Travel Guide: Fukuoka
The island capital offers comfort food, historic temples, and pristine nature.
Cover photo: Posing with the Reclining Buddha at Nanzoin (Temple), Sasaguri, Fukuoka, Japan (2025).
Click on an image for details.
Intro
Fukuoka — Japan’s sixth largest city — is the vibrant capital and gateway to the island of Kyushu. With a youthful population and the rare distinction of being one of Japan’s few growing cities, Fukuoka boasts a lively atmosphere. The port city is home to impressive art, architecture, and the nation’s most famous ramen brand.
Experience
Compared to the ever-growing crowds of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, Fukuoka feels like an undiscovered gem. Despite its size, the city is visited by just 11% of foreign tourists in Japan, making it a perfect low-key destination.
Although visiting Kyushu was never a top priority for me, I had a wonderful time touring the island. Highlights include rowing through Takachiho Gorge, catching a whimsical performance at Anmitsu Hime, and viewing the titanic Reclining Buddha of Nanzoin. Please read on for more details.
History of Fukuoka
Fukuoka was formally established in 1889 through the merger of the titular castle town and the merchant port of Hakata. The region’s history dates as far back as the Nakoku kingdom of the 1st century. Nearby Dazaifu served as the administrative center of the entire island of Kyushu for five centuries.
In the late 13th century, Hakata Bay became the frontline of Japan’s defenses against Mongols, while neighboring Saga later served as a base for the invasions of Korea lead by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣 秀吉). After the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, Kuroda Nagamasa (黒田 長政) was appointed the first lord of Fukuoka domain, building Fukuoka Castle — the largest in Kyushu.
During World War II, the city suffered devastating air raids but was rebuilt into a major cultural and economic hub. A century after its modern founding, Fukuoka hosted the Asian-Pacific Exposition (Yokatopia) in 1989. Today, Fukuoka City has about 1.6 million residents, with surrounding Fukuoka Prefecture home to over five million people.
Shrines & Temples
Fukuoka is difficult to define by a single landmark, but the historic Dazaifu Tenmangu is arguably the prefecture’s top attraction. Built in 1591, the historic Shinto shrine is head of over 12,000 Tenmangu across Japan.
The Heian Period scholar and statesman, Sugawara no Michizane (菅原 道真), is enshrined here as Tenjin (天神), a deity of learning, culture, and the arts. The cult is especially popular with students praying for exam success.
The temple is undergoing renovations until 2027, with a temporary main hall designed by renowned architect Sou Fujimoto (藤本 壮介). The grounds also feature drum bridges and a plum grove — blooming in February. Nearby is a lively shopping street with a beautiful Starbucks shop by Kengo Kuma (隈 研吾), as well as the Kyushu National Museum.
Other notable religious sites include Futamigaura Torii (Gate) with married rocks and Nanzoin, home to one of the world’s largest Buddha statues. Kushida Shrine hosts the city’s most famous festival, Hakata Gion Yamakasa, and Shofukuji is said to be Japan’s oldest Zen Buddhist temple.
Food & Drinks in Fukuoka
Fukuoka is perhaps most famous for its food scene, especially yatai (food carts) and mentaiko (pollock roe). The city is also the birthplace of popular national brands Ichiran Ramen and Amam Dacotan (I’m Donut?) bakeries.
Specializing in Hakata tonkotsu (pork) ramen, Ichiran was founded in 1960 and is one of Japan’s largest ramen chains today. Every bowl is produced at their only factory in Itoshima. Personally, I think local shops are superior but Ichiran’s original location has become a pilgrimage site for ramen fans. Pro-tip: to avoid a long wait, visit for breakfast.
I also enjoyed Ebisuya Udon Hakata for noodles and the izakaya (pub) Sushiya Kotobuki [sponsored mention]. I especially recommend Notime Mixology Bar for delicious and inventive cocktails.
