When visiting a new place for the first time, it can be easy to lose track of money and drain your travel-funds fast. If you’re planning on visiting Fukuoka, but you don’t want to break the bank, here are some suggestions for places to visit, that, aside from transportation costs, are absolutely free to enjoy!
1. Go to see a 360-degree view at Hakata Port
70 meters height from the ground, Hakata Tower port is the symbol of Hakata Bay. You can see both the seaside view and the vast cityscape.
Bonus: The Bayside Area that Hakata Tower is located in, also has a cute mini aquarium that is free to visit as well.
Hakata Tower port Opening Hour: 10:00-22:00 ( last entry 21:40)
2. Go to Beer tasting and factory tour at Asahi Beer Hakata Brewery
This Asahi Brewery is only 1-station away from Hakata. After being introduced to the process and the ingredients for making their special brew, you will be allowed to taste-test the beer for yourself (up to three glasses per person!) If you’re of legal drinking age and are looking for an educational adult-oriented attraction, make a call to reserve a tour.
Opening Hour: 9:30-15:00 (the tour take 90 mins including Beer tasting)
3. Go to foot-bathing at Keigo Shrine, Tenjin
Keigo Shrine is in the downtown Tenjin. If you are tired from shopping come here to relax your feet in the nice and warm spring.
Of course, it is free of charge. You can bring your own towel or rent here for 100 yen.
4. Go to see exciting shows at Canal City
At the fountain square, Center walk zone, there are many exciting shows lining up every day such as Street show, Magic show, and Idol show as well as Aqua panorama show with music and story.
5. Discover at Hakata Traditional Craft and Design Museum
Fukuoka and Hakata-related traditional handicraft exhibitions, workshops, and lectures are held occasionally in the first-floor exhibition room. The focus on the second floor is Hakata Ori (woven textiles) and Hakata Ningyo (dolls), etc are introduced in permanent displays. There is also a coffee shop, and the surrounding areas are perfect for strolling around in case one just wants to stop by for a quick visit.
6. See the most advanced Robotics
Robosquare is the first facility in the world where visitors can take an up-close look at robots! 111 robots of 41 varieties are waiting for visitors. Come and see the most advanced techniques in Japan! Robot show held live every weekend (1pm and 3pm).
7. Hit The Beach at Momochi!
Seaside Momochi is open all-year round, but obviously, this attraction is better in the summer. Various sports activities are popularly held on the beach such as beach volleyball and beach soccer. In addition, there is also the floating shopping mall “Marizone” which has a lot of restaurants and marine sports shops.
8. Strolling at Ohori Park
Located near the center of Fukuoka City, Ohori Park is known by many people as the city’s oasis. The area was used as the outer moat when Fukuoka Castle was being constructed. Fukuoka Castle Ruins also open for exploring for free.
Do you like what you see? Leave a comment below with your favorite places to visit in Kyushu!