Fukuoka

Fukuoka, Japan

Located in the west of the Japanese archipelago and hemmed in by the sea on three sides, Fukuoka is known as “Gate of Asia”. This vibrant city brings together a huge number of boutiques, which appeals tremendously to the chic-inclined. Besides its myriad shopping options, Fukuoka is also a great destination for hikers and marine sports enthusiasts. With its long indented coastlines and a well-established fishing industry, Fukuoka is for sure a place seafood freaks relish. The city is best visited from March to May.

Getting around

• Fukuoka Art Museum

  This modern facility in wooded Ohori Park is a showcase of the 20th-century modern works of art and the masterpieces by the great artists who were natives of Fukuoka.

• Temple, shrines

  Numerous temples and shrines are strewn throughout Fukuoka. It's a short amble from Hakata Station to Shofukuji, Tochoji, Kushida Jinjia and Hakozakigu.

• Fukuoka Tower

  At 234 meters, this iconic triangular prism is covered with 8,000 mirrors, emitting light in daytime and nighttime. It's the best place for night view fiends. Spectacular light shows attract swarms of visitors in Christmas.

• Fukuoka Dome

  It's not only the home stadium of Fukuoka Daiei Hawks, but also a venue for big concerts. The showstopper is its retractable domed roof which weighs 12,000 tons and takes 20 minutes to open.

• Canal City Hakata

  This bulky shopping and entertainment complex features deluxe hotels, cinemas, eating establishments, cafés and boutiques. There's even a canal flowing through it. It’s a versatile place for revelers.

  
  
  
• Tenjin Chikagai

  Department stores, fashion boutiques, hotels and restaurants stand shoulder to shoulder on this bustling underground shopping street.