Continuing part I of my journey to explore Kyushu (introductory article) Hankyu Ferry Cruise), then in this part II, I will introduce you to the first prefecture of the Kyushu region: Fukuoka. Fukuoka is the 5th largest prefecture in Japan, with the west and north bordering the sea, and the east and south bordering the mountainous areas adjacent to Kumamoto. Therefore, Fukuoka possesses an extremely diverse natural landscape, from coastal areas and mountains to bustling cities. Today, let's explore Fukuoka with me and see which places we can visit in one day.
- Hakata City
Hakata is the most bustling city in Fukuoka, with numerous shopping malls and dining places offering views of the modern city. This city is considered a transit point for other prefectures to Fukuoka, as the international airport, domestic airport, and shinkansen station are all located in Hakata. So, it would be logical to start your one-day Fukuoka exploration here.
The place I chose to visit and take photos today is CANAL CITY HAKATA, a complex of entertainment services, including shopping, dining, movies, and quite attractive water fountain shows.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bqeZxJgd1EPKV4S2A
The buildings here have a very unique and eye-catching design. The shopping mall area is designed in a large sphere shape, with attractive blue and red tones.
This building reminds me of Namba Park, a park, shopping mall, and entertainment center in Osaka, with buildings designed in a beautiful arc shape.
The next place I explored, only about 20km from Hakata, but in stark contrast to Hakata's modernity, is an extremely sacred and peaceful temple – Nanzoin Temple.
2. Nanzoin Temple.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/u6vuXAVUFnEJQz9G8
Just a 30-minute train ride from Hakata Station, Nanzoin is a famous Buddhist temple with one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in the world.
This temple is over 1000 years old, initially located on Mount Koyasan, Wakayama. Due to political reasons, it was moved to its current location at the end of the 19th century. (You can also reread the article "Koyasan - Buddhist holy land of Japan" on my blog to learn more about the spiritual temples here).
This statue is made of bronze, about 41 meters long and 11 meters high, and is also one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in the world.
Below the reclining Buddha statue are hundreds of statues of other Buddhas.
The Buddha statue is also sculpted with many extremely meticulous details.
The two lenses I used today were the GF110 and GF45 (equivalent to 85mm and 35mm on a full-frame camera system). If possible, you should bring wider lenses to capture the entire Buddha statue.
And the final destination of my Fukuoka exploration day is an extremely beautiful beach in western Fukuoka, about 60km ~ 1 hour drive from Nanzoin Temple.
3. Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hgzD9Muue194ezve6
The two rocks are considered a symbol of harmony between men and women, representing a harmonious marital relationship. In Shinto, they are believed to have spiritual significance, and the shimenawa rope symbolizes the boundary between the sacred and the secular.
The two rocks are considered a symbol of harmony between man and woman, representing a harmonious relationship between husband and wife. In Shinto, they are believed to have spiritual significance and the shimenawa rope represents the boundary between the sacred and the profane.
The seawater here is also very clear and cool, with a swimming beach about 300 meters away.
Despite being the hottest time of the year, there are still many couples coming here to take photos and pray for blessings for their relationships. 😀
Despite being the hottest time of the year, many couples still come here to take photos and pray for blessings for their relationship.
The scene of a girl trying to take a photo of her boyfriend with the two rocks behind him. So cute 😀
This is also my favorite scene, as it captures all the best of this area: the clear blue sea, the golden sand, the two rocks, and the sacred Torii gate.
And finally, let's see the photos I took at this beach.
After exploring and taking photos here, I moved to a homestay in Kumamoto to continue my Kyushu discovery journey on the second day. On the way, I passed by an adorable milk tea shop, only about 5km from this beach, but unfortunately, I didn't have much time to stop and take photos. If you have more time, you can try visiting it.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/P2dFhpzGeUfTraZE6
And that's my entire Fukuoka exploration itinerary for one day. I will continue to move to Kumamoto and carry out the second day of exploring Kyushu in this beautiful city. Stay tuned for my next articles about the prefectures of Kyushu. Thank you for reading to the end of the article.
Don't forget to Follow me on Instagram ( travel.w.minh_photo ) or Subscribe to receive notifications every time I have a new article.
***************************************************************************************************************
Explore our useful services in Japan:
- Taking photos of individuals, couples, and families in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara: See more HERE
- Plan and schedule your trip to Japan: See more HERE
- eSim data, pocket wifi travel in Japan: See more HERE
***************************************************************************************************************
*** Please read the requirements carefully Copyright & Collaboration before copying or quoting blog content and images. Thank you.