Fukuoka, Japan: Things to Do and Food to Eat

Fukuoka is not that small. About 5 million people live in the city, with 1.3 million in the suburbs. There must be something to do with that many people around. You can find something interesting every day if you look. Festivals are often held in Fukuoka city. Find out the festivals’ locations with a friend or the local foreigner magazines and information centers.

Tenjin

Fukuoka city’s center is Tenjin . The prefecture’s shopping paradise. Want to shop for some nice Italian or French brands? Visit Tenjin. Have you ever been to a foreigner bar? You need to be in Tenjin. Looking for new friends? At Rainbow Plaza, Tenjin is the place to go.

Nakasu

Nakasu is right next to Tenjin. Nightlife entertainment is offered in Nakasu, but it caters to the more affluent. There is also a huge shopping complex named Canal City in Nakasu with a lot of shops. Canal City is home to many restaurants, two hotels, a large cinema, and an area called Sun Plaza where street performers perform regularly.

Nishijin

Tenjin and Nakasu aren’t the only places to have fun. In Nishijin, about 10 minutes by subway from Tenjin, I can do nearly as many things as I can in Tenjin. There are bowling alleys, swimming pools, soccer fields, billiards, game centers, and even a movie theater in Nishijin.

Yahoo Dome

The Yahoo Dome is located in Momochi. Fukuoka Softbank Hawks play at Yahoo Dome. Hawks are beloved by the city and its residents. The Hawks are one of only two teams in Japan’s professional baseball league that attract over one million fans each year. The Dome is sometimes used for other activities when the Hawks don’t play. Throughout the year, Yahoo Dome hosts flea markets and concerts.

Yatai

The street vendors of Fukuoka city often set up shop on the sidewalks when night falls. The vendors offer ramen, yakiniku, and tempura. Yatais themselves are a sight to behold.

Izakaya

Izakaya restaurants are not only found in Fukuoka. Food and drinks are available at low prices at izakayas. Many university students and businessmen frequent these restaurants to talk with colleagues and drink. With some searching, you’ll be able to find an Izakaya that suits you.

Fukuoka Ramen

Have you ever had that cup O ramen or that freeze dried packaged ramen? bah! throw that out and try some “Tonkatsu ramen” (pork ramen) famous in Fukuoka and well know throughout all of Japan. First time I tried it I was instantly hooked and to this day try and eat it once every week or so.

Transportation

Unlike the nickname given to New York, Fukuoka does tend to get a little tired at night but usually not until quite late especially on weekends. One of the reasons for this in my humble opinion is the transportation shutdown at around midnight. That’s right, the subway, train, and bus system all but stops once you hit the AM.

An unforgettable experience awaits you in Fukuoka, Japan, with captivating attractions, distinctive local cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether exploring its historical landmarks, sampling mouthwatering food, or participating in its lively festivals, Fukuoka leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.