Fukuoka City, located in Japan’s Kyushu region, is a dynamic blend of deep-rooted traditions and vibrant, contemporary culture. Renowned for its exceptional food scene and traditional craftsmanship, visitors can explore the heart of Japanese heritage through its diverse culinary offerings and iconic cultural crafts.
Culinary Delights: From Traditional Street Food to Michelin-Starred Dining
Fukuoka’s food culture is as diverse as it is rich, from the bustling yatai street stalls to high-end and multi-starred dining experiences.
- Fukuoka’s iconic yatai culture is a must-experience, and Chusuke in the bustling Tenjin area is the perfect spot to dive into it. These small, mobile food stalls have been a fixture of the city since the postwar period, and today, more than 100 yatai stalls continue to serve up delicious dishes late into the night. Chusuke is beloved by locals for its warm atmosphere and mouthwatering food, especially the irresistible gyoza (dumplings). Don’t miss the tofu oden, topped with green onions, dried bonito flakes, and a touch of yuzu pepper — a true taste of Fukuoka. Chusuke is the perfect place to enjoy authentic Fukuoka flavours, and soak up the local food culture. Open from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. (closed Sundays).
- Sushi Gyoten stands as one of Fukuoka’s most prestigious dining spots. With a coveted three MICHELIN stars, this intimate restaurant is the epitome of sushi craftsmanship. Head chef, Kenji Gyoten, hails from a long line of sushi chefs and his sushi is a true work of art, with oval-shaped pieces that feature an arched top, and carefully balanced seasonings that change with the seasons. The restaurant offers a custom-made course for each guest, and with just 10 counter seats ensures a highly personalised experience. Sushi Gyoten will be opening a new location in September 2025 in Hiraoka-machi, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka. The restaurant operates on a reservation-only basis and is open for dinner Wednesday to Sunday between 6PM and 8.30PM and 8.45PM and 11PM. Lunch is served on Saturday, Sunday and holidays between 11.45AM and 2PM. Closed on irregular holidays.
- Sushi Shima is located in the heart of Fukuoka City’s Chuo-ku and as one of the rare sushi restaurants to offer plant-based options is a place where tradition and innovation beautifully merge. Sushi Shima offers an exclusive dining experience through its “omakase” (chef’s choice) and set menus with dishes thoughtfully crafted to highlight the best flavours of the season. Menu items vary daily based on the availability of the finest ingredients, and the restaurant operates on a reservation-only
- basis. The restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday to Saturday from 12PM to 2PM and dinner Monday to Saturday 6PM to 10PM. It closes on Sunday and irregular holidays.
Fukuoka’s Timeless Traditions: Craftsmanship, Culture, and History
While Fukuoka is renowned for its cutting-edge food scene, it’s also home to a rich cultural heritage that showcases the city’s deep respect for tradition and craftsmanship. The city is a treasure trove of time-honored art forms and practices, where skilled artisans continue to preserve and pass on their craft to future generations. From the delicate art of Hakata Ningyo dolls to the revival of Hakozaki-shima fabric, Fukuoka’s cultural legacy is woven into the very fabric of the city.
- Discover Hakozaki-shima, a traditional textile from Fukuoka City, at Maison HAKOSHIMA where the fabric has been brought back to life after a 70+ year hiatus thanks to the efforts of Keisuke Obata and Mai Hayashi. Originally woven in Hakozaki during the Meiji era (1868-1912), Hakozaki-shima was used for daily wear and labour clothes, including the attire worn during the traditional Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival. Visitors can purchase these beautifully woven fabrics as modern clothing and accessories. Open Tuesday to Saturday between 11AM and 5PM. Closed on irregular holidays.
- Step into the world of Hakata Ningyo (Hakata dolls) at Nakamura Ningyo’s private gallery, KAIGEIDO These delicate ceramic dolls, known for their intricate expressions and vibrant colouring, are a proud 400-year-old tradition of Fukuoka. The gallery’s unique design features special lighting that changes throughout the day, allowing the dolls to reveal new expressions and moods depending on the time and weather. The gallery also showcases decorative pieces from the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival, which has been celebrated for over 760 years, as well as contemporary works that reinterpret this age-old craft. In addition to the gallery, Nakamura Ningyo’s shop offers a range of beautifully crafted dolls representing the 12 zodiac signs of Japan. The gallery is open year-round, except during certain holidays and the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival.
- The Hakata Magemono Craft Experience and Tour of Hakozaki Shrine invites participants to learn the intricate process of making Hakata Magemono, traditional round wooden containers that are recognised as a staple of sushi restaurants around the world. Guided by 18th generation craftsman, Mr. Tamaki Shibata, visitors can create their own wooden containers and enjoy a special tour of the Hakozaki Shrine, including access to areas typically closed to the public.Open all year round from 10AM to 1PM. Closed over new year holidays and the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
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