Fukuoka

Fukuoka is the capital city of Fukuoka Prefecture and is situated on the northern shore of the island of Kyushu in Japan, East Asia.

The Gion area has several historical shrines and Buddhist temples, including the 8th century Kushida Shrine, Tochoji with its 10.8m high wooden Great Buddha, and Shofukuji, Japan's first Zen temple.

Ohori Park is located 2 stops west of Tenjin on the subway. The park has a 2km jogging track, popular with locals. Nearby Maizuru Park features good views of the city and the ruins of Fukuoka Castle.

Nishi Park is a hilltop park, around a 10 minute walk from Ohori Park. Here you will find quiet walking trails.

The iconic symbol of Fukuoka is Fukuoka Tower, which stands 234m high.

At Momochihama beach, visitors can enjoy a swim, relax and a drink in one of the patio restaurants and here.

Robo Square, home to 200 robots and 70 different types of robots is a good option for families with children (free admission).

Atago Shrine can be found near Muromi Subway Station, and has superb views of the city and Hakata Bay from a hilltop.

Nokonoshima is a small island in the middle of Hakata Bay and offers good hiking and swimming opportunities. It can be reached by a 10 minute ferry ride from Meinohama Port.

Yusentei Park was a former villa of the 6th lord of Fukuoka, built in 1754. It offers a wonderful traditional garden around a pond.

For local culture and art, head to the Fukuoka Art, Asian Art or City Museums.

Other attractions in the area include Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, which features a summertime swimming pool, Marine World and a marine aquarium, Hakozaki Shrine and the red light district at Nakasu, with thousands of restaurants, ramen stalls, shopping, pubs and hostess bars.

Tenjin is Fukuoka's largest shopping district. Fukuoka white clay Hakata dolls make good souvenirs.

Try local dishes such as 'mizutaki' (chicken broth hotpot), 'okyuto' (seaweed) and Hakata ramen (rich pork-based soup and noodles). Other options include sashimi, sliced mackerel with sesame, sushi, and lots of fresh fish and seafood.

Cruise ships dock in Hakata Port, which is a short distance from Fukuoka city centre.

There is an Information Desk for maps and local attraction information.

Fukuoka is served by the Kyushu Shinkansen high-speed rail line and other JR Kyushu trains at Hakata Station. The city has three subway lines.

Note: the left rear door of taxis are remotely operated by the drivers. There is no requirement to tip taxi drivers and it's best to have an exact address to show as the local address system here is confusing even for taxi drivers!