Fukuoka (prefecture) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more with our comprehensive travel guide to Fukuoka (Prefecture), Japan.


Introduction to Fukuoka (Prefecture)

Fukuoka (Prefecture) is located on the northern shore of Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island. It is a vibrant, modern city, renowned for its technological advancements, historical landmarks, and delectable cuisine. It boasts an array of scenic sights that will appeal to nature lovers, and exotic cultural sites for lovers of history.

List of Places to Visit in Fukuoka (Prefecture)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Fukuoka Castle
  2. Kyushu National Museum
  3. Hakata Machiya Folk Museum
  4. Fukuoka Asian Art Museum
  5. Ohori Park

Natural Attractions of Fukuoka (Prefecture): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Nokonoshima Island
  2. Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
  3. Fukuoka Tower
  4. Mount Sarakura
  5. Yusentei Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fukuoka (Prefecture)

  1. Hiking at Mount Atago
  2. Biking and hiking trail at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
  3. Hiking at Nanatsu-gama

Best Things to Do in Fukuoka (Prefecture): Activities and Tours

  1. Experience the vibrant nightlife scene in Tenjin and Nakasu
  2. Shop at Canal City Hakata
  3. Enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath at Oita Yu no Sato
  4. Watch a sumo wrestling match at Kokusai Center
  5. Take a canal cruise around Nakasu

Week-Long Itinerary for Fukuoka (Prefecture)

Day 1: Visit Fukuoka Castle and Ohori Park Day 2: Visit Hakata Machiya Folk Museum and Kyushu National Museum Day 3: Explore Nokonoshima Island and Uminonakamichi Seaside Park Day 4: Hike at Mount Atago and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine Day 5: Visit Fukuoka Asian Art Museum and Yusentei Park Day 6: Experience the nightlife in Tenjin and Nakasu Day 7: Take a day trip to Oita Yu no Sato and Kokusai Center.

Food and Drink Scene of Fukuoka (Prefecture)

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Hakata ramen
  2. Motsunabe (offal hot pot)
  3. Mentaiko (spicy cod roe)
  4. Mizutaki (chicken hot pot)
  5. Ikizukuri (sashimi)

Local Beverages

  1. Shochu
  2. Umeshu (plum wine)
  3. Yuzu sake
  4. Craft beer
  5. Green tea

Where to Stay in Fukuoka (Prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel Okura Fukuoka
  2. Hotel Mars Garden Wood Gotanda
  3. Khaosan Fukuoka Annex
  4. Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu
  5. Fukuoka Hana Hostel

What to Buy in Fukuoka (Prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Hakata-ori (traditional textile)
  2. Yame tea
  3. Fukuoka sweets
  4. Yame Chochin (paper lanterns)
  5. Ceramic and porcelain tableware

Local Culture and Customs of Fukuoka (Prefecture)

  1. Bathing etiquette at hot springs
  2. Respecting traditional customs and festivals such as Yamakasa and Dontaku
  3. Removing shoes before entering private homes
  4. Drinking etiquette in social settings
  5. Bowing to show respect

Best Time to Visit Fukuoka (Prefecture)

The best times to visit Fukuoka (Prefecture) are spring (March through May) and autumn (September through November). During these times, the climate is mild, and the city is at its most picturesque, with blooming cherry blossoms in spring, and colorful foliage in autumn.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fukuoka (Prefecture)

Do:

  1. Try local dishes
  2. Respect cultural customs and traditions
  3. Appreciate the beauty of nature
  4. Wear comfortable footwear for walking and hiking
  5. Explore Fukuoka’s scenic areas on foot or by bike.

Don’t:

  1. Litter in public places
  2. Ignore local customs and traditions
  3. Damage or remove historical artifacts
  4. Take pictures of people without their permission
  5. Smoke in non-smoking areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Fukuoka (Prefecture)

Fukuoka (Prefecture) is generally safe for visitors, with low crime rates. However, travelers should be vigilant when using public transport or crowded areas, especially in the evenings.

Health in Fukuoka (Prefecture)

The standard of healthcare in Fukuoka (Prefecture) is high, with many hospitals and clinics available. Visitors should carry their medical insurance details with them at all times.

Getting to Fukuoka (Prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics

  1. Fukuoka Airport
  2. Hakata Bus Terminal
  3. Shinkansen (bullet train)
  4. Local trains

Airports Near Fukuoka (Prefecture)

  1. Fukuoka Airport
  2. Kitakyushu Airport

Bus Stations Near Fukuoka (Prefecture)

  1. Hakata Bus Terminal
  2. Tenjin Bus Center

Other Options

  1. Ferry
  2. Taxi
  3. Car rental

How to Get Around in Fukuoka (Prefecture)

  1. Subway
  2. Bus
  3. Taxi
  4. Bicycle

Where to Go Next from Fukuoka (Prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Kumamoto
  2. Nagasaki
  3. Hiroshima
  4. Miyazaki
  5. Oita

Conclusion

Fukuoka (Prefecture) is a fascinating city, rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From its celebrated cuisine to its awe-inspiring sights, there is never a dull moment in this vibrant destination. With so much to discover and explore, Fukuoka (Prefecture) is the perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

boating down Yanagawa's canal boating down Yanagawa's canal Fukuoka Tower Fukuoka Tower


    Chikushino
    Dazaifu
    Kitakyushu
    Nogata
    Okinoshima
    Yame