Where to stay

Make a reservation in Tenjin to experience downtown Fukuoka at its best. The neighborhood is filled with great restaurants and shopping destinations such as Tenjin Underground Shopping Centre. Hotels in this area are also good for lively nightlife and the lovely Suikyo Tenmangu Shrine. To sample the cuisine of Japan, especially its ramen noodles, consider staying in a hotel in Hakata, where the best accommodations are also close to many of the city's cultural attractions. Go for a stroll from your room to Canal City Hakata to explore this huge shopping and entertainment complex. For those who prefer cool cafés and stores filled with unique fashions, hotels in the Yakuin-horibata district and its hip neighbor Daimyo are best.

The most popular hotels for families are in the district of Shime, close to a water and amusement park with an indoor playground for small kids. Play in other green parks and visit the Fukuoka Anpanman Children's Museum in this area, also a short journey from accommodations in Susakiuramachi. Adults are served by the nearby Hakataza Theatre, where they can watch a Japanese opera performance. Consider a hotel in Uminonakamichi to be close to the huge Uminonakamichi Seaside Park and experience its aquarium, zoo, and Ferris wheel. Rent bicycles to ride around the large gardens.

For a peaceful stay exploring the city, hotels in Fukuoka center are close to Ohori Park with its beautiful lake where wild birds gather. Spend the day on a man-made beach or visit the many museums and shrines for a little history and culture. If staying in this area, go to the tall Fukuoka Tower for panoramic views of the city at night. For those with a preference to join the locals and sample their food, stay in Nakasu neighborhood, which has riverside streets lined with traditional yatai food stalls and dazzling lights in the evening.