Hakata might not be the most well-known of Fukuoka’s prefectures for tourist adventures but hidden within this busy area lie some fascinating sights and locations that you’ll love to explore. History, shopping and family fun are all just a short walk away and waiting to be enjoyed.

Take a peaceful walk through a historic garden, stop at a yatai for a bite to eat and look out over the sea from Hakata Port Tower. There’s something in Hakata for all the family, so let us help you find it with our guide to what to do while you’re here.

  • 1

    Canal City HAKATA

    A city within a city

    Canal City HAKATA
    • Shoppers

    If you’re looking for the shopping spree of a lifetime, head to Canal City HAKATA. A bustling home of retail within Hakata, this complex spans 5 floors and contains roughly 250 shops, not to mention restaurants and entertainment venues. With so many options, covering everything from unique Japanese stores to internationally renowned brands, there’s bound to be something for everyone.

    But it’s more than just a shopping complex. Canal City was designed to make shopping an experience. The artificial canal that runs throughout provides a relaxing centrepiece and every half an hour the fountains in the centre put on a stunning display.

    Location: 1 Chome-2 Sumiyoshi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka 812-0018, Japan

    Open: Daily from 10 am to 9 pm (restaurants until 11 pm)

    Phone: +81 (0)92-282-2525

    Map
  • 2

    Hakata Port Tower

    Panoramic views of the city

    Hakata Port Tower
    • Families
    • Photo

    An icon of Hakata Bay, the Hakata port tower is a wonderful place to see Fukuoka from a different angle. You don’t even need to pay to get stunning panoramic views of the city and the sea. If you’re looking for some magical photographs, then sunset is the perfect time to take a trip 73 metres up to the observation deck.

    Designed by the same architect as the famous Tokyo Tower, Naito Tachu, the tower is the sixth in his "Six Tower Brothers" series. This feat of engineering rises impressively over the port and has far shorter queues than the more well-known Fukuoka Tower, so it’s well worth a trip.

    Location: 〒812-0021 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Chikkohonmachi 14−1 博多ポートタワー, Japan

    Open: Thursday–Tuesday from 10 am to 9 pm

    Phone: +81 (0)92-291-0573

    Map
  • 3

    Kushida Shrine

    A charming shrine with a long history

    Kushida Shrine
    • Budget
    • Photo
    • Shoppers

    The unassuming Kushida Shrine is a lesser-known delight in Hakata. With all the traditional attributes of Shinto temples, Kushida Shrine has stood since the year 757 and contains several fascinating treasures that you won’t want to miss. Try the drinkable spring water from the crane fountain, walk beneath the tunnel of red torii gates or try to lift the sacred Chikara-ishi stone.

    Within walking distance of Hakata Shinkansen station and near to the shopping haven of Canal City, it’s easy to get to and a shame to miss. Find a moment of peace in your busy day and enjoy this quiet hideaway within the city.

    Location: 1-41 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka 812-0026, Japan

    Open: Daily from 4 am to 10 pm

    Phone: +81 (0)92-291-2951

    Map
  • 4

    Nakasu Yatai Street

    Great food and a great atmosphere

    Nakasu Yatai Street
    • Food
    • History
    • Photo

    When you’re feeling hungry in the evening, there’s nowhere better to turn than to the Nakasu Yatai Street. Although many cities throughout Japan have been removing the yatai stalls, here they flourish. Filled with Japanese delicacies, they are an authentic taste of the city and a delicious stop in your busy day. Nakasu Island boasts around 20 stands that look out over the water and it’s a great place to stop and relax.

    Try some oden (hot pot), gyoza (dumplings), yakitori (chicken skewers) or dashimaki tamako (filled omelette). Many provide menus in multiple languages, so it’s easy to find something you like. There’s so much to choose from, you’ll find yourself coming back to try the dishes you missed.

    Location: 〒810-0801 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Nakasu 8, 那珂川 通り, Japan

    Open: Daily from around 6 pm to 2 am (different stalls are open on different days)

    Map
  • 5

    Asahi Breweries Hakata Brewery

    Brewery tours and fresh samples

    Asahi Breweries Hakata Brewery
    • Food

    Beer lovers won’t want to miss a free tour at the Asahi Breweries Hakata Brewery. The largest brewing company in Japan, Asahi beer is shipped across the country and to South Korea. Tours take 60 minutes in English. You’ll need to book in advance to make sure of your place.

    Tours lead you through the entire process, from the malt and hops to the finished product. And, of course, you’ll get to sample some that’s been freshly brewed, though soft drinks are also made on the premises and available to drink if some of your party aren’t big fans of the beer itself. Afterwards, take a table in the beer garden and enjoy a meal along with your drink.

