Things to Do in Fukuoka: 3-Day Itinerary

Fukuoka may be one of Japan’s most liveable cities, but beyond its laid-back vibe lies a fascinating culture and coastal beauty. This port city offers a unique harmony of ancient traditions and modern innovation. From centuries-old shrines beside sleek, minimalist cafés to locals patiently queuing for their morning ramen, Fukuoka has historically been Japan's gateway to mainland Asia.

In this three-day itinerary, we’ll take you through Fukuoka’s riverside temple town, rooftop views over Hakata Bay, and shopping your way through underground malls that stretch for over 590 meters.

Let’s begin.

Day 1

Morning: Ohori Park

Start with a morning walk through Ohori Park, a pleasant park in central Fukuoka. At its centre is a large pond and a walking path that is over two kilometers long perfect for jogging, walking pets, or leisure strolling. There are plenty of benches, shaded areas, and a few cafés nearby. There is also a garden within the park grounds where you can feed the kois.

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

Just a few steps away is the Fukuoka Castle Ruins. It used to be the largest castle on Kyushu but was almost completely torn down after the Meiji Restoration as an unwanted symbol of the feudal past. The best views are from the observation deck at the top of the ruins, especially in spring when cherry blossoms blanket the grounds in soft pink.

Fukuoka Zoo and Botanical Garden

From Fukuoka Castle Ruins, take a 12-minute drive to Fukuoka Zoo and Botanical Garden, also known as Fukuoka City Zoological Garden. The zoo is divided into four sections: the North Garden, South Garden, Asian Tropical Valley Area, and the Penguin Area (which opened in January 2022). In the North Garden, you’ll find southern white rhinoceroses, giraffes, and black bears. The South Garden is home to red pandas, lions, tigers, and hippos. The Asian Tropical Valley Area features orangutans, leopards, and Asian small-clawed otters.

Day 1, Morning - Fukuoka Tour Map

Afternoon: Kushida Shrine

Head into the heart of Hakata to visit Kushida Shrine, one of Fukuoka’s most culturally significant sites. Founded in 757 CE, the shrine annually hosts the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival. It is the oldest shrine in Fukuoka and is known as the guardian shrine of Hakata.

Canal City Hakata

From the shrine, take a short walk to Canal City, a huge shopping mall and entertainment complex. Locals call it “city within the city.” The mall features 250 shops, cafes, restaurants, a theater, cinemas, and a canal running through the complex. The building has a unique design, almost like a life-sized toy model.

Tenjin Underground Mall

Wrap up your day at the Tenjin Underground Mall. If Canal City Hakata is regarded as the “city within the city,” the Tenjin Underground Mall is the largest underground shopping area in Kyushu, stretching for 590 meters from the north to south of the downtown area. The mall features 19th century European style flagstone floors and arabesque design ceilings, 12 avenues, and a variety of 150 shops.

Day 1, Afternoon - Fukuoka Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Dazaifu Tenmangu

Catch a morning train to Dazaifu, just 40 minutes from central Fukuoka. Of the many Tenmangu Shrines found in Japan, Dazaifu Tenmangu is one of the most important, along with Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto. These shrines are dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, a well-known scholar and government official from the Heian Period. Because of his deep knowledge and achievements, he came to be associated with Tenjin, the Shinto deity of learning.

The shrine is popular among students especially during the entrance exam season. There’s a wide range of good luck charms that can be purchased from the shops around the main hall.

Kyushu National Museum

Next, take an 11-minute walk to Kyushu National Museum, one of the four national museums in Japan. The museum features exhibitions dedicated to the history and cultural exchange between Asia and Japan, as well as historical artifacts and National Treasures. The descriptions were written both in Japanese and English so it’s easy to follow. The museum even offers a free guided tour for a more comprehensive experience.

Day 2, Morning - Fukuoka Tour Map

Afternoon: Nanzoin Temple

Head east to the forested hills of Sasaguri, home to the world’s largest bronze reclining Buddha. This colossal statue measures about 41-meter long and 11-meter high, and weighs an astounding 300 tons. The temple grounds include several smaller shrines, so take your time here and wander through the temple’s walking paths dotted with moss-covered statues, stone lanterns, and prayer wheels. It's a deeply atmospheric place, less polished, more lived-in.

