fukuoka boat tour

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• Canal Boat Tour in Yanagawa

HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Canal Boat Tour in Yanagawa

A popular cruise along quiet waterways that can be enjoyed even in winter

Fukuoka Prefecture

A picturesque city in southwestern Fukuoka Prefecture, Yanagawa flourished as a castle town under the Tachibana clan, who ruled the region during the Edo period (1603-1868). The city features a network of waterways that spans a total length of about 470km, forming a unique landscape known as "Suigo” (water district). This scenic beauty inspired the great poet Kitahara Hakushu (1885-1942), who was born and raised in Yanagawa, as well as many other artists.

To enjoy this charming riverside city at its best, it is recommended to join the famous river boat tour which takes visitors along the canals of Yanagawa by the gondola-like traditional donko boat. Glide along the surface of the water and watch the beautiful scenery pass by as the boatman uses a pole to guide the boat down the ancient waterways. Take in the sound of the water gently lapping against the boat and the sight of the willow trees swaying in the wind. The scenery from the boat changes throughout the four seasons, making this tour an unforgettable experience year-round.

If you visit Yanagawa in the winter, you should definitely experience the traditional kotatsu boat, which allows you to comfortably enjoy the view from the river while warming up under a kotatsu (a Japanese heated table covered with a blanket). The kotatsu boat operates for a limited time from December to February.

After the ride, how about indulging in Yanagawa’s local specialty? Unagi seiro mushi is a traditional dish made by placing grilled eel and thin-sliced omelette over rice and steaming it in a bamboo steamer. In Yanagawa, there are many long-established eel restaurants, each one with its own recipe.  

How to get there

From Fukuoka Airport, take the subway to Tenjin Station (about 10 minutes). Walk 3 minutes to Nishitetsu Fukuoka Station, then take the train to Yanagawa Station (46 minutes).

Yanagawa-shi, Fukuoka-ken

VISIT FUKUOKA

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Kyushu Region | JNTO Official Website

Fukuoka Prefecture | JNTO Official Website

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Yanagawa River Cruise in Yanagawa, Japan

Created On: March 4, 2020   |   Updated: August 30, 2024   |   2 Comments

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links from which we may make commission from. As always, we only recommend places and products we love! In addition, we try our best to keep our articles up-to-date with current prices, locations, and hours of operation however we always recommend double-checking when planning a trip as these items can change frequently.

A Day Trip from Fukuoka: A Yanagawa River Cruise & Unagi Restaurants

Yanagawa is the perfect day trip from Fukuoka, which is why we also made it our first stop on our Japan road trip. It is a small town in the Fukuoka Prefecture (Kyushu Region). Hence, you might be wondering why we’d make time to visit here. But despite its size, this town is full of character and some rather unique activities including unagi restaurants where you can try barbecued freshwater eel and a leisurely Yanagawa River cruise around the town that takes visitors to many historical sights.

Where is Yanagawa Located?

Yanagawa is located in the Kyushu Region of Japan in the Fukuoka Prefecture. This town lies about an hour south of Fukuoka City, making it a great day trip from Fukuoka!

How To Get To Yanagawa

Traveling to Yanagawa by Car

Since we were traveling the Kyushu region by car we chose to drive to Yanagawa from Fukuoka. The drive took about an hour on the E3 highway and had some toll roads but it was really scenic and easy to drive!

Traveling to Yanagawa by Train

The easiest way to get to Yanagawa by train is from Fukuoka City. You’ll take the Nishitetsu Train from Nishitetsu Fukuoka Station to Yanagawa Station. The trip takes about 45 minutes one way. After getting to Yanagawa Station you can easily walk through the town of Yanagawa.

Parking in Yanagawa

If you decide to drive to Yanagawa as we did, you’ll want to find parking close to the Rankan-bashi Bridge which is next to the Shogetsu Punting Station where you can experience a Yanagawa river cruise and many of the other activities in Yanagawa.

