History & Culture of Fukuoka

Delve into Fukuoka’s rich history and culture by visiting a Shinto shrine, browsing a folk museum and strolling through a serene urban park built in the 18th century.

Visit Kushida, a Shinto shrine built in the 8th century. Because Kushida is located in the heart of the city, its grounds are rather limited. Still, there is plenty to see, including the collection of Tengu masks and a 1,000-year-old ginko tree that symbolizes longevity of life. You might also spot people deep in prayer, some of whom come because praying at this shrine supposedly ensures prosperity.

A short walk will bring you to the Hakata Machiya folk museum. Its collections include artwork and crafts from the Meiji and Taisho periods, paintings that depict the legendary samurai life, and a 150-year-old house, reassembled to show a traditional architectural style.

Stroll the serene paths of Yusentei Park, an urban oasis built in 1754 for the lord of the Kuroda clan. The park’s name derives from a classical Japanese poem: “Away from the heat of summer, water sprung from a fountain (sen) nurtures friendships (yu) at this house (tei).”

Water is a prominent feature, as Yusenti contains fountains, waterfalls and a central pond. Although the park was 10 times larger when originally built, it remains immensely peaceful, leaving you in a relaxed state of mind for the return to the pier.