FUKUOKA & NAGASAKI
Kyūshū’s North is a dynamic blend of modern urban energy and profound historical depth. It encompasses Fukuoka, a vibrant hub for food and innovation, and Nagasaki, a historic port shaped by centuries of international trade.
This region is the historic gateway to Asia, offering a unique mosaic of Japanese, Chinese, and European influences. It is a land of resilient spirit, famous for its regional cuisine and breathtaking coastal beauty.
Most Popular Attractions
City Cores: History, Culture & Urban Life
Dazaifu Tenmangū Shrine (Fukuoka): The head shrine for over 12,000 Tenmangū shrines, dedicated to the god of scholarship, Sugawara Michizane.
Kushida Shrine (Fukuoka): One of Hakata’s oldest and most important Shinto shrines, famous as the focal point of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
Dejima (Nagasaki): A fan-shaped artificial island that served as the sole Dutch trading post and Japan’s only point of direct contact with the West during the isolation period.
Oura Cathedral (Nagasaki): The oldest Christian church in Japan, famous for its Gothic architecture and as a national treasure.
Shimabara Castle (Nagasaki): A reconstructed feudal castle with a museum showcasing local history, Christian artifacts, and samurai culture.
Megane Bridge (Spectacles Bridge) (Nagasaki): An elegant 17th-century stone arch bridge, named for the spectacle shape created by its reflection in the Nakashima River.
Glover Garden (Nagasaki): An open-air museum preserving several Western-style homes of former foreign residents, offering panoramic city and harbor views.
Fukuoka Castle Ruins (Fukuoka): The historic remnants of the largest castle in Kyūshū, now a spacious park ideal for walking and cherry blossom viewing.
Tochoji Temple (Fukuoka): A major Shingon Buddhist temple housing a towering five-story pagoda and a massive wooden Great Buddha statue.
Nagasaki Chinatown: The oldest Chinatown in Japan, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and local specialty dishes like Champon and Sara Udon.
Hakata Machiya Folk Museum (Fukuoka): A museum that preserves the lifestyle and culture of the Hakata area during the Meiji and Taisho eras.
Modern Sites & Entertainment
Fukuoka Tower: Japan’s tallest seaside tower, offering a 360-degree observation deck with stunning views of the city and Hakata Bay.
Canal City Hakata (Fukuoka): A large, vibrant shopping and entertainment complex known as a “city within the city,” featuring a canal running through it.
BOSS E・ZO FUKUOKA: A modern entertainment complex near PayPay Dome featuring unique, thrilling attractions like the ZEKKEI Slider and a Gundam Park.
Huis Ten Bosch (Nagasaki): A massive theme park and resort recreating a 17th-century Dutch town with canals, European architecture, and seasonal flower displays.
Tenjin Underground Shopping Center (Fukuoka): A stylish and extensive underground arcade connecting two major train/subway stations with hundreds of shops.
Parks, Nature & Spiritual Sites
Ohori Park (Fukuoka): A large city park modeled after Hangzhou’s West Lake, featuring a central pond, islands, and walking paths.
Nagasaki Peace Park & Atomic Bomb Museum (Nagasaki): A solemn and powerful site commemorating the atomic bombing, featuring the iconic Peace Statue and a historical museum.
Mount Inasa (Inasayama) (Nagasaki): An observation deck providing one of Japan’s best “10 Million Dollar Night Views” of the city.
Nanzoin Temple (Fukuoka): Home to a colossal bronze statue of a Reclining Buddha, one of the largest in the world.
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park (Fukuoka): A vast national park on a sandbar peninsula, featuring seasonal flowers, a zoo, and bicycle rentals.
Kujūkushima Pearl Sea Resort (Nagasaki): An area featuring an aquarium, boat cruises among the stunning 99 islands (Kujūkushima), and coastal views.
Cuisine & Regional Experiences
Yatai (Food Stalls) (Fukuoka): A signature feature of Fukuoka’s nightlife, with dozens of outdoor stalls clustered in areas like Nakasu and Tenjin serving local favorites like Hakata Ramen.
Toruko Rice (Nagasaki): A unique local specialty dish that typically includes pilaf, spaghetti, and a pork cutlet (tonkatsu) topped with demiglace sauce.
Activities & Experiences
Go on a Yatai (Food Stall) Hopping Tour: Experience the iconic Hakata nightlife in Fukuoka by dining at the clustered yatai stalls in Nakasu, Tenjin, or Nagahama for local specialties like Tonkotsu Ramen, yakitori (grilled skewers), and oden (hot pot).