There is a parking lot located right by the Rankan-bashi bridge that offers free parking but spots are limited. You can also park by the Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station which is a 5-minute walk to the Shogetsu Punting Station.

READ MORE: Things to Know About Driving in Japan

Transportation in Yanagawa

Walking Around Yanagawa

Since the town is relatively small it is easy to walk to many attractions and it’s a great way to explore more of the shops in the town! If driving or arriving by train, the Shogetsu Punting Station (where you go for the river cruise) is easily accessible on foot as it’s only a five-minute walk from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station.

Local Buses in Yanagawa

If you’d prefer not to walk the entire time you’re in Yanagawa, you can also catch one of the local buses or shuttles in Yanagawa.

If you do decide to ride a bus after your Yanagawa river cruise, there is a free shuttle that is available every hour on the hour from 12:00pm-5:30pm from the Rokkyu restaurant (near the exit of the boat ride). It takes you back to Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station or the Shogetsu Punting Station where the course began.

Because we weren’t able to catch the shuttle at the right time, we utilized a public bus after our river cruise to head back to our car. The public bus is available from the Ohana-mae bus stop and costs ~¥210/person to get to Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station.

Rental Bike

Since Yanagawa is a small town with many hidden places to explore it can easily be accessed by bicycle. Plus the views are really pretty along the canals, especially in the spring! There are three rental locations for bikes in Yanagawa including Nishitetu Yanagawa Station, Yanagawa Parking Ohana, and the Yanagawa City Tourist Information Center.

Cost: ¥500/day Hours: 9am-6pm daily

Yanagawa River Cruise

The hour-long Yanagawa River cruise is by far the most popular attraction in Yanagawa – especially during the spring when the canals are lined with many blooming sakura trees. This small town has become so popular with tourists and nearby locals, that it was dubbed the Venice of Japan (but with significantly fewer crowds!).

But before we go into our experience in Yanagawa, here’s a brief introduction. Yanagawa was originally a farming town in which the canals were used for irrigation. They have since been transformed into a tourist attraction where you can float down the canals in a wooden donkobune or punting boat with a local guide. 

The oarsman uses a single pole to guide the punting boat through the canals of Yanagawa while providing entertainment in the form of traditional folk songs in Japanese and pointing out many iconic landmarks in Yanagawa.

There are two kinds of Yanagawa river cruises that we saw, something we didn’t know prior to our arrival. The first is called the Shared Hakushu Course. It is a leisurely sightseeing boat ride that is shared with other tourists – this is the one we went on.

The shared punting cruise started at the Shogetsu Punting Station. We went inside the station where we paid for our cruise and got in line with other visitors who would be on our shared punting boat ride .

Since it was sunny when we went on our Yanagawa River cruise I was offered a hat to borrow for ¥100. For such a low cost, I couldn’t pass that up. I definitely welcomed the slight shade I was able to get from this handcrafted straw hat because of the summer heat!

Our hour-long cruise was mostly sightseeing but there was some adventure mixed in too! Some of the bridges are really short and narrow so you have to watch your head and duck. I can still hear our guide shouting “BE CAREFUL!” while also laughing as we went underneath each bridge.

We made a couple of short stops while gliding through the canals. One was a small snack shop that was serving ice cream, cold drinks, and a few other items. We also made a brief stop by the Yanagawa Castle ruins and a few other landmarks.

The private punting cruise that we saw was also a sightseeing cruise but provided a bit more thrilling entertainment and had a slightly different route. The private cruise also had much tighter corners and spaces to fit in! It also hosts fewer people if desired.

READ MORE: 2-Day Fukuoka Itinerary

Yanagawa River Cruise Information

Shared Punting Tour

The shared punting tour is shared with up to 22 people and is on one of the regular wooden punting boats. The shared punting tour course is one-way from Shogetsu Punting Station to Ohana and lasts about one hour. Tours start at 9:40am and leave every 30 minutes until 4:10pm daily.