Miyajidake Shrine

Cap off your day with a 38-minute drive to Miyajidake Shrine. The shrine is famous for its “Path of Light,” a rare sunset alignment that occurs only a few days a year. But even outside this “phenomenon” the view from the top of the staircase is a moment to relish, especially in late afternoon light. The shrine is also known for having the largest “shimenawa” (sacred straw rope) in Japan, hanging over its main hall.

Day 2, Afternoon - Fukuoka Tour Map

Day 3

Morning: Uminonakamichi Seaside Park

Take the ferry from Hakata Port to reach Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, a refreshing start to your last day in the city. Many events are held in this park such as Flower Picnic in spring, Rose Festival in early summer and autumn, and Cosmos Festival in autumn. It’s a nice escape from the city and you may rent a bicycle at the park entrance to explore the different sections of the park.

Marine World

Just next door is Marine World, a shell shaped aquarium home to twenty thousand marine creatures from 450 species. The aquarium is one of the world’s largest fish tanks. Here, you can watch divers feed more than 20 kinds of fish including 150 sharks, as well as watch dolphin and sea lion shows.

Day 3, Morning - Fukuoka Tour Map

Afternoon: Nokonoshima Island

From Uminonakamichi, hop on a short ferry ride to Nokonoshima. Though just 10 minutes offshore, the island feels a world away with its terraced flower fields, traditional-style cafés, and open sea views.

Make your way to Nokonoshima Island Park, famous for its gorgeous flowers blooming throughout the year. The park features a variety of flowers from season to season such as rapeseed blossoms in spring, sunflowers in summer, cosmos in autumn, and daffodils in winter.

teamLab Forest Fukuoka

Return to the mainland and head to, teamLab Forest, a sensor-based art experience created by renowned digital art group TeamLab. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience unlike any regular museum or art exhibits in Fukuoka (also found in Tokyo). Here, you’ll interact with glowing creatures, walk through floating flower fields, and watch your own shadow ripple across digital ponds.

Fukuoka Tower

Wrap up your Fukuoka journey with a panoramic view from the tallest seaside tower in Japan, Fukuoka Tower. The tower is 234 metres tall and features unobstructed views of Hakata Bay, the Itoshima Peninsula, and the city skyline wrapped in golden light. Head up just before sunset and watch the city shift into night, ideally with a drink in hand from the tower’s café lounge.

Day 3, Afternoon - Fukuoka Tour Map

Day Trips from Fukuoka

• Nokonoshima Island: Nokonoshima can be a standalone day trip for those who want to stay longer on the island. Beyond the island park, consider renting an electric bike and exploring the quiet backroads, where old fishing homes and citrus groves overlook the sea.

• Shikanoshima Island: A short drive or ferry ride away, Shikanoshima island is where Japan’s National Treasure, the King of Na gold seal, was discovered. The beaches here are quiet, the seafood fresh, and the views back toward Fukuoka are worth the journey alone.

• Kitakyushu: Just under an hour by train. Kitakyushu is home to Mojiko Retro District’s European-style buildings, waterside cafés, Kaikyo Yume Tower bridge, and TOTO Museum (a modern, eco-friendly museum displaying toilets & tableware made by the long-running company Toto).

• Nagasaki: Just two hours away via shinkansen and local transfer, Nagasaki offers atmospheric spots such as Dejima island, the serene Glover Garden, and the Nagasaki Peace Park.

• Kumamoto: Home to Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s most impressive structures. The castle is enough reason to visit the town. Combine your visit with a riverside lunch and a stroll through Suizenji Jojuen, a 17th-century landscaped garden.

• Takachiho: Want to see something magical, like a scene that looks straight from a fairy tale book? Journey inland to Takachiho Gorge, a stunning V-shaped gorge formed by the Gokase River and volcanic activity from Mount Aso. Here, you can ride a boat through the narrow chasm and witness the 17-meter high Minainotaki waterfall.

