Fukuoka Private Rail and Walking Tour in Yanagawa

Fukuoka , Japan

Fukuoka Private Rail and Walking Tour in Yanagawa

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About this experience

This relaxing day trip from Fukuoka takes you to the beautiful canal town of Yanagawa with a knowledgeable local guide. Start with a ride on a traditional “donko” boat, slowly rowed by a boatman who shares local stories and sometimes sings folk songs. The boat glides through peaceful canals lined with charming houses and bridges, offering a view that feels like stepping back in time.

Next, visit Ohana Villa, the elegant former residence of Yanagawa’s samurai lord. Inside, you’ll see lovely gardens and historical artifacts that tell the story of the town’s past. Then stroll through the streets linked to Hakushu Kitahara, a beloved Japanese poet still studied in schools today.

During the tour, you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch. We recommend trying Yanagawa’s most famous local dish—steamed eel. This tour is a perfect mix of tradition, nature, history, and local flavor, all in one peaceful day away from the city.

Available options

Private Car Option

Private Car: Sedan, Alphard, or Hiace depending on the number of your group.<br/>Pickup included

Fukuoka Private Rail and Walking Tour in Yanagawa

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel or Port Pickup

English Speaking Guide

Admission Fee(Yanagawa aboard a traditional donko boat)

Admission Fee(Yanagawa Ohana Garden)

Public Transportation Fee

Admission Fee(Hakushu Kitahara Museum)

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide at your hotel in Fukuoka City
Meet your guide at your hotel in Fukuoka City to begin your journey to Yanagawa. During the trip, your guide will introduce the town’s rich cultural history and what to look forward to on the day.

Yanagawa’s iconic canal cruise offers a unique and peaceful way to experience the passing seasons of Japan. In spring, the boat gently glides under weeping cherry blossoms; in summer, the shimmering surface reflects lush greenery. In autumn, colorful leaves line the canals, and in winter, guests can stay warm under cozy kotatsu blankets on the boat. Each journey is guided by a boatman who adds a poetic touch with local stories and traditional songs. This nostalgic boat ride invites you to slow down and enjoy Japan’s timeless charm from the water.

Explore the former residence of the Tachibana family, the ruling samurai clan of Yanagawa. Ohana Villa blends traditional Japanese architecture with Western influences from the Meiji era. The gardens and artifacts offer a glimpse into noble life of the past.

Visiting the birthplace and memorial museum of poet Hakushu Kitahara offers a glimpse into the cultural richness of Yanagawa. Kitahara is a prominent figure in Japanese literature and music, often featured in school textbooks for language, history, and music. Discover the story of his life and the many works that continue to inspire generations. The surrounding area is a delight to explore on foot, with charming stone-paved streets, traditional white-walled storehouses, and canals running throughout the town—an atmosphere full of poetic charm.

Return to Fukuoka and Farewell at Your Hotel
After a fulfilling day exploring Yanagawa’s history and charm, return to your hotel in Fukuoka with your guide. You'll leave with peaceful memories of a quiet town steeped in beauty and tradition.Return to Fukuoka and Farewell at Your Hotel.

What's not included

Personal Expense

apx. 15-25 USD per person

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.

We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.

Important notes

Please show the ticket to the guide when you meet.

About Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a vibrant coastal city in southern Japan known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm climate. As the largest city in Kyushu, it offers a perfect blend of traditional culture and modern urban living, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Top Attractions

Ohori Park

A large, beautiful park featuring a lake, gardens, and historic sites. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

The ruins of a historic castle that played a significant role in Japanese history. The site offers beautiful views and a glimpse into the past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Kushida Shrine

A historic Shinto shrine known for its vibrant festivals and beautiful architecture. It's a significant cultural and religious site.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Canal City Hakata

A large shopping and entertainment complex featuring a canal, theaters, and a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Shopping/Entertainment 1-3 hours Free to enter (costs vary for shops and restaurants)

Fukuoka Tower

A iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. It's a great spot for photography and sightseeing.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for observation deck and restaurant)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hakata Ramen

A type of ramen featuring a rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu (braised pork) and green onions.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles and broth)

Mentaiko

Spicy cod roe, often served as a topping for rice or noodles, or as a side dish.

Snack/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (if served with rice or noodles)

Motsunabe

A hot pot dish featuring offal, typically beef or pork, cooked in a savory broth with vegetables and tofu.

Dinner Contains meat, gluten (if served with noodles or dipping sauce)

Yaki Toro

Grilled chicken skewers, often seasoned with salt or soy sauce, and served with a side of grated daikon radish.

Dinner Contains chicken, gluten (if seasoned with soy sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains and parks Water sports at nearby beaches and waterways Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples, shrines, and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat rides on the canals of Yanagawa Swimming and water sports at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn features vibrant fall foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese (limited), Korean (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukuoka is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour guides
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN

Getting there

By air

Fukuoka Airport • 4.5 km from city center

By train

Hakata Station, Fukuoka Station

By bus

Hakata Bus Terminal, Tenjin Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Kūkō Line, Hakozaki Line, and Nanakuma Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tenjin Nakasu Hakata Dazaifu

Day trips

Dazaifu

10 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

A historic town known for its temples, shrines, and beautiful gardens. It offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience.

Yanagawa

30 km from Fukuoka • Full day

A picturesque town known as the 'City of Waterways' for its network of canals. It offers a unique and charming experience with its historic houses, boat rides, and local specialties.

Beppu

120 km from Fukuoka • Full day to overnight

A popular hot spring resort town known for its numerous hot springs, or 'hells' (jigoku), and scenic beauty. It offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival • July 1-15 (main events on July 15) Hakata Dontaku Festival • Early May (typically the first Sunday and the following day) Fukuoka Hakata Matsuri • October 15-18

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as Suica or Icoca, for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try local specialties, such as Hakata ramen, mentsuyaki, and yakitori, at yatai (food stalls) or local restaurants
Visit popular attractions, such as Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle Ruins, during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Tenjin, Nakasu, and Hakata, for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival and the Hakata Dontaku Festival, for a unique and memorable experience