Once a thriving port that connected Japan to China, Hakata is among the oldest cities in the country. Among the most popular spots in the city is the Kushida-jinja Shrine that boasts impressive architecture. Hakata Station is a major transportation hub that is connected directly by Shinkansen from Tokyo Station and is only a five-minute subway ride away from Fukuoka Airport. If you’re in Hakata for a short time, the station area is filled with hotels and tourist spots. You can explore the area on foot right after dropping off your luggage. Read on for the top recommended spots to visit near Hakata Station.
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1. JR Hakata City (at Hakata Station)
JR Hakata City is the station building of JR Hakata Station. There’s a railway shrine in the rooftop garden where travelers pray for their safe journeys. You’ll also find an observation terrace that offers a panoramic view of the city of Hakata and a popular mini steam locomotive that is a huge hit among children. There are also option for shopping and dining.
JR Hakata City
Address: DEITOS, DEITOS ANNEX, inside JR Kyushu Hakata Station
Website: JR Hakata City
2. Canal City Hakata (11 minutes on foot from Hakata Station)
Canal City Hakata is one of the largest multi-purpose facilities in Kyushu. Spanning a site that’s almost comparable to Tokyo Disneyland, it features a shopping mall, movie theaters, theaters, amusement facilities, hotels, and more.
The fountain show, a staple of Canal City Hakata, is a must-see. Depending on the season, shows synchronized with music or collaborations with illuminations are held.
Canal City Hakata
Address: 1 Chome-2 Sumiyoshi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0018, Japan
Website: Canal City Hakata
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
3. Sumiyoshi Taisha (12 minutes on foot from Hakata Station)
Sumiyoshi Taisha, or Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, is the highest ranked shrine of the Chikuzen Province. It is said to be the location where Izanagi-no-Okami, a deity mentioned in the Kojiki (Record of Ancient Matters), performed purification rites at a sacred pond. Due to its origin, the shrine possesses strong purifying powers and is popular as a power spot.
Additionally, there is an ancient statue of a sumo wrestler with the character “power” carved on the palm of its hand. It is believed that by placing one’s hands together with the statue, one can receive its power.
Sumiyoshi Taisha
Address: 2 Chome-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558-0045, Japan
Website: Sumiyoshi Taisha
Opening hours: 6.30am - 5pm (daily)
4. Kushida-jinja Shrine (12 minutes on foot from Hakata Station)
Kushida-jinja Shrine, located in a corner of Kawabata Shopping Arcade, is affectionately known as O-Kushida-san among the locals. In summer, it hosts the grand festival of Hakata called Hakata Gion Yamakasa in July, during which magnificent decorative floats are created.
Kushida-jinja Shrine
Address: 1-41 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026, Japan
Website: Kushida-jinja Shrine
Opening hours: 4am - 10pm (daily)
Price: Free
5. Kawabata Shopping Arcade (16 minutes on foot from Hakata Station)
Known as the first thriving commercial district in Hakata and boasting a history of over 130 years, Kawabata Shopping Arcade stretches 400 meters (1312.34 feet). The shopping arcade is lined with over 130 shops, including restaurants and specialty stores. From long-established shops to new boutiques, it is a spot where you can always find something new, making each visit a discovery.
Kawabata Shopping Arcade
Address: 6-135 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026, Japan
Website: Kawabata Shopping Arcade
6. Hakatamachiya Furusatokan (12 minutes on foot from Hakata Station)
Located near Kawabata Shopping Arcade is Hakatamachiya Furusatokan. This tourist facility consists of three buildings, mainly showcasing the nostalgic Hakata machiya (traditional townhouses) from the Meiji era. Visitors can observe and experience traditional crafts here. The impressive Yamakasa video is a must-see attraction. Additionally, the facility offers a wide range of souvenirs, including traditional Hakata crafts and famous local sweets.
Hakatamachiya Furusatokan
Address: 6-10 Reisenmachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0039, Japan
Website: Hakatamachiya Furusatokan
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
7. Mangyoji (11 minutes on foot from Hakata Station)
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Mangyoji is famous for its two mascot cats, Kurosuke (left) and Yoda (right). This temple is a paradise for cat lovers, as you can see cats freely roaming around the temple grounds and even being greeted at the reception.
Moreover, you can freely enter the magnificent main hall and offer prayers unless there are religious ceremonies taking place. The impressive demon-shaped roof tiles are particularly noteworthy.
Mangyoji
Address: 4-50 Gionmachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0038, Japan
Website: Mangyoji
8. Tochoji Temple (9 minutes on foot from Hakata Station)
Tochoji Temple, founded by Kukai, also known as Kobo Daishi, is believed to be the oldest temple in Japan. The second-floor Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) houses the Fukuoka Daibutsu, which is the largest Buddha statue in Japan. The halo behind the Buddha statue features carvings of the Seven Buddhas and Thirteen Buddhas, standing at an impressive height of 16.1 meters (52.82 feet).
The Daibutsu Festival takes place every 1st of the month at 2pm. Additionally, the large cherry tree near the main gate is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.
Tochoji Temple
Address: 2-4 Gokushomachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0037, Japan
Website: Tochoji Temple
Opening hours: 9am - 4.45pm (daily)
Go sightseeing around Hakata Station!
Hakata offers a wealth of attractions within walking distance from the station. Take your pick from the list above and go exploring when you’re in Hakata!
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