• Yanagawa:  Known as the “Venice of Kyushu,” this canal town is best explored by “donkobune” (punting boat). Just like in Venice, local boatmen steer the shallow boats while singing traditional folk songs. Aside from the Venice experience, you can enjoy a stroll through the preserved streets of the old castle town here, or enjoy a multi-course unagi seiro-mushi lunch.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites Near Fukuoka

• Yahata Steel Works: Part of the “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution,” this former steel plant helped shape modern Japan in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Access to the interior is restricted, but you can still come look at the exterior of the old head office building from the viewing space, and learn about the structure guided tours by volunteers.

• Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region: Okinoshima is a remote island considered so sacred that public access is forbidden. However, the surrounding Munakata area on the mainland is available to access. Here, you can visit Munakata Taisha, a trio of shrines that served as the religious hub for rituals related to seafaring and island worship.

• Miyanoura Underground Coal Mining Site: Located in Tagawa City, this site represents the backbone of Kyushu’s coal-mining era. The site represents a raw and authentic look of the industrial labour that fuelled Japan’s early modernisation. Visit the Tagawa City Coal and History Museum nearby for a more comprehensive take of the site.

Golf Courses in Fukuoka

• The Classic Golf Club: A prestigious golf course in Fukuoka that features breathtaking landscape and a 27-hole championship course known for hosting the Japan Women's Open. The layout is designed with a mix of flat and rolling terrain, the course features wide fairways and strategic bunkers.

• Fukuoka Kokusai Country Club: Just 40 minutes from central Fukuoka, the country club features a 27-hole golf course with a mix of flat and gently rolling terrain, suitable for players of various skill levels.

• Fukuoka Century Golf Club: This 18-hole course was designed not to interfere with the natural landscape, it features undulating fairways, water hazards, and well-maintained greens. The club regularly hosts amateur and professional events and is accessible by car from central Fukuoka.

• Asoiizuka Golf Club: This 18-hole course set in a rural area of Fukuoka offers natural scenery, and is designed with elevation changes, water hazards, and bunkers that provide an extra challenge for golfers of different skill levels. It’s accessible by car and is a popular choice for casual rounds and local tournaments.

• Wakamatsu Golf Club: An 18-hole course located in Fukuoka Prefecture. Designed not to interfere with the natural terrain, the course features rolling fairways, water hazards, and tree-lined holes. The course is regularly used for regional tournaments and day-play golf.

Racecourse Near Fukuoka

• Kokura Racecourse: The closest major racecourse in Fukuoka. It’s part of the Japan Racing Association (JRA), and known for its turf track, polish viewing lounges, and setting with mountains in the background. Kokura typically hosts meets during the winter and summer months but it is worth noting to check the JRA calendar for race days.

Ski Resort Near Fukuoka

• Kuju Forest Park Skiing Grounds: Just 2 hours away from Fukuoka lies the largest skiing ground in Kyushu. The Kujyu Forest Park features slopes that run for over two kilometres and consist of three different courses suitable for beginner to advanced skill level. There are also recreational areas for children and families to enjoy the snow or enjoy sledding as well.

Vineyards Near Fukuoka

• Kyoho Winery: Located in Kurume City and known for its grape cultivation. The winery produces a variety of wines using locally grown Kyoho grapes. Here, you can tour the facility to learn about the winemaking process and enjoy tastings of different wines. There’s also a shop that sells wine-related products and a restaurant that offers dishes that pair well with their wines. It’s a nice, intimate experience for wine lovers out there!

Brewery Tours and Sake Tasting in Fukuoka

• Kitaya: Founded over 190 years ago, the brewery produces a range of sake including junmai, ginjo, and daiginjo varieties, and uses local rice and groundwater from the Yabe River system, giving its distinct taste. Kitaya focuses on traditional brewing techniques and exports its products internationally.

• Isonosawa: Located in Kurume, the brewery produces sake using local rice and groundwater from the Mino mountain range, and focuses on small-batch production and traditional brewing methods. Its lineup includes junmai and ginjo sake varieties.

