street’s rest area, you can savor the renowned sweet treat “Kawabata Zenzai.” Additionally, the location exhibits items linked to the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, such as design tiles of the “toban happi,” the formal attire of the Yamakasa festival.

• Kawabata Zenzai Hiroba
• 10-256 Kamikawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• 10:00~17:00 (zenzai is only available at 11:00~18:00 on Fri., Sat., Sun. and hol.)
• http://www.hakata.or.jp/zenzaihiroba/

Bayside Place Hakata Aquarium

The moment you step inside Bayside Place Hakata, prepare to be captivated by the colossal fish tank that extends to the second floor. This cylindrical tank, measuring nine meters in diameter and eight meters in height, offers visitors a 360-degree view of over 30 varieties of marine life. Be sure to watch for the sea turtles and vibrant tropical fish. If you visit on weekends, you might even witness a feeding demonstration!

To enhance accessibility, a complimentary shuttle bus service operates on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, running between Bayside and the Tenjin/Hakata area. You can find the schedule on the official website.
(The schedule is available on the official website).

• Bayside Place Hakata C
• 13-6 Chikkohonmachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• 6:30~23:00 (Depending on ship operation status)
• http://www.baysideplace.jp/entertainment/aqua/
• https://www.instagram.com/baysideplacehakata/

Free Legal Advice for Foreigners

If you’re a foreigner living in Fukuoka and find yourself facing legal issues, don’t worry. The Fukuoka Bar Association and Fukuoka City International provide free legal advice on the first Saturday and third Wednesday of each month. If your first language isn’t English or Chinese, an interpreter can be arranged with sufficient advance notice.

These consultations are conducted in the privacy of the Fukuoka City International Center. To confirm availability, please call or inquire at the information desk on the first floor well in advance.

• 4-1 Tenya-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka (Fukuoka City International Center)
• Consultation time: 45 minutes / 1 time (including interpretation time)
• First Sat., third Wed. of the month (schedule for 2023), except 12/29~1/3
• Starting times: First Sat. of the month 10:30, 11:15, 12:00, 12:45, Third Wed. of the month 13:00, 13:45, 14:30, 15:15
• Reservation: 0120-66-1799 / 092-262-1799 or legal@fcif.or.jp
• https://www.fcif.or.jp/en/en-consultation/legal/

Momochi area

Mamoroom Fukuoka: See, touch and learn

Mamoroom Fukuoka is a unique facility designed to educate both children and adults about the environment, health, and hygiene through engaging, hands-on experiences. Here, visitors can participate in a variety of activities, including water quality measurement experiments, observing horseshoe crabs (available only in summer), and examining displays of fish native to Fukuoka.

Interactive elements like videos, exhibits, and touch-panel quizzes further enhance the learning experience. Additionally, the venue hosts a wide array of free events on weekends, such as lectures on cat ecology and video presentations on how spicy mentaiko (spicy cod roe) is produced and the importance of food labels. Please note, while all these events are complementary, they do require advance registration via phone or email.

• Mamoroom Fukuoka
• 1F Fukuoka City Institute of Public Health and Environment 2-1-34 Jigyohama, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• 10:00~17:00
• Closed: Mon., Tue., (open if Mon. & Tue is a hol. and closed next day, 12/28~1/4
• https://www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/m-room/index.html

Free Admission to Fukuoka Tower on your Birthday!

Enjoy a breathtaking ride to the summit of Fukuoka’s loftiest viewpoint, ordinarily priced at ¥800 for adults. However, if you visit within three days before or after your birthday, not only will your trip to the top be complimentary, but you’ll also receive a unique birthday card! Additionally, you’ll be provided with a 20% off coupon for the Sky Lounge restaurant located on the 2nd floor.

Also, don’t miss the “Art Illumination”, a series of seasonally themed animated illuminations adorning the tower’s sides. This spectacular light display is free for all visitors to enjoy, making it a must-see attraction in Fukuoka.

