Private Tour-Experience the traditional culture of Fukuoka!

Fukuoka , Japan

Private Tour-Experience the traditional culture of Fukuoka!

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Hakata dolls, with a history of over 400 years, are known to every Japanese person. On this tour, you will experience painting one yourself. You will also learn about Yamakasa, a summer festival in Fukuoka with a history of around 300 years. There are two types of floats: the decorative kazari-yamakasa and the carried kaki-yamakasa that race through the streets. Both feature enormous Hakata dolls meticulously crafted by master artisans. The tour includes a visit to Kushida Shrine, the starting point of the kaki-yamakasa and the place where decorative floats are displayed.

Surprisingly, Fukuoka’s history is even older than Kyoto’s. Eisai, a Zen monk who first brought tea seeds back from China, founded Japan’s very first Zen temple here in Fukuoka—Shofukuji Temple. The tour also takes you there, where you will enjoy Japanese tea and traditional sweets at a tea café. Immerse yourself fully in the rich culture and history of Fukuoka!"

Available options

Private Tour-Experience the traditional culture of Fukuoka!

What's included

Private Tour Guide

Necessary expenses for the tour guide

Detailed itinerary

A specialty shop of Hakata dolls and Hakata textiles, founded in 1947 and located along the Hakata River. Visitors can enjoy a painting experience called 'Etsuke' in the spacious store

Canal City is a large complex consisting of five buildings with five floors above ground and one basement level. It features shops, restaurants, hotels, a movie theater, and a theater.

Stop 3

Kushida Shrine was founded in 1587. Every year from July 1st to 15th, the heroic Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival takes place, racing through the streets of Hakata. At 4:59 a.m. on the final day, the race begins here at Kushida Shrine. It is also the only place where decorative Yamakasa floats can be seen year-round, except in June.

A long-established tea shop founded in 1716. At the adjoining Japanese tea café Chayu Seika, you can enjoy sencha or matcha along with two kinds of traditional Japanese sweets.

Shofukuji Temple, founded in 1195 by Eisai, is Japan’s first Zen temple and the birthplace of Japanese tea. It was designated a National Historic Site in 1969.

What's not included

Cash is required for the some experience. Please prepare at least around 5,000 yen in cash.

Money for food/drinks, souvenirs and extra activities for your own

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN JA EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Although the tour includes experiences, meals, and tea breaks, there will be a lot of walking. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing

In case of bad weather, be sure to bring rain gear.

Meeting point

Let’s meet in the lobby of Hotel Okura!

Important notes

・The travel expense is not included in the tour fee. Please bring extra money to experience this tour to its fullest.
・If you do not arrive at the specified starting place after 60 minutes from the agreed meeting time, the tour will be considered canceled.

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