2026 Fukutsu Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in April)

Tori gate hunting in Northern Kyushu is a vibe — sunrise walks, Insta-perfect shrines, and massive gates set against epic blue skies! 🌸⛩️ From Fukuoka’s city soul to Beppu’s mountain views, this route gives you all the culture and scenery packed in just a few days. Must-See Spots: 1. Kushida Shrine, Fukuoka — 1-41 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026 Hours: 9:00–17:00. Tour the vibrant courtyard and snap a pic at its bold tori gate. DIY tip: Visit early for fewer crowds and magical morning light. 2. Miyajidake Shrine, Fukutsu — 7-1 Miyaji Motomachi, Fukutsu, Fukuoka 811-3309 Open 24/7. Giant tori gate at sunrise is spectacular! Bring snacks to enjoy on site, and walk the “Path of Light” if the sun sets just right. Did I mention this has one of the best sunsets in Japan? 😮 🫢 3. Kokura Castle, Kitakyushu — 2-1 Jonai, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 803-0813 Hours: 9:00–20:00 (until 19:00 Nov-Mar). Combine castle wandering with gate-hunting; don’t miss the seasonal gardens surrounding the castle. 4. Beppu Ropeway, Beppu — 字寒原10−7, Minamitateishi, Beppu, Oita 874-0000 Hours: 9:00–17:30 (Nov–Mar 17:00). Ride up the mountain for gate views above the clouds! Plot your train ride early; all cities are on JR lines — get a local rail pass for best saves! Opt to get unli JR passes for seamless JR rides. For photo ops, arrive at sunrise or sunset for dreamy gate shots. Most spots are walkable from their train stations. Food Recos: Fukuoka: Grab Hakata ramen at Ichiran (near Kushida Shrine). Fukutsu: Try shrine mochi at Miyajidake’s shop. Kitakyushu: Eat Kokura yaki-udon near the castle. Beppu: Don’t skip onsen-cooked eggs at the base station. Tips: Most shrines accept cash only; bring coins for omikuji/festival snacks. Weather? Layers! Kyushu shifts from warm midday to crisp evenings, especially near Beppu’s hills. #KyushuToriGate #FukuokaFinds #JapanShrineTrail #TravelJapan #SunriseHunters

5 Days in Kyushu – Exploring Japan’s Southern Charm 🚗⛩️🌋 Kyushu, one of Japan’s four main islands, is full of historical sites, natural beauty, and hot springs. This itinerary covers Fukuoka, Kita Kyushu, Oita, and Kumamoto, giving a mix of culture, scenic views, and relaxation. Day 1 – Fukuoka Highlights Nanzoin Temple – Famous for the giant reclining Buddha statue. Miyajidake Shrine – Coastal shrine with scenic ocean views. Ukiha Inari Shrine – Known for its vermilion gates and tranquil atmosphere. Dazaifu Tenmangu – Dedicated to the deity of learning, with beautiful gardens. Kamado Shrine – A serene forest shrine ideal for a peaceful stroll. Day 2 – Kita Kyushu (Northern Kyushu) Kokura Castle – A historic castle with reconstructed keep and gardens. Mojiko Retro District – Charming old port area with cafes, shops, and historical architecture. Day 3 – Oita Prefecture (Beppu & Yufuin) Ohara-tei Samurai Residence – Explore traditional samurai houses. Kitsuki Castle & Suyanosaka Street – Well-preserved historic castle town. Beppu “Jigoku Meguri” (Hell Tour) – Unique hot spring displays and landscapes. Beppu Observation Deck – Panoramic views of the city and coast. Sakura-yu Onsen – Relax in a traditional hot spring bath. Kinrin Lake & Yufuin Flower Village – Picturesque lake and charming flower-themed village. Yufu Unagihime Shrine – Small, peaceful shrine in the Yufuin area. Day 4 – Kumamoto Kusasenri Grassland – Wide open plains with horses and Mount Aso backdrop. Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine – Historic shrine with natural surroundings. Kumamoto Castle – One of Japan’s most famous castles, recently restored. Katō Shrine – A shrine dedicated to the famous local samurai leader. Day 5 – Departure or Extra Exploration Optional: revisit favorite spots, local shopping, or a short nature walk around Kumamoto before departure. Why Visit Kyushu: From ancient shrines and samurai towns to hot springs and scenic landscapes, Kyushu offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation. This 5-day itinerary ensures you experience the island’s cultural richness and natural wonders.