• Fukuoka Tower
• 2-3-26 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
• 9:30~22:00 (last entry 21:30)
• Closed: 6/26 (Mon.), 6/27 (Tue.)
• https://www.fukuokatower.co.jp/guide/birthday.php
• https://www.instagram.com/fukuokatower_official/

Seinan Gakuin University Museum – Architecture

Situated within the campus of Seinan Gakuin University, this museum warmly welcomes all visitors, not just students. The museum’s remarkable red-brick building showcases the exquisite Georgian colonial architecture and was skillfully designed by American architect W.M. Vories. Completed in 1921, it originally served as the main building of Seinan Gakuin. The structure garnered the prestigious Fukuoka City Urban Landscape Award and has since been recognized as a Tangible Cultural Property by both the prefecture and the city. The museum primarily focuses its exhibits on Christianity, which harmonizes with the founding principles of Seinan Gakuin. Permanent displays feature historical texts and artifacts related to the origins and history of Judaism and Christianity, the growth of Christianity in Japan, and materials associated with hidden Christians. Additionally, the museum regularly hosts special exhibitions and workshops, enhancing the breadth of its offerings.

Starting in April 2023, the museum will extend its hours on the third Friday of each month, presenting a unique “night museum” experience. Rather than closing at the usual time of 18:00, the museum will remain open until 20:00, with the last admission at 19:30.

Please be aware that the 2nd and 3rd floors of the museum’s main building are presently closed for maintenance.

Fukuoka Topics – Western-style architecture in Nishijin that conveys the spirit of education >> https://www.fukuoka-now.com/en/western-style-architecture-nishijin/

• Seinan Gakuin University Museum
• 3-13-1 Nishijin, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
• 10:00~18:00 (last entry 17:30)
• Closed: Sun., 8/10~8/16, 12/25, 12/28~1/5
• http://www.seinan-gu.ac.jp/museum/en/index.html

Free Film Screenings

A perfect retreat for a rainy day! The Fukuoka City Public Library in Momochi houses a 49-seat mini-theater on its first floor, adjacent to the video library. What’s more, all screenings are entirely free. The theater presents a range of films suitable for both children and adults, from charming fairy tales and insightful world history to documentaries showcasing the rich history of Fukuoka Prefecture. As the screenings change monthly, be sure to check the official website for the current schedule.

• Fukuoka City Public Library Film Theater
• 3-7-1 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
• 14:30~ (open from 14:00)
• Closed: Mon.
• Screening schedules: http://toshokan.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/theater_schedules/detail

Discover Fukuoka’s Traditional Crafts

Showcasing Fukuoka’s rich cultural heritage, this museum displays a diverse range of traditional crafts passed down through centuries of masterful artisans. Exhibits include Hakata Ori (woven textiles), Hakata Ningyo (dolls), Hakata Magemono (bentwood items), Hakata Koma (spinning tops), Hakata Basami (scissors), Hakata Hariko (papier-mâché ornaments), Multi Glass (glass art), and Chikuzen Hakata Ya (bamboo arrows).

Exhibits are regularly rotated, and special events frequently take place, such as during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival in the summer and traditional craft festivals in the fall. A permanent display featuring Mini Yamakasa, which are one-eighth the size of the actual festival floats, was planned and produced by the Hakata Doll Dealers Cooperative Association.

Please note that the museum relocated from Kamikawabata-machi to the second floor of the Fukuoka City Museum in April 2021.

• Hakata Traditional Craft and Design Museum
• 3-1-1 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
• 9:30~17:30 (last entry 17:00)
• Closed: Mon. (open if Mon. is a hol. and closed next day), 12/28 ~ 1/4
• http://hakata-dentou-kougeikan.jp/
• https://www.instagram.com/hakatatraditionalcraft/

Experience an Earthquake

For an exciting, enlightening experience, or if you’re genuinely intrigued by what it feels like to endure a natural disaster like an earthquake or fire, consider a visit to the Fukuoka Disaster Prevention Center. Here, you’ll undergo simulations of various cataclysms, including floods and fires, all while receiving invaluable advice on how to manage such crises effectively. Guidebooks in English, Chinese, Korean, and French are readily available both on-site and online. This free, potentially life-saving information is at your disposal, but remember to make a reservation prior to your visit.

