Weird & Unusual Attractions in Fukuoka, Fukuoka, Japan
1. Fukuoka Toy Museum
A museum dedicated to vintage toys, showcasing a massive collection spanning over a century. It's a nostalgic trip for adults and a magical wonderland for kids.
- Vintage Toy Collection: One of the largest collections of vintage toys in Japan
- Interactive Exhibits: Allows visitors to play with many exhibits, encouraging a hands-on experience
- Historical Context: Educates visitors about the evolution of toys and their cultural significance
2. Hakozaki Soma Shrine Torii Gates
A unique torii gate complex with over 600 gates in Fukuoka. These are not your typical torii gates; they are all made by devotees and have different shapes and sizes.
- Variety of Designs: Each gate is uniquely designed, reflecting the creativity and dedication of its creator
- Spiritual Significance: Constructed to protect the Hakozaki Soma Shrine and bring peace to its visitors
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a tranquil space for contemplation amidst bustling Fukuoka city
3. Kawabatake Hell Valley
A unique geothermal valley with sulfur springs and volcanic activity. It's a bizarre yet fascinating landscape that feels like being on another planet.
- Volcanic Activity: One of the few places in Japan where you can experience active volcanism
- Sulfur Springs: Bubbling sulfur springs create a surreal landscape reminiscent of a Dante's Inferno painting
- Scientific Interest: Provides insights into geothermal activity and Japan's volcanic history
4. Ohori Park Octopus Fountain
A whimsical octopus-themed fountain located in the heart of Ohori Park. The octopus sprays water in a playful manner, creating a fun atmosphere.
- Unique Design: One of the few octopus-themed fountains in Japan
- Interactive Experience: Allows visitors to trigger the water jets for a fun and playful experience
- Central Location: Located in the popular Ohori Park, offering a peaceful escape amidst the city's hustle and bustle
5. Umijima Historical Aquarium
An aquarium housed inside a lighthouse, offering a unique marine life viewing experience. It's a must-visit for both children and adults.
- Lighthouse Setting: One of the few aquariums in the world located inside a lighthouse
- Marine Life Variety: Features a diverse range of marine life, from tiny jellyfish to enormous sea turtles
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about marine conservation and the importance of preserving ocean ecosystems
6. Japan Railway (JR) Hakozaki Station's Giant Panda Mascot
A life-sized panda mascot resides at JR Hakozaki Station. It's a popular spot for taking photos and a fun addition to the station.
- Giant Panda Representation: One of the few life-sized panda mascots in Japan
- Photo Opportunity: Offers a unique photo opportunity for visitors to commemorate their Fukuoka trip
- Local Attraction: Adds charm and character to the local community, enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination
7. Fukuoka Art Museum's Kikunao Garden
A quirky sculpture garden adjacent to the Fukuoka Art Museum. It showcases over 300 works by contemporary Japanese artists.
- Contemporary Art Focus: Features contemporary Japanese art, offering insights into current artistic trends
- Open-Air Exhibit: Allows visitors to explore and appreciate the artworks in an outdoor setting
- Artistic Diversity: Showcases a wide range of mediums, from sculptures to installations
8. Fukuoka Castle Ruins' Moat Monster
A large statue of a monster resides in the moat surrounding Fukuoka Castle. It's a fun and unusual addition to the castle ruins.
- Monster Statue: One of the few monster statues in Japan located in a historical site
- Historical Context: Adds an element of fun and quirkiness to the otherwise historic Fukuoka Castle Ruins
- Photography Opportunity: Offers a unique photography opportunity for visitors to capture something out of the ordinary
9. Fukuoka Asian Art Museum's Bamboo Forest
A serene bamboo forest adjacent to the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum. It provides a peaceful and immersive experience amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
- Bamboo Forest: One of the few bamboo forests in an urban setting within Fukuoka
- Meditative Experience: Offers a tranquil space for visitors to reflect, meditate, and find peace amidst nature
- Artistic Synergy: Complements the adjacent Asian Art Museum, providing a holistic cultural experience
10. Yakuin Temple's Giant Buddha Statue
A massive Buddha statue inside Yakuin Temple. It's a spiritual experience that leaves visitors awestruck.
- Massive Scale: One of the largest Buddha statues in Fukuoka, standing over 20 meters tall
- Spiritual Significance: Offers a spiritual experience and a glimpse into Buddhism's rich history in Japan
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a tranquil space for contemplation and reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of city life
11. Fukuoka Tower's Panoramic View
A tower offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Fukuoka. It's the perfect spot to take in the cityscape from a bird's eye perspective.
- Panoramic View: Offers an unobstructed view of Fukuoka city and its surrounding areas
- Observation Deck: Features an observation deck with a restaurant, providing a unique dining experience
- Night View: Ideal for experiencing the city's night view and its dazzling lights
12. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine's Thousand Torii Gates
A thousand torii gates leading up to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. It's a spiritual and awe-inspiring experience.
- Thousand Torii Gates: One of the few shrines in Japan with over a thousand torii gates
- Spiritual Significance: Offers a spiritual experience and a glimpse into Shintoism's rich history in Japan
- Scenic Walk: Provides an opportunity for a scenic walk amidst beautiful surroundings
13. Kushida Shrine's Giant Lantern Festival
A festival featuring over a thousand lanterns illuminating Kushida Shrine. It's a mesmerizing sight to behold and a unique cultural experience.
- Thousand Lanterns: One of the few festivals in Japan featuring over a thousand lanterns
- Cultural Experience: Offers a unique insight into Japanese culture and traditions
- Photography Opportunity: Provides a beautiful backdrop for photography enthusiasts
14. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine's Wish Fulfilling Ema
Wooden plaques (ema) where visitors can write their wishes and hang them at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. It's a traditional practice to seek the shrine's wisdom.
- Traditional Practice: Participating in this tradition offers a glimpse into Japanese culture and beliefs
- Wish Fulfillment: Allows visitors to write their wishes on the wooden plaques, seeking the shrine's wisdom for fulfillment
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a tranquil space for contemplation and reflection amidst beautiful surroundings
15. Fukuoka PayPay Dome's Giant Slide
A giant slide inside the Fukuoka PayPay Dome. It's a fun and unusual attraction that adds excitement to the city.
- Giant Slide: One of the few indoor slides in Japan, offering a unique experience
- Fun Attraction: Adds excitement and fun to the Fukuoka PayPay Dome, making it more appealing to visitors
- Indoor Location: Offers a fun indoor activity during rainy or cold days