[Experience the Best of Fukuoka] Fun for All Ages! 22 Top Things to Do in Hakata, Fukuoka.

2025/01/29

[Experience the Best of Fukuoka] Fun for All Ages! 22 Top Things to Do in Hakata, Fukuoka.

As the gateway to Kyushu, Fukuoka is a city with a variety of attractions including history, culture, and gourmet food. Hakata, located in the center of this area, is an area that combines ancient tradition with modern vibrancy, and has flourished as a center for trade and festivals since ancient times. There are many spots in Hakata that you can enjoy even for a short half-day, so you can enjoy it to the fullest even if you just take a short trip during your trip to Fukuoka. The spots we will introduce this time are all within an hour's drive from Hakata Station. Please come and experience the charm of Hakata, which is exciting for both adults and children.

[Fukuoka City] Seaside Momochi Seaside Park Momochihama District

Beautiful artificial beach lined with restaurants and cafes

This artificial beach is located on the north side of Fukuoka Tower and has a wonderful view of white sand and Hakata Bay. It is a place where nature and urban scenery coexist, and you can enjoy sports and events throughout the year, and especially in the summer, it is crowded with people who enjoy sports such as swimming in the sea and beach volleyball. It is also lined with cafes and restaurants, and the sparkling night view is magical. It also has a wedding hall and is a popular tourist spot that can accommodate a variety of needs.
*About 15 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Sazae-san Street

An irresistible spot for Sazae-san fans

A walking course that connects the city road for approximately 1.6km from the Wakiyamaguchi intersection in Nishijin, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka City to Momochihama. This street is said to be the place where the late Machiko Hasegawa, the author of the nationally popular manga "Sazae-san,'' came up with the characters of the Sazae-san family on the Momochi Beach. The street is lined with bronze statues, signs, and benches of characters such as Sazae-san and Katsuo-kun, making it an irresistible spot for fans. At the end of the street is Seaside Momochi, which has a beautiful view of the white sand beach and Hakata Bay.
*About 15 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Sadaharu Oh Baseball Museum

A sports museum celebrating the achievements of Sadaharu Oh

At the Sadaharu Oh Baseball Museum, you can see exhibits and videos about baseball and the life of Sadaharu Oh, who left his mark as the world's home run king. In addition to conveying the charm of baseball man Sadaharu Oh to the fullest, in the baseball experience corner you can hold and swing a bat that is actually used by professional baseball players, and measure the speed of a ball thrown. You can enjoy various challenges such as hitting, throwing, and catching. This is a future-oriented sports museum that can be enjoyed not only by baseball fans but also by people who are not interested in baseball.
*About 15 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Fukuoka PayPay Dome

A facility that combines baseball and entertainment

Fukuoka PayPay Dome is the home of the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks of Nippon Professional Baseball and has one of the largest seating capacity in Japan. A variety of events are held here, including not only games where Hawks fans enthusiastically cheer, but also concerts and exhibitions that utilize the retractable roof. On the dome tour, you can also see backstage areas and players' waiting rooms that you can't usually see. As a facility that combines baseball and entertainment, it provides excitement and fun to visitors.
*About 15 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Ohori Park

Feel the history and culture of Fukuoka Castle in a water park surrounded by greenery

A beautiful waterscape park created using the outer moat of Fukuoka Castle. The park has a pond with a circumference of approximately 2km, and a jogging course. Many runners gathered from early morning and were seen working up a sweat. You can also ride a boat on the pond and enjoy the water (except in winter). In addition, there is a park with play equipment for children and a cafe with terrace seating facing the water, making it a park that families can enjoy. It is a place of relaxation that Fukuoka citizens are proud of and deeply attached to, where they can feel the history and culture of Fukuoka Castle while being healed by nature.
*About 15 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Fukuoka Castle Ruins