Cost : ~¥1,650/adult, ¥830/child, children under 5 are free Hours: 9:30am-4pm daily

Private Punting Tour

The private punting tour takes you on the same course as the shared punting tour but is, as the name suggests, is a private tour. There are two different boats available, the first being the regular punting boat that can seat up to 22 people and the second being the cushioned-seat boat that can fit up to 6 people.

This Yanagawa river cruise would be perfect for couples who are interested in a more romantic boat ride or families who would prefer to rent their own boat too!

Cost: Regular Boat – ¥12,500 (up to 6 people), ¥1,650 each additional person over 6, Cushioned Boat – ¥15,000 Hours: 9:30am-4pm daily (reservation required)

Private Night Punting Tour

If you’d like to do an evening punting cruise to enjoy the canals at sunset, this is an option if you book in advance! It is the same as the regular private punting tour, except for the hours, and offers much less traffic because there are no shared tours at this time.

Cost: Regular Boat – ¥13,750 (up to 6 people), ¥1,820 each additional person over 6, Cushioned Boat – ¥16,500 Hours: 5pm-7pm daily (reservation required)

Book A Tour of Dazaifu & Yanagawa

Where to Eat in Yanagawa

After a Yanagawa River cruise, there are a few more things you should enjoy in Yanagawa. The first is, LUNCH! We recommend stopping at one of the local restaurants known for unagi seiro-mushi. Unagi is a freshwater eel that is typically steamed, covered in a special sauce, and served with rice.

But in Yanagawa, the unagi is grilled and brushed with rich soy sauce over a bed of rice that has been mixed with a special sauce. It is then covered with small strips of egg omelet and placed in a bamboo steamer. This delicacy is so popular in Yanagawa you can find over 20 restaurants that specialize in it!

Popular Unagi Restaurants in Yanagawa

Most of the restaurants below have hundreds of years of history in preparing unagi in a variety of ways. A few also have a terrific ambiance with tatami mat floors and scenic views of the riverbank to enjoy while you dine. The lines at some of these restaurants can get really long, so if you’re pressed for time you can always hop over to another restaurant!

• Ganso Motoyoshiya
• Motoyoshiya Okinohata
• Wakamatsuya

After lunch, consider stopping by some of the local gift shops to get some souvenirs or a drink before leaving Yanagawa. You’ll find many of the gift shops at the exit of the punting cruise. Inside the shops, there are a number of specialty local items including straw crafts and textile goods like tenugui towels. There are also food-related souvenirs such as onigiri (Japanese rice ball) with eel, fried eel crackers, shrimp crackers, and mochi.

If you are visiting Fukuoka, taking the short day trip to Yanagawa is definitely worth it for a quick river cruise and to try fresh unagi!

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply, comments & reviews.

April 29, 2024

Do I need to make reservations? Coming with my family of 6 adults and 4 children ages 6-10yo.

Kallsy says

May 14, 2024

Hi Bob! You don’t have to make reservations in advance. You can purchase tickets for the river cruise the same day you visit. Enjoy!

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Yanagawa River Cruising

Cruise along the moats in the city of Yanagawa, Fukuoka Prefecture

Located in the southern part of Fukuoka, Yanagawa is a castle town boasting over 400 years of history. When the castle was built, water-filled moats were also constructed throughout the town to protect the castle, which gave rise to Yanagawa’s reputation as the city of water. Today, it offers a leisurely tour that cruises down a 4-kilometer-long stretch of these moats that lasts about an hour.

Highlights of the river trip

As you ride a small boat known as “donko bune,” the boatmen skillfully steer the boat with their poles as they navigate down the river while entertaining you with charming tales and traditional songs. The waterways crisscross through the town, offering a scenic landscape unique to the city of water. Relax on the boat while immersing yourself in beautiful surrounding varied scenery such as the seasonal flowers and willow trees as well as the greenery in silhouette reflected on the water surface. The river trip lets you enjoy every season of the year: cherry trees in spring, refreshing waterside ambiance in summer, colorful leaves in autumn and kotatsu-like (table heater) setup in cold winter.

