If you’re in Fukuoka, you really should make the time to travel out to Kyushu National Museum (九州国立博物館). The subway ride out to Daizaifu has especially pretty artsy train cars  —okay, I’m ruining it, but there are cherry blossoms on the roof of the cars and it’s pretty, right? 

The history of the area is interesting since Dazaifu was the original local seat of power for imperial rule covering Kyushu after it was moved from present-day Fukuoka City in 663, and then it was moved back there during the Muromachi period. It’s played a significant role since there were close ties and trade between Korea and China, and visiting dignitaries arriving in Japan would stay in the area. The museum gave me a good overview and had some really neat artifacts from Japan, Korea, and China. 

There are some ruins that you might want to check out by bicycle, but Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and the touristy streets nearby were the real highlight for me. There are a variety of festivals held at various shrines across town throughout the year. If possible, try to attend the monthly flea market in the grounds of Tenmangu Shrine, where kimonos are rumored to be found for 1000¥.

Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 9:30 am - 5:00 pm, When Monday is a public holiday, the museum will be open on Monday but closed the following business day.

Address: Japan, 〒818-0118 Fukuoka Prefecture, Dazaifu, 石坂4丁目7-2

Phone: +81 92-918-2807