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Kyushu Foodie Friendcation
Eat your way through the Kyushu region with best friends Claudia and Jie Lin as they embark on a foodie trip to celebrate a very special occasion - Jie Lin's birthday!
DAY 1
Changi Airport
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6 hours by international flight
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Fukuoka Airport
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20 minutes by bus
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Hakata Station
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15 minutes by JR Shinkansen Nozomi 20
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Kokura Station
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10 minutes by car
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The Symbol of Kitakyushu: Kokura Castle
Start your day by savouring matcha and seasonal Japanese sweets served in Ryureiseki style (Japanese tea room with tables and chairs) at the Kokura Castle Garden. After the relaxing cultural experience, head to Tenshukaku on the fifth floor of the castle to enjoy some sweets, coffee, and the spectacular view of the parameters. Don't forget to grab some souvenirs unique to Kokura from the Shiro Terrace nearby!
Claudia’s Favourite Spot in Kitakyushu
The Kokura Castle Garden is not only beautiful, but enjoyable at any time of the year as the layout of the garden was designed in a way to last throughout all four seasons! It has maintained its beauty over time, from when it was constructed in the 1600s until now.
Kokura Castle
Address: 2-1 Jonai, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka 803-0813
Website (Japanese only): https://kokuracastle.jp/main/
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15 minutes on foot
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Authentic Edomae Sushi Lunch
Once done with the morning activities, settle down and feast upon the local delicacy of Kitakyushu at AKASUSHI. With a high-quality menu at an affordable price, the authentic Edomae Sushi they offer is made with red vinegar and fresh seafood, and is sure to be an extraordinary treat for the palate.
AKASUSHI
Address: 2-1-10 Kyo-machi, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka 802-0002
Website(Japanese only): https://kyousushi.co.jp/group/akasushi.php
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30 minutes by car
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Explore the Rich Retroscape of Mojiko
Take photos at the iconic Mojiko Station, where you can also find a tourist information counter offering maps of the area in many languages, including English and Chinese. Bask in the nostalgic atmosphere at the elegant Kaikyo Plaza and learn about Mojiko’s history at the Kanmon Strait Museum. A fun fact: a 5-minute ferry ride from the Mojiko Pier brings you to Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi, where you can enjoy delicious seafood!
Kanmon Strait Museum
Discover the history of the Kanmon Straits through the years at the Kanmon Strait Museum. With interactive displays and impressive projections on one of the largest screens in Japan, the museum is sure to fill your day with wonders of the past!
Kaikyo Plaza
With restaurants and souvenir shops dotted around the plaza, it is a great place to dine and do some souvenir shopping for your loved ones or yourself. You can also simply stop for a rest or walk around to take in the beautiful streets, architecture and the pleasing port-side scenery.
Mojiko Retro Cruise
Board the Mojiko Retro Cruise from the Kaikyo Plaza for a short sail around the portside, where you can enjoy the retro landscape of Mojiko from another perspective. Hop on the cruise during sunset for an even more special experience!
Kanmon Strait Museum
Address: 1-3-3 Nishikaigan, Moji-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka 801-0841
Website (Japanese only): https://www.kanmon-kaikyo-museum.jp/
Kaikyo Plaza
Address: 5-1 Minato-machi, Moji-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka 801-0852
Website: https://www.kaikyo-plaza.com/en/
Mojiko Retro Cruise (Departs from Kaikyo Plaza)
Address: 1-4-1 Nishikaigan, Moji-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka 801-0841
Website(Japanese only): https://www.kanmon-kisen.co.jp/route/mojikou.html
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10 minutes by car
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Marvelous Night-view of Kitakyushu
With restaurants and souvenir shops dotted around the plaza, it is a great place to dine and do some souvenir shopping for your loved ones or yourself. You can also simply stop for a rest or walk around to take in the beautiful streets, architecture and the pleasing port-side scenery.
Mekari Park Second Observatory
Address: 2 Kyumoji, Oaza Moji, Moji-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka 801-0854
Website (Japanese only): https://www.crossroadfukuoka.jp/en/spot/10417
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10 minutes by car
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Stay and Dine Along the Kanmon Straits
Premier Hotel Mojiko, designed by renowned architect Aldo Rossi, features welcoming rooms with stunning views of the Kanmon Straits. Head to the second floor of the hotel to indulge in Italian cuisine made with fresh ingredients from Kitakyushu at their in-house restaurant, Italian Portone. If you are celebrating a special occasion, surprise your loved one with a complimentary mini fireworks display!*
*Advance reservation for the mini fireworks display is required. Please contact Premier Hotel Mojiko for more information.
