Fukuoka Walk, Japan

Fukuoka is a vibrant city in Japan known for its rich history, delicious ramen, and modern urban charm.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden: 10901 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
Date Picture Taken: November, 2022

Fukuoka, located on Japan’s Kyushu Island, is a dynamic city blending history, culture, and modernity. It is renowned for its ancient temples like Tochoji, the bustling Hakata district, and the scenic waterfront at Momochi Seaside Park. The city is also famous for its Hakata ramen, a creamy pork-based noodle soup, and its vibrant festivals, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa.

The Hakata River

The other side

Canal City Hakata – Sprawling shopping mall with brand-name & specialty stores, dining options & fountain shows.

Canal City Hakata is a sprawling shopping and entertainment complex in Fukuoka, often referred to as a “city within a city.” The centerpiece of the complex is a picturesque canal surrounded by curved, colorful buildings housing a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.

Visitors can shop at brand-name outlets, specialty stores, and local boutiques, or enjoy over 200 dining options, including the famous Ramen Stadium featuring regional ramen from across Japan. The complex also offers a cinema, live performance spaces, and seasonal events such as art installations and fashion shows.

Though I visited many stores and eateries in Canal City Hakata, I did not take many pictures inside the stores.

I left Canal City Hakata and made my way to Kushida Shrine.

Kushida Shrine, located in Fukuoka’s Hakata district, is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the gods of prosperity and longevity. It is famously associated with the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, a vibrant summer festival featuring dynamic float races.

I entered the shrine through this side gate rather than the main gate.

The courtyard in front of the main shrine building

The shrine’s architecture includes an ornate torii gate, beautifully carved wooden structures, and the iconic “Ebizō Rock,” believed to bring good luck. Visitors often come to pray for success and health, admire the elaborate floats displayed on the grounds, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere amidst the bustling city.

I turned around to view the main entrance gate of the shrine.

I exited the temple through the main entrance gate

Then, I turned around and looked at the shrine from outside

And entered the shrine again through the main entrance gate

Walked into the main courtyard

The side gate through which I first entered the shrine

When I glanced to the right of the side gate

After exploring this area, I turned around and exited the shrine.

After leaving the shrine, I walked to another nearby shrine, Sumiyoshi Shrine.

Unlike other major cities in Japan, Fukuoka lacks large, renowned temples or shrines, but the ones it has offer a delightful glimpse into the charm of Japanese religious sites.. 

Sumiyoshi Shrine in Fukuoka is one of Japan’s oldest shrines, dedicated to the Sumiyoshi deities, protectors of sailors and travelers. Located near the city center, the shrine is renowned for its serene atmosphere, traditional wooden architecture, and beautiful grounds

A view of the shrine as seen from the opposite side

The main hall, rebuilt in 1623, reflects the classical Sumiyoshi-zukuri style, one of Japan’s oldest architectural styles for shrines. Visitors often come to pray for safe journeys, admire the cultural heritage, or participate in seasonal festivals held at the shrine.

I exited the shrine through this gate

I turned around and looked at the shrine again 

I then walked to the right side, where another exit from the shrine is situated.

I left the shrine, boarded a bus, and arrived at a location known as the Hakata Old Town Area.

An entrance to the Hakata Old Town Area

Hakata Old Town is a historic area in Fukuoka that offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. It is home to traditional temples, shrines, and historic streets that reflect the charm of old Japan.

What’s missing from this blog are photos of the Hakata Train Station area, which is home to numerous department stores and countless restaurants. This area is likely the most popular spot for visitors, as it serves as Fukuoka’s largest hub for shopping and dining.

Although I visited the area multiple times during this trip to Fukuoka, I didn’t take many photos of it.