Fukuoka

About Fukuoka

Fukuoka is the capital city of the Fukuoka Prefecture and is situated on the northern shore of the island of Kyūshū. The city is divided into seven wards (ku) of which the central areas of Chuo-ku and Hakata-ku will be of most interest to the visitor. West of Tenjin is Ohori-koen Park and the ruins of the old castle, whilst further along in Sawara-ku ward is the Momochi district. Momochi is a modern waterfront area with wide tree-lined streets, plenty of cafés, restaurants, and green public parks. Here you will find the Fukuoka Tower and the Fukuoka Dome, home of the city’s baseball team, the Fukuoka Daiei Hawks. East of the river in Hakata-ku is where you will find most of the old shrines and temples, whilst the entertainment district of Nakasu lies between the sandbank of the Naka River and the Hakata River. Nakasu is one of the major red-light districts in Japan as well as home to a large number of trendy restaurants. The Nakasu district also houses expensive shops along the Riverain; a stroll along the sandbank is a nice way to spend the afternoon.