• Fukuoka Disaster Prevention Center
• 1-3-3 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
• 9:30~17:00 (last entry 16:30)
• Closed: Mon. & last Tue. of month, 12/28~1/4 *open every day during summer vacation (7/21~8/31)
• Experience reception and reservation: 092-847-5991
• https://www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/syobo/bousai_suishin/bousaicenter/centerinfo.html

Takatori Japanese Language Classes

Experience the richness of the Japanese language through free lessons provided by volunteers, many of whom have teaching experience or similar qualifications. These classes typically host about 20 participants, including both teachers and students. With a one-to-one student-teacher ratio, all proficiency levels are catered to and textbooks are thoughtfully selected based on the student’s language proficiency. In addition to language instruction, these sessions offer hands-on cultural experiences, such as participation in the Dontaku festival, traditional flower arrangement, and more. This provides students with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. If you’re interested in participating, please remember to secure your spot in advance by contacting us via email or phone (as of May 2023).

• Takatori Kominkan
• 1-14-13 Takatori, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
• Wed.: 19:00~20:30, Sat.: 10:00~11:30
• Tel.: 092-851-9705
• takatori34@jcom.home.ne.jp
• http://takatorijc.blogspot.jp/

Shake Hands with Paul McCartney

Experience the thrill of ‘shaking hands’ with Paul McCartney, Frank Sinatra, and Michael Jackson — all within a few minutes and completely free of charge! A brilliant initiative at the Dome involved asking many of the celebrities who have performed there to have their hands cast in bronze. These bronzed handprints are now displayed around the perimeter of Fukuoka PayPay Dome, where you can interact with them, take photographs, or simply admire them at your leisure. Rest assured, these timeless mementos aren’t going anywhere.

• Fukuoka PayPay Dome
• 3F Deck 2-2-2 Jigyohama, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• List in Japanese of all the celebrities: https://www.softbankhawks.co.jp/pc/stadium/facilities/dante.html　

Ropponmatsu area

Fukuoka City Science Museum

The Fukuoka City Science Museum, reopened in Ropponmatsu in October 2017, offers an engaging blend of education and entertainment. A permanent exhibition room is housed on the fifth floor, while one of Kyushu’s largest planetariums, standing at 25 meters high, graces the sixth floor. This set-up provides a captivating science experience for children and adults alike. Admission to the third and fourth floors is free, featuring hands-on exhibits such as a TV program recording booth where visitors can try their hand at being an announcer. Additionally, a wide array of science magazines, illustrated books, videos, and other materials are available for free viewing, making it an ideal visit, especially on rainy days.

From April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, elementary and junior high school students can enjoy free admission to the basic exhibition rooms and general planetarium programming. Be sure to take advantage of this enriching opportunity!

• Fukuoka City Science Museum
• 4-2-1 Ropponmatsu, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• 9:30~21:30 (hours of availability vary by area)
• Closed: Tue. (open if Tue. is a hol. and closed next day), New Year holidays (12/28 ~ 1/1)
• 5F entrance fee and general planetarium: ¥510, HS ¥310, JHS and ES ¥200, Planetarium: adult ¥510, HS ¥310, JHS and ES ¥200
• https://www.fukuokacity-kagakukan.jp/
• https://www.instagram.com/fukuokacity_sm/

Survey Museum

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of antique technology at this distinctive museum, primarily showcasing artifacts from the 17th and 18th centuries. Explore a myriad of historical instruments, from quadrant devices, once used to measure altitude, to wartime compasses, and step back in time with historic maps of the seas surrounding Japan, as navigated by Japanese sailors of the past. This museum offers a unique window into the evolution of technology and maritime exploration.

• Survey Museum (inside the Kakumaru Company)
• 3-17-17 Befu, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka
• 9:00~17:30
• Closed: Sat,. Sun. & hol.
• http://kakumaru.jp/museum/

Other areas

Fujii Gallery – Relax, Enjoy, and Communicate

Inaugurated in May 2022, this gallery is nestled within the Ito Campus of Kyushu University. Its mission is to bolster intellectual activities and exchanges within the university museum, a treasure trove of scientific specimens and materials spanning a wide range of fields.