Premier Hotel Mojiko
Address: 9-11 Minato-machi, Moji-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka 801-0852
Website: https://premier.kenhotels.com/mojiko/english/
DAY 2
Premier Hotel Mojiko
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5 minutes on foot
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Mojiko Station
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15 minutes by train
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Kokura Station
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50 minutes by JR Shinkansen Mizuho 603
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Kumamoto Station
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30 minutes by car
Let’s Pick Fresh Strawberries!
Strawberry season starts in December and lasts until May. During this period, you can pick fresh strawberries carefully cultivated by Tourist Farm KICHIJIEN. Each row features different strawberry varieties, allowing you to compare the unique flavours as you pick!
Tourist Farm KICHIJIEN
Address: 556-1 Uekimachi Kitome, Kita-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 861-0151
Website: https://www.kichijien.jp/english.html
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25 minutes by car
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Luxurious Kaiseki Lunch with a View of Kumamoto Castle
With the magnificent Kumamoto Castle visible from every corner of the restaurant, Shiromiyagura offers seasonal Kaiseki dining featuring carefully selected ingredients. With the restaurant's large windows, delight not only in the view of Kumamoto Castle but also the surrounding scenery while savouring the local flavours of Kumamoto. *Reservations are required and must be booked at least one day in advance.
Shiromiyagura
Address: 1-10 Hanabata-cho, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 860-0806
Website (Japanese only): https://www.shiromiyagura.com/
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20 minutes by car
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Explore Kumamoto in Graceful Kimono
Step into the cozy vibes of Wa Collection Mito and choose your favourite kimono to wear for the day! With a vast array of colours and sizes, their Kimono Rental Plan includes the complete set: kimono, sash, undergarment, socks, sandals, and bag for the full traditional experience. You can also take home the socks and bag as special keepsakes!
Wa Collection Mito
Address: 4-3 Suizenji Koen, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 862-0956
Website: https://wa-collection.jp/kimono-eng/
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1 minute on foot
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Japanese Garden With Over 300 Years of History
Once dressed in your kimono, take a leisurely stroll around Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a place with over 300 years of history. Encounter the classic thatched-roof teahouse, a pine tree said to have grown from a bonsai, and the iconic Izumi Shrine Torii Gate. Together, these elements create the beautiful picture of a traditional Japanese garden.
Claudia’s Favourite Spot in Kumamoto
The scenery is amazing and the garden has the size of 10 football fields! I felt like I was immersing in the culture of Kumamoto, and what elevated the experience was being dressed in a traditional kimono which brings a different touch to visiting a Japanese garden.
Suizenji Jojuen Garden
Address: 8-1 Suizenji Koen, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 862-0956
Website (Japanese only): http://www.suizenji.or.jp/
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20 minutes by car
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Experience the Restored Beauty of Kumamoto Castle
A visit to Kumamoto Castle will reveal why it's hailed as the quintessential icon of Kumamoto! Learn about the castle and its rich history, including its damage and restoration after the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake. Visitors can view the reconstructed castle and its grand stone foundation up close with the observation walkway.
Kumamoto Castle
Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 860-0002
Website: https://castle.kumamoto-guide.jp/en/
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5 minute on foot
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Shop and Snack in Traditional Kumamoto!
Step back in time to a 17th-century Japanese castle town at Sakura-no-Baba Josaien! Immerse yourself in the cuisine, culture, and history of Kumamoto in this bustling area filled with stores offering handmade goods, local products, and Kumamoto sweets and foods.
Sakura-no-Baba Josaien
Address: 1-1 Ninomaru, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 860-0008
Website: https://www.sakuranobaba-johsaien.jp/english/
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5 minutes by car
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Sizzle, Spice, and Everything Nice
At Teppanyaki Yoshihara, enjoy the view of Kumamoto Castle in an elegant dining space as a skilled chef whips up a delectable dinner using only fresh, high-quality local ingredients, including Kumamoto's Akaushi.
Teppanyaki Yoshihara
Address: KOKO HOTEL Premier Kumamoto 14F, 3-20 Sakura-machi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 860-0805
Website: https://www.teppan-yoshihara.com/en
Stay in the Heart of Kumamoto
Settle in for the night at the cosy KOKO HOTEL Premier Kumamoto. Connected directly to Sakura Machi Kumamoto, a vibrant shopping mall with restaurants, take some time to explore before retiring. And, don't miss the chance to enjoy the stunning night view of Kumamoto Castle from the hotel lobby.
