10 Things to Do in Fukuoka in Winter
Updated: Sep 7, 2023
Fukuoka is the sixth-largest city in Japan and one of the most populated cities in the country. Located in the Kyushu region, it is close to South Korea and attracts many Koreans to visit the area. Fukuoka boasts breathtaking beaches, mountains, and delicious food, making it an excellent destination for travelers year-round. But what about its winter season? Does it snow in Fukuoka? Let's look at Kyushu's climate and find the best time to go there during winter.
I've always been the one that loves to avoid SNOW. Yes, it was fun to play with as a kid, but to be honest, now that I'm older... snow is just an inconvenience, especially if it is snowing hard. Anyways, this blog post is not about how much I wouldn't say I like snow. It is about does it snow in Fukuoka and things to do in Fukuoka in winter. No, it rarely snows in Fukuoka!!
If you're considering visiting Fukuoka in winter and prefer little to no snow, that's the place to be!
Weather in Fukuoka in Winter
Average Temperatures in December 55F/42F
Average Temperatures in January 50F/43F
Average Temperatures in February 52F/46F
Average Temperatures in March 66F/48F
The weather in Fukuoka in winter is pretty mild, with the lowest temperature during the day around 50F and almost no snow. Fukuoka is a great place to travel to throughout all months of winter!
10 Best Places to Visit Fukuoka in Winter
One thing I loved about visiting Fukuoka was the distance between the Fukuoka Airport to Hakata Station... 5 to 6 minutes by subway. I thought I was going the wrong way because it was too quick. I didn't have to worry too much about getting/leaving the Fukuoka Airport, so I was able to spend more time around Fukuoka City. There are many things to explore and eat around Hakata & Tenjin, which comprise most of Fukuoka city. This is where I fell in love with Motsu Nabe! I might write a post about where to eat in Fukuoka, so stay tuned! ☺︎
[FTC Disclosure: Hey, trying to provide free guides & recommendations, but a girl gotta eat too. Well, some of the links you click on are what are known as “affiliate links.” So if you do buy something, I’ll probably earn a few bucks. Thanks in advance ✍︎]
Fukuoka City
Yatai Food Stall
屋台
If you’re looking for a unique food experience in Fukuoka, look no further than the Yatai Food Stalls. These traditional Japanese street stalls are mainly located in Tenjin and Nakas, offering locals and tourists a great place to grab a late-night snack or enjoy an evening out with friends. Each stall typically has around ten seats, so it's easy to find one that is not too crowded. You can also expect to see some of the best local delicacies, such as ramen noodles, yakitori skewers, and oden stew!
Fukuoka Tower
福岡タワー
Standing 234 meters tall, Fukuoka Tower is the tallest seaside tower in Japan and offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Hakata Bay. As that wasn't enough to draw visitors, there is also a complementary observatory for anyone visiting on their birthday! The offer is valid three days before and after your birthday, so take advantage of this great gift! Every month, Fukuoka Tower also has different illuminations - making it even more beautiful every season - so check out the schedule when you visit.
Adults: 800 yen
Elementary Students: 500 yen
Infants (over 4): 200 yen
Senior: 720 yen
Fukuoka Art Museum
福岡市美術館
Located in the heart of Fukuoka City, the Fukuoka Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers. It houses some of Japan's most precious collected Japan's pre-modern to modern and contemporary artworks. Apart from its permanent collection, this museum also features special exhibitions like anime or other works related to popular culture. Whether you are an experienced artist or just someone who appreciates art, there is something here for everyone at the Fukuoka Art Museum!
Adults: 200 yen
High School & University School Student: 150 yen
Junior high school students & younger: FREE
Ohori Park Japanese Garden
Ohori Park Japanese Garden is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the middle of Fukuoka City. Located within Ohori Park, this traditional garden was built in 1984 and has been carefully maintained. It features a central pond, artificial hills, a dry landscape garden, sukiya-zukuri style teahouse, and a teahouse garden. Visitors can make reservations to visit the tea ceremony building for an authentic experience or enjoy the park's tranquil atmosphere from one of its many benches. Whether you're looking for relaxation or cultural exploration, Ohori Park Japanese Garden is a must visit!