Seasonal flowers of Yanagawa

Yanagawa is also famous for seasonal flower viewing. In late March you can enjoy cherry blossoms, while at the end of April, the wisteria flowers are at their best including the 300-year-old “Nakayama-no-Ofuji” wisteria, which is designated as a natural monument of Fukuoka Prefecture. In addition, Japanese irises blossom in their glory from early June while the coastal area facing the Ariake Sea is covered with over 500,000 sunflowers in July.

Enjoy Yanagawa all year round

The city of Yanagawa boasts three sights designated as national scenic beauty, namely, Ohana, the former villa and garden built for Tachibana family, the feudal lord of Yanagawa clan; the former Toshima House (a samurai residence); and the water city of Yanagawa, which is the hometown of poet Hakushu Kitahara who depicted the area in his poetry. The beautiful views of the respective gardens as well as the riverside that lets you feel a seasonal charm are all a must-visit. Also, Yanagawa hosts various festivals for each season such as the girls’ festival Hina Matsuri Sagemon Meguri from February through April, the Okinohata Suitengu Shrine Festival in May, the Onigie Autumn Festival at Mihashira Shrine and the Hakushu Festival Suijo Parade.

Feast on “Unagi-no-Seiromushi”

“Unagi-no-Seiromushi,” or steamed eel on rice, is a representative local specialty of Yanagawa. Over 20 eel restaurants including some established during the Edo period (1603-1868) can be found within the city. Each offers its own unique flavor, so finding your favorite one can be also a fun experience of the trip.

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Guided Train and Boat Tour of Dazaifu & Yanagawa From Fukuoka

• Tour Reviews

Set out on a journey of discovery with the Guided Train and Boat Tour of Dazaifu & Yanagawa from Fukuoka. This extraordinary tour takes travelers on a captivating exploration of two hidden gems in Japan’s rich cultural tapestry.

Like stepping into a timeless painting, Dazaifu and Yanagawa offer breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into the nation’s history. With glowing reviews and a perfect rating, this tour promises an immersive experience like no other.

Expert guides will lead the way, sharing their knowledge and passion for these enchanting destinations. From the well-organized itinerary to the mesmerizing beauty of Yanagawa, often likened to the famous canals of Venice, this tour guarantees an unforgettable adventure.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the wonders of Dazaifu and Yanagawa.

Great News! You can reserve your spot for free with Viator. You can easliy cancel any time up to 1 day before without paying anything.

Quick Takeaways

• Highly recommended and bountiful experience according to Emma_P
• Well-organized tour with individual support, leading to a satisfying day according to Holger_O
• Yanagawa is a beautiful city of water, often compared to Venice in Japan according to wtung2000
• Fantastic experience with friendly and knowledgeable tour guide, Mayumi , providing cultural and historical information according to Armando_M

Tour Overview

The tour overview provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty and cultural richness of Dazaifu and Yanagawa from Fukuoka. This guided train and boat tour offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore the local culture and explore the hidden gems of these charming cities.

Along With witnessing the stunning landscapes and architecture, the tour also includes food recommendations that showcase the region’s culinary delights. Travelers will have the chance to savor traditional dishes and discover the flavors that make Dazaifu and Yanagawa special.

From visiting historical shrines to cruising along scenic waterways, this tour promises to be both informative and entertaining. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover , or simply looking to soak in the local culture, this tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Dazaifu and Yanagawa.

Dazaifu: A Historical Gem

Dazaifu is renowned for its rich historical significance and can be considered a gem among the cities in Japan.

With a history spanning over 1,300 years , this ancient capital of Kyushu holds a treasure trove of historical landmarks .

One of the most prominent landmarks in Dazaifu is the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and politician from the Heian period. This shrine isn’t only a popular pilgrimage site but also a place where students come to pray for success in their studies.

