FUKUOKA

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, the well-known god of learning. The shrine is the head shrine of approximately 12,000 Tenmangu shrines throughout Japan and is one of the largest shrines in Kyushu, attracting many people from Japan and abroad to pray.

Umegae mochi, a Japanese confectionery associated with Michizane, is also a popular specialty of Dazaifu. Michizane was transferred to Dazaifu during the Heian period (794-1185). An old woman in the neighborhood offered him a rice cake with a cherry blossom branch stuck in it, and this legend is said to have been the origin of the cake.

It is also a pleasure to taste it while thinking back to the Heian period.

Uminonakamichi Seaside Park

This vast national park is located on the sandbar-shaped “Uminonakamichi” surrounded by Hakata Bay and the Sea of Genkai. In the park, visitors can enjoy the seasonal flowers and the company of cute animals such as squirrel monkeys and capybaras.

There are many activities for families to enjoy, including playground equipment such as go-carts and mini-slides, cycling and barbecues, and in summer, the “Uminonakamichi Sunshine Pool.

Yanagawa River Rafting

Yanagawa flourished as a castle town centering on Yanagawa Castle and is famous as the hometown of the poet Kitahara Hakushu. The famous “river cruise” on a dongko boat down the ditches that crisscross various parts of the city offers a taste of the unique atmosphere of this watery town.
The name “Donko Boat” is derived from its resemblance to the goby fish “Donko. In the cold winter months, the “kotatsu boats” with brazier on board also make an appearance.

Tenjin Underground Mall

This European-style underground shopping mall is centered on the basement of Tenjin Crossing and leads to the Tenjin Subway Station. The austere cobblestone pavement is beautifully laid out, and the area is lined with approximately 150 tenants of various kinds. Nakasu Kawabata is a 10-minute walk from Tenjin. The area around Nakasu is lined with many food stalls and is very popular among food fans from home and abroad. The “tonkotsu ramen” (pork bone ramen) is highly recommended!　It is also connected to nearly 20 buildings and shopping zones, making it convenient to go there without getting wet in the rain.