Fukuoka | Pittabi

Fukuoka’s Historic Treasures: A Journey through Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

August 18, 2023August 18, 2023 Miho

As someone who has lived in Fukuoka for 18 years and visits the city annually, I’m here to share about a renowned tourist destination you absolutely must visit in Fukuoka – Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

Located conveniently close to the popular “Sakamoto Hachimangu Shrine,” which gained fame in the era of the new era name “Reiwa,” this shrine is a must-see attraction.

This spot is familiar to locals and is considered one of Fukuoka’s iconic landmarks.

Basic Information and Access to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Address: 4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0117
Phone: +81 92-922-8225
Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Dec-Mar) / 7:30 AM (Jun-Aug) / 8:00 AM (Fri-Sat) / 7:00 AM (other days)
Admission Fee: Free
Parking: Paid parking available (check official website)
Official Website: https://www.dazaifutenmangu.or.jp/

Getting to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

On weekdays or less eventful weekends, visiting by car is fine. However, during events like the Shichi-Go-San festival or year-end holidays, it gets quite crowded. In such cases, I strongly recommend using the Nishitetsu train for access.

If you’re coming from Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station, take the Nishitetsu Daimyu Line to Nishitetsu Nijinomachi Station. Transfer to the train bound for Dazaifu at Nishitetsu Nijinomachi Station and ride until the last stop, Dazaifu Station. The fare is 400 yen.

Dazaifu Station has a unique decoration, and when you step off the train, you’ll feel an uplifting vibe. Dazaifu Station is well-maintained and quite different from other Nishitetsu stations (laughs).

Also, there are coin lockers available at the station, which is convenient for storing luggage.

If you’re coming from JR Hakata Station, there seems to be a convenient direct bus service. From the bus terminal at Hakata Station, take the bus bound for Dazaifu Station. You’ll reach Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station in about 42 minutes. The fare is 600 yen.

From Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

As there’s a pathway leading from the station to the shrine, walking along the path towards the mountainside will reveal the precincts of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

Inside Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and its Atmosphere

Being a representative shrine of Fukuoka, the shrine grounds are quite extensive. Right as you enter, you’ll find the “Oshingyuu” (sacred cow), which is said to bring good luck when touched at places where you wish to heal. Don’t forget to give it a gentle pat with your wishes in mind!

Proceeding along the path called “Daikyo Bridge,” a splendid red bridge, you’ll see the main hall.

Blessings of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is known as the deity of learning, sincerity, and warding off misfortune. Especially as the deity of learning, it gets extremely crowded during the exam season from January to February. I can’t verify if it’s true, but I’ve heard rumors a couple visiting the shrine might end up parting ways.

Obtaining “Goshuin” (shrine seal) at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

You can receive “Goshuin” at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. The cost for the seal is 500 yen. On April 30, the last day of Heisei era, there was a long line for it.

Noteworthy Festivals at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

While various festivals take place at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine every month, the most famous one is the “Kurumizu no En” held around the Hina Festival in March.

In this refined ceremony, participants dressed in Heian-period attire, including a “juni-hitoe” (twelve-layered ceremonial kimono), compose a poem while cups of sake float down the stream in the garden. They then sip the sake as it passes in front of them.
Quote: From Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine’s official website.

It’s quite unusual to see people dressed in Heian-era clothing composing poems. It’s something I’d love to witness during my lifetime, though I haven’t had the chance yet. The latest festival information can be found on the official website of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

Specialties and Local Products around Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

When you think of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, you probably think of “Ume Ga E Mochi” (plum blossom rice cake) – that’s how synonymous it is with the shrine. Whenever I visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, I always make sure to try “Ume Ga E Mochi.” It’s a grilled rice cake stuffed with sweet bean paste, and its simple taste is quite delightful. I love it so much that even when I go back to Fukuoka to visit, I buy “Ume Ga E Mochi” at Fukuoka Airport and freeze them for later.

Many “Ume Ga E Mochi” shops line the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, but the most famous one is “Kasa no Ie.” I actually tried “Ume Ga E Mochi” there, and it was crispy on the outside and piping hot on the inside – truly delicious. You can even find frozen “Ume Ga E Mochi” at Fukuoka Airport and local supermarkets, making them easily accessible.

Basic Information about Kasa no Ie

Address: 2-7-24 Saifu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0117
Phone: 092-922-1010
Business Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed: None
Official Website: http://www.kasanoya.com/umegaemochi.html

Additionally, the Starbucks located on the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is quite popular due to its stylish wooden exterior. It’s right in front of Kasa no Ie.