• Kirin Brewery Fukuoka Factory: If you prefer beer over sake, then head to Kirin Brewery, one of Japan’s most recognisable beer brands. The factory offers guided tours where you can see the beer production process, from ingredients to packaging, and finish with free tastings of freshly brewed beer. The facility also has a shop with Kirin products and merchandise.

Luxury Spa & Wellness Experiences in Fukuoka

• Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka: Located on the 24th floor of the hotel, the spa offers a range of treatments including massages, facials, and body care services. The facility features private treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, and nice, relaxing views of Hakata Bay.

Observatories in Fukuoka

• Fukuoka Tower: Fukuoka’s most iconic observation spot. The tower stands 234 metres high along the Momochihama waterfront. You can see panoramic views of Hakata Bay, Nokonoshima Island, and the city’s growing skyline from its three-tiered observation deck. On a clear day, you can even spot the mountains of Itoshima in the distance.

• Mt. Tateishi Trailhead: If you want a more rewarding experience, hike up to Mt. Tateishi. At the summit you’ll be rewarded with a coastal panoramic view of Itoshima’s beaches, pine forests, and the East China Sea beyond. The hike is short but steep, about 30–40 minutes at a comfortable pace.

• Hakata Port Tower: This red-and-white tower (though not as high as Fukuoka Tower) offers a different kind of view. From up here, you’ll see views over the port, shipyards, and ferries heading out to the islands. It’s a nice stop over if you’re already near the harbour or catching a ferry.

Exclusive Workshops & Immersive Experiences in Fukuoka

• River Cruise at Hakata Bay: Board a private “yakata-bune” (traditional wooden pleasure boat) for a nice, insightful cruise along Hakata’s historic waterways. The cruise passes landmarks such as Fukuoka Tower and the city skyline. It runs from Tenjin Central Park and lasts about 50 minutes.

• Beach Horseback Riding: Ride a horse along the beaches of Itoshima like those you see on TV or movies. Enjoy the ocean views as you trot along soft sand guided by expert trainers. Sunset sessions are particularly popular and incredibly photogenic.

• Pottery Experience: Interested in Japan’s ceramic heritage? The neighbouring pottery towns of Fukuoka offer guided workshops where you can shape your own piece and take it home as a memorable souvenir.

• DIY Spicy Mentaiko: Fukuoka is the birthplace of mentaiko (spicy cod roe). In this workshop, you’ll learn how to blend your own spice levels, bottle your creation, and learn the dish’s Korean–Japanese origins. It’s a flavourful, unexpected souvenir that’s deeply tied to Fukuoka’s food culture.

• Fruit-Picking and Miso-Making Experience: The south of Fukuoka, particularly the Chikugo region is known for its orchards and traditional miso makers. In this workshop, you’ll start by picking seasonal fruits such as grapes and pears. Then proceed into a guided miso-making class using local soybeans and age-old fermentation techniques.

• Persimmon Picking: Available only during harvest season. Pick your ripe persimmons directly from the trees. The activity is suitable for all ages and takes place at a local orchard.

• Trekking at Kaho Alps: Looking for some adventure? Trek at the Kaho Alps. Trails vary in difficulty and pass through forested areas with views of the surrounding landscape. The area is accessible by train and popular for day hikes.

Other Things in Fukuoka

• Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones: One of Kyushu’s most photogenic spiritual spots, especially at sunset. The site features a coastal scene framed by two sacred rocks bound together by a “shimenawa” rope and a torii gate standing in the water. It's a popular spot for couples and wedding shoots.

• Palm Tree Swing: An “IG-worthy” site located behind a café in Itoshima. This handmade swing between two palm trees features a tropical vibe, a reminder of what makes Fukuoka unique among its neighboring key cities.

• Don Quijote Fukuoka Tenjin Honten: This popular 24-hour megastore, made famous on social media, offers everything from luxury skincare to quirky Japanese souvenirs, a great last stop for impromptu gift shopping.

