Sightseeing in Fukuoka - what to see. Complete travel guide

Fukuoka is one of the ten largest cities in Japan. This is an important cultural, political and economic center. For centuries the city has been famous as an important trading port. Because of this fact this place has repeatedly been the reason for bloody wars. Tourists are mainly attracted by rich historical past of this beautiful and interesting city.

A protective wall, which reminds of the militant past, is surely one of main attractions of this place. The ruins of the wall are located in the western part of the city. The wall is made of huge blocks of stone and it has survived in many battles. The main reason for building this wall was in frequent raids of the Mongols to the ancient city. In the central district of the city named Hakata is the location of several old buildings, churches and squares. This part of the city is considered the oldest one.

There are several large parks on the territory of Fukuoka. Higashi Koen is known as the most beautiful one. There are several monuments in this park, one of which is dedicated to the founder of the Nichiren Buddhist sect. Move to the central part of the park and you will see two prayer stones. These stones are the reminders of the Mongol raids – the stones have been taken from defeated enemy's ships. The streets of the city are full of shops and open markets. Visitors of Fukuoka are usually particularly interested in traditional gifts. The most common souvenirs from this place are beautiful fabrics, which are called "Hakata ori" by the local people. Toys and crafts made of clay are also very popular. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The cultural program of every tourist should include the visit to Museum of Fine Arts of Asia. Here they will find a collection of paintings by contemporary artists, and several rooms devoted to paintings of the past. The city’s suburbs are the location of archaeological excavations. Here travellers will also find some very interesting findings.

The city is not without contemporary architectural monuments. Their largest concentration is found in the actively developing Momochi area. Here is the Fukuoka Tower - the highest skyscraper in the city, built in 1989. The height of the skyscraper is 234 meters. It is a popular tourist site with an excellent viewing platform at an altitude of 116 meters. All urban areas and sights can be seen from its top. In the skyscraper run several restaurants and cafes.

Lovers of historical sites will be interested in visiting Phu Quoc Castle, which was built in the early 17th century. It has remained only partially until today. Visitors will have an opportunity to examine some of the secondary buildings. They are well maintained nowadays. The castle is located on the territory of a vast park, where sports fields and wonderful recreation areas are equipped for holiday-makers. One of the historical buildings is occupied by a court nowadays. The other one houses a small art museum.

In Fukuoka, there is an excellent botanical garden, which forms a single complex with a nearby zoo. They were founded simultaneously in 1953. The gardens have lived through many difficult periods over the years. In recent decades, many measures have been taken to restore them. Today, the greenhouse located in the botanical garden is the largest in the country. It contains about 1200 plant species. The same number of species is planted outside the garden.

The Municipal Museum of Fukuoka will inform the visitors about the multifaceted and fascinating history of the city. The museum occupies a very beautiful modern building with arched structures. The museum has a wide range of exhibits, from archaeological artifacts found in the city to the very first photographs and important historical documents. The museum building is situated on the territory of a beautifully landscaped garden. It will be interesting to walk around here after the tour.

Suoi Tranh Reserve is of a separate notice. Beautiful waterfalls are its main value. Comfortable platforms with gazebos and benches are established here for vacationers. You can even swim in the waterfall.