Fukuoka is truly a breathtaking destination that has plenty in store for every type of traveller. The city offers a wealth of sightseeing opportunities and recreational activities, with attractions ranging from beautiful parks that are ideal for families to massive malls with everything on offer for shoppers. For Muslim travellers, HalalTrip has compiled some of Fukuoka's top attractions that are a must-visit when exploring the sights of the city.
Ōhori Park
Beautiful Ōhori Park is one of Japan's most striking water parks. Built around a scenic lake, the park offers the perfect tranquil atmosphere for families to spend a few hours relaxing or simply basking in the park's serene ambience. It is a popular attraction amongst both locals and tourists throughout the year. Each season at Ōhori Park beings something delightfully unique; spring brings spectacular sakura flowers in full bloom, summer brings exciting fireworks shows, autumn brings rusty red maple leaves, while winter brings stunning Christmas illuminations. The park is a must-visit when sight-seeing in Fukuoka.
Ticket Price: ¥240 for adults and ¥120 for children.
Children below the age of 6 and senior visitors aged over 65 may enter free-of-charge.
Hours: Open daily (except on Mondays) from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Canal City Hakata
The massive shopping complex of Canal City Hakata is amongst the best shopping centres in the city. Visitors to Canal City Hakata will be able to find over 250 shops selling a wide variety of items ranging from Japanese and American brands to traditional souvenirs to plenty of electronic items. The shopping complex also offers a wealth of restaurants, cafes, cinemas, hotels and a game centre, with entertainment options such as a game arcade, theatre and cinema with 13 movie screens - offering plenty to do.
Ticket Price: Free-of-charge
Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. (shops); 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. (restaurants)
Fukuoka Zoo
The Fukuoka Zoo is yet another excellent spot for a day out with the family. Nestled amongst the lush environs of the hillside, the Fukuoka City Zoological Garden is located within Minami-koen park and is home to a wealth of animal and plant species. It features a petting corner as well as a special area for kids, with attractions such as a Ferris wheel and other games to keep them entertained at all times. Some of the highlights at the zoo include rare species such as red pandas, tapir and Japanese Macaques – which are a treat to observe.
Ticket Price: ¥400 for adults and ¥200 for students
Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
Fukuoka Castle
Located adjacent to the popular Ōhori Park, the ruins of the magnificent Fukuoka Castle is one of Fukuoka's top attractions and draws in visitors throughout the year. Dating back to the 17th century in the Edo Period, Fukuoka Castle was once the largest castle in Kyushu and is presently an important historic site. The best time to visit the castle ruins is during the months of March to April, when the cherry blossom trees of the park burst into full bloom.
Ticket Price: Free-of-charge
Hours: Throughout the day
Marine World Uminonakamichi
Marine World Uminonakamichi in Fukuoka is an excellent attraction for the whole family. The massive public aquarium is located about a 5 minute-walk away from Uminonakamichi Station and focuses on Kyushu's aquatic life with a total of 70 tanks and several other exhibits that will leave visitors enthralled. The aquarium is home to several species of dolphins, sharks, sea lions, sea otters, spotted seals and various other marine creatures. The daily dolphin show and the sea lion performances are perhaps the aquarium's top attractions and provide much fun and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Hours: 9:30 to 17:30 (March to mid July and September to November)
9:00 to 18:30 (late July to August)
10:00 to 17:00 (December to February)
Fukuoka Tower
Considered to be a symbol of the city, Fukuoka Tower is a prominent land mark and popular attraction in the area. The tower is Japan's tallest seaside tower and offers visitors some of the best sweeping views of the surrounding city. Three observation decks are available at Fukuoka Tower where visitors are be able to get a glorious 360 degree view of the cityscape in the distance - including prominent sites such as Hakata wharf and Sefuri Mountain. Several of the city's attractions are also centred around the tower, making it an excellent starting point for sight-seeing in Fukuoka.
Ticket Price: ¥800 for adults, ¥500 for children/senior visitors and ¥200 for infants.
Hours: Daily from 9:30 a.m. to around 9:00 p.m.
Other attractions in Fukuoka include the city's bustling waterfront area – Momochi Seaside Park, the Kyushu National Museum, the Fukuoka Art Museum and the Robosquare Robot Museum which showcases a large number of robotic models and projects. There's something in store for everyone!
