Fukuoka - Japan’s welcoming city where innovation meets tranquility

Fukuoka, Japan’s vibrant gateway city on the island of Kyushu, offers a blend of rich history, serene nature, and modern urban life that makes it a unique destination for both locals and travelers alