Art as a unique souvenir of Fukuoka
Looking to take home a unique piece of Fukuoka culture? Fukuoka’s museums and art galleries offer a range of alternatives to regular souvenirs – great for creative types looking for memorable keepsakes to take home. From historically significant pieces to prints of distinguished Asian artworks on items you’ll use for years to come, these souvenirs will please even the most experienced traveler.
Fukuoka Now’s Ellery and writer Rachel shop at Fukuoka’s museums for unique souvenirs.
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Fukuoka City Art Museum
Built in 1979 in Ohori Park, this museum’s compelling collection includes historical Asian antiques and pieces by both world-famous artists (including Dali and Chagall), and Kyushu artists.
Address: 1-6 Ohori Koen, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
HP: www.fukuoka-art-museum.jp/
SHOP TEL: 092-714-2025
SOUVENIRS
• Sengai Tenogoi (Tenugui/Japanese hand towel)
Tenogoi is Hakata dialect for tenugui- a thin cotton hand towel popularized in the Edo era. These Hakata-made cloths are printed with images associated with Sengai Gibon a legendary zen monk who spent time in Hakata. Choose from five different colors (maroon, orange, grey, olive, blue) and two sizes. Small: ¥787; Large: ¥1,050
• Clear Folders
Featuring images by Edo period artist and zen monk, Sengai Gibon, these special design clear folders will bring traditional Japanese art into your everyday life. Choose from two sizes and various designs– such as a barking dog, a Japanese kite-flying contest and a traditional zen-inspired design. A4: ¥367; A5: ¥262
Note: Sengai’s circle design, of immeasureable significance to followers of zen, appears on both the clear folders and tenugui! Buy both!
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Fukuoka Asian Art Museum
This museum opened in 1999, aiming to promote interactions between Japan and different Asian cultures. The exclusive collection of Asian modern and contemporary art on display is as rich in diversity as it is in color.
ADDRESS: 7/8F, Riverain Center Bldg., 3-1 Shimokawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
HP: http://faam.city.fukuoka.lg.jp
SHOP TEL: 092-262-8006
SOUVENIRS
• Clear Folders with Asian Art designs
Commemorate your trip to Fukuoka’s Asian Art Museum with these gorgeous clear folders, featuring reproductions of famous works by Asian artists. The featured works come from all over Asia, including Indonesia, Mongolia, Nepal, and India. ¥315 each
• Icons of Femininity in Indian Calendar Art
This item will be a talking piece on your coffee table. The book contains eighty popular Indian calendar prints, all of which focus on women, with explanations in both English and Japanese. The perfect souvenir for art-lovers. ¥1,050
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Fukuoka City Museum
Opened in 1990, this museum is a great place to learn about Fukuoka’s history and cultural development. The Fukuoka City Museum is also home to the “Gold Seal”– a national treasure.
Address: 3-1-1 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
HP: http://museum.city.fukuoka.jp
SHOP TEL: 092-823-2800
SOUVENIRS
• Gold Seal Strap
The Gold Seal of “King of Na of Wa of Han”, was bestowed by Emperor Guang-Wu of the Late Han in 57 AD, and unearthed by a farmer in Fukuoka City in 1784. This Gold Seal strap is 70% of the artifact’s actual size, and can be used as a stamp! Available in three strap colors- gold, red and purple. ¥1,000 each.
• Gold Seal Stamp
You’ll impress those around you when you use this stylish, lightweight reproduction of the Gold Seal in everyday business. The stamp is almost the same size as the real national treasure, and comes with an explanatory booklet. Use it and you’ll feel like the “King of Na of Wa of Han”! ¥710
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Art & Culture Artlier
An information hub for art-lovers! Take your time browsing the many stands full of fliers and posters advertising a variety of upcoming art events and exhibitions across Japan and Asia. Check online resources at the iPad station, and buy tickets to upcoming events and concerts at the Ticket Pia counter. From time to time, the Artlier also hosts mini-concerts and art workshops.
*Note: English / Korean speaking staff available (irregular schedule).
ADDRESS: Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, Riverain Center Bldg. 7F, 3-1 Shimokawabatamachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
Tel: 092-281-0081
Hours: 10:00 ~ 20:00
Closed: Wednesdays
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Fukuoka Art Portal Site
Stay up-to-date with Fukuoka’s gallery scene with this new website. The Web Artlier site has extensive listings of upcoming events and exhibitions in Fukuoka and Kyushu. Search events by date and keyword, or view the recommended events. The site also lists art facilities in Kyushu, including museums, galleries, and art halls. The Web Artlier site is primarily in Japanese – however, there is an automatic translation option that allows you to view the site in English, Korean, or Chinese. Users are also encouraged to submit information about art exhibitions and events to the site. It’s the perfect one-stop website for all of your local gallery and museum-going needs. http://artlier.jp/
TEL: 092-263-6300
Email: ffacnews@ffac.or.jp
HP: www.ffac.or.jp
Originally published in Fukuoka Now Magazine (fn165, Sep. 2012)