Another notable historical site is the Kyushu National Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits that depict the region’s cultural heritage.

Visitors can enjoy Dazaifu’s history by exploring these fascinating landmarks and understanding the significance they hold.

Yanagawa: The City of Water

A boat tour through Yanagawa offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s picturesque waterways and charming ambiance. Yanagawa’s scenic beauty and cultural heritage combine to create a truly unique experience. Here are three reasons why Yanagawa should be on every traveler’s itinerary:

• Waterways: Yanagawa is often referred to as the ‘Venice of Japan’ due to its extensive network of canals. The boat tour allows you to leisurely glide along these waterways, passing under charming stone bridges and alongside traditional Japanese houses. It’s a tranquil and scenic experience that showcases the city’s natural beauty.
• Yanagawa Castle Ruins: Explore the remnants of Yanagawa Castle, which was once a powerful stronghold during the Edo period. The castle ruins offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and provide stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Traditional Crafts: Yanagawa is known for its traditional crafts, such as Hakata dolls and Yanagawa-style pottery. Take the opportunity to visit local workshops and learn about these time-honored crafts that have been passed down through generations.

Yanagawa’s blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience.

Train and Boat Experience

Visitors to Yanagawa can embark on a train and boat experience that showcases the city’s scenic waterways and cultural heritage. This unique combination allows travelers to explore the beautiful rivers of Yanagawa while seeing the local history and traditions. The train and boat tour takes approximately one hour from Fukuoka, making it easily accessible for day trips.

During the scenic river tour , passengers can admire the breathtaking views of Yanagawa’s waterways, which have earned the city the nickname "Venice of Japan." The serene atmosphere and picturesque landscapes create a tranquil and memorable experience for travelers. The tour also includes a visit to a local shrine and informative commentary from knowledgeable guides, providing insights into the Japanese culture and history.

To give you an idea of the positive feedback from previous participants, here is a breakdown of the ratings from Viator and Tripadvisor reviews:

These stellar reviews reflect the high level of satisfaction among visitors who have taken part in this train and boat experience. With its combination of scenic beauty and culture, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Yanagawa.

Booking and Pricing Information

When it comes to booking and pricing information for the Guided Train and Boat Tour of Dazaifu & Yanagawa from Fukuoka, travelers can find all the details they need to plan their excursion. Here is what they need to know:

• Booking Process : Travelers can easily book the tour online through Viator’s website. They can select their preferred date and time, and choose the number of participants. The booking process is quick and convenient, allowing travelers to secure their spots in advance.
• Group Discounts : The pricing for the tour varies based on the group size. Travelers can take advantage of group discounts , making it a great option for families, friends , or even corporate outings. The more people in the group, the lower the price per person.
• Lowest Price Guarantee: Viator offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring that travelers are getting the best possible price for the tour. If they find a lower price for the same tour elsewhere, Viator will refund the difference.

With these booking and pricing details in hand, travelers can easily plan their guided train and boat tour of Dazaifu & Yanagawa from Fukuoka.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the guided train and boat tour of dazaifu & yanagawa from fukuoka.

The duration of the guided train and boat tour of Dazaifu & Yanagawa from Fukuoka is approximately [insert duration]. There is no age requirement for this tour, making it suitable for all travelers.

Can Children Participate in the Tour? Is There a Minimum Age Requirement?

Children of all ages can participate in the guided train and boat tour of Dazaifu & Yanagawa from Fukuoka. This family-friendly activity does not have a minimum age requirement, making it suitable for all members of the family.

Are Meals Included in the Tour Package?

Yes, meals are included in the tour package. The package offers a variety of dining options, including vegetarian options. Beverages are also provided with meals, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable culinary experience for all participants.

Is There Any Free Time for Exploration or Shopping During the Tour?