Basic Information about Starbucks Dazaifu Tenmangu Omotesando Store

Address: 3-43 Saifu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0117 https://goo.gl/maps/mmpxNVrCNpC2
Phone: +81 92-919-5690
Business Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Closed: None

Hidden Autumn Foliage Spot near Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

About a 5-minute walk from Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, you’ll find Komyo Zenji Temple, which becomes beautifully colored with autumn foliage during the fall season.

Even locals from Fukuoka might not know about Komyo Zenji Temple, despite its proximity to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

Manga to Read Before Visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Before visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, it’s recommended to read the manga “Outen no Mon,” featuring Sugawara no Michizane, the shrine’s enshrined deity. This will make your visit even more profound! I’ve also read “Outen no Mon,” and the duo of Sugawara no Michizane and the dashing “Ariwara no Narihira” is captivating. It has an air of mystery like a detective novel, making it an easy and enjoyable read. While I had a somewhat gloomy impression of Sugawara no Michizane, who was exiled to Dazaifu, getting to know his youthful side through the manga changed my perspective.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is Recommended for…

It’s a must-visit not only for students preparing for exams but also for anyone interested in Sugawara no Michizane and all tourists in Fukuoka.

Since the popular tourist spot “Sakamoto Hachimangu Shrine,” which gained popularity with the announcement of the new era name “Reiwa,” is also near Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, I recommend visiting both.

Tasting Hakata Ramen at Ikkousha in Fukuoka Airport – A Flavorful Adventure!

August 18, 2023August 18, 2023 Miho

At the third floor of Fukuoka Airport lies an area called “Ramen Runway” where various ramen shops gather. I decided to try Hakata ramen at Ikkousha, one of the shops in this area.

Normally, I enjoy Shin Shin Ramen, but this time I wanted to explore a different tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen, as well as another well-known tonkotsu ramen from Fukuoka. So, I paid a visit to Ikkousha’s Fukuoka Airport branch.

Known for its “bubbly” style, Ikkousha’s ramen turned out to have a creamy taste yet a distinct punch of pork bone aroma. It’s recommended for those who prefer a rich and robust pork bone flavor.

Indeed, the place quickly filled up with customers soon after opening, proving its popularity.

Let’s dive into the details!

About Ikkousha: A Worldwide Ramen Chain

Fancy instant ramen on sale at train stations and supermarkets in Fukuoka? It’s likely to include Ikkousha’s instant ramen.

Although I hadn’t heard of it before, it seems the shop was founded in Fukuoka in March 2004. Nowadays, it has expanded beyond Fukuoka, with branches in countries like Indonesia and China. I’ve even spotted “Ikkousha” in Los Angeles’ Japan Town.

Basic Info for Ikkousha Fukuoka Airport Branch

Address: 3F Domestic Terminal Building, 782-1 Shimoujii, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 812-0003
Phone: 092-710-4901
Official Website: https://www.ikkousha.com/store

Getting to Ikkousha Fukuoka Airport Branch

Located inside Fukuoka Airport’s Domestic Terminal within the “Ramen Runway.”

It’s just outside the security checkpoint, making it convenient to enjoy ramen without any hassle or when arriving or departing from Fukuoka.

The Scene at Ikkousha Fukuoka Airport

Opens at 10 AM, but even before 10, the doors are open. When I arrived at 9:59 AM, there were already three groups of customers waiting. Start by purchasing your meal ticket from the machine near the entrance. Choose your menu from the ticket machine right inside the door, and make your purchase. Payments can be made with cash or electronic money.

I was led to the counter seats. Each seat was separated with plastic partitions, adding an extra layer of safety for the pandemic.

Despite being a weekday morning, the initially sparse crowd filled up quickly, and soon the place was packed. While customers didn’t sit right next to each other, about 80% of the single seats were taken, and even the table seats started filling up. Clearly, this is a renowned spot in Fukuoka.

Ikkousha’s Menu and My Thoughts

The menu primarily revolves around tonkotsu-based dishes.

The most popular is the “Ajitama Ramen (味玉ラーメン)” (930 yen), which includes egg and cha-shu (sliced pork), but you can enjoy a basic tonkotsu ramen for 780 yen.

Many people ordered the ramen with mentaiko (spicy cod roe) or gyoza (dumplings) as a set.

For me, growing up in Fukuoka, tonkotsu ramen and gyoza are inseparable. Since I always have them together, this time I ordered the Ajitama Ramen and a side of gyoza.

