Fukuoka is considered as one of the oldest cities of Japan.
Located in Kyushu Island, Fukuoka is formed by the fusion of Hakata the port city of Japan and Fukuoka. As among the oldest cities of Japan Fukuoka city still follows traditional Japanese culture and customs that can be clearly reflected in the surroundings as well as in the cuisines.
The places that one must visit in Fukuoka are the Nokonoshima Island, the Fukuoka Castle Ruins, the Tohori Park, Museums, Marine Park Uminonakamichi, Sky Dream Fukuoka, shrines and temples, which are many in number, Fukuoka Dome, the Canal City etc.
As far as shopping is concerned you need to make a trip to the Canal City, the most famous shopping complex of Fukuoka. The other places to visit for shopping purposes are the Tenjin Underground Shopping Arcade, Kawabata Shopping Arcade, Marina Town and many others. At these shopping malls you can pick up a souvenir of your choice.
The cost of food at most of the restaurants at the Fukuoka is within one's budget. At the local restaurants one can try out the Mizutaki, (water - skimmed chicken stew). The local food stalls also serve variety of Japanese cuisines. One can try out the Ramen (a whitish soup made out of a broth of boiled pork bones) garnished with leaf mustard and red pickled ginger. At the Fukuoka city one must try out the cod roe or the spicy mentaiko.
For transportation within the city you can opt for the bus service that is very frequent or you can hire a taxi. If you want to avoid the bus or a taxi, then you can avail the subway trains.
With so much on offer in Fukuoka it is recommended that you extend your stay when here for the Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival so you can enjoy this glorious city that little bit longer.
For ideas on what to do in Fukuoka and other areas within Japan visit www.jnto.go.jp.
