Fukuoka Landmarks and Monuments

(Fukuoka, Kyushu, Japan)

The city of Fukuoka boasts a number of religious and historically important landmarks, together with a handful of notable monuments.

All are open to the public, each helping to demonstrate the history and culture of not only Fukuoka, but also Japan as a whole.

Popular sights include Fukuoka Castle, the Hakozaki Shrine and a number of temples. The city's Maizuru Castle is especially important and dates all the way back to the very beginning of the 17th century, being today awarded the prestigious title of 'historic site' by the country's government. Each spring, the grounds come alive when the cherry trees (sakuras) burst into blossom.

Fukuoka Castle (Maizuru Castle)

Address: City Centre, Fukuoka City, 810-0043, Japan, JP
The city's castle is actually partially in ruins, but it is still a very popular landmark with tourists from around the world. Dating back to the beginning of the 17th century, Fukuoka Castle was designed and built by a feudal lord in ancient times and once boasted 47 turrets of various sizes. Today, just two gates and some of the original wall remain.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 17:00, seasonal variations
Admission: charge

Hakozaki Shrine

Address: 1-22-1 Hakozaki, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City, 812-0053, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 092 641 7431
This remarkable structure is one of just three separate Japanese shrines dedicated to Japan's Emperor-divinity Hachiman. The Hakozaki Shrine has been a place of worship in Fukuoka since 921 AD and houses a number of important cultural relics. The plaque above the Tower Gate is believed to have been written by the emperor Kameyama, at the time of the Mongol invasions.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: no charge

Shofukuji Temple

Address: 6-1 Gokusho-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City, 812-0037, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 092 725 9100
Japan's first Zen temple, the Shofukuji Temple was constructed by Eisai, the father of Japanese Zen and tea, in 1195. The remains of two other historical temples, Jotenji and Tochoji, can be found in the surrounding grounds.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: no charge

Deai Bridge

Address: Chuo Park, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, 810-0001, Japan, JP
The Deai Bridge is full of people enjoying lunch breaks and relaxing in the sun during the day, but when the evening arrives, this short pedestrian bridge truly comes alive. Crossing the River Naka, amateur musicians can often be seen performing on the bridge, along with other street performers and artists. Food stalls offer local delights and views across the river can be savoured.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Tochoji Temple

Address: Gokusho-machi 2-4, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City, 812-0037, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 092 291 4459
The Tochoji Temple is the oldest surviving temple in the city and dates back to 806 AD. It was founded by the scholar Taishi Kobo and boasts an 11-metre / 36-foot daibutsu (Buddha statue), as well as Kannon statues, the tombstones of the lords of the Kuroda clan, a 1,000 handed statue of the goddess of mercy, and calligraphy by Kobo himself.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: no charge