Ajitama Ramen (930 yen)

The tonkotsu ramen had thin noodles, the classic style. The soup was creamy and slightly bubbly.

The taste was solid and similar to other tonkotsu ramen shops. However, there was a certain aspect—maybe the richness or something—that caught my attention. It’s not that it’s bad; it’s a respectable tonkotsu ramen, but it lacks the smoothness I’m used to from places like Shin Shin Ramen.

The noodles were thin and really delicious, a personal favorite.

For the second half, I added takana (pickled mustard greens), ginger, and sesame to my ramen to enjoy different flavors as I finished the bowl. While spicy takana is a staple in Hakata ramen, the use of white ginger here instead of the typical red pickled ginger was quite interesting. I also noticed a sauce for extra noodles, which piqued my curiosity.

Small Gyoza (620 yen for 10 pieces)

The bite-sized gyoza were tasty, though I felt they weren’t a necessity. They’re truly one-bite-sized, making them quite easy to devour. At 620 yen, I thought they were a bit pricey.

Who Should Try Ikkousha?

Recommended for those who want to conveniently enjoy Hakata ramen at the airport. Particularly suitable for those who prefer a tonkotsu ramen with a punchy pork bone flavor.

Exploring Fukuoka’s Motsunabe Scene: My Visit to Rakutenchi in Tenjin

August 18, 2023August 18, 2023 Miho

Hey there, I’m Mirin from Fukuoka! So, I’m from Fukuoka, but I’ve only had motsunabe like twice before, you know? Anyway, since motsunabe is one of the famous dishes in Hakata, I went to this well-known motsunabe restaurant called “Rakutenchi” in Tenjin. My thoughts after trying it? “Delicious, the champon noodles are great too. But I’d like to try motsunabe from other places.”

Basic Info

Address: 1F, 1-58 Daimyo 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 810-0041
Phone: 092-717-5002
Official Website: https://rakutenti.com/

Getting to the Original Motsunabe “Rakutenchi”

The Tenjin Nishidori branch is super close to Tenjin Station! Just about a 5-minute walk from Nishitetsu Tenjin Station. It’s along a big street in Tenjin called “Nishidori.”

Since there’s a lot of traffic and foot traffic around the Nishidori area, I wouldn’t really recommend driving. The parking spaces are limited, so public transportation is way more convenient.

If you see a sign with a wood pattern like the one in the picture above on Nishidori, that’s the motsunabe place you’re looking for.

Inside Atmosphere of “Rakutenchi”

It’s got a small entrance that’s easy to spot from the front, but if you’re just strolling along Nishidori, you might miss it if you’re not paying attention.

When I visited around 3 PM on a weekday, there were only a few customers, just us. It was perfect for the COVID era with only one staff member.

The first floor had counter seats, if I remember correctly. The second floor had table seats.

We got seated on the middle level when we entered. The middle level had a mix of table and counter seats.

Table seats were along the walls. The place itself didn’t seem that new, and the interior had a slightly worn look. Honestly, I expected it to be a bit more well-maintained, so I was a bit disappointed. I’ve been to other motsunabe places that were quite messy, so I wondered if motsunabe places tend to show wear and tear easily.

Menu and Thoughts on the Original Motsunabe “Rakutenchi”

We ordered from the lunch menu since we were there during lunchtime. For 1,480 yen, enjoying motsunabe sounds pretty affordable.

The regular menu seemed like the one below. Lunchtime is definitely a good deal.

First came the vinegar-seasoned motsu. It had just the right tanginess and a refreshing aftertaste. I really enjoyed it. I’d totally have it again!

Then, the motsunabe appeared. Lots of leeks piled in a metal pot. I got excited seeing this huge pile. A calm server put the pot on a burner and lit it for us. They told us to wait until the vegetables got soft.

During that time, I went downstairs to grab some condiments. There were things like yuzu and mentaiko lined up. I tried them with the food, but I actually liked the original flavor without condiments.

After about 5-10 minutes, the server came and lowered the flame. The leeks got quite soft, and when the leek mountain got lower, it was time to eat.

The steam was so intense that my phone’s camera even fogged up.

The soup was soy-based. It had leeks, cabbage, tofu, and motsu, with a spicy kick. It was pretty darn tasty. Despite the huge pile, two adults polished it off in no time. It was delicious, but it didn’t bring out any special excitement. It felt like a normal motsunabe. What’s up with that feeling?

When the ingredients were nearly gone, we summoned the server to add noodles.

