Fukuoka is the main city on the island of Kyushu- the commercial, social, administrative and cultural hub, a small city (although it is the eighth largest city in Japan), but one of the most progressive and 'happening’ places in the country. Originally established as a fortress town in the 1600s, Fukuoka stands on either side of the Naka-gawa river.

It’s an interesting city, very modern in some ways, but very traditional in others. There are medieval shrines and lovely gardens here, but there are also bars, restaurants, modern shopping complexes and offices- it’s a city determined to be a city of the future, but proud of its past. Amongst Fukuoka’s most visit-worthy sites is the large and beautiful park of Ohori Koen, built around a lake, which once formed a moat around Fukuoka. The lake has three islands in it, each connected by bridges, and with nearly 2000 cherry trees- a sight for sore eyes in the spring, when they’re covered with blossoms.

You could also visit Shofuku-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple near 8 centuries old, and built by Eisai, one of the first Japanese priests to embrace Zen. Another temple is Sumiyoshi Jinja; it’s the oldest Shinto shrine in Kyushu, and is dedicated to Sumiyoshi, the deity who protects travellers. The temple’s a quiet and serene place, set amidst a grove of camphor and cedar trees, and offers a panoramic view of the city. Lastly, for a historic insight into the city, go to Fukuoka-jo, the castle of Fukuoka, constructed on a hillside overlooking the city. Not much remains of the castle, but it’s worth a look-see.

Fukuoka is the gateway to other towns and cities in Kyushu; among these, the closest are Takeo Onsen (renowned for its hot springs and its pottery), Arita (also famous for its pottery), and Nagasaki, which is only about 2 hours’ (by train) from Fukuoka.

Getting There: Fly directly in to Fukuoka International Terminus from Honululu in the US and other Asian destinations or fly in from Tokyo, which is just two hours flying time away. A subway line  connects the airport to the city centre. The Hirari shinkansen train travels the distance in 6 ½ hrs and the superfast Nozomi shinkansen takes only five hours or so. These quick and efficient bullet trains also connect Fukuoka to Osaka and Hiroshima.

Accommodation: An architectural masterpiece of modern design, upmarket international hotel chains and smart and efficient medium size hotels are on offer in this commercial and cultural capital of the island of Kyushu. The hotels have western style rooms and  come fully equipped with convention and business facilities, spas and salons and multi cuisine and Japanese
restaurants.

For detailed country and visitor information, see Japan.