Fukuoka Temples and Culture Walk Sacred Sites in Hakata

Fukuoka , Japan

Fukuoka Temples and Culture Walk Sacred Sites in Hakata

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About this experience

Discover Fukuoka’s spiritual and historical heart on this 3-hour walking tour of the Hakata district. Begin at Shōfuku-ji, Japan’s first Zen temple, and learn about Zen Buddhism’s arrival in Japan. Visit Tōchō-ji Temple, home to a remarkable wooden Buddha and an underground path symbolizing enlightenment. Explore Kushida Shrine, central to local tradition and the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival. See modern Fukuoka at Canal City Hakata with its light-and-water fountain show, then end peacefully at Sumiyoshi Shrine, dedicated to safe travel. Small groups ensure a personal experience.

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Fukuoka Temples and Culture Walk Sacred Sites in Hakata

What's included

Local Guided 3-hour walking tour through Fukuoka’s historic and cultural sites

Stop at Canal City to enjoy the mesmerizing fountain show

Shōfukuji Temple, Tōchōji Temple, Kushida Shrine, and Sumiyoshi Shrine

Detailed itinerary

Shōfuku-ji, founded in 1195 by Eisai in Hakata, Fukuoka, is often regarded as Japan’s first full-fledged Zen temple. Its grounds hold the inscription “Fusō Saisho Zenkutsu” and are designated a national historic site.

Tōchō-ji in Hakata is a historic Shingon Buddhist temple associated with Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai). It features a large wooden Daibutsu (Great Buddha) approximately 10.8 m tall and offers visitors a “hell-and-paradise” walkthrough beneath the Buddha statue.

Stop 3

Kushida Shrine, known affectionately as “O-Kushida-san,” is the guardian shrine of Hakata. Founded in 757, it hosts the legendary Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival each July and displays ornamental float towers (Kazari Yamakasa) year-round.

Canal City Hakata is a sprawling entertainment and shopping complex in Fukuoka’s Hakata district. Set across approximately 43,500 m², it features an indoor canal, dynamic fountain and projection shows, around 150 shops, restaurants, hotels and a “Ramen Stadium.”

Sumiyoshi Shrine in Hakata is regarded as one of Japan’s oldest Sumiyoshi shrines and the ichinomiya of Chikuzen Province. It enshrines the three sea-god Sumiyoshi deities and has long served as a guardian of voyages and maritime safety.

What's not included

Transportation costs

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Just outside Hakata Station’s West Exit, you’ll find the Casetify shop/ Your guide will be waiting for you holding a signboard which says “gotcha”.

About Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a vibrant coastal city in southern Japan known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm climate. As the largest city in Kyushu, it offers a perfect blend of traditional culture and modern urban living, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Top Attractions

Ohori Park

A large, beautiful park featuring a lake, gardens, and historic sites. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

The ruins of a historic castle that played a significant role in Japanese history. The site offers beautiful views and a glimpse into the past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Kushida Shrine

A historic Shinto shrine known for its vibrant festivals and beautiful architecture. It's a significant cultural and religious site.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Canal City Hakata

A large shopping and entertainment complex featuring a canal, theaters, and a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Shopping/Entertainment 1-3 hours Free to enter (costs vary for shops and restaurants)

Fukuoka Tower

A iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. It's a great spot for photography and sightseeing.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for observation deck and restaurant)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hakata Ramen

A type of ramen featuring a rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu (braised pork) and green onions.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles and broth)

Mentaiko

Spicy cod roe, often served as a topping for rice or noodles, or as a side dish.

Snack/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (if served with rice or noodles)

Motsunabe

A hot pot dish featuring offal, typically beef or pork, cooked in a savory broth with vegetables and tofu.

Dinner Contains meat, gluten (if served with noodles or dipping sauce)

Yaki Toro

Grilled chicken skewers, often seasoned with salt or soy sauce, and served with a side of grated daikon radish.

Dinner Contains chicken, gluten (if seasoned with soy sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains and parks Water sports at nearby beaches and waterways Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples, shrines, and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat rides on the canals of Yanagawa Swimming and water sports at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn features vibrant fall foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese (limited), Korean (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukuoka is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour guides
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN

Getting there

By air

Fukuoka Airport • 4.5 km from city center

By train

Hakata Station, Fukuoka Station

By bus

Hakata Bus Terminal, Tenjin Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Kūkō Line, Hakozaki Line, and Nanakuma Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tenjin Nakasu Hakata Dazaifu

Day trips

Dazaifu

10 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

A historic town known for its temples, shrines, and beautiful gardens. It offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience.

Yanagawa

30 km from Fukuoka • Full day

A picturesque town known as the 'City of Waterways' for its network of canals. It offers a unique and charming experience with its historic houses, boat rides, and local specialties.

Beppu

120 km from Fukuoka • Full day to overnight

A popular hot spring resort town known for its numerous hot springs, or 'hells' (jigoku), and scenic beauty. It offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival • July 1-15 (main events on July 15) Hakata Dontaku Festival • Early May (typically the first Sunday and the following day) Fukuoka Hakata Matsuri • October 15-18

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as Suica or Icoca, for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try local specialties, such as Hakata ramen, mentsuyaki, and yakitori, at yatai (food stalls) or local restaurants
Visit popular attractions, such as Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle Ruins, during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Tenjin, Nakasu, and Hakata, for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival and the Hakata Dontaku Festival, for a unique and memorable experience