Fukuoka: Features, Popular Tourist Attractions, Gourmet

Fukuoka Prefecture is located in the northern part of Kyushu and has long served as a gateway to Asia and a hub for international exchange. With Hakata Port and Fukuoka Airport, it offers excellent access to major cities in East Asia, including South Korea and China.

Fukuoka City, the largest city in the prefecture, has developed its commerce and culture around the Hakata and Tenjin districts, known as a compact yet vibrant city. The Nakasu and Tenjin areas, where yatai (food stall) culture has taken root, come alive at night as food stalls line the streets, bustling with locals and tourists alike. With approximately 100 yatai operating within the city, Fukuoka boasts one of Japan’s largest food stall districts.

In terms of cuisine, Fukuoka is nationally famous for Hakata ramen. The combination of rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth and thin noodles captivates many ramen enthusiasts. Additionally, local specialties such as motsunabe (offal hot pot), mizutaki (chicken hot pot), and mentaiko (seasoned cod roe) are major culinary attractions.

Historically, the prefecture is home to important sites from ancient to medieval times, including the Dazaifu Government Ruins and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Dazaifu Tenmangu, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning, attracts many worshippers from across the country during examination season.

In terms of transportation, the Sanyo Shinkansen connects to Hakata Station, providing access from Osaka in about 2 hours 30 minutes and from Tokyo in about 5 hours. Fukuoka Airport boasts an excellent location, just a 5-minute subway ride from the city center, making domestic and international travel convenient.