Reflect at the Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum: Pay respects at the Hypocenter Park and the Peace Statue, then visit the museum for a powerful and moving historical experience dedicated to world peace.
Stroll through Glover Garden: Explore this hillside park in Nagasaki with beautiful views of the harbor and a collection of preserved Western-style residences, including the oldest wooden Western-style building in Japan (Former Glover Residence).
Experience a Traditional Japanese Festival: If visiting in July, witness the spectacular Hakata Gion Yamakasa in Fukuoka, featuring massive, ornate floats and a thrilling morning race. Or, attend the vibrant Nagasaki Lantern Festival during Chinese New Year (usually Feb).
Visit Dazaifu Tenmangū Shrine: Take a day trip from Fukuoka to this important Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of scholarship, walking along the quaint, traditional path known for its unique umegae mochi (sweet bean paste cakes).
Take a Night View Ropeway Ride up Mount Inasa: Enjoy one of Japan’s most spectacular night views, often called a “million-dollar view,” from the observatory on Mount Inasa overlooking Nagasaki City.
Find Solitude at Nanzōin Temple: Visit this large Buddhist temple near Fukuoka, home to a massive bronze reclining Buddha (Nehanzō) that is a significant religious and photographic sight.
Explore Huis Ten Bosch: Spend a day at this Dutch-themed amusement park in Sasebo (Nagasaki Prefecture), featuring European architecture, seasonal flowers, and various attractions.
Learn a Local Craft: Participate in a workshop to try your hand at making local delicacies like Wagashi (Japanese sweets) or Hakata Doll painting in Fukuoka, or explore traditional Arita/Imari pottery in the nearby area.
Cruise the Kujūkushima Islands: Take a sightseeing boat tour from Sasebo to navigate the bay dotted with over 200 small, forested islands, which are part of Saikai National Park.
Discover Local Cuisine Beyond Ramen: In Nagasaki, try Champon (a noodle dish with seafood and vegetables) and Shippoku Ryori (a unique Nagasaki banquet cuisine combining Chinese, Japanese, and Western flavors). In Fukuoka, try Motsunabe (offal hot pot).
Local Tips & Transport
Fukuoka City’s Compact System: Fukuoka is one of Japan’s most convenient cities for travel. The city center (Hakata/Tenjin) is easily navigated by a single, efficient subway line (Kūkō Line), and Fukuoka Airport is just a 5-minute subway ride from Hakata Station.
Travel Between Cities: The Nishi Kyūshū Shinkansen (Kamome) and the Limited Express train connect Fukuoka (Hakata) and Nagasaki in about 1.5 hours with a simple cross-platform transfer at Takeo-Onsen. This is the fastest method.
- Highway Buses are a budget-friendly alternative, taking around 2.5 hours between the two city centers.
Nagasaki’s Trams: Nagasaki is best explored using its quaint and extensive Electric Tramway network. It costs a flat fare per ride ($\approx ¥150$), and a One-Day Pass ($ \approx ¥600$) is recommended for frequent travelers within the city.
IC Cards are Essential: Use a rechargeable IC card (like Nimoca or Suica) for smooth, touch-and-go travel on local subways, buses, and trams in both cities. They can often be used for purchases at convenience stores as well.
Car for Rural Exploration: While the cities are well-connected, a rental car is the best option for exploring the stunning natural areas like the Shimabara Peninsula (Nagasaki) or the scenic Itoshima peninsula (Fukuoka).
Ramen Etiquette: Tonkotsu Ramen is the heart of Fukuoka’s food scene. At yatai or traditional shops, be prepared for a rich, oily broth. You can often request how firm you want your noodles (a concept called barikata is extra-firm). Don’t be shy about asking for a second serving of noodles (a kaedama) once you’ve finished the first.
Understanding Nagasaki’s History: Nagasaki has a unique history as Japan’s only open port during the isolationist Edo period. This led to a distinct blend of Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese cultural influences evident in its cuisine (Champon, Castella Cake) and architecture (Glover Garden).
The Yatai Culture: Yatai (food stalls) are a symbol of Fukuoka but have strict rules. They are primarily for dining, so try to buy a drink or food as soon as you sit down. They are generally small, and reservations aren’t taken, so don’t linger too long during busy times.
Visit in Spring or Autumn: Like much of Japan, the Cherry Blossom season (late March/early April) and Autumn Foliage (late October/November) offer the most pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. The summers are hot and humid, and the rainy season is typically in June.
