However long you have in Fukuoka, it’s easy to get a feel for the city and explore further afield. Here are some suggestions for inside and outside Fukuoka City.
Ship’s Garden
Jutting out into the river, this ship-shaped terrace is Fukuoka’s newest landmark. On the ground floor is Bill’s Fukuoka, famous for its gourmet breakfasts, and upstairs is popular Chinese restaurant Seikeitsai Noodles & Chinois. At the top you’ll find a free rooftop garden with a great view of the water.
Ramen & Yatai
Every visitor to Fukuoka should try the local soup – or rather, the local ramen. Countless noodle joints serve the city’s famed tonkotsu (pork bone broth), but how about tasting it at another local institution: yatai, or food stands. The outdoor stalls are a great place to meet Fukuokans.
ACROS Building
A leading example of green architecture, this back of this distinctive building is home to over 70,000 plants and trees spanning 120 varieties. Climb the stairways to the top for a citywide view – and some exercise!
Colorful shops and teahouses line the way to Dazaifu’s main sight. Dedicated to a god of learning, Tenmangu Shrine is surrounded by 12 km2 of grounds and some 6,000 plum trees, whose pink flowers are the shrine’s symbol.
Umegae mochi
Stamped with a plum blossom, these tasty treats are Dazaifu’s signature sweet. The azuki (red bean) filling, wrapped in mochi (rice dough) and lightly baked, goes great with a bowl of matcha (green tea).
Kyushu National Museum
This wave-shaped building, covered in blue glass and nestled among green hills, is worth visiting for the view alone. Head inside for first-rate special exhibits and a permanent collection of Japanese artifacts.
Yanagawa
Just 50 minutes from Tenjin by Nishitetsu train lies the canal town of Yanagawa. Cruise its scenic waterways in punts manned by local oarsmen.
River Cruising
The best way to see Yanagawa is by boat: allow yourself to be rowed down the peaceful canals by a guide who, in between pushes of his long pole, might just break out into traditional song. The course covers nearly 5 km and takes just over an hour.
Steamed Grilled Eel
Unagi (eel) is a Yanagawa specialty and the perfect choice for lunch. Try seiro mushi, eel served the local way on a bed of rice with sweet soy sauce and an egg garnish.
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See More & Save More with Nishitetsu Passes
Marutto Fukuoka – For two days!
Special Train & Bus Pass for Foreign Visitors
Use the two tickets on different days, and enjoy two full days of sightseeing!
Fukuoka City One-day Pass
Can be used on local buses within the city.
Train 1 Day Pass
Can be used on the Nishitetsu Tenjin Omuta Dazaifu and Amagi lines.
Adult ¥2,000
Child ¥1,000
(on sale until Mar. 31, 2018)
Includes Fukuoka Fun Pass (discounts on food and services)
For one day!
Dazaifu and Yanagawa
Enjoy Dazaifu and Yanagawa in a single day by train!
Nishitetsu Train special round trip ticket
Fukuoka (Tenjin) • Yakuin
-> Dazaifu
-> Yanagawa
-> Fukuoka (Tenjin) • Yakuin
Ticket for river punting
Yanagawa Kanko Kaihatsu K.K.
Shogetsu Punting Station
Adult ¥2,930
Child ¥1,420
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Tickets available at: Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station and Yakuin Station
Includes special discounts: Treasure Hall, Michizane Sugawara History Museum, Kanzeon Temple, Treasure House (Repository), Dazaifu Amusement park
Bicycle rental Service at Dazaifu Station. Ohana Villa, Birthplace of Hakushu Kitahara, Steamed eel, Yanagawa Nishitetsu Taxi, Arikakezuke Honpo.
Inquires: Nishitetsu Customer Service Center (all year round from 6am to 12pm)
TEL: 0570-00-1010 or 092-303-3333
Originally published in Fukuoka Now Magazine (fn221, May 2017)
