FAMILY FUN IN

FUKUOKA

JAPAN

Looking for an authentic Japanese experience? The lesser-known Fukuoka prefecture on Kyushu Island is the perfect place to immerse yourself in traditional culture, history and food

Opening image: Futamigaura Bay in Fukuoka

Kokura

Kokura Castle

Built by a Japanese samurai warrior in the early 1600s, Kokura Castle is the most famous attraction in Kyushu Island’s northern-most city, Kitakyushu. It is especially pretty when it is surrounded by cherry blossoms, which usually bloom in late March and early April. Lanterns are also strung on the trees over the period. The castle can be found in Katsuyama Park, on the banks of the Murasaki River. While the castle was destroyed by a fire in 1866, it was rebuilt in 1959. Its design was the only one of its kind in Japan at the time, with the fifth floor built larger than the fourth floor. Learn about the castle’s history at the museum inside and take in the 360-degree views of the city.

The Birthplace Of Yaki Udon

While you are in Kokura, make sure you visit Darumado restaurant, which is believed to be the place where the stir-fry noodle dish yaki udon was invented after World War II, when soba was hard to come by. You can also ride the neon-lit ferris wheel in the entertainment district, ChaCha Town, walk along Murasaki River (also known as Purple River), and take in the view from Tokiwabashi Bridge and Muromachi Ohashi Bridge.

Images: Kokura Castle in Kitakyushu, A ferris wheel in ChaCha Town

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Old Port Town

Hire bikes to explore the charming port town of Mojiko, which along with Kokura was one of five towns that merged to form the city of Kitakyushu in 1963. Many of its brick buildings, such as the landmark Neo-Renaissance-style Mojiko Station, were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Cruise the Kanmon Strait

Book a 20-minute sunset or evening cruise from Kaikyo Plaza to take in the scenery of the Kanmon Strait, which separates Kyushu Island from Honshu Island. There are many restaurants offering local delicacies, such as blowfish and a baked curry topped with melted cheese and a soft-boiled egg.

Image: Kitakyushu international friendship memorial library

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Mojiko

Itoshima

Peninsula

Futamigaura Bay

Watch the sun set over the two “husband and wife” rocky outcrops known as Meoto Iwa from Genkai-nada Beach at Futamigaura Bay, on the Itoshima Peninsula. Also known as Sunset Road, the beach is lined with seafront cafes, art galleries and workshops selling traditional craft. Less than an hour’s drive from the city of Fukuoka, the capital of the Fukuoka prefecture, the peninsula is known for its beautiful beaches and nature experiences. During winter, you can enjoy freshly grilled oysters from many oyster huts that local fishermen operate along the peninsula. Climb Mount Tateishi, which has an altitude of 209 metres, to admire the view over the coast from the observation deck near the summit. It is also worth visiting the 24-metre-high Shiraito Falls at Mount Hagane, where you can fish for wild salmon, which you can eat at the nearby teahouse, or try somen noodle soup. Surrounded by maple trees, they are particularly beguiling in autumn.

History, Culture and Nature Experiences

For an educational experience, head to Itokoku History Museum to see fascinating cultural artefacts, including Japan's largest copper mirror, the Naiko Kamon Mirror, which was excavated from the Hirabaru royal tomb. You can also see several burial mounds, known as the Itoshima Kofun Group, which were built as tombs for the rich. Fans of My Neighbour Totoro will also like Genkai-Quasi National Park, which has been given the nickname Totoro Forest due to its trees’ resemblance to those in the animated fantasy film. Japan’s largest basalt cave, Keya Daimon, can also be found on Itoshima’s north-west tip. Measuring 64 metres high and 90 metres deep, it was formed by erosion caused by strong waves and has been designated as a national natural monument.

Images: Shiraito Falls, Keya Daimon, Totoro Forest

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WHEN TO GO

MARCH TO MAY

Spring is especially popular for cherry blossom viewing, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

JUNE TO AUG

If you enjoy summer festivities and don't mind the heat and humidity, summer can also be a vibrant time to experience the city's lively atmosphere.

SEP TO NOV

Fukuoka hosts various traditional festivals and events during autumn, when the maple trees also turn a golden colour.