• Fukuoka Castle Remains - Once a vibrant site during the Edo period (early 1600s), today it stands as the remnants of stone walls, moats, and gates. The panoramic view of Fukuoka city from Fukusaki Hill is truly breathtaking. The Sakura Festival is the ideal time to visit and appreciate the full beauty of the castle ruins.
• Sumiyoshi Shrine - As one of the oldest shrines on Kyushu, Sumiyoshi-jinja Shrine, like its Osaka counterpart, is dedicated to the protective deities of seafarers. It is the last in a series of shrines sailors would visit before embarking on their journeys. The Main Hall, rebuilt in 1623 in a classical style, is particularly impressive, along with numerous national treasures, including an ancient sword, a copper axe, and medieval manuscripts. The shrine, surrounded by a grove of Japanese cedars and camphor trees, offers splendid views over the River Naka. Be sure to explore the adjacent Sumiyoshi Park.
• Kyushu National Museum - Kyushu National Museum is an engaging and interactive museum where visitors can learn about Kyushu’s history while enjoying various exhibitions. Guests can dress in traditional costumes from countries Japan had historical relations with and play traditional games and instruments. It’s a fantastic destination for families, especially those with children.
• Kushida Shrine - Known as one of Japan’s most famous (and Fukuoka’s oldest) Shinto shrines, Kushida-jinja was founded in AD 757. It features unique elements, including intricate carvings of the Chinese zodiac and a gingko tree over 1,000 years old. The shrine is renowned for hosting the Hakata Gion Yamakasa each July, a spectacular two-week festival with prayers for health and prosperity, featuring a race with teams carrying heavy wooden floats around the city.
• Tochoji Temple - Tochoji Temple (南岳山 東長寺), the head temple of Shingon Buddhism Kyushu sect, is known as Nangakuzan. It is dedicated to the revered monk Kobo-Daishi (Kukai 空海) and is one of the oldest temples established by him in Japan.
• Yatai - Fukuoka’s open-air food stands (屋台, Yatai) are perhaps the city’s most iconic symbol. Typically seating seven or eight people, they offer a charming outdoor setting to enjoy simple, hearty foods. While yatai are scattered throughout Fukuoka, the best spot to find them is on the southern end of Nakasu Island, where about 20 yatai line the waterfront.
• Uminonakamichi Seaside Park - Uminonakamichi Seaside Park (海の中道海浜公園, Uminonakamichi Kaihin Kōen) is a vast, family-friendly public park on a narrow peninsula across the bay from central Fukuoka. It features various areas, including flower gardens, playgrounds, an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, sports fields, a water park, a zoo, and expansive lawns perfect for picnics.
• Ohori Park - Ohori Park (大濠公園, Ōhori-kōen) is a delightful city park in central Fukuoka, centered around a large pond. A walking path encircles the pond, just over two kilometers long, popular for jogging, walking pets, and leisurely strolls. The park, constructed between 1926 and 1929, was inspired by the classical garden style of China’s West Lake. Three islands in the pond are connected by elegant stone bridges.
• Shofuku-ji Temple - Shofukuji (聖福寺, Shōfukuji) holds the honor of being Japan’s first Zen temple, founded in 1195 by the priest Eisai, who introduced the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism from China. While the temple buildings are not open to the public, visitors can explore the beautiful temple grounds and view the structures from outside.
• Momochi Seaside Park - Seaside Momochi (シーサイドももち, Shīsaido Momochi) is Fukuoka’s modern waterfront, developed on reclaimed land along Hakata Bay. Originally the site of the 1989 Asia Pacific Expo, it features wide, tree-lined streets, futuristic buildings, public parks, and no overhead utility lines.
• Canal City Hakata - Canal City Hakata (キャナルシティ博多) is a vast shopping and entertainment complex, often described as a “city within the city.” It boasts around 250 shops, cafes, and restaurants, a theater, game center, cinemas, two hotels, and a canal running through the complex. Shoppers will find a variety of stores, from unique Japanese shops to international brands. The complex also offers a diverse range of dining options, including the “Ramen Stadium” on the fifth floor, featuring eight ramen shops with dishes from across Japan, including the local specialty, Hakata Ramen.
• Yusentei Park - Yusentei Park is renowned as the former residence of Fukuoka’s 6th lord, built in the 18th century. The park features a stunning traditional garden and an ornate pond, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visitors can experience a glimpse of Fukuoka’s historical past.
• Hakozaki-gu - Hakozaki Shrine is one of the most significant shrines in this region of Japan. Although the original was destroyed during the Mongolian invasion of Fukuoka in 1274, it was rebuilt and has stood ever since. Notable sights include a stone anchor used by Mongolian ships and a statue of Nichiren, a prominent Buddhist scholar who predicted the invasion.
• Fukuoka Tower - Fukuoka Tower is a must-visit for those wanting to see the city at its finest. Standing at approximately 234 meters, it offers stunning views of the city below. The tower is beautifully illuminated at night and is a national symbol of the city. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the tower’s restaurant while taking in the views.
• Itoshima - Itoshima city is about 50 minutes by train and 30 minutes by car from Hakata station. Known for its breathtaking sunset at Sakurai Futamigaura, the area features Meotoiwa, two rock stacks symbolizing husband and wife, located offshore. A large Torii gate along the coast adds to the picturesque scene, making it a favorite spot for photographers.
• Dazaifu Temmangu - Dazaifu refers to the historical regional government. At the Dazaifu Government Remains, visitors can explore the former governmental grounds. Nearby, a museum offers insights into Fukuoka’s history, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
• Atago Jinja Shrine - Atago Shrine, though less frequented, is one of Fukuoka’s most beautiful shrines. Situated on a hillside, it offers sweeping views of the city and Hakata Bay, as well as the famous nesting storks. Visitors can enter through the torii gate and ascend the stairs to the main shrine area. Though off the beaten path, the shrine is worth the visit for its views and historical significance.
• Yanagawa - The Yanagawa River is a scenic waterway, renowned for its natural beauty, especially the cherry blossoms in spring. *The Yanagawa river rafting is not included in the tour.
• Yanagibashi Rengo Market - Known as the kitchen of Hakata, Yanagibashi Rengo Market features over 40 greengrocers and fishmongers offering fresh produce. Visitors can also find shops selling fruits, tofu, and cafes and bakeries offering finger foods. The market’s restaurants serve delicious seafood Donburi, featuring fresh ingredients like squid and salmon sashimi.
• Nanzoin - Located 15 kilometers east of Fukuoka, Nanzoin Temple is one of the prefecture’s most visited Buddhist shrines, attracting over a million visitors annually. The highlight is the massive bronze Reclining Buddha statue, the largest of its kind in the world. The pleasant walk to the temple from the village of Sasaguri is marked by smaller Buddha statues, streams, bridges, and gardens. Also worth visiting is the famous wooden Buddha at Tōchō-ji, the oldest Shingon temple in Kyushu, founded in AD 806.

• Private vehicle
• Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 2-3 sites from ‘What to expect’ list

• Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
• You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
• Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

This tour is designed for travelers who visit Fukuoka City by cruise ship. We will pick you up at Hakata Port or hotels near the port. This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Fukuoka City.

Enjoy a 6 hours taxi tour with your private guide, as he/she introduces modern and traditional aspects of this dynamic, ancient city! This dynamic city is home to many historical temples and is famous for its unique food culture.

Let us know what you would like to experience, and your guide will then arrange the tour that’s best for you!

Note1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

• There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.