KOKO HOTEL Premier Kumamoto
Address: 3-20 Sakuramachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 860-0805
Website: https://koko-hotels.com/kumamoto_lang/en_ku
DAY 3
KOKO HOTEL Premier Kumamoto
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10 minutes by car
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Kumamoto Station
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45 minutes by JR Shinkansen Mizuho 603
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Kagoshima Chuo Station
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20 minutes by car
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Craft your own Satsuma Kiriko Cut Glass
Satsuma Kiriko, a style of cut glass, is a local art of Kagoshima, and at Sengan-en, you can try making your own Satsuma Kiriko Cut Glass! Don't worry if you have never crafted cut glass before, the friendly staff is there to guide you through every step of the process. Of course, this unique memorabilia is yours to keep!
Sengan-en
Address: 9700-1 Yoshino-cho, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima 892-0871
Website: https://www.senganen.jp/en/senganen-experiences/satsuma-kiriko-cutting-experience/
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10 minutes by car
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Savour the Award-winning Flavours of Kagoshima’s Kuroushi
Kagoshima is known for its high-quality Kuroushi, or black beef, with its fine marbling and tenderness that melts in your mouth. Have a taste of this delicious local wagyu at Zino, known for it's bite-sized Kuroushi steak!
Zino
Address: 3-12 Yamanokuchi-cho, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima 892-0844
Website (Japanese only): https://zino.gorp.jp/
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15 minutes by car
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Kagoshima Port
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20 minutes by ferry (you can load your car onto the ferry)
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Sakurajima Port
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5 minutes by car
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Explore a Plethora of Activities and Sights at Sakurajima
Home to an active stratovolcano with a height of 1117m, there is much to see and experience at Sakurajima. Make art with volcanic ashes, visit the observatory at the highest point of the island, and relax in a 100-metre-long footbath!
OUGAKU TOUGEI
Take home a piece of Sakurajima and the special memories of visiting by creating your own volcanic ash art at OUGAKU TOUGEI. Not only is it a unique craft and souvenir, but it's also a fun activity for all ages.
Yunohira Observatory
The highest point on Sakurajima at 373m, Yunohira Observatory provides a gorgeous view of Kagoshima City and Kinko Bay. Take a moment to breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the scenery, and snap some insta-worthy shots before heading back down.
Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park
With a view of Mt Sakurajima on one side and Kinko Bay on the other, wash away your tiredness in the natural hotspring footbath at Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park. Running 100 meters long, it is free of charge for all visitors to Sakurajima!
Jie Lin’s Favourite Spot in Kagoshima
I stepped into the footbath and immediately felt warm and cozy as it was a chilly day! It also feels like a mini onsen that is free for all, and the beautiful snow-capped Sakurajima in the background just adds to the experience.
OUGAKU TOUGEI
Address: 1360 Akamizu-cho, Sakurajima, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima 891-1420
Website: https://www.ougaku.com/taiken/
Yunohira Observatory
Address: 1025 Koike-cho, Sakurajima, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima 891-1418
Website (Japanese only): http://www.sakurajima.gr.jp/tourism/000350.html
Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park
Address: 1722-3 Yokoyama-cho, Sakurajima, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima 891-1419
Website (Japanese only): http://www.sakurajima.gr.jp/tourism/000677.html
Sakurajima Port
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20 minutes by ferry
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Kagoshima Port
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5 minutes by car
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Kagoshima Gourmet Goodness: Kurobuta Shabu-shabu
One of the most popular ways to enjoy Kagoshima's renowned kurobuta, or black pork, is through shabu-shabu as it enhances the delicate flavor of the meat. At Wakana, the staff will guide you on the proper steps to savour the kurobuta for you to truly enjoy this delicacy!
Wakana Bunka-Dori
Address: 12-21 Yamanokuchi-cho, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima 892-0844
Website (Japanese only): https://k-wakana.com/
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10 minutes by car
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A Sojourn on the Hill
Perched 108 meters above sea level on Shiroyama Hill, the SHIROYAMA HOTEL kagoshima boasts breathtaking views of Kinko Bay, Sakurajima, and Kagoshima City. With a huge selection of in-house restaurants, they also offer vegan Japanese cuisine options!
SHIROYAMA HOTEL kagoshima
Address: 41-1 Shinshoin-cho, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima 890-8586
Website: https://www.shiroyama-g.co.jp/en/
DAY 4
SHIROYAMA HOTEL kagoshima
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10 minutes by car
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Kagoshima Chuo Station
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1 hour 40 minutes by JR Shinkansen Sakura 544
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Hakata Station
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15 minutes by car
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Tour Around Fukuoka with the Wind in Your Hair!