Chikuzen Fukuoka domain's 520,000 koku stronghold

Fukuoka Castle flourished as the residence of the Chikuzen Fukuoka domain during the Edo period. Military commanders such as Kuroda Kanbei and Kuroda Nagamasa were involved in the construction of the castle, and it took seven years to complete. The castle is the largest castle in Kyushu, and was highly praised by Kato Kiyomasa, who was said to be a master of castle construction. Today, the remains of Tamon Yagura and Shimonohashi Gomon remain, and they are designated as national historic sites. It is a popular place for Fukuoka citizens to relax and is also famous for its cherry blossom viewing.
*About 15 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Kego Shrine

Time to heal in the footbath at the shrine

Kego Shrine is located in the center of Tenjin, Fukuoka's busiest area. Many people come to worship here, as it is believed to have benefits such as warding off evil spirits and ensuring victory. There is a footbath that can be used for free within the grounds of the shrine, and it is popular among worshipers as a hidden rest spot, so be sure to stop by. The mineral-rich hot water has a temperature of approximately 42 degrees, and has excellent heat-retaining and moisturizing effects. Why not forget about the hustle and bustle of the city and refresh yourself between sightseeing and shopping?
*About 10 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Tenjin Central Park

An urban oasis where everyone from businessmen to couples gather

Located in the center of Fukuoka City, this is a place of relaxation for citizens with a total area of ​​approximately 31,000 square meters. Inside the park, there is a green space consisting of an approach plaza that makes use of the remains of the former prefectural office building, such as stone pillars and foundation stones, a lawn area of ​​approximately 6,000 square meters, and a fountain plaza with an object resembling a Greek temple. Businessmen gather here on weekdays and couples on holidays. There is also a shop on the north side that sells boxed lunches and other items, making it a great place to enjoy a picnic. Why not spend some time relaxing in this urban oasis that is visited by many people on weekdays and holidays?
*About 10 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Hakata Port Tower

Symbol tower of Hakata Port

A symbol of Hakata Port with a height of approximately 100m. From the observation deck, located about 70 meters above ground, you can see a panoramic view of Hakata Port where ships come and go, Uminonakamichi, and the city of Fukuoka lined with buildings. Due to renovation work carried out in 2020, the window glass in the observation room has made the scenery clearer. At night, the tower is lit up with full-color LED lighting, creating a variety of displays depending on the season and event. Admission to the observation room and museum is free, so you can feel free to drop by.
*About 10 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Bayside Place Hakata

Minato Yokocho, where people and culture come and go

"Bayside Place Hakata" is attractive for cruising, where you can see a different view of Hakata's cityscape than usual, including restaurant ships operating in Hakata Bay. There are many events throughout the four seasons, such as cherry blossom viewing in the spring, fukuya, beer garden, Bon dance and fireworks in the summer, Hakata lantern watching in the fall, and countdown parties and live performances in the winter. Additionally, there is a market with fresh ingredients from Kyushu, a duty-free shop, a natural hot spring, and facilities for children. This is a famous spot in Hakata that everyone from adults to children can enjoy for a whole day.
*About 10 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Tochoji Temple

Fukuoka Daibutsu, one of the largest in Japan, is a must-see

The family temple of the Kuroda family, including Tadayuki Kuroda, the second lord of the Fukuoka domain.Tochoji Temple is the first Shingon Esoteric Buddhism temple built in Japan by Kukai (Kobo Daishi) in 806, and is said to be the oldest sacred place in Japan. There are many highlights such as the wooden Senju Kannon statue, which is an important cultural property, and the approximately 26m-tall five-storied pagoda, among which the Fukuoka Daibutsu, which boasts one of the largest seated wooden statues in Japan, is a must-see. Inside the pedestal of the Great Buddha, there is a journey between Hell and Paradise, and if you go through the darkness relying on the handrails and touch the "Buddha Ring" along the way, you will be able to reach Paradise.
*About 3 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Kushida Shrine

The general guardian of Hakata, affectionately known as “Kushida-san”