The gallery plays host to a diverse array of planned exhibitions, including a spotlight on original insect drawings (miniatures). These are esteemed not just for their scientific accuracy but also for their artistic brilliance. Another noteworthy exhibition focuses on the “Genko” invasion, an event that left a significant imprint on Japanese history. Additionally, the gallery regularly organizes talks by researchers, providing further depth and context to the exhibits on display. This gallery is a dynamic hub of learning and cultural exchange, bridging the gap between science, art, and history.

• Ito Campus, Kyushu University
• 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka
• 10:00~17:00
• Closed: Sat., Sun., hol., new year’s holiday
• https://fujiigallery.kyushu-u.ac.jp/
• https://twitter.com/Kyudai_Museum

The secret of mentaiko is revealed at Fukutaro

Mentaiko, a spicy cod roe delicacy, is a renowned specialty of Hakata, Fukuoka. Fukutaro, famed for its mentaiko rice cracker “Menbei” — a modern staple souvenir of Fukuoka — invites visitors to take a factory tour. This engaging experience allows guests to view a video presentation of the mentaiko production process, followed by a sampling of Fukutaro’s distinguished mentaiko.

The entire tour lasts approximately 20 minutes, beginning with an introduction by the factory tour staff. After watching the video presentation, visitors are treated to a taste of the freshly made mentaiko. Exclusive, limited-edition products are also available for purchase, exclusively for factory tour visitors.

Reservations are mandatory and must be made by phone at least one day prior to your intended visit. This unique experience offers an insider’s view of the creation of a beloved local delicacy.

• Fukutaro Head Office
• 1-1-1 Gojikkawa, Minami-ku, Fukuoka (about 7 min. walk from JR Takeshita Sta.)
• Start: 10:00, 11:30, 14:00 (tour: 20 min.)
• Closed: Obon holiday, new year’s holiday *some days closed irregularly.
• 092-473-2086 (9:00~17:00)
• https://www.fukutaro.co.jp/tour#f_mentai

Observation Deck at Fukuoka Airport Domestic Terminal

Fukuoka Airport offers more than just travel services; it is a vibrant destination for food connoisseurs and shopaholics alike. The domestic terminal underwent a complete renovation in 2020 and now includes a public observation deck that boasts a stunning 360-degree view. The deck’s close proximity to the runways provides an impressive spectacle of airplanes taking off and landing.

The base of the deck features a mesmerizing display of 650 LEDs, creating a dazzling light show that transforms the airport into a luminescent spectacle at night. So even if you’re not catching a flight, consider a visit to Fukuoka Airport for a unique blend of culinary, retail, and visual experiences.

• 4F Fukuoka Airport Domestic Terminal
• 778-1 Shimousui, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• 7:00~22:00 *closed in case of bad weather
• https://www.fukuoka-airport.jp/service/observation-deck01.html

24.8-meter High Gundam Statue at Lalaport Fukuoka

Experience the awe-inspiring sight of the ν Gundam statue towering at 24.8 meters high over the main entrance of LaLaport Fukuoka, a bustling commercial facility. Every hour between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., visitors can witness the thrilling “ν Gundam startup” show, a spectacle that lasts approximately 2 minutes and 20 seconds, featuring the movement of the Gundam’s right arm and face.

Additionally, a captivating display of images and lights comes to life in a special wall projection and Gundam performance every half hour from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Whether you’re a Gundam enthusiast or simply enjoy unique attractions, this larger-than-life statue and its accompanying performances make for a memorable visit.

Click here to see details (video too)
https://www.fukuoka-now.com/en/new-24-8-meter-high-gundam-statue-unveiled-at-lalaport-fukuoka/

• Forest Park, Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Fukuoka
• 6-23-1 Naka, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• Open: 10:00~22:00
• Performance Schedule through Mar. 31, 2024

Street Pianos in Fukuoka City – Play it free♪

In an initiative to establish Fukuoka as a premier music hub in Japan and Asia, Fukuoka City has taken the innovative step of installing street pianos throughout the city. As of May 2023, visitors and locals alike can enjoy the charm of upright pianos at Solaria Plaza and the grandeur of a grand piano at Bayside Place Hakata. This initiative not only enriches the city’s cultural scene but also encourages spontaneous musical interactions, making Fukuoka’s streets a stage for both budding musicians and seasoned professionals.

