While you're in Fukuoka for the conference, take the opportunity to explore the city's unique mix of history, culture, food, and seaside atmosphere.Here are some recommended places to visit, all accessible by public transport:

🍜 Hakata

The historical and transportation heart of Fukuoka, famous for its ramen culture, shopping areas, and lively atmosphere around Hakata Station.

Highlights include Canal City Hakata, traditional yatai street food stalls, and excellent rail connections to the rest of Kyushu.

🌆 Tenjin

Fukuoka’s vibrant downtown district, ideal for shopping, cafés, restaurants, and nightlife. The area is especially lively in the evenings and offers a modern urban atmosphere with easy access to parks and the waterfront.

🌿 Ohori Park

One of the city’s most relaxing green spaces, centered around a large lake with walking paths, gardens, and nearby museums. Perfect for a quiet break after conference sessions.

Nearby attractions include the Japanese Garden and the Fukuoka Art Museum.

⛩️ Dazaifu Tenmangu

A famous shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning and scholarship. Particularly popular among students and academics visiting Kyushu.

The surrounding area features traditional streets, cafés, and the impressive Kyushu National Museum.

🌊 Momochi Seaside Park

A modern waterfront area combining beaches, seaside walks, and contemporary architecture. A great place to enjoy sunset views over Hakata Bay.

Nearby landmarks include Fukuoka Tower and several waterfront cafés and restaurants.

Explore Beyond Fukuoka

While attending the conference in Fukuoka, take advantage of Kyushu’s excellent rail network to explore some of the island’s most iconic destinations. Several cities and resort towns can be comfortably visited as day trips or weekend excursions from Hakata Station.

♨️ Beppu

Around 2 hours from Fukuoka, Beppu is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring destinations, known for its dramatic geothermal landscapes and traditional bathing culture.

Visitors can experience a wide variety of onsen, steam baths, sand baths, and scenic hot spring areas surrounded by mountains and coastline.

Highlights:

• Traditional onsen experiences
• The famous “Hells of Beppu” geothermal sites
• Steam-cooked local cuisine
• Ryokan stays and seaside views

Access:

Limited express train from Hakata Station to Beppu Station (approx. 2 hrs)

🏰 Kumamoto

Just 40 minutes by Shinkansen from Fukuoka, Kumamoto is famous for its impressive reconstructed castle and relaxed atmosphere.

The city offers a blend of historical architecture, gardens, and regional food culture.

Highlights:

• Kumamoto Castle
• Suizenji Jojuen Garden
• Local ramen specialties
• Traditional shopping streets

Access:

Kyushu Shinkansen from Hakata Station to Kumamoto Station (approx. 40 min)

🌉 Nagasaki

Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from Fukuoka, Nagasaki is a historic port city shaped by centuries of international exchange between Japan, China, and Europe.

Its unique atmosphere combines historical landmarks, hillside scenery, and waterfront districts.

Highlights:

• Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park
• Glover Garden
• Nagasaki Harbor
• Historic international districts and local cuisine

Access:

Limited express train from Hakata Station to Nagasaki Station (approx. 1 hr 45 min)

🌄 Yufuin

Nestled in the mountains of Oita Prefecture, Yufuin is a charming hot spring town known for its peaceful scenery, boutique cafés, and traditional inns.

It is one of Kyushu’s most popular relaxing getaway destinations.

Highlights:

• Scenic mountain landscapes
• Art museums and local cafés
• Traditional ryokan and onsen
• Quiet rural atmosphere

Access:

Limited express train from Hakata Station to Yufuin Station (approx. 2 hrs)