【Shokudo Umi】 Located in Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture 7 minutes by car or 24 minutes on foot from JR Fukuma Station Near Fukuma Seaside Park This is a newly opened diner by a rice ball shop in Munakata. ✤ Umi Set Meal Includes sashimi, tempura, squid shumai, chawanmushi (steamed egg custard), and soup. ✤ Mini Seafood Bowl Set Meal Includes a mini seafood bowl, green tea soba, chawanmushi, and soup. Fresh seasonal fish directly sourced from local fishermen and delicious Saga rice cooked in a traditional pot are used. The restaurant offers table seating, counter seating, and tatami seating. We chose the counter seats, where you can enjoy your meal while admiring the ocean view through the window. The spacious parking lot is also a nice touch. ※ Please note that the menu and prices may have changed. 【Shokudo Umi】 ■ Address: 3-27-26 Fukuma, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture ▷ Hours: 11:00–14:00, 17:30–21:00 Closed: Irregular holidays Parking: Available

#VisitFukuoka ⛩️ : Miyajidake Shrine VisitFukuoka, Japan 📝 : I really like this shrine. This shrine is spacious and even though there are many people, it feels spacious. There is a hiking trail of about 2 km, but along the way there is another deity on the top of the mountain, which is about 600 m above the ground. It is about 25 to 30 minutes away from the main path of the shrine. From the shrine, you can also walk straight to the ocean. It takes about 20 minutes to walk. 📍Address: 7-1 Miyaji Motomachi, Fukutsu, Fukuoka 811-3309, Japan

📍Address: Fukuoka Japan 🇯🇵 and nearby cities 💰Average price per person: The average budget is around 35,000 baht (excluding shopping) 🗓️Travel planning: Day 1 Depart from Thailand to Fukuoka City, check in to the hotel, and walk around shopping around the hotel (if you have time, stop by Tenjin area) Day 2 Morning: See the Nakayama O-Fuju Wisteria Festival at Kumano Shrine in Nakayama (only in April to May) Noon: Go to Kumamoto City, see Kumamoto Castle, entrance fee 500 yen Evening: Travel to Beppu City, check in to the hotel, walk around the mall near the hotel Day 3 Morning: Go to see the Yumi Jigoku hot spring, which is a famous hot spring Afternoon: Go to Yufuin Village, which is a local village, shop, shop, walk around Kinrin Lake Evening: Go to Nanzoin Temple with a very large Buddha statue, and return to the accommodation in Kitakyushu You can go shopping at Lalaport or a shopping mall with a big Gundam in front. Day 4 Morning: Visit Kokura Castle, admission fee 1,000 yen, 5 floors, inside is a museum. Noon: Stop by to shop at Kitakyushu Outlet, buy souvenirs, have lunch. Dinner: Go to Miyajidake Shrine and have dinner in Tenjin area, walk around, shop before going back, check in to accommodation near the airport because you have to check in early. Day 5 Travel back to Thailand. 💞Reason for recommendation: Suitable for those who want to go to Japan but have a low budget, only 5 hours flight, it is a peaceful city, not crowded, there are both relaxation with nature and shopping areas, you can go to temples and see castles which are old architectures of Japan, and Fukuoka also has many shopping areas to walk around. This trip is considered a short time but worth it, covering every place. #TravelPlan