After a few minutes, the noodles turned out really well, all slippery and yummy.

We cracked an egg onto the plate and dipped the noodles in the beaten egg to enjoy champon. The champon noodles were quite tasty as well.

My actual thoughts after eating? It’s good, but when it comes to having the same motsunabe again, I felt a bit uncertain. Motsunabe itself is tasty, so next time, I want to try motsunabe from other places. I thought motsunabe would be a more mind-blowing dish. Maybe I had too high expectations. My family who went with me said the same thing, so I’m going to continue my quest for the ultimate motsunabe experience.

Who Should Try the Original Motsunabe “Rakutenchi”?

“Rakutenchi” is a famous motsunabe spot. There are several branches in Fukuoka’s downtown area “Tenjin,” so it’s easily accessible. If you want to enjoy motsunabe without making a reservation and just feel like having it easily, this is a great recommendation.

Ultimate Guide to Accommodation in Fukuoka: Best Places to Stay and Hidden Gems

January 25, 2022August 18, 2023 Miho

Fukuoka is a compact city. The attractions are clustered in certain areas and the transportation system is well developed. In this article, I will introduce where you should stay when sightseeing in Fukuoka, as I was born and raised in Fukuoka.

This article answers to the following questions :
– Where should I stay in Tenjin or Fukuoka Hakata?
– Where is the best location to book a hotel in Fukuoka, Japan?

Overview

In Fukuoka, everything is concentrated around Tenjin and Hakata Station. The transportation system is well developed, so you don’t need to rent a car unless you want to go to the suburbs. Subways, trains, and buses can be used to access most of the tourist spots. Furthermore, Fukuoka is famous for its airport being located within the city. From Fukuoka Airport, you can get to JR Hakata Station or Tenjin in less than 30 minutes by subway, making it really easy to get to the city center.

The main areas for tourists are Fukuoka Airport, JR Hakata Station, Tenjin, and Nakasu Kawabata. All of these are on the subway line. The distance between Tenjin and Hakata Station is only 2km, which is about 10 minutes by subway. It takes about 10 minutes by subway or 45 minutes on foot.

Tenjin is the center of Fukuoka, with its shopping malls and restaurants. The next most prosperous area is the Hakata Station area. The area around Hakata Station used to be a business district, but nowadays, the Hakata Station building houses fashionable stores and restaurants, making it an efficient place to shop and eat. Nakasu Kawabata is well known in Japan as “Nakasu” for its nightlife. On the other hand, Nakasu Kawabata is the downtown of Hakata. There are many old streets and old stores, and you can also enjoy the old Japanese townscape.

If you are planning to visit Fukuoka, you can definitely stay in JR Hakata Station, Tenjin, or Nakasu Kawabata. Nakasu Kawabata is located between Tenjin and Hakata Station, as you can access all places on foot, subway, or by foot. Here are some details about each area.

Tenjin

Tenjin is an area with a high concentration of department stores and restaurants. You can purchase most of local foods in Fukuoka at department stores in Tenjin.

–> Here is the list of Fukuoka Confectionery.

Tenjin has the first station of the Nishitetsu Omuta Line, Nishitetsu bus terminal, and Tenjin subway station, making it convenient for sightseeing. Tenjin is also within walking distance of Hakata Port. From Hakata Port, you can take a day trip to Busan, South Korea by high-speed boat. The transportation is excellent.

However, Tenjin is a busy shopping district. There are no supermarkets or shopping malls for the locals to shop at. There are also few parks. If you want to enjoy nature, you need to go to the suburbs. Hotels in Tenjin are relatively expensive in Fukuoka.

But all in all, it is by far the most convenient to stay in Tenjin because of the convenient transportation and you don’t have to worry about the last train. If in doubt, I recommend staying in the Tenjin area.

The ocean side (north side) of Tenjin, such as Oyafuko Dori and the Maizuru area, is a drinking area lined with clubs and pubs. If you want to stay quietly, the south side is recommended. For example, the Daimyo, Akasaka, Imaizumi, Kego, and Yakuin areas, which are a bit far from Tenjin, are also recommended as they are about a 10-minute walk from Tenjin. Akasaka, Kego, and Yakuin are high-class residential areas. I’ve known this area for a long time, and it’s safe, so I recommend it for women traveling alone. Imaizumi is a residential area, but it is also lined with love hotels along the Bic Camera and Nishitetsu Omuta line. I used to stay in the area closer to Daimyo in Tenjin, where there are many quiet and reasonably priced hotels.