During the Guided Train and Boat Tour of Dazaifu & Yanagawa From Fukuoka, participants have ample free time for exploration. There are also shopping opportunities available, allowing guests to indulge in some retail therapy.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Expenses That Participants Should Be Aware Of?

Participants should be aware that there are no additional fees or hidden costs associated with the Guided Train and Boat Tour of Dazaifu & Yanagawa From Fukuoka. The price includes all expenses for the tour.

To sum it up, the guided train and boat tour of Dazaifu and Yanagawa from Fukuoka offers travelers an exceptional experience to explore the rich history and breathtaking beauty of Japan.

With rave reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary , and the enchanting city of Yanagawa, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable journey.

With prices starting at $162.02 and a guarantee of the lowest price, this tour promises to be a truly rewarding and immersive cultural adventure.

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Top 10 Experiences in Fukuoka

Amazing food, history, nightlife: Fukuoka has it all!

Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu, hauls in the excitement of major metropolises like Tokyo or Osaka but in a more compact seaside scene with quality art museums, rich local history and traditions, standout architecture, world-renowned food, impressive urban beaches and huge shopping centers—all closely surrounded by rural treasures.

A place so rich in attractions can make choosing what to visit a pretty daunting dilemma even for the most seasoned travelers. Here are 10 of the top experiences in Fukuoka to get you started on your adventure.

1. Hakata Doll Painting

Hakata dolls are brilliant souvenirs to take back home from your trip to Japan. And a gift of one can be even more meaningful if you are the one who made it!

These delicate and beautiful clay dolls, painted and dressed in a traditional manner, comprise an art originating in the 17th century in Hakata, the historic core of Fukuoka. The techniques have been handed down, generation after generation, surviving to this day. Now non-professionals can even give it a try.

Hakata doll painting sessions are a fun and relaxing way to experience some real traditional Japan, and take a piece of it with you.

• How to get here : A 3-minute walk from the Nakasu-Kawabata subway station, Exit 3, or one-minute walk from the Higashi-Nakasu bus stop in Fukuoka City.
• Address : 5-1-22 Nakasu, Hakata ward, Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture 810-0801
• How to book : Email [email protected] . From ¥2,160 per person.
• More info : Shogetsudo (in Japanese only)

Literally “shop stand,” yatai are food carts with a long and popular history in Fukuoka. Each yatai seats up to a dozen people in an intimate and lively outdoor setting that allows for a very unusual and friendly dining experience. They mostly specialize in ramen—including Tonkotsu ramen (pork bone broth noodles)—but there are a few other specialties and all of them serve a variety of Japanese food, beer, and sake.

There are about a hundred yatai in the city, and you’ll find them, from evening to early morning, in bunches along the streets or riverside in the Nakasu and Tenjin districts, right in the middle of bustling nightlife. When you visit Fukuoka, treat yourself to a dish (or 10) by experiencing this local culinary tradition.

• How to get here : Walk out the west side of Canal City Hakata and you’ll find yatai along the Naka River. In Tenjin, there is a group at the corner of Showa-dori and Nishi-dori (also known as Oyafuko-dori). There are also a few on Showa-dori and Meiji-dori in Nakasu.
• More info : Yatai Mami-chan , Kokin-chan Yatai

3. Ramen-Making Experience

When in Fukuoka, how about learning how to make ramen from scratch?

Ramen is one of those dishes that scream Japan, and trying a good bowl for the first time, especially in Fukuoka, can be a truly revealing experience—it's nothing like the instant variety. This is the home of Hakata ramen, famous for its characteristic thin noodles and rich pork-bone broth. There’s no better place in the world in which to learn how to make your own delicious ramen.

The three-hour workshop at Child Kitchen started in 2003 with the goal of teaching children to enjoy food as an experience. It’s fun and instructive and, as their motto states, “an adult can become a child again” by preparing ramen. Classes are three hours long. Be ready to get a little dirty and enjoy the experience.