• Nishi Park: Overlooking Hakata Bay, Nishi Park features shaded paths, hillside shrines, and views out to Nokonoshima on clear days. It’s especially beautiful in cherry blossom season, when the trees bloom in soft clouds and locals gather for “hanami” (flower viewing).

Things to Do with Kids in Fukuoka

• Fukuoka City Science Museum: Located near Yakuin Station, the museum features interactive exhibits on science, robotics, biology, and space exploration. The museum also has a planetarium (one of the largest in western Japan) where you can sit on reclining seats and enjoy star-gazing.

• Fukuoka Anpanman Children's Museum in Mall: This indoor museum dedicated to Japan’s beloved superhero bread character is pure joy to younger kids. The museum features themed play areas, live shows, and character meet-and-greets that kids under six will surely enjoy. It’s also conveniently located inside the Hakata Riverain Mall, so adults can stroll nearby shops or relax at a café nearby.

• Forest Adventure Aburayama Fukuoka: Located on the forested slopes of Mt. Abura, this outdoor adventure park features zip-lining, rope courses, and obstacle trails in the treetops. It’s safe and there are suitable age-appropriate courses for kids and teens alike. It’s a great way to get out of the city and into nature for half a day.

• Kyushu Railway History Museum: Perfect for train obsessed kids and curious adults. This museum displays full-size locomotives, conductors' uniforms, and hands-on driving simulators. Pair your visit with a ride on a retro train line or a ferry back toward Hakata.

Where to Eat in Fukuoka

• Sushi Senpachi: A popular sushi restaurant that serves a variety of sushi, sashimi, and seasonal dishes using fresh seafood. It’s a must try spot for everyone who loves seafood and Japanese sushi. It’s beloved for its straightforward menu and consistent quality.

• Tenzushi Kyomachi: Regarded as one of Japan’s top sushi spots outside Tokyo. It’s the highest rated sushi shop on Tablelog in Kyushu. Tenzushi serves its own unique Kyushu-style sushi. And their nigiri is often brushed with citrus or topped with rare condiments, making each bite a sensory experience.

• Chikamatsu: This two Michelin star kaiseki restaurant offers omakase-style courses featuring seasonal seafood. The chef prepares each dish at the counter in front of guests. Seating is limited to 9 seats, best to reserve ahead of time, which we can do for you.

• Oryori Matsuyama: Hidden on a quiet side street, Matsuyama serves creative modern Japanese cuisine in an intimate, minimalist setting. The chef prepares multi-course meals using seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets, and follows traditional Japanese cooking techniques, which earned its Michelin star in 2014 and 2019.

• Tobi Ume: A kaiseki restaurant that prides itself for its seasonal course menus that feature local ingredients and traditional Japanese cooking techniques. The restaurant has a quiet atmosphere with counters and private room seating. Perfect for groups or intimate dining.

• Narayamachi Ao: Opened on June 21, 2019 in a renovated “kominka” or (traditional-style home). Ao which translates to blue in English is inspired by azure scenery in the chef’s global travels. The dishes are elegant, seasonal, and locally sourced.

• Sushi Gyoten: This three Michelin star restaurant is among the very few to achieve the prestigious three-star rating in Japan. The chef-owner Kenji Gyoten was born into a sushi making family, making sushi a constant part of his life. Some diners regarded the experience as phenomenal and world-class. A must stop if you’re in Fukuoka.

• Kiku Zushi: One of the most highly rated Fukuoka sushi restaurants on Tabelog. This local favourite serves carefully balanced sushi rice that works in harmony with the meticulously prepared toppings. The chef uses fresh seafood sourced from the local market and seasonal ingredients.

Where to Stay in Fukuoka

• The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka: This 5-star hotel occupies the upper floors of a waterfront tower in the Tenjin district. The Ritz-Carlton offers panoramic views of Hakata Bay. The rooms are spacious with local artisan touches, and the spa and rooftop bar make it a destination in itself.

• Grand Hyatt Fukuoka: This 5-star hotel connected to Canal City Hakata is a long-standing favourite. The rooms are spacious and offer an indoor pool and modern Japanese aesthetics. Its location makes it an ideal place for exploring central Fukuoka conveniently.

