Which is Fukuoka’s most beautiful street? If local residents were asked that question, more than half would likely answer Keyaki-dori in Akasaka. Located near the Fukuoka Now editorial offices, the street is known to local residents as Akasaka Keyaki-dori, but it is technically part of National Highway 202. It runs for about 800 meters from the Gokoku Shinto shrine to the Kego-yotsukado intersection. In addition, part of the street is known as the “Kokutai road” because it was built when Fukuoka hosted the National Sports Festival in 1948.
As the word keyaki in the name suggests, there are roughly 100 zelkova trees planted along the road, and their new leaves create the effect of a vivid green tunnel. The street is lined with many inviting shops that appeal to the passerby, including coffee shops, restaurants, art galleries, and unique bookstores. The rich color of the flowers and greenery in Maizuru Park serves as the backdrop.
This tree-lined street was selected in 1991 as one of the best 100 amenities of Fukuoka City. It was also selected as one of the 100 best streets in Japan in a 1994 competition sponsored by the Yomiuri Shimbun for scenic city roads. In 1997, the efforts to create attractive views and improve the local environment were recognized when the thoroughfare received the 11th Fukuoka City Municipal Scenery award. Indeed, the combined efforts of the government and the private sector have been instrumental in maintaining and preserving the street’s environment.
An association created by local businesses and tenants has assumed responsibility for the daily care and maintenance of the street, including cleaning and watering the greenery. This cooperation between the national government, which has the overall authority for maintenance, and local volunteers ensures that the street and its trees remain beautiful.
A new event, called Bookoka, began two years ago on this street. Fukuoka book lovers and people involved in the business of books, including new and used bookstores, publishing companies, and editors, gather to listen to lectures and browse used book stalls.
Wherever there are green spaces and water, people get the urge to do something cultural. Let’s continue to work together to keep Keyaki-dori in its current beautiful.
Originally published in Fukuoka Now magazine (fn114, Jun. 2008)