And here’s the kicker: this workshop was created by Ippudo Ramen, one of the most famous names in ramen, with shops throughout Japan and in thirteen other countries around the world.

• How to get here : Take a bus number 8, 17, 29, 40, 44, or 45 from Hakata Station or a number 44 from in front of Tenjin Core or a number 8 at Kego Jinja-Mitsukoshi-mae bus stop in Tenjin.
• Address : 2-2-7 Sanno, Hakata ward, Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture 812-0015
• How to book : See website - note that bookings can only be presently concluded in Japanese. Sessions last 3 hours and are priced at ¥1,800 (for ages 3 over)
• More info : Child Kitchen (in Japanese only)

4. Shikanoshima Cycling

For the outdoorsy among you, this experience, also known as “The Blue Path Bicycle Trip,” is a must-try tour through the forest, past fishing harbors, and along the beaches and rocky coastline of Shikanoshima in Fukuoka City.

This can be the best way to see the city outside of downtown at your own pace. A guide will show you around, explain the history and fun facts of every place you see, and introduce you to amazing local restaurants.

You’ll have your choice of high-quality bike types, rented in three-hour intervals, with service available at four cycle stations. The course takes you through narrow neighborhood streets, charming beaches, mystic temples and shrines, and the awe-inspiring overlook at Shiomi Park.

• How to get here : Access the cycle stations by ferry from Fukuoka Tower or Bayside Place Hakata to Saitozaki in Uminonakamichi. Or take a train on the Uminonakamichi Line (from Hakata change at Kashii) to Gannosu, Uminonakamichi, or Saitozaki stations where you’ll find cycle stations.
• More info : Cycletourism Fukuoka

5. Yame Traditional Crafts Museum and Japanese Papermaking Experience

In the city of Yame, you’ll find the Traditional Crafts Museum. Here you can enjoy a plethora of exhibits, all hand crafted, ranging from lanterns and hina dolls to armor and Buddhist shrines (including Japan’s largest one).

You can also learn how to craft items using traditional Japanese paper known as washi, taking a step beyond visiting Japan and entering an experience of Japan’s culture.

• How to get here : It’s a 15-minute taxi ride from Hainuzuka Station on the Kyushu Shinkansen Line. The museum is located in downtown Yame near the Konomi Honke Tea Room.
• Address : 2-123-2 Motomachi, Yame city, Fukuoka Prefecture 834-0031
• How to book : See website - note that bookings can only be presently concluded in Japanese. Prices between ¥600-800.
• More info : Traditional Crafts Museum (in Japanese only)

6. Konomi Honke Tea Room

When visiting Yame, one of the premiere tea-growing regions in Japan, the Konomi Honke Tea Room is the prime place to enjoy the region’s tea in a most proper way. You’ll take part in a beautiful tea ceremony and taste the best matcha (ceremonial green tea) of your life in a gorgeous and historic Japanese building.

Let’s not forget that Yame-cha is one of the most highly prized green teas in a country that’s world famous for its green tea!

• How to get here : It’s a 15-minute taxi ride from Hainuzuka Station on the Kyushu Shinkansen Line. The tea room in downtown Yame lies near the Yame Traditional Crafts Museum.
• Address : 126 Motomachi, Yame city, Fukuoka Prefecture 834-0031
• How to book : Tea ceremony from ¥756 – note that bookings can only be presently conducted in Japanese.
• More info : Konomi Honke Tea Room (in Japanese only)

7. Okawa Woodwork Museum Experience

The city of Okawa has been, for 460 years, a synonym for fine wood craftsmanship and high-quality wooden furniture. This woodwork museum sports sculptures of famous artists and a large section on kumiko, a Japanese style of woodwork with intricate designs that don’t employ any nails or screws.

Here you can learn how to do it by joining one of the workshops that the museum offers. It’s easy enough that children can create their own kumiko piece.