Located near the southern end of Kamikawabata Shopping District, this is the general guardian of Hakata, affectionately known as "Kushida-san." This is the starting point for the Oi Yamakasa, which is the finale of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa. The Hakata History Museum on the grounds displays company treasures, including the Yamakasa votive tablets, which are designated as nationally important intangible folk cultural properties. There are also many other attractions such as the decorative Yamakasa, Chikaraishi, the approximately 1,000-year-old Kushida Ginkgo tree, and the Reisen Tsuru-no-Ido, which is said to live forever. It is said that it began in 757 when it was solicited from Kushida Shrine in Matsuzaka, Ise.
*About 5 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Canal City Theater

Entertainment theater where performances of various genres are held

Canal City Theater is one of Fukuoka's leading entertainment theaters (1,144 seats). Since June 2017, it has been the exclusive theater for the Shiki Theater Company and has hosted popular performances such as "The Little Mermaid" and "Beauty and the Beast." After its exclusive use in May 2022, performances of various genres such as musicals, plays, and live music have been held to entertain visitors. It's located on the grounds of Canal City Hakata, so you can enjoy shopping and dining all in one place.
*About 5 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Hakozaki Shrine

Enjoy the beautiful scenery of white sand and green pine trees

Hakozaki Shrine is considered one of the three major Hachiman shrines in Japan, along with Usa and Iwashimizu. Ichino Torii, built by Nagamasa Kuroda, has a unique structure with pillars divided into three tiers. A long approach path of approximately 850 meters stretches from the Ichino Torii gate facing Hakata Bay to the main shrine, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of white sand and green pine trees. Both the worship hall and the main shrine are designated as important cultural properties of the country. Other highlights include the plaque that reads "Surrender of Enemy Country" on the tower gate, and the "Hakomatsu" where there is a legend that Empress Jingu placed the shogi she wore when she gave birth to Emperor Ojin.
*About 12 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Fukuoka City] Aji no Mentai Fukutaro Factory Tour

You can see the manufacturing process of Karashi Mentaiko, a classic Hakata souvenir.

“Aji no Mentai Fukutaro” is proud of its moderately spicy mentaiko! Tours are held at the factory adjacent to this head office building. After learning about the production and history of mentaiko on a large screen, you can watch the process being done by hand through glass. You are sure to be impressed by the craftsman's discernment and quality control. After the tour, in addition to tasting freshly made mentaiko, there will be limited edition and special sale items. Tours are free and reservations are required, and you can fully enjoy the charm of Karashi Mentaiko, a classic Hakata souvenir.
*About 5 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Dazaifu City] Nagatoshi Milk (Tour)

Learn how to make special milk

This is a milk processing factory directly managed by a farm, which is rare in Japan. Their philosophy is to "make milk with a visible origin," and their milk, which they pay particular attention to from the pasture-growing stage, is well-received not only for its taste, but also for its safety and security. At the factory, you can learn about the process of manufacturing bottled milk, how the machines work, hygiene management, and more. You can also get answers to your questions about milk and cows. At the end of the tour, you can sample milk from Nagatoshi Farm Makiba. Next to the factory is the milk Japanese restaurant and workshop "Makiba no Ie", where you can enjoy menus such as pudding and curry made with Nagatoshi Milk.
*About 20 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Dazaifu City] Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Head shrine of about 12,000 Tenmangu shrines nationwide

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to Michizane Sugawara, who was active in many fields as a s Townlar, politician, and poet during the Heian period. It is said that it was built on the spot where Michizane, who was demoted due to a conspiracy by the Minister of the Left, Fujiwara Tokihira, died. It is the main shrine of approximately 12,000 Tenmangu shrines nationwide, and many people visit in search of blessings such as academic success, warding off evil spirits, and safety for their families. In addition, beautiful flowers such as plums and irises bloom throughout the year within the temple grounds, and the flying plum tree is especially famous for being loved by Lord Michizane. It is one of the largest shrines in Kyushu with a history of over 1,100 years, and many festivals and events are held here.
*About 30 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Dazaifu City] Dazaifu Amusement Park