Hidden Gems:
- Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge): This iconic stone bridge in Nagasaki forms a “spectacle” reflection in the water and is a picturesque spot, especially if you can spot the hidden heart-shaped stone nearby.
- Yanagawa’s Canal Boats: Just south of Fukuoka, take a slow-paced donkobune (river boat) ride through the old castle town canals of Yanagawa, often with a boatman singing traditional songs.
- Ōura Cathedral: Located in Nagasaki, this is the oldest existing Christian church in Japan and is a National Treasure, reflecting the city’s profound history with Christianity.
- Kawachi Wisteria Garden: A short trip from Fukuoka, this seasonal garden is famous for its stunning wisteria tunnels in late April/early May (booking often required).
Language: While major hotels and train stations will have English support, learning a few Japanese phrases will greatly enhance your interaction, especially at smaller yatai or shops.
Top Restaurants
Hakata Daruma [$10-$20] – A classic, decades-old yatai (street stall) turned restaurant in the Tenjin area, famous for its rich, authentic Hakata-style tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen.
Ganso Ramen Nagahamake [$10-$20] – Located in the Nagahama area, this spot is close to the fish market and is often credited as one of the original homes of the creamy tonkotsu ramen style. A true local’s choice.
Motsunabe Oisho [$25-$40] – A top-rated restaurant for motsunabe (offal hot pot), a Fukuoka specialty. They are known for their high-quality, perfectly cleaned offal and their soy-sauce-based soup.
Yamamoto Motsunabe [$25-$40] – Another local favorite for motsunabe, offering a traditional atmosphere. Their miso-based broth is particularly popular and rich in flavor.
Hanamidori Nakasu [$30-$50] – Specializing in Mizutaki, a Fukuoka chicken hot pot. The broth is simmered for hours until it’s milky white, served with high-quality local chicken and dipped in ponzu (citrus-based sauce).
Daichi no Udon [$10-$20] – Known for Fukuoka-style udon, which features soft, thick noodles and a light, clear broth typically topped with crispy gobo (burdock root) tempura. A very popular lunch spot near Hakata Station.
Umi no Sachi [$35-$60] – Located near the Nagahama Fish Market, this restaurant is highly-regarded for its extremely fresh seafood, including high-quality sashimi and kaisen-don (seafood rice bowl).
Hakata Hanamaru-Dori [$20-$35] – A small, popular restaurant specializing in yakitori (grilled skewers) made with local chicken. A lively izakaya experience popular with locals.
Yakiniku Sudo [$50-$90] – Known for high-quality, often A5 grade, Wagyu beef expertly prepared and grilled over charcoal. A local favorite for a special yakiniku experience.
Ajidokoro Suzuya [$15-$30] – A hidden gem in the Hakata area, this tiny, unassuming shop serves excellent, classic Hakata-style dishes, including champon (a noodle dish distinct from Nagasaki’s version) and local set meals.
Sushi Kappo Nami [$50-$80] – A traditional sushi counter that focuses on seasonal fish caught in the local Genkai Sea, offering an authentic Hakata-style sushi experience.
Kawabata-an [$15-$30] – A well-loved soba (buckwheat noodle) shop in the Kawabata area, serving hand-made noodles with a delicious dashi broth. Great for a quick, traditional, and authentic meal.
Tetsunabe [$20-$35] – Considered one of the best places in Fukuoka for tetsunabe gyoza—small, crispy, pan-fried dumplings served sizzling in a cast-iron pan. A perfect izakaya snack.
Shikairo [$20-$40] – The originator of Champon, a famous Nagasaki specialty. This landmark Chinese restaurant has five floors and offers excellent harbor views along with its signature noodle dishes.
Yossou [$20-$40] – A long-established restaurant famous for its Chawanmushi (savory egg custard) and Shippoku cuisine, a unique Nagasaki dining style that blends Japanese, Chinese, and Dutch influences.
Kagetsu [$70-$120] – A historic and highly-regarded restaurant specializing in Nagasaki’s unique Shippoku cuisine. Dining here is a refined cultural experience in a beautiful, traditional setting.
Goto Udon Marutakeya [$15-$25] – Specializes in Goto Udon, one of Japan’s top three udon types, known for its thin, oil-coated noodles. A great place to try a local noodle variety.
Kurofune Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located in the Chinatown area, this spot is known for its excellent Kakuni Manju (braised pork belly in a steamed bun) and other traditional Chinese-influenced Nagasaki dishes.