Adult: 250 yen
Children: 120 yen
6 & under: FREE
Kushida Shrine
櫛田神社
Kushida Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Fukuoka City, located right in the center of Hakata. This shrine's long and rich history dates back to 757, when it was first built. It is dedicated to Hakata Gion Yamakasa, the general guardian deity of Hakata, also known as Okushi-san by locals. Every year during the Setsubun Grand Festival, you can see celebrities throw beans (lucky beans) for good luck at Kushida Shrine – signifying winter's end. Aside from this festival, there is also a sacred tree that symbolizes longevity, and it has been around for 1000 years!
Canal City Hakata
キャナルシティ博多
Canal City Hakata is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Fukuoka, Japan. Located in the heart of downtown, it is a sprawling complex with over 250 shops and restaurants. Canal City also features an artificial canal that winds around the center for 180 meters and gives visitors a unique atmosphere. Aside from its beautiful architecture, Canal City offers tax-free stores for tourists and great entertainment options such as movie theaters, arcades, and more. If the weather is bad outside, this is the place to be!
Near Fukuoka City
Kyushu National Museum
九州国立博物館
The Kyushu National Museum is a must-visit destination for all history and culture enthusiasts. Located in Dazaifu, this museum houses some of Japan's most precious artifacts from pre-modern to modern Japan. It showcases a variety of exhibits from across Asia, such as old artifacts from Japan, Taiwan, Korea, and China. It might be less enjoyable if you do not speak or write Japanese, Chinese, or Korean since the artifacts are in those languages. But if you're in the area, definitely pop in to check it out!
Adults: 700 yen
University Students: 350 yen
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
太宰府天満宮
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan. It is located in Dazaifu City and has a long and rich history dating back to 845, when it was first established. Dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning and scholarship, this shrine is famous among students who come here to pray for good luck on their exams. It also features many art installations around its grounds that visitors can appreciate while they explore the area. There are many festivals held at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, even during winter. Also, it is only less than one hour away from Fukuoka City by public transportation!
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
海の中道海浜公園
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is a beautiful & fun destination located near Fukuoka City. This beautiful park features many attractions and activities, including a stunning Japanese garden full of winter flowers such as Nanohana, Ume (plum), Ice Tulip, and Japanese Daffodils. An animal forest with 50 species and 500 animals can also be found here! With its scenic spots and tranquil atmosphere, this park offers something for everyone to enjoy – from relaxation to cultural exploration. It's only around 1 hour away by public transportation from the city center, so visit Uminonakamichi Seaside Park today!
Nokoshima Island Park
能古島
Nokoshima Island Park is a unique and beautiful park near Fukuoka City in Japan. It's home to some of the most breathtaking views, with lush green vegetation, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunset. The island is also full of activities for visitors, such as sports and a mini zoo! – it’s a great place to relax or explore nature. Meanwhile, you do have to take a ferry to get there, but it is only a 10 minutes ride from the Fukuoka city area, so make sure to fit this beautiful island park into your itinerary.
Fukuoka in Winter Isn't for You If…
Fukuoka in winter isn't for you if you prefer somewhere that is colder and snows a lot. Also, Fukuoka isn't for you if you don't enjoy eating delicious food. ☺︎
Fukuoka in the winter is a great place to visit for those who want to enjoy mild temperatures and explore some of Japan's most beautiful parks. From Uminonakamichi Seaside Park with its stunning Japanese garden full of winter flowers to Nokoshima Island Park with its lush green vegetation and crystal clear waters, Fukuoka has something for everyone! So if you're planning your next trip during the winter, be sure to check out all that Fukuoka has to offer!
