Depart from Hakata Station in Fukuoka and embark on a full-day journey combining breathtaking coastal scenery, Instagram-worthy photo spots, local cuisine, a traditional river cruise, and historic cultural landmarks.
Raizan Sennyoji Dahiou-in
A Shingon temple on the slope of Mount Raizan. Its principal image, an eleven-faced thousand-armed Kannon, is a National Important Cultural Property, and the grounds hold a 400-year-old maple. The approach is steep and stepped. Admission is paid on site and is not included; in November the temple charges a separate garden fee.
Itoshima Oyster Hut
Charcoal-grilled oysters at a fishing-port hut in Itoshima. Gloves, jackets and shucking knives are lent free, and prices are set by the local fisheries cooperative, so they are the same at every port. Expect around ¥2,500 per person, paid on site; this stop also serves as the lunch break. Operates from late October to early April only.
Sakurai Futamigaura (Couple Rocks)
Two rocks stand about 150 metres offshore, bound by a sacred rope: the larger is 11.8 metres high, the smaller 11.2. A white torii rises out of the water in front of them, its base submerged at high tide. The site belongs to Sakurai Shrine and is listed among Japan's 100 best beaches and 100 best sunsets.
Palm Tree Swing & Angel Wings
Two of Itoshima's most photographed spots, a few minutes apart by road: the palm-tree swing on the sand at Zauo, and the angel wings painted on the seawall at Palm Beach The Gardens. Both are free and open to the public.
Sakurai Boat Ride
A 60-minute cruise from Sakurai port, looking back at the white torii and the Couple Rocks from the water — a view you cannot get from the shore. The ticket is included only when the boat option is selected. Sailings depend on sea conditions and may be cancelled in bad weather, in which case the boat fee is refunded.
Miyajidake Shrine
A shrine in Fukutsu, east of Itoshima, holding three of Japan's largest objects: a sacred rope weighing three tonnes, a bell and a drum. A straight approach about 1.5 km long runs west from the shrine to the sea; around 20 February and 20 October the setting sun lines up exactly at its end.
18:10 | Return to Hakata Station
After a full day of sightseeing, return to Hakata Station (Chikushi Exit) in the evening, bringing your memorable journey through Fukuoka's coastal beauty, cultural treasures, and local flavors to a close.