If you happen to visit Fukuoka in February or October, don't miss this natural gift from God. At Miyajidake Shrine in Fukutsu, the sun sets on the avenue that connects the shrine to the sea only at these two times of the year. The golden afterglow of the light channel is as charming as being in heaven. When the uncle visited, he had missed the most beautiful date and it was cloudy, but the shock of looking down from the shrine is still fresh in his memory. Miyajidake Shrine enshrines Empress Jingu, also known as Empress Jingu, and believers come here to pray for good fortune and prosperity. It is also one of the three major shrines in Fukuoka, as famous as Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Here you can also find the largest Shimenawa in Japan, with a diameter of 2.6 meters and a length of 11 meters. It was made by thousands of believers working together. 📍Address: 〒811-3309 7-1 Miyajimoto-machi, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture #Good Places to Go in January 2025

#December Travel Support Event Miyajihama, a small city near Fukuoka where you can really feel the Japanese sensibility🇯🇵 It's a small city that can be reached in an hour from Fukuoka. In fact, there's so much information about traveling to Japan that I didn't want to go to places that many people go to. Then I discovered the town of Miyajihama! It's a small city that I recommend as a day trip to those who have been to Japan many times because it's a place where you can see the sunset of your life😍 In particular, Miyajihama Beach and Miyajidake Shrine are must-see courses! You can get there by taking a train for about an hour from Fukuoka Hakata Station. ✔️Miyajidake Shrine is crowded with people at sunset, so if you want to see a beautiful sunset, I recommend going a little before sunset and finding a spot. 📍Miyajihama 宮司浜 / Miyajihama Beach / Miyajidake Shrine 宮地嶽神社 #Fukuoka #FukuokaTravel #Japan #JapanTravel #PlacesToVisitInJapan #JapanTravelRecommendations #PlacesToVisitInFukuoka #MiyajidakeShrine #JapaneseSmallCityTravel

#FukuokaTravel Located in Fukuoka, Miyajitake Shrine has a fantastic path of light Climb to the top of the steps of the shrine to see this path of light that leads all the way to the sea Only twice a year (in February and October the sunset will set right in the middle of the path of light! It is a super famous extinction here, even the shrine has promotional posters But usually this road of light is very beautiful~~ It was just the beginning of the new year when I came, and I encountered the festive attire of the shrine And the hanging rope hanging from the main hall once had the largest record in Japan Recommended in the afternoon ~ you can see both the daytime and the colorful version of the Way of Light There is also a very special sunset guard here! If you want to attend the Sunset Festival in late February and late October You can check the exact date on the official shrine website~ The access road will be closed at 3pm on the day of the Sunset Festival. You have to come early to get a free admission ticket to enter Transportation: 📍Address: 7-1 Miyaji Motomachi, Fukutsu, Fukuoka 811-3309 Japan You can take JR to Fukuma Station and get off, there is a direct bus here Or about 30 minutes on foot, there are traffic signs along the way so you won’t get lost #Fukuoka #100 Ways to Travel #Dopamine Travel #Miya Hell Shrine #The Way of Light

🕰️ Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM 📍 Address: 3-48-1 Nishifukuma, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture 💰 90-minute course: 5,800 yen 120-minute course: 7,600 yen (Available for 2-4 people) *Swimwear is required (rental swimwear available for a fee) Enjoy a private sauna with a complete view of Fukuma Beach. You can watch the sun set into the sea while enjoying the sauna. The walls and floors inside the sauna are made of cypress, providing a soothing aroma. In the relaxation area, you can open the window to hear the sound of the waves, offering an exceptional relaxation experience. You can also perform self-löyly, making it a paradise for sauna enthusiasts. It's a very luxurious time. Hairdryers, hair irons, and amenities are also provided, ensuring satisfaction beyond just the sauna.