Ajidokoro Takumi [$30-$50] – A popular spot in the city center for local seafood and high-quality Nagasaki-style set meals, often featuring fresh seasonal catches.
La Maison de la Nature Goh [$100-$150] – An internationally recognized restaurant offering highly creative, modern cuisine that blends French techniques with local Japanese ingredients, focusing on an intimate experience. Reservations are essential.
AIGNON [$60-$100] – A French bistro in the Daimyo area with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. The chef’s creative French cuisine utilizes excellent local Kyushu ingredients.
Shin-An [$50-$80] – A popular, modern izakaya in the Tenjin area that offers creative, updated versions of classic Japanese dishes, along with an excellent sake and shochu selection.
Aji Takebayashi [$80-$130] – A modern Japanese restaurant with a flexible approach, creating unique dishes by blending traditional Japanese techniques with elements of Western and Chinese cuisine.
Nishimuraya [$25-$40] – A modern ramen shop produced by a Michelin-starred chef, known for its creative “Pork Creamy” ramen base which blends Japanese dashi, bouillon, and cheese.
Yatai Chez Rémy [$20-$40] – A unique and popular yatai (street stall) that serves creative French cuisine, an unexpected but highly praised offering in Fukuoka’s street food scene.
Espresso D Works Fukuoka [$20-$35] – A trendy spot in the Tenjin area known for its chic atmosphere and creative dishes like unique pancakes and galettes, ideal for a stylish brunch or lunch.
Restaurant Pavé [$35-$60] – Located near Glover Garden, this restaurant offers modern Western cuisine blended with local Nagasaki dishes, including unique vegetarian/vegan champon options.
Toruko Rice and Lemon Steak Shops [$15-$30] – Nagasaki is famous for Toruko Rice (Turkish Rice) and Lemon Steak. Look for small, local shops that specialize in these unique, Western-influenced fusion dishes.
Chisou Nakamura [$180-$500+] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exceptional Kaiseki (traditional multi-course dinner) experience that elegantly utilizes seasonal ingredients from all over Japan.
Sushi Kubota [$100-$180] – A highly-regarded sushi spot that has been awarded a Michelin star. The chef has a unique, non-conventional approach, famously choosing not to serve tuna, focusing on other superb seasonal local fish.
Ippongi Ishibashi [$80-$160] – A Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an exceptional course menu, skillfully blending the elegance of Japanese Kaiseki with the precision of Edomae-style sushi.
Sushi Shin [$150-$250] – Considered one of Fukuoka’s top sushi experiences, the chef is known for his dedication to traditional Edomae techniques combined with the freshest local Kyushu catches.
Japanese creative restaurant NAGAOKA [$150-$200] – Offers a serene and refined Omakase (chef’s tasting course) experience that masterfully blends tradition with innovation, using the finest seasonal Japanese ingredients.
Wagyu Hirata [$70-$120] – Located in the city center, this restaurant specializes in the high-quality local Nagasaki Wagyu beef, prepared exquisitely as steak or yakiniku.
Tenpura Yoshiki [$100-$180] – Offers refined, high-end tempura cuisine, where seasonal seafood and vegetables are lightly battered and fried to perfection, often in a traditional and intimate setting.
Lekker [$50-$90] – A long-established restaurant known for its refined Western-style cuisine, including local specialty Toruko Rice, elevated to a high-end dining experience.
Nagahama Yatai Village [$15-$30] – Not one restaurant, but a cluster of yatai (food stalls) near the Nagahama Fish Market. This is a must-visit for an authentic, social, and vibrant street food experience, serving ramen, yakitori, and more.
Nakasu-Kawabata Yatai Area [$15-$30] – Located near the Nakasu River, this is the most atmospheric and famous cluster of food stalls, where you can hop from stall to stall trying various local snacks and specialties.
Yanagibashi Rengo Market [$10-$25] – Known as “Hakata’s Kitchen,” this is a historic market with numerous stalls where you can get incredibly fresh, reasonably priced seafood like sashimi and kaisen-don for a casual lunch.
Chikae Fukuoka [$30-$50] – Famous for its massive dining hall featuring a large central tank filled with fresh seafood. This is a very popular spot for tourists and locals alike, known for its lively atmosphere and excellent set lunch menus.
FUK COFFEE [$10-$20] – A stylish and popular cafe located near Hakata Station, themed around airports and travel. While primarily a coffee shop, it’s a unique spot for a casual break.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Bar Cherokee (Fukuoka, Daimyo): An establishment known for its old-world elegance and refined atmosphere, a classic choice for a sophisticated evening in the Daimyo neighborhood.