Art & Museums in Fukuoka
Fukuoka boasts a rich art culture, most notably the sprawling Kyushu National Museum. Travelers can’t miss the King of Na Gold Seal; the designated national treasure is a testament to Japan’s long relationship with neighboring China — housed at the Fukuoka City Museum.
I especially enjoyed the world-class international collection at the Fukuoka Art Museum, including Salvador Dalí’s Madonna of Port Lligat (1950). Late Japanese artist Keiichi Tanaami (田名網 敬一) cited the painting as a source of personal inspiration. The Fukuoka Asian Art Museum is also worth a visit, said to be the world’s only museum exclusively dedicated to collecting and exhibiting modern and contemporary Asian art.
Shopping in Fukuoka
Fukuoka is a great shopping destination, with offerings on par with other Japanese cities and a fraction of the crowds. I was impressed by the second-hand fashion scene, centered around Daimyo. I recommend a stop to admire the unique architecture of Canal City Hakata, with regular fountain shows.
LGBT+ Nightlife in Fukuoka
Japan is the only G7 nation that does not recognize same-sex partnerships, although many localities offer civil unions. For queer acceptance, it ranks 53rd out of 175 countries around the world. It is overwhelmingly safe for sexual minorities. The most popular gay app is 9monsters, but foreigners will likely have more success with Grindr.
Relative to its size and youthful reputation, I was surprised by the small scale of Fukuoka’s gay scene. That aside, the long-running drag show at Anmitsu Hime was a highlight of my trip and I also had a nice evening at Bar Overall.
Events & Seasons
Fukuoka’s most famous event is Hakata Gion Yamakasa, dating back to the year 1241. The July ritual includes both parades and races of traditional floats. Fukuoka is also one of only four cities to host an annual sumo wrestling tournament and it’s home to many beautiful flower fields, blooming throughout the year.
Tamaseseri Ball Capture Festival (early January)
Onisube Fire Festival (early January)
Toka Ebisu New Year Festival (mid-January)
Cherry blossom season (March/April)
Wisteria flowers (April/May)
Hakata Dontaku Port Festival (early May)
Hakata Gion Yamakasa (July)
Hakata Summer Festival (August)
Hojoya Autumn Festival (mid-September)
Nakasu Festival (early October)
Autumn leaves (October/November)
Grand Sumo Tournament (mid-November)
Fukuoka Christmas Market (November/December)
Hakata Odori Geisha Dance (December)
Transportation & Accommodation
Fukuoka is served by Fukuoka Airport (FUK), just twenty minutes from Hakata Station. It’s said to be Japan’s closest airport to a major city. Fukuoka is well served by public transit, including metro and buses.
Most hotels are conveniently located between Hakata Station and Chuo Ward downtown. I recommend staying closer to the station for convenience or closer to Chuo for nightlife. Three days is enough to enjoy Fukuoka City, but it’s also a perfect base to explore the island.
Top Attractions in Fukuoka
Dazaifu Tenmangu (Shinto grand shrine)
Nanzoin Temple (Reclining Buddha)
Kyushu National Museum (history & culture)
Anmitsu Hime (drag show) RESERVATION RECOMMENDED
Fukuoka City Museum (history & culture)
Ichiran Original Shop (famous ramen chain)
Takachiho Gorge RESERVATION RECOMMENDED
Ohori Park & Fukuoka Castle Ruins (lakeside gardens)
Sakurai Futamigaura Torii (iconic seaside shrine gate)
Fukuoka Asian Art Museum (contemporary & modern)
Trips from Fukuoka
As capital, Fukuoka offers convenient access to the entirety of Kyushu island, including the beaches of Itoshima, historic port of Nagasaki, castle town of Kumamoto, onsen town of Beppu, and lush forests of Yakushima. Of course, Fukuoka is also Japan’s closest major city to neighboring countries Korea and China, with many flights and ferries available.
-
Fukuoka is most famous for Hakata ramen, yatai (food stalls), and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
-
Fukuoka is a great year-round destination, but the traditional festival Hakata Gion Yamakasa is most popular. It’s held in the first half of July.
-
I recommend at least three days to enjoy the city.
