The ULTIMATE Fukuoka Guide | Best Things to Do, See, + Eat (Vegan)
Fukuoka was one of the final stops on our journey through Japan , and we instantly fell head over heels for this city. Unlike the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and Osaka, Fukuoka boasts a delightful small-town atmosphere that made us really soak in our time there. With several picturesque rivers winding through the city, it evokes a certain Amsterdam charm, complete with beautiful bridges and scenic docks.
Fukuoka is also known at the ramen capital of Japan. Tonkotsku Ramen was invented there, and some of the biggest ramen restaurants/chains in the world — Ichiran & Ippudo — both originated in the city. This vibrant culinary scene gives the city an irresistible foodie vibe, but there’s so much more to discover beyond the delicious noodles! During our six-day adventure in Fukuoka, we uncovered a treasure trove of experiences. Join us as we share our favorite things to do in this captivating city!
Where to Stay in Fukuoka
During our trip we stayed at Hotel Okura Fukuoka. We thought it was in the perfect location, close to the metro and walkable to most things to we wanted to do in the city. We loved the staff too, they were so accomodating and always wanted to see what they could do to help. The hotel breakfast was also great, even as vegans they have plenty of options for us.
You can find other accommodations in Fukuoka here on Expedia!
Best Things to Do in Fukuoka
Fukuoka FoodTec Lab
Ohana Tachibana
Yanagawa
Mayu no Yakata Kimono
Try a Ramen & Gyoza making class at Fukuoka FoodTec Lab - Remember when we said Fukuoka is a food lover's paradise? Well, it’s the ultimate spot for a Ramen and Gyoza-making class! We had an absolute blast whipping up our own vegan ramen and gyoza, getting hands-on with every step of the process to create these amazing dishes from scratch. The team at Fukuoka FoodTec Lab was incredibly accommodating when it came to dietary restrictions, making sure everyone in our group could join in on the fun. This experience wasn’t just delicious—it was a memorable adventure that we wholeheartedly recommend for anyone eager to dive into Fukuoka’s vibrant culinary scene!
Do a Kimono Experience at Ohori Park - One of the things we absolutely loved about Japan was how easy it is to try on and wear a kimono! In Fukuoka, we had the wonderful opportunity to don these beautiful garments at Mayu no Yakata. Afterward, we strolled through Ohori Park, and we can't recommend it enough—kimono or not! The views are simply stunning, making it the perfect backdrop for a walk!
Watch a Geisha Performance - Experiencing a Geisha performance in Japan had always been a dream of ours, and we’re thrilled that we had the chance to see one at Hakata Geisha! Learning about the art of Geisha and their performances was fascinating, and it felt incredible to participate in such a important Japanese tradition.
Do a Hakata River Dinner Cruise - Dining on a traditional Japanese boat was an unforgettable experience! We enjoyed a delicious Japanese hot pot while cruising along the scenic Hakata River and got to take in the amazing views. To top it all off, we even got to enjoy some karaoke on board, adding even more fun to our evening!
Eat at the famous Yatai (Food Stalls) - Yatai is a must-try in Fukuoka! These open-air food stalls, typically only open at night, create a lively atmosphere for a unique dining exprience. Each Yatai usually accommodates 6 to 8 people, allowing you to savor various traditional Japanese dishes in an intimate setting. While the menu often features meat and ramen, we shared with the staff that we are vegan, and they graciously whipped up delicious yakisoba and other vegetable dishes just for us. It was a fantastic culinary experience that truly showcases the city's vibrant food scene!
Enjoy a nightcap at THEATER 010 - Run by the same team who started The Box in NYC, Theater 010 is a unique bar experience with different one-of-a-kind performances every 10 minutes. The cocktails were delicious as well. This spot is definitely a must-do while in Fukuoka simply because we have never been anywhere like it before!
Visit the famous Dazaifu Tenmangu - Probably the most popular Shinto shine in Fukuoka! Dazaifu Tenmangu is dedicated to Tenjin, the deity of learning, culture, and the arts. This stunning shrine is a must-visit, not only for its architectural beauty but also for the vibrant shopping street that leads up to it. Here, you’ll find a delightful array of local foods, souvenirs, and more, making your visit a well-rounded experience that blends culture and commerce seamlessly.
Do a Day Trip to Yanagawa - Yanagawa is a charming city located about an hour outside of Fukuoka, and it’s still within the same prefecture. With its stunning canals navigated by traditional small boats, Yanagawa is a picturesque destination that's not to be missed. We highly recommend taking a Yanagawa Boat Tour to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the area. While you’re there, be sure to visit Ohana Tachibana, a centuries-old villa managed by descendants of a samurai family. It’s a captivating glimpse into Japan's rich history!
Find more Fukuoka Activities & Tours on Expedia!
Where to Eat & Drink in Fukuoka
Yatai
Bugoro All Vegan
Hakata Hiiragi
Warabino
Yatai (we went to Nagahamas Youei)
THEATER 010
Warabino
Kayanoya
Bar Overall
Hakata Hiiragi (vegan tayaki)
Bugoro All Vegan (vegan ramen)
Evah Macrobiotic Dining
Plant-based Cafe NICE
The LGBTQ+ Scene in Fukuoka
We were lucky enough to be in Fukuoka for their pride weekend - Kyushu Rainbow Pride! We got to go on a float for the parade and attend a few queer events leading up to the weekend. We also met so many queer locals who were so excited about Pride and we got to chat with them about what it’s like to be queer in the city. Most of them said the LGBTQ+ scene is small but vibrant, and they all seemed to love the small town feel compared to some of the bigger cities like Tokyo or Osaka. There are a few queer bars in the city, but they are small and a bit more underground. We went to Bar Overall and even though there’s limited seats, we loved it and had an amazing time!
If you want to see everything we did during our time in Fukuoka, we recommend you check out our Fukuoka YouTube vlog which has all of our tips! You can watch it below:
Thank you to Meeting Place Fukuoka for inviting us on this trip! As always, all opinions are honest and our own. Some links on this post are affiliate links of which we receive a small commission, but the price is the same for you.