Bar Oscar (Fukuoka, Daimyo): Offers an evergreen selection of Japanese pours and expertly crafted cocktails, solidifying its place as a top-tier bar in the popular Daimyo district.
Bar Kitchen (Fukuoka, Tenjin): Situated near Tenjin, this bar boasts an impressive whisky library and a stylish, welcoming environment for enjoying both classic and inventive drinks.
Yorozu Bar (Fukuoka, Keyaki-dori): Maintains an atmosphere of austere beauty, serving exquisite tea and beautifully crafted cocktails in a space that blends Japanese aesthetics with modern design.
THE BAR NAGASAKI (Nagasaki, Saiwai-cho): Located on the top floor of a hotel, this bar offers a stunning panoramic view of Nagasaki’s nightscape, perfect for enjoying a carefully crafted cocktail or fine whisky.
Bar Fuji (Fukuoka, Tenjin): Known for its cozy atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails, this bar in the Tenjin area is a favorite for those seeking a more intimate experience.
Bar Nagare (Nagasaki, City Center): A warm and comfortable spot run by a couple, often filled with laughter and known for its friendly, local vibe in the Nagasaki city center.
Bar Amber (Nagasaki, City Center): A small gem where highly skilled bartenders prepare drinks, making it a preferred spot for serious drink enthusiasts in Nagasaki.
Lohas Beach Bar (Fukuoka, Haruyoshi): Located on a second floor in the Haruyoshi area, this bar has a sociable crowd and good vibes, often featuring an eclectic music selection.
Carib Soul (Fukuoka, Haruyoshi): A tiny, unassuming bar specializing in Reggae music and Latin jazz, run by a friendly owner in a side street off the main Haruyoshi area.
MYMON (Fukuoka, Hakata Station): Situated in the Amu Plaza Hakata building, this bar offers a selection of wine, whisky, and cocktails in a chic, convenient location near the station.
Cocktail Tavern Bang Boo (Fukuoka, Hirao/Kiyokawa): A dining bar known for its cocktails, offering a comfortable spot for dinner and late-night drinks slightly south of the main Tenjin area.
Teppan-ya Kitchen (Fukuoka, Nishijin): Combines Teppanyaki cuisine with cocktails and wine, offering a different kind of evening experience west of the city center.
The ShootingBar Imaizumi (Fukuoka, Imaizumi): A unique, entertainment-focused spot where you can enjoy a cocktail and a side of airsoft shooting, adding a fun twist to your night out in Imaizumi.
Filipo Lounge | International Bar (Fukuoka, Nakasu): Located in the bustling Nakasu entertainment district, this bar is known for its international atmosphere and diverse drink menu.
British Pub MORRIS’ BLACK SHEEP (Fukuoka, Daimyo): An authentic British pub experience in the trendy Daimyo neighborhood, serving a wide selection of beverages.
GALA RESORT Nakasu (Fukuoka, Nakasu): A popular mega-club in the vibrant Nakasu district, featuring professional DJs, MCs, and a high-energy dance floor for late-night revelry.
Happy Cock (Fukuoka, Tenjin): A well-known international nightclub located in the Tenjin area, famous for its energetic atmosphere and playing a lot of popular K-pop and commercial music.
Cat’s Fukuoka (Fukuoka, Tenjin): A prominent club where a collision of diverse music creates a vibrant and popular party atmosphere in the central Tenjin district.
Ibiza (Fukuoka, City Center): A classic and lively nightclub with a dance floor popular among locals and expats alike, known for its quintessential club vibe.
M8 (Fukuoka, Tenjin): An entertainment complex that is popular for starting the night, featuring a small dance floor and a trendy, high-energy environment.
Club Reign (Fukuoka, Tenjin): A centrally located club known for its lively dance floor and energetic party atmosphere in the bustling Tenjin neighborhood.
Bar Ibex (Nagasaki, Motoshikkuimachi): The heart of Nagasaki’s vibrant nightlife, this multifaceted venue combines a dance floor, darts, and karaoke, making it a great spot for both locals and travelers.
Coyote Ugly Saloon Fukuoka (Fukuoka, Daimyo): An international chain bar located in Daimyo, offering a wild nightlife experience with fun performances and a lively saloon atmosphere.
Cheers (Fukuoka, Daimyo): A very active and welcoming bar in Daimyo, popular with expats and locals, often bustling on weekends and known for its easygoing social scene.