    Location: 3 Chome-1-1 Takeshita, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka 812-0895, Japan

    Open: Saturday from 9.30 am to 3 pm, Sunday from 9.30 am to 3 pm, Monday–Friday from 9.30 am to 3 pm

    Phone: +81 (0)92-431-1131

    Map
  • 6

    Bayside Place Hakata

    Portside fun for all the family

    Bayside Place Hakata
    • Budget
    • Families
    • Food

    Standing on the scenic Hakata Port site, Bayside Place Hakata offers a wholesome day out for the entire family. Shopaholics can find bargains at the duty-free store or perfect souvenirs such as beautiful furin windchimes from the speciality shops. Kids will adore the Milky Way centre where they can explore themed play equipment or craft workshops.

    Adults will be entertained with indoor golf, arts festivals and even fortune telling. After a fun-filled day, take a dip in the onsite hot springs or indulge in a bowl of sizzling udon noodles. Don’t forget a trip to the aquarium and spot giant sea turtles among almost 3000 tropical fish.

    Location: 13-6 Chikkohonmachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka 812-0021, Japan

    Open: Daily from 6.30 am to 11 pm

    Phone: +81 (0)92-281-7701

    Map
  • 7

    JR Hakata City Tsubame-No-Mori Hiroba

    Rooftop garden in an urban hotspot

    JR Hakata City Tsubame-No-Mori Hiroba
    • Families
    • Food
    • Shoppers

    Hakata City is always abuzz with life so if you’re in need of a break from the crowds, take the elevator to JR Hakata City Tsubame-No-Mori Hiroba. A rooftop garden designed to showcase greenery in all seasons, it’s the perfect relaxation spot to take a breather.

    Keep kids occupied with the open playground before treating them to a ride on the bright red mini steam train. You’re 60 metres up in the air so take a moment to appreciate the glorious view of Fukuoka from the observation deck. If you go in the evening, you might even spot fireflies lighting up the sky. Be sure to offer a prayer for safe travels at the tranquil railroad shrine before you leave.

    Location: 〒812-0012 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Hakataekichuogai 1−1 RF, Japan

    Open: Daily from 10 am to 10 pm

    Phone: +81 (0)92-431-8484

    Map
  • 8

    Yanagibashi Rengo Market

    The pantry of Fukuoka

    Yanagibashi Rengo Market
    • Food
    • Photo
    • Shoppers

    When only the freshest of ingredients will do, your destination should be Yanagibashi Rengo Market in the heart of Fukuoka City. Friendly vendors have been selling produce here for over 100 years and with the vast range of speciality seafood on offer, it’s clear to see why.

    It’s the go-to place for locals’ favourite mentaiko cod roe or for controversial whale meat – don’t worry, stallholders will be happy to explain how to cook the delicacies on offer. If you get peckish, try the Hakata-style ramen or the decadent ichigo daifuku (sweet, sticky rice cakes with red bean paste) after visiting the traditional tea shop. Pop by early for the freshest fish or visit later in the day for discounts.

    Location: 1 Chome-5 Haruyoshi, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka 810-0003, Japan

    Open: Monday–Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm (closed on Sundays)

    Phone: +81 (0)92-761-5717

    Map
  • 9

    Hakatamachiya Furusatokan

    Small but impressive folk art and history museum

    Hakatamachiya Furusatokan
    • History
    • Shoppers

    Hakatamachiya Furusatokan offers visitors just a taste of traditional folklore and history from restored townhouses in the Hakata ward of Fukuoka. What began as a factory for weavers is now a small museum packed to the brim with arts and culture from the mid-Meiji period to the present day.

    Wander through exhibits showcasing Hakata’s artisanal history before watching local artists at work. They love answering questions about their craft. There’s always cultural festivals and workshops going on where you can try your hand at weaving a tote bag or crafting a Hakata bento box. Stop by the souvenir shop for handmade trinkets, tapestries and confectionery to remember your trip by.

    Location: 6-10 Reisenmachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka 812-0039, Japan

    Open: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm

    Phone: +81 (0)92-281-7761

    Map
  • 10

    Rakusuien Garden

    A hidden metropolitan oasis

    Rakusuien Garden
    • History

    Nestled near Sumiyoshi Shrine in central Fukuoka, you’ll find Rakusuien Garden. Originally built nearly 120 years ago, the grounds are teeming with artful greenery that’s designed to look stunning no matter the season.

    Take a seat by the crystal-clear koi pond and its trickling waterfall and admire the cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant maple leaves in autumn. If you’re extra quiet, you’ll hear the delicate tinkling of a suikinkutsu – an underground musical garden instrument. There are traditional tea rooms too, offering sweets and refreshing matcha tea when not in use. Even this tranquil garden’s Hakatabei walls are worth appreciating, as they’re constructed using tiles and stone from buildings damaged in war.

    Location: 2 Chome-10-7 Sumiyoshi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka 812-0018, Japan

    Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm

    Phone: +81 (0)92-262-6665

    Map