Experience an open-top bus ride that takes you around Fukuoka, allowing you to witness must-see sights in the city with just one trip! On the Seaside Momochi course, enjoy the thrill as the bus zooms down Fukuoka's highways! All buses are accompanied by a bus announcer who will guide you along your journey and introduce you to Fukuoka's many charms. *Bus announcers provide guidance in Japanese, but audio guide services are available in English, Chinese, and Korean.
Fukuoka Open Top Bus
Address: Tour starts at Fukuoka City Hall 8-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 810-8620
Website (Japanese only): https://fukuokaopentopbus.jp/en/
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Alight from the open-top bus at Ohori Koen-mae
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History Blended with Modern Lifestyle at Ohori Park
'Ohori' in Japanese means moat, and, as the name suggests, the park area used to serve as the moat of Fukuoka Castle. Now a park with numerous facilities for both visitors and locals to enjoy, including the Fukuoka Art Museum, it has successfully integrated history into today's lifestyle.
Ohori Park
Address: 1-2 Ohorikoen, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 810-0051
Website: https://www.ohorikouen.jp/en/
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10 minutes on foot
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Charming Lunch at Gaogao Ohoriten
Choose your preferred combination of claypot rice and Hanakago Gozen (flower basket meal) from options like foie gras to sea bream. The menu is not just a treat to look at but also delightfully delicious! If you are unable to finish your claypot rice, the staff will pack it into takeaway onigiri (rice balls) for you to enjoy later in the day!
Gaogao Ohoriten
Address: 103 Zurich Ohori, 1-7-2 Ohori, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 810-0052
Website: https://www.gaogao-ohori.com/english.html
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15 minutes by car
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Tower Over Fukuoka!
Fukuoka Tower stands at 234 metres tall, and its observation deck is located 123 metres above ground. From there, you can enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the Fukuoka cityscape! Additionally, immerse yourself in other fun activities like playing fortune-telling pinball and capturing memorable moments at the heart-shaped photo spot with the perfect backdrop of scenic Fukuoka City.
Fukuoka Tower
Address: 2-3-26 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 814-0001
Website: https://www.fukuokatower.co.jp/?stt_lang=en
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1 minute on foot
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Breezy Seaside Stroll
After enjoying the stunning view from Fukuoka Tower, get up close to the sea at Momochi Seaside Park located right next to the tower. Enjoy the refreshing sea air before capturing some picturesque photos!
Momochi Seaside Park
Address: 2-902-1 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 814-0001
Website: https://gofukuoka.jp/spots/detail/27128
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10 minutes by car
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Step into a Dazzling World of Digital Art
Explore, discover, and interact with virtual animals and flora through mesmerizing digital art at teamLab Forest Fukuoka. The artworks are rendered in real time, and the season of the forest changes in accordance to the actual season! Ideal for visitors of all ages, teamLab Forest Fukuoka promises a dynamic experience where you can learn and discover something new with each visit.
teamLab Forest Fukuoka
Address: BOSS E・ZO FUKUOKA 5F, 2-2-6 Jigyohama, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 810-0065
Website: https://www.teamlab.art/e/forest/
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15 minutes by car
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For the Night-Time Foodies: Fukuoka’s Yatai!
What's better than savouring piping hot food and refreshing drinks in a cosy setting with friends and family? In Fukuoka, yatai, or food carts, come to life at night. Create a memorable evening at Yatai no Tamachan in Nagahama by toasting with beer and indulging in snacks like yakitori with both loved ones and the passionate staff!
Jie Lin’s Favourite Spot in Fukuoka
What I liked the most was the ambience, camaraderie with the staff, and small dining area, which allowed for much more interpersonal interaction with the locals!
Yatai no Tamachan
Address: 3-14 Nagahama, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0072
Website: https://gofukuoka.jp/spots/detail/yatai235010
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20 minutes by car
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Tranquil Rest at HILLTOP RESORT FUKUOKA
Nestled on a hill overlooking Fukuoka's cityscape, HILLTOP RESORT FUKUOKA offers a serene retreat after a day of adventure in the bustling city. Choose from western-style rooms or Japanese tatami rooms, and explore the hotel's various facilities, including a spacious public bath and a cosy library lounge.
HILLTOP RESORT FUKUOKA
Address: 1-1-33 Terukuni, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 810-0032
Website: https://hilltopresort-fukuoka.com/en/
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30 minutes by car
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Fukuoka Airport
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6 hours by international flight
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Changi Airport
Useful Tips
THE BIG-4 CITIES OF KYUSHU
Discover the diverse Kyushu region with our proud sponsors of this trip, THE BIG-4 CITIES OF KYUSHU. Get detailed insights on Kitakyushu, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, and Fukuoka and plan your adventures to these charming cities effortlessly!
Kitakyushu City
Kumamoto City
Kagoshima City
Fukuoka City
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