Things to do in  Fukuoka Prefecture

Travelers flock to Kawachi Wisteria Garden to see tunnels sculpted from wisteria trees, some of which are more than 120 years old. Located in the scenic hills just south of Yamaguchi, the garden is especially beautiful in spring, when blooming wisteria flowers along the tunnel walls create dreamy pathways of pastel-colored petals.

On the southeastern outskirts of Fukuoka City, the ancient Dazaifu Tenmangu is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines. Visitors can stroll through the beautiful grounds filled with cypress trees, visit several shrine buildings, see a classical dance or art performance (often on the schedule), and learn more about Shinto at the two on-site museums.

Facing Fukuoka’s port from its location on a narrow peninsula, the Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is a sprawling area that will appeal to families, picnickers, flower enthusiasts, cyclists, and anyone seeking respite from the city. As the park spans 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from end to end, many visitors like to rent bikes at the entrance and follow the cycle trails.

This peaceful park in Fukuoka is centered on a large lake with islands through the middle. Joggers can be seen running around the paths, while other visitors sit to watch the birds gliding on the water. The Ukimi Pavilion adds color to the lake’s shores with its distinctive red railing, while the Ohori Park Japanese Garden is secluded on the park’s southern edge.

You’ll see Momochi Seaside Park long before you get there, thanks to the 767-foot (234-meter) high Fukuoka Tower that stands within the waterside development. Created in 1989 for the Asia Pacific Expo, the park contains a sandy beach, an artificial island (Marizon), the Fukuoka City Museum, and more. You can also catch a ferry over to the larger Uminonakamichi Seaside Park from Marizon.

Fukuoka’s Kushida Shrine, also commonly called Okushida-san by locals, is one of the city’s oldest and most important Shinto shrines. It dates back to the 8th century, though the current building is mostly from the 16th century. Beautiful and ornate, with elegantly pointed roofs and a large ginkgo tree in the shrine yard, it’s a must-visit attraction in central Fukuoka.