Highly reputable hotels in Tenjin
- Hotel Okura Fukuoka ★★★★★
- Hotel New Otani Hakata ★★★★★
- Soraria Nishitetsu Hotel Fukuoka ★★★★
- Quintessa Hotel Fukuoka Tenjin Comic & Books ★★★★
- Nishitetsu Grand Hotel ★★★★
- Best Western Plus Fukuoka Tenjin Minami ★★★
- mizuka Daimyo 7 – unmanned hotel – ★★★

Booking.com

Nakasu-Kawabata

Nakasu Kawabata is located in the middle of Tenjin and Hakata Station. It is a downtown area in Fukuoka, with many traditional stores. Kushida Shrine, where the Hakata Yamakasa festival is held, and Canal City are also in the Nakasu Kawabata area. The area is also home to a large drinking area called Nakasu. Many long-established restaurants and famous ramen stores can be found in Nakasu, so you can enjoy the nightlife if you stay in Nakasu Kawabata.

The downside is that some areas are noisy even at night, as there is a lot of nightlife. You may also get the impression that the area is a bit trashy. However, if you move around a bit, you can find quiet apartment hotels and many highly rated Japanese-style hotels, so you are spoiled for choice. Security is not that bad, but it is an area where many different people come and go and there are many touts, so I think you should be aware of what is going on around you in some passages.

There are many hotels that make use of the old streets, so this area is recommended for those who want to stay in a cosy and highly rated hotel.

Highly reputable hotels in Nakasu-Kawabata
- TABISAI LUXE ★★★★★
- Hotel Great Morning ★★★★
- Grand Base Hakata Naraya ★★★
- Hakata No Yado Tsurezure Ann ★★★
- WeBase Hakata Hostel ★★
- Hotel WA HAKATA（Apartment Hotel）
- AMP FLAT Nakasu K （Apartment Hotel）

Booking.com

Hakata Station

The area around JR Hakata Station used to be a business district, but it has recently been redeveloped to include fashionable restaurants and shopping malls, making it more convenient for sightseeing. However, the Nishitetsu Omuta Line, which is used to visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Yanagawa, is not available from Hakata Station, so you will need to go to Tenjin and change trains.

I have the impression that the Hakata exit side (Tenjin and Nakasu Kawabata side) is more prosperous because of the bus terminal and department stores, but the Chikushi exit is also a busy area with many buildings.

I don’t think there are any problems staying on either side of Hakata Station. Safety is also not a problem.

Highly reputable hotels in Hakata Station
- Miyako Hotel Hakata ★★★★★
- THE BLOSSOM HAKATA Premier ★★★★
- Amista Hotel Fukuoka ★★★
- Hotel IORI （Apartment Hotel）

Booking.com

Nishijin

If you want to stay in Fukuoka while experiencing the atmosphere of local people’s life, Nishijin is the place for you. Nishijin is a 15-minute subway ride from Tenjin. It is an area where you can enjoy shopping streets, department stores, and even Fukuoka Tower if you walk a little further to the sea. In particular, the shopping street in Nishijin is an area where small stores are clustered together, giving you a local feel that you can’t find in Tenjin or Hakata Station. When I was a student, I often went to Nishijin to eat Houraku Manju and buy clothes.

The downside is that the transportation is a bit poor. It is a bit far to walk from Nishijin to Tenjin, so you will most likely have to take a bus or subway to Tenjin. Nishishin is a town where locals gather, so you can’t expect the same nightlife as in Nakasu. I think it is safe.

Booking.com

Fukuoka Airport for transfer

Fukuoka Airport is close to the city center and it takes about 20 minutes by subway to the city center. The area around Fukuoka Airport is a residential area. There are almost no tourist spots around the airport. There are some restaurants, but most of them are chain stores, and all the famous stores and shopping spots in Fukuoka are concentrated around Tenjin or Hakata Station. As a result, for all sightseeing, you will probably have to take the subway or bus to Tenjin or Nakasu Kawabata. If you are staying one night just to change trains, staying around Fukuoka Airport is a good idea. However, if you want to enjoy sightseeing in Fukuoka for a few days, I think it would be cheaper to avoid the Fukuoka Airport area and go to Tenjin area for transportation.

Summary

The standard lodging areas for sightseeing in Fukuoka are either Hakata Station, Nakasu Kawabata, or Tenjin. The most recommended area is Tenjin, which is the main transportation hub and has a lot of stores. If you are looking for a deeper experience of local life, Nishijin is also recommended, as it is less crowded with tourists.