• Hotel Okura Fukuoka: This 5-star hotel located near the Nakasu river, is just steps away from cultural spots like Kushida Shrine and the Hakataza Theatre. Interiors are timeless, and the on-site restaurants are exquisite.

• The Basics Fukuoka: This 4-star hotel in Hakata combines contemporary art, sleek furnishings, and elegant lighting. It’s cosy and stylish. Ideal for those who appreciate aesthetic details and a more intimate feel.

• Hilton Fukuoka Sea Hawk: This 4-star high-rise hotel offers sea side views and resort-style amenities, including multiple restaurants, an executive lounge, and access to jogging paths along Momochi Beach.

• The Blossom Hakata Premier: This 4-star mid-size hotel offers excellent service, spacious rooms, and subtle Kyushu design. It’s conveniently located near Hakata Station, a perfect spot for train-based travelling. 

• Hotel Grèges: This 3-star coastal, French-inspired hotel offers a romantic, design-led escape just an hour from Fukuoka. Rooms overlook the Genkai Sea, and the property includes an acclaimed fine dining restaurant with seasonal tasting menus.

• Yanagawa Tachibana-tei Ohana: This 3-star former samurai residence turned ryokan is the best spot for nature lovers as it’s surrounded by gardens and canals. This heritage property in Yanagawa combines traditional architecture with modern comforts, offering multi-course kaiseki dinners and peaceful tatami rooms.

• Hotel Cultia Dazaifu: This 3-star boutique hotel occupies a lovingly restored historical building, with curated antiques, thoughtful hospitality, and the quiet charm of temple town life. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning before day-trippers arrive.

Best Time to Visit Fukuoka

Spring (March – May): Spring in Fukuoka is when cherry blossoms bloom, particularly in late March to early April. Parks like Maizuru, Nishi, and Ohori transform into soft pink shades. The air is crisp but warm, perfect for walking tours, al fresco dining, and day trips to blossom-lined canals in Yanagawa or the gardens of Dazaifu.

Pack light layers, a windbreaker or light coat, and comfortable walking shoes as early spring mornings can still feel chilly.

Autumn (September – November): Autumn in Fukuoka is all about golden gingko trees, cool evenings, and vibrant festivals. The city glows with warm colours, and the food scene peaks with harvest ingredients and seasonal sake. It's a quieter time than spring, with fewer crowds and ideal conditions for exploring outdoor spots like the Kaho Alps, Itoshima coast, or Nokonoshima Island.

Pack a mix of short sleeves and light knits, plus a jacket for the evening. It’s a great time for layering and outdoor photos.

Festivals in Fukuoka

• Hakata Gion Yamakasa: One of Fukuoka’s most iconic cultural events, held every July. This 770-year-old festival assembles teams of men in traditional happi coats and fundoshi loincloths, carrying massive wooden floats (some weighing over a ton) through the streets of Hakata at high speed. Best viewed from: Along the route near Kushida Shrine.

• Hakata Dontaku Port Festival: A lively, city-wide celebration that dates back to the Edo period. The festival features costumed parades, taiko drumming, and open-air performances. Locals of all ages dance through the streets waving rice scoops, a charming symbol of good fortune.

• Hakata Light Up Walk: Fukuoka’s historic temples and shrines glow with soft light installations in autumn. Locations like Jotenji Temple, Kushida Shrine, and Tochoji Temple open their usually gated grounds at night, revealing gardens, architecture, and pathways in gentle illumination.

Let Fukuoka Stay With You

This itinerary was created to give you more than a checklist, but an invitation to experience Fukuoka, to connect, to slow down, and to savour a side of Japan that feels both rooted and refreshing. From the quiet shrine mornings, the first sip of sake, to the slow sunset unfolding behind coastal torii gates.
Start planning your dream Fukuoka journey with Revigorate today. Contact us or give us a call at (+1 800 672 0517 | +351 289 009 580 | +44 808 189 0647) and let’s help you shape a trip filled with meaning and memory that stays with you, long after you’ve left the city behind.