• How to get here : Take a 10-minute taxi ride from Yakabe Station on the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line or a 20-minute taxi ride from Hainuzuka Station on the Kyushu Shinkansen Line.
• Address : 1231-2 Mitsumaru, Okawa city, Fukuoka Prefecture 831-0026
• How to book : Contact [email protected] . Workshop costs ¥1,500
• More info : Okawa Woodwork Museum (in Japanese only)

8. Yanagawa Boat Tour

These boat tours (' kawakudari' , lit. “going downstream”) navigate the extensive canals of Yanagawa , considered the Venice of Japan. Your trip on one of the motorless flat longboats, pushed along by a navigator with a long pole, will pass historic buildings and pretty willow-lined streets filled with cafes and restaurants specializing in freshwater eel, the local delicacy.

You can enjoy a 30-minute or 1-hour tour, either in groups or on a privately-rented boat with more comfortable seating and the option to choose the course of the tour or take it in the evening hours.

• How to get here : Access is a 5-minute walk from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station. After the ride, take the shuttle bus back to the start point or the station.
• More info : Yanagawa Kankyo Kaihatsu

9. Shiro Kunimitsu: Japanese Swords

Wield your own Japanese sword under the tutelage of an experienced, master craftsman at Shiro Kunimitsu. This unique experience, known as Tameshigiri (art of test cutting), will see you learn the proper techniques and posture, before cutting through a target pillar (a rolled-up layer of goza , used on tatami mats). Japanese swords, having been the quintessential tool of the samurai, have reached the highest levels of fine craftsmanship. Near Yanagawa, in the city of Omuta, Shiro Kunimitsu has continued the tradition of sword making for over 230 years into the modern era, making this location a great place to try wielding them for yourself.

• How to get here : Walk 2 minutes from Kuranaga Station on the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line; it’s also reachable with a 5-minute taxi ride from Yoshino Station on the JR Kagoshima Line.
• Address : 105-1 Kuranaga, Omuta city, Fukuoka Prefecture 837-0906
• How to book : Session price is ¥3,000 per person, minimum 5 people per booking – note that bookings are only conducted in Japanese.
• More info : Shiro Kunimitsu (in Japanese only)

10. Hakata-Ori Textiles

The greatest pride of Fukuoka’s traditional crafts is its Hakata-ori textiles. These exquisitely designed and distinctively patterned fabrics have been practiced for over 800 years. Hakata Machiya Folk Museum offers exhibition halls in beautifully restored traditional Japanese buildings showing the many uses of Hakata-ori as well as a look into other local traditions. You can see museum pieces renowned for their quality and beauty, purchase items in the souvenir shop, and can even participate in a workshop that introduces the weaving process.

• How to get here : A 15-minute walk or 5-minute taxi ride from Hakata Station in Fukuoka City, near Kushida Shrine .
• More info : Hakata Machiya Folk Museum

Fukuoka Prefecture is one of the top destinations for visitors of Japan, and it’s easy to see why. It magically espouses the bustling lifestyle of Tokyo, and the charm, culture, and tradition of Kyoto. From food to art, from history to nightlife, Fukuoka won’t cease to amaze you.

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By Italian in Japan (L. Maurizi)

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Keya no Oto Boat Tour

T he town of Keya is awesome in many ways. It’s got sandy beaches, some of the best surf points, fresh seafood restaurants, a golf course, and it’s home to many talented craftspeople. It’s also the location of one Kyushu’s wondrous power spots: the sea caves of Keya no Oto. It’s a huge cave with columned walls of pitch-black hexagonal and octagonal rocks. Measuring 64 meters high and 90 meters deep, it faces the rough waves of the Genkai Sea and it’s one of Japan’s three largest basalt (volcanic rock) caves. Between mid-March and November you can get up close on a 25-minute boat tour and if the water is calm, the boat will enter the cave.

Keya no Oto Boat at Keya Fishing Port • 9:30~16:30 daily (weather permitting) • Adult (JHS and above): ¥800, Child (2 y.o. and over): ¥400

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