Located on the northern shores of Kyushu, Fukuoka is one of Japan’s most captivating yet overlooked destinations, offering visitors a combination of history, nature and culinary experiences.
From sacred shrines to stunning island landscapes, Fukuoka and its surrounds are waiting to be explored by travellers looking for an adventure of their own.
A short distance from Fukuoka city is Shikanoshima Island, a nature and culture-rich escape just 30 minutes by car or 20 minutes by ferry, where the national treasure the ‘Kan no Wa no Na no Kokuō’ gold seal was discovered. The seal is believed to have been cast in China and bestowed by Emperor Guangwu of the Han dynasty upon an envoy from a Japanese state (known as ‘Na’) in 57 AD. The gold seal, which has become an emblem of Fukuoka, was discovered in 1784 and is on display at the Fukuoka City Museum.
Hiring a bicycle is the best way to explore the 10km of scenic coastline, featuring picturesque beaches and the Shikaumi Shrine which is dedicated to three gods of sea. Perched on a hilltop, the shrine offers sweeping views of the Genkai Sea and a selection of eateries serving fresh local seafood. Also worth a stop is Shiomi Park, the highest point on the island offering views across Hakata Bay. Bike rentals from Shikashima Cycle start at just Yen 1,500 (around £7.50) for three hours, with options for tandem bikes and children’s trailers making it a fun activity the whole family can enjoy. For those looking to dive deeper, the island’s sea is crystal clear and also offers snorkelling and scuba diving excursions to explore its vibrant marine life.
The Itoshima Peninsula offers a rich variety of landscapes, from the beautiful coastline of the Genkai Sea to the Sefuri mountains, and the expansive rolling fields of the Itoshima Plain. Approximately 40 minutes from central Fukuoka by train, Itoshima is renowned for its fresh local produce and abundance of seafood. The oyster huts open in the winter serving freshly harvested oysters. Futamigaura, considered the sunset strip, is home to several excellent beachside cafes and surf shops with surfboards, bodyboards and standup paddleboards for rent. From here visitors can view Meoto Iwa, a pair of much photographed rocks symbolising the divine couple of two deities from Japanese mythology, linked together by a rope.
Back in the city, art enthusiasts should not miss the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, the world’s only museum dedicated to collecting and exhibiting modern and contemporary Asian art. Housing approximately 5,700 works from 23 countries and regions, the museum offers workshops and creative sessions with Asian artists for children as part of its pioneering efforts in promoting cultural understanding. The museum is open every day (except certain holidays) and is free to visit.
Lastly, no visit to Fukuoka is complete without a visit to Bar Oscar, renowned for its exceptional cocktails with an impressive selection of around 500 spirits. Owner-bartender Shuichi Nagatomo, trained in prestigious Ginza bars in Tokyo, has won multiple awards and creates seasonal cocktails and well-loved classics served in elegant surroundings that contrasts the lively streets of Daimyo.
With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Fukuoka remains an off-the-beaten-track gem that captivates those seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
For more information about Fukuoka City visit www.gofukuoka.jp