• 1F Solaria Plaza
• 2-2-43 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• 11:00~19:45 (only weekdays)
• https://solariaplaza.com/

• Bayside Place Hakata C-2F
• 13-6 Chikkohonmachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• 10:00~17:00
• https://www.baysideplace.jp/streetpiano/

TOTO Museum – A Museum for Toilets

TOTO, a company with the largest market share of toilets in Japan, is renowned for its innovative toilets and washbasins. However, the TOTO Museum offers an opportunity to delve deeper into its history, revealing its past production of tableware goods and a global perspective on the evolution of toilets. This facility was inaugurated to commemorate TOTO’s 100th anniversary.

Within the museum, you’ll discover exhibits detailing key shifts in water circulation, the evolution of TOTO’s products since its establishment in 1917, and insights into the manufacturing process. Explanations for the exhibits are available in five languages (English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, and Japanese), accessible on your own smartphone via the museum’s free Wi-Fi.

In June 2022, TOTO expanded its reach with the launch of a virtual museum, accessible to a global audience. Currently, this online platform supports 16 languages, making the fascinating journey of TOTO’s evolution accessible to a wide international audience.

• TOTO Museum
• 2-1-1 Nakashima, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
• 10:00~17:00 (last entry 16:30)
• Closed: Mon., Summer holidays, New years holidays.
• https://jp.toto.com/museum/en/

Free Fukuoka City Map for Tourists! – Now Map

Now Map is an English-language sightseeing map published by Fukuoka Now, appreciated not only by tourists but also by newcomers to Fukuoka, such as international students. This map, known for its user-friendly design, details landmarks and tourist facilities in a way that enhances the enjoyment of exploring Fukuoka on foot.

Distributed free of charge, you can find Now Map at approximately 260 locations throughout the city. These include transport hubs such as stations, airports, and ports, as well as tourist facilities, information centers, and hotels. Whether you’re planning a day of sightseeing or finding your way around, Now Map is an invaluable resource for navigating and appreciating Fukuoka.

• https://www.fukuoka-now.com/en/news/now-map-2023/
• contact@fukuoka-now.com

Free WiFi Spots in Fukuoka City

Free WiFi hotspots are available in all subway stations and many other public places. As of April 1, 2023, free WiFi is available at 97 locations in Fukuoka City.

Online

Kyushu Live – Free Virtual Walking tours of Fukuoka

Enjoy dozens of online video walking tours of Fukuoka and Kyushu, led by Fukuoka Now Magazine, Editor-in-Chief Nick Szasz. Each episode introduces a different part of the city while sharing insights that only a resident of over 30 years could provide.
Kyushu Live – List of all Episodes

Fukuoka Now Classifieds

Presenting yet another complimentary yet invaluable service brought to you by Fukuoka Now. Our platform allows you to read or post messages for free (with some exceptions), making it easy to discover items for sale or for free. Looking for a teacher or student? You’ll find them here. Our service is also an excellent hub for meeting like-minded individuals and forging new friendships. Plus, if you’re in the market for a new job, it could just be the perfect place to find one! Leverage our platform to connect, discover, and seize opportunities in Fukuoka. Start on this page!

Fukuoka & Kyushu English News Summaries

These concise summaries are available on our website and are also delivered weekly via a convenient, free email newsletter (register here). This service is an excellent way to stay informed about the latest happenings and upcoming events. These summaries can be valuable resources for language classes or stimulating watercooler conversations at work. Remember, knowledge is power!

In addition to our website and email service, we also share news updates on our social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook. Stay connected with Fukuoka Now for your essential dose of local news!

Originally written in Feb 2015, updated May 2023.
Copyright Fukuoka Now – including all text, photos and illustrations. Permission required to re-use in any form. Meanwhile, feel free to link to this page.

NOTE: The information presented here was gathered and summarized by the Fukuoka Now staff. While we have done our best to check for accuracy, there might be errors and details may have changed. If you notice any errors or changes, please contact us. This report was originally written in Feb 2015.