For those who love Fukuoka!! Even on a short trip of 1-2 nights or 2-3 days, this was my first time visiting this place!! Climbing up to Miyajidake Shrine, feeling the cool breeze and gazing at the refreshing sea in the distance~ it's such a healing place! It's only an hour away from Fukuoka, so if you want to explore a new place, I highly recommend it :) The recommended route is to visit the shrine and then walk down to Miyajihama Beach, which you can see in the photo, which takes about 25 minutes on foot. I recommend strolling down, enjoying the sea view, and then heading back! The torii gate in front of the sea makes for great photos 😉

Introducing Udonya Sumika, located right next to the station in Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture.♡ I visited this restaurant in the summer, so I had their summer-only kabosu grated udon 😋 The refreshing aroma of kabosu and the light soup mixed with the chewy udon made it very smooth and delicious 🥹 The udon was light, so I also ordered two pieces of fried chicken and a chicken rice ball from the lunch set 🩷 The fried chicken went well with beer, and was a perfect match with the light udon! This shop is written as a udon restaurant, but it also serves drinks during the day and has a wide variety of alcoholic drinks, so it can also be used as an izakaya 🏮🍺 After using it as an izakaya, you can also have udon as a final dish 🤭 If you are interested, please go and check it out ♩ 📍 Udon-ya Sumika ⇒Address Grand Depot C 1, 2-6 Chuo 3-chome, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture ⇒Opening hours 11:00-14:00 18:00-24:00 #FukuokaTrip#Fukuoka#KyushuGourmet#GourmetTrip#CoupleTrip#GirlsTrip#trip2023#Udon#FukutsuCity #FukuokaTourism

It was my first time visiting for cherry blossom viewing, but the weather was good, the flowers were in full bloom, and it was spring break, so there were a lot of people there. It seems to be well-maintained, so I was able to stroll around comfortably! I went from the Wakakidai Danchi side, which was easy to find. It was a great feeling of freedom even though we are in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic♪ #AutumnTrip #Halloween #AccommodationReview #AmazingView

#WesternJapan Miyajidake Shrine in Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture ⛩ I went there for the Iris Festival. The irises were in full bloom in the shrine grounds, and the iris garden was magnificent. The owls are always soothing. Japan's largest shimenawa rope is always big! This is my favorite shrine, and I'm always soothed by the seasonal flowers.

#WesternJapan Miyajidake Shrine in Fukutsu, Fukuoka It's famous for the 'Light Road' in the Arashi commercial, but there are many other things to see. The large bells, shimenawa ropes, and taiko drums are the largest in Japan It's wonderful to tour the inner sanctuary and see the animals at the Miya Zoo. The flower water fountain is also cool and soothing✨✨

#QuintessaCampaign ⁣ ⛰On my mountain⁣ I'd like to go there someday when I visit #MiyajidakeShrine⁣ I've never tried mountain climbing before, so I gave up⁣ But then someone told me that it's not that far from #KotohiraShrine⁣ so I decided to go👣⁣ ⁣ If you're going leisurely, it's about 20-30 minutes from KotohiraShrine⛩ #TotoroForest It was a very steep road💦⁣ ⁣ A maintenance person near the inner shrine of Kotohira Shrine⁣ This is where I went down the stairs, but he called out to me that it was hazy today...⁣ This view spreads out before my eyes☀️⁣ There was no one there, so I had the view all to myself✨✨⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #InMyMountain⁣ 🗾InFukutsuCityFukuokaPrefecture⁣⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #FukuokaPrefecture#LowMountain#FukuokaPrefectureLowMountain#MountainClimbing#GreatView

Miyajidake Shrine, where you can worship the "Road of Light" that became famous in a certain commercial, is the head shrine of Miyajidake Shrines nationwide. The chance to worship the "Road of Light" is only available for a few days in February and October. Because so many people visit, it has become a rare and spectacular view that can only be seen by getting a numbered ticket or receiving a prayer. Since the deity enshrined is a goddess, you can also enjoy various flowers throughout the four seasons at Miyajidake Shrine. I think it is one of the most representative shrines in Kyushu, visited by 2.2 million people a year as the god of good fortune and prosperity in business. 25 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by taxi from JR Fukuma Station Information as of June 2022. #Breathtaking view #Historical historic site #Fukuoka Prefecture #Shrine and temple tour #Fukuoka #Quintessa campaign

