Fukuoka

Fukuoka is also recognized for its many festivals and events. The most well-known of these is Hakata Gion Yamakasa, a 700-year-old, two-week-long festival celebrated each July that attracts millions of tourists from throughout the country to its colorful parades, traditional races, and costumes. Fukuoka Castle (Fukuoka-j) is one of the few surviving examples of the once numerous and grand hilltop mansions chosen by the Shoguns and city rulers. It is one of the highlights of a visit to Fukuoka. This majestic castle, which was formerly part of a vast complex that encompassed an area of 47,000 square meters, still amazes with its grandeur and location on a tall foundation overlooking the Naka River.

Modern attractions abound throughout the city as well. Canal City Hakata, a city-within-a-city with a canal flowing through it, as well as magnificent stores, hotels, restaurants, and a theater, is the most noteworthy.

Place: Fukuoka

Some of the best attractions in Fukuoka are:

• Fukuoka Castle
• Sumiyoshi-jinja Shrine
• Kyūshū National Museum
• Kushida-jinja Shrine