A retro amusement park where even adults can return to their childhood days

Dazaifu Amusement Park, located within the grounds of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, is a retro amusement park surrounded by beautiful nature, with cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall. There are a variety of attractions, from nostalgic ones like the merry-go-round and Bikkuri House to thrilling ones like the water coaster and train coaster. Even adults can go back to their childhood and have fun! There is also a children's toilet and nursing room, so you can feel safe even if you are bringing small children. The Kyushu National Museum is also within walking distance, so if you have time, be sure to visit there as well.
*About 30 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Dazaifu City] Tenkai Inari Shrine

Pray in peace at the oldest Inari shrine in Kyushu

Tenkai Inari Shrine is located northeast of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and is marked by a red torii gate. This shrine has been popular as "Kyushu's oldest Inari shrine". Every year on the first day of the first horse in the lunar calendar, the big spring festival "Hatsuuma Festival" is held, and many people visit. The enshrined deity is Uka no Mitama no Okami, the god who opens the way to heaven, and is said to bring good harvests, prosperous business, and good luck. When you visit, pray to the gods by ringing the bell of your zodiac sign and the big bell. If you take your time to pray in the idyllic atmosphere surrounded by greenery, you'll be sure to have a peaceful time.
*About 30 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Dazaifu City] Kyushu National Museum

Full of exhibits unique to Kyushu, which has deep ties to Asia

The Kyushu National Museum opened in Dazaifu, Fukuoka on October 16, 2005 as Japan's fourth national museum after Tokyo, Nara, and Kyoto. The exhibits feature themes such as the nature, history, and cultural exchanges of Kyushu, which has had deep ties with Asia since ancient times, and are said to be more interesting than in school and easier to understand than textbooks. The museum building has a unique kamaboko-shaped design. It was designed by Kiyonori Kikutake, an architect famous for his Metabolism architecture. There is a library, restaurant, museum shop, etc. inside the building, so if you have time, stop by after visiting the museum.
*About 30 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Kasuya District] Nanzoin

A statue of Shakyamuni Buddha with a total length of 41m and a height of 11m welcomes you.

Nanzo-in Temple is the main temple of the Sasaguri Shin-Shikoku Sacred Site. It overcame the crisis of the Haibutsu-kishaku movement during the Meiji period, and now attracts many believers as one of Japan's three major New Shikoku sacred sites. With a total length of 41m and a height of 11m, the reclining Buddha statue is said to be the largest bronze statue in the world. This statue was erected to house the Buddha's ashes donated from Myanmar. It consists of the main hall and the Daishi-do, and in the back there is a 7m-high Fudo waterfall. Take your time to admire the precious temples that convey the history and culture of Sasaguri.
*About 30 minutes by car from Hakata Station

[Iizuka City] Picnica Republic

Fully engage all five senses and connect with nature.

"Picnica Republic" is a petting zoo located in the forest of Yagiyama Plateau, perfect for families raising children. With the goal of "providing as many people as possible with nature and living experiences and helping them develop a love for living things," the students can freely interact with 600 animals of about 80 different species, feed them, go horseback riding, and in the summer. Enjoy fun experiences such as crayfish fishing. There is also a stream and a campsite, so if you see, touch, be moved, and use all five senses to become one with nature, you will forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and refresh your mind and body!
*About 40 minutes by car from Hakata Station

Conclusion

Hakata is an area in Fukuoka that is particularly rich in attractions and playgrounds. There are many ways to enjoy Hakata, such as shrines and temples where you can experience history and culture, museums and art galleries, shopping spots for traditional crafts and souvenirs, gourmet food and festivals. This time we mainly introduced spots that both adults and children can enjoy together. Please use this as a reference when sightseeing in Fukuoka.

Tabiiro Editorial Department Itagaki

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Article planning/supervision:Tabiiro Editorial Department Itagaki