Miyajidake Shrine is a shrine located in Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. It is known for the sun setting twice a year on the extension of the approach called "Road of Light" that stretches straight from the stone steps in the shrine grounds to the Genkai Sea. It is the head shrine of Miyajidake Shrines throughout the country, and more than 2.2 million worshippers visit it every year, with more than 1 million people visiting during the first three days of the New Year. It is known as a shrine for bringing good luck and prosperity in business. It also has three Japan No. 1s. First Japan No. 1 Large Shimenawa Second Japan No. 2 Large Taiko Third Japan No. 3 Large Bell I think it is a place that everyone should visit at least once in their life. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to see the "Road of Light" when I visited. But I did see the monkey performance, so it was fun. Access: Get off at JR Fukuma Station, take a bus (taxi) from the station for about 5 minutes, then walk for about 25 minutes (about 2km) Nishitetsu Bus: Get off at Jinja-mae #trip2022 #Breathtaking view

Address: 7-1 Miyajimotomachi, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture Access: Get off at JR Fukuma Station, take a bus (taxi) from the station for about 5 minutes, then walk for about 25 minutes (about 2km) Miyajidake Shrine, whose name suddenly became known nationwide due to the JAL commercial featuring Arashi, is a miraculous sight that can only be seen twice a year, in February and October, called the "Road of Light." #trip2022#spectacularview #Fukuoka

Located in Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, this beach is also known as the "Shonan of Kyushu." There are many cafes, restaurants, and marine sports shops along the coast, making it a particularly popular spot in the summer. Miyajihama Beach, next to Fukuma Beach, has recently been talked about as being similar to the famous Uyuni Salt Flats, making it a great photo spot on a sunny day. Unfortunately, it was cloudy when I went, so I couldn't get the reflection photo I had in mind, but it still turned out to be a great photo. Nearby is Miyajigoku Shrine, which is familiar from Arashi's JAL commercial "Path of Light," so be sure to visit both places together. #Fukuoka #SeasideScenery #SummerShortTrip #JapanGenkiProject #CoupleTrip #FukumaBeach #MirrorSea #UyuniSaltFlats #SummerShortTrip

Miyajidake Shrine is located in Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. As one of the oldest and most renowned shrines in the Kyushu region, it boasts a history of over 1,600 years and is dedicated to Empress Jingu. Key Highlights 1. The Path of Light: This world-famous viewpoint gained its fame from a JAL commercial. Looking down from the stairs in front of the shrine, you can see a road stretching in a perfect straight line all the way to Miyajihama Beach. Special Timing: The stunning phenomenon of the sunset aligning directly with the path occurs only twice a year—during mid-February and mid-October. 2. The Three "Number Ones" in Japan Shimenawa (Sacred Rope): A massive sacred rope adorning the main hall, measuring 13.5 meters in length, 2.6 meters in diameter, and weighing an impressive 5 tons. Taiko Drum: The largest drum in Japan, featuring a diameter of 2.2 meters. Copper Bell: The largest of its kind in Japan. 3. The 8 Inner Shrines (Okunomiya Hachisha): Behind the main hall, a walkway leads visitors to eight smaller shrines, each offering unique blessings for various aspects of life. How to Get There from Fukuoka By Train: Take the JR Kagoshima Line from Hakata Station and get off at Fukuma Station (takes about 20-30 minutes). By Bus: From Fukuma Station, transfer to Nishitetsu Bus No. 1-1 or No. 5 heading to Tsuyazaki-bashi, and get off at the Miyajidake-jinja-mae stop.

#springtravel Miyajidake Shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture is a peaceful and powerful place that gives off a calm spiritual vibe from the moment you arrive. The main highlight is the long stone path that leads straight down toward the ocean, creating a perfectly aligned view that feels almost unreal when the sun sets in the right direction. The shrine grounds are wide and clean with traditional buildings that feel deeply connected to history and nature. You can walk slowly around the area and enjoy the quiet atmosphere surrounded by trees and soft sounds of nature. Seasonal decorations and lanterns also add a special charm depending on the time of year. It is not just a sightseeing spot but also a place where many people come to pray and reflect. Overall it is a beautiful and meaningful destination in Fukuoka Prefecture that feels both calming and inspiring throughout the visit experience here always

A trip to Fukuoka where I could simultaneously experience a sense of leisure and the unique tranquility of Japan✨ The shrine torii visible as I descended the stairs, along with the long stretch of streetscape, truly felt like a scene straight out of a movie. The Japanese garden was even more beautiful thanks to the clear weather🌿 From the calm pond and fountain to the trees blending naturally... Just walking through it felt like clearing my mind. The scenery I encountered while crossing the red bridge was another healing highlight📸 The sight of locals and travelers mingling naturally was also impressive. The atmosphere is completely different once you step into the city center! Flashy billboards, lively streets, and even airplanes flying overhead✈️ I think the charm of Fukuoka lies in being a city where you can feel both quietness and vibrancy at the same time. 📌 Fukuoka is highly recommended for: ✔️ Those who want to enjoy both nature and urban vibes ✔️ Those seeking a relaxing trip to Japan!

As someone who hasn't visited Japan in a long time, Fukuoka was honestly never on my radar. In the past, Tokyo and Osaka were always top of mind, with Hokkaido and Okinawa trailing behind; it was genuinely hard to even consider Fukuoka. But thanks to a bunch of YouTubers and influencers sharing their Fukuoka trips last year, it finally caught my eye as a viable choice. Fukuoka is incredibly close to the airport, meaning you can dive right into your itinerary the moment you land, and the subway system is relatively straightforward. I highly recommend arriving early so you don't waste your first day at all. Sure, some might choose to base themselves in Hakata, but Hakata feels more like a prime business district, unlike the rest of Fukuoka which has far more casual spots to wander around. To be honest, shopping in Fukuoka is more about taking your time to browse and hunt for hidden gems rather than finding a ton of brand-new releases. However, since the shopping areas are highly concentrated and stretch out continuously, hopping from shop to shop is super convenient. You could choose to stay around the Tenjin area and navigate via the Tenjin Underground Mall. It's a total lifesaver on rainy days and makes transit a breeze. Even if you need to travel further out and transfer at Hakata Station, Tenjin is very close to Hakata. If you're a Gundam fan, LaLaport is worth a visit, but my top recommendation there is actually chilling on their second-floor terrace at dusk to watch the trains pass by the crossing against the sunset. Beyond shopping, here are the spots I highly recommend: , , . None of these take up too much time, and they're perfect for escaping the city for a digital detox 👍 To sum up my impression of Fukuoka: it's a perfect destination for a stroll. Even though you're in Japan, it has that relaxed vibe of just wandering around your own neighborhood. Besides the fact that everything is conveniently close, the locals here are noticeably warmer and more welcoming to foreigners compared to other regions. This is probably due to its proximity to South Korea and the frequent influx of Korean tourists, which also makes casual English communication much easier and more relaxed. If you prefer a more laid-back itinerary rather than rushing through Japan, Fukuoka is a destination I highly recommend for Japan-travel newbies to simply wander around and explore.

I rented a car at Fukuoka Airport and headed out for a one-day drive. This itinerary takes about 6 to 8 hours. 📍 Fukuoka Airport The gateway to sightseeing in Fukuoka. There are many rental car companies around the airport, so you can start your road trip right after you arrive 🚗 ⸻ 🍽 Start with an early lunch! 📍 Hanayasu Address: Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture Hours: From 11:00 a.m. (subject to change) Closed: Irregular holidays A popular restaurant known for its fresh seafood dishes. It tends to get crowded at lunchtime, so going early is recommended. (Reservations are also recommended.) ⸻ 📍 Miyajidake Shrine Address: 7-1 Miyajimotomachi, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture Visiting hours: Open freely for worship This shrine is famous for its straight approach road with a view of the sea at the end. Be sure to try the local specialty, Matsugae mochi, after your visit. ⸻ 📍 Kubara Honke Main Store Address: Hisayama Town, Kasuya District, Fukuoka Prefecture Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A popular shop famous for its "Kayanoya Dashi." The store had a wide variety of items, including souvenirs and limited-edition sweets. ⸻ 📍 Nanzoin Temple Address: Sasaguri Town, Kasuya District, Fukuoka Prefecture Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is famous for one of the world's largest reclining Buddha statues (Shaka Nehanzo). At about 41 meters long, the massive statue is even more impressive and overwhelming than you might imagine. 📍 Fukuoka Airport Return the rental car and you're done! You'll also need to stop by a gas station, so make sure to leave plenty of time before the return deadline! 🚗 Estimated travel times · Fukuoka Airport → Hanayasu: about 50 minutes · Hanayasu → Miyajidake Shrine: about 10 minutes · Miyajidake Shrine → Kubara Honke: about 35 minutes · Kubara Honke → Nanzoin Temple: about 20 minutes 　　· Nanzoin Temple → Fukuoka Airport: about 30 minutes

Natural Manpukuya Located in Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture Just a 4-minute walk from JR Fukuma Station This shop is highly recommended for those who love Japanese sweets. They are particular about their ingredients, using items like glutinous rice, cane sugar, and salt without nigari. Each piece is carefully crafted, including their ohagi and other Japanese sweets. I visited after 3 PM and was disappointed to see only a few ohagi left in the showcase. However, the staff kindly informed me, "At this time, we can serve freshly made ohagi," and I was able to purchase freshly prepared ones! The ohagi flavors include coarse red bean paste, smooth red bean paste, walnut kinako, black sesame, and more. The strawberry whipped cream ohagi was also delicious 🍓. The grilled rice balls were incredibly tasty as well. They also offer baked goods, and I was lucky to find carrot cake on that day 🥕. The shop owner was very kind. Thank you for the wonderful treats (⋆ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈)” ※ Please note that the menu and prices may have changed. 【Natural Manpukuya】 ■ Address: 6-10-1 Chuo, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture ▷ Open from 10:00 AM until sold out Closed: Irregular holidays Parking: None

🌸 Blossom Bliss at Miyajidake Shrine in Fukutsu 🌳✨ Step into a vibrant oasis at Miyajidake Shrine, where cherry, plum, peach, and pear blossoms paint the grounds in shades of pink—set against lush green trees. No need to stress about the timing; Japan’s diverse varieties guarantee blooms throughout the season! 🗺️ Recommended Route: Start your adventure at the main torii gate and follow the stone path leading up to the shrine. You’ll be greeted by layers of blossoms—snap a close-up of pink blooms framed by classic shinto architecture for an insta-worthy shot. Stroll through the gardens, soaking in outdoor cultural landscapes alongside locals paying their respects. 🌟 Must-Do Experiences: · Walk beneath a blossom canopy and spot mixings of cherry, peach, and pear blooms. · Visit the main hall for a peaceful moment and take in its architectural details. · Explore side paths for hidden photo angles and quieter spots. 📸 Top Photo Spots: · Close-up of pink blossoms with green foliage as backdrop (your photo idea nails it!) · Shrine’s main hall framed with flowering trees · Wide shots of the gardens under the sun, capturing both blossoms and traditional architecture 📝 Practical Tips: · Open all day, year-round! Arrive early for softer light and fewer visitors. · Don’t worry if you miss the classic cherry season—other varieties will be blooming. · Carry water and wear comfortable shoes; some paths are gravelled. ⚠️ Precautions: · Weather is changeable; bring a light jacket. · Respect shrine etiquette—keep noise to a minimum and be respectful of worshippers #Fukutsu #JapanBlossoms #ShrineVisit #NatureWalk #CulturalLandscapes

Miyajidake Shrine, a thousand-year-old shrine overlooking the Genkai Sea, is nestled in the rolling mountains of northwest Fukuoka Prefecture. Every February, as the winter chill of the Sea of Japan lingers, the shrine hosts its most sacred night of the year: the Lantern Illumination Festival. A Thousand-Year Tradition: Prayers for Light in Darkness Legend has it that during the reign of Emperor Suiko (around 594 AD), Prince Shōtoku lit the first lantern here to pray for national peace. For 1,400 years, this tradition has never been interrupted. On the night of the first full moon of the lunar New Year, 3,500 lanterns are simultaneously lit along the shrine's pathway, transforming the long winter night into a flowing river of light. The Ceremony: A Stairway of Light Leading to the Sea Around 5 PM, shrine priests dressed in traditional attire slowly enter the main hall to the sound of taiko drums. As chants and the sound of bells echo through the twilight, participants holding white candle bags quietly await the lighting moment. At the instant the sun sets into the sea, all the lanterns are lit simultaneously. Bamboo lanterns line the stone steps of the pathway, winding down from the main hall to the "Lower Shrine"—a steep path over 300 meters long. The 3,500 lanterns create a stairway of light leading to the sea. The sea breeze gently sways the candlelight, and the distant sound of waves crashing on the shore adds to the ambiance. The most enchanting moment comes after 7 PM, when the last traces of twilight fade away, and the entire pathway is immersed in candlelight. Looking up, the main hall appears to float in the night sky surrounded by lanterns; looking down, the lights flow down the stone steps toward the sea, blending with the fishing lights on the Genkai Sea. How to Participate: A Promise with Light The Lantern Illumination Festival is held annually in early February, based on the lunar calendar's fifteenth day of the first month. On the day of the event, bamboo lanterns are set up along the pathway starting at 4 PM; the ceremony begins at 5 PM; all lanterns are lit at 6 PM; and the best viewing time is from 7 PM to 9 PM. Participants can purchase prayer candles (500 yen each) at the shrine's "Reception Office" on the day of the event. After writing their wishes on the candles, they are handed over to the priests for collective offering. Special "Pathway of Light" tickets (1,000 yen) are also available, allowing visitors to walk from the main hall along the illuminated pathway to the Lower Shrine, experiencing the emotional impact of being surrounded by 3,500 lanterns. Getting to Miyajidake Shrine Address: 7-1 Miyaji Motomachi, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture Transportation: · By train: Take the JR Kagoshima Main Line to "Fukuma Station," transfer to a Nishitetsu bus (Kaizuka-Yanazaki direction), and get off at "Miyajidake Shrine-mae." · On foot: About a 30-minute walk from JR Fukuma Station (limited-time shuttle buses available). · By car: Exit the Kyushu Expressway at "Koga IC" and drive about 15 minutes along Route 30. Important Notes: · Traffic control is implemented around the area on the day of the event; public transportation is recommended. · Nighttime temperatures can be chilly, so bring warm clothing. · Tripods and flash photography are prohibited during the lighting period. · The pathway has approximately 400 stone steps; comfortable walking shoes are recommended. As the night deepens, the lanterns continue to burn quietly. This pathway of light, formed by 3,500 wishes, connects not only the main hall and the Lower Shrine but also humanity's eternal yearning for light over 1,400 years.

This is a micro pig cafe in Fukuoka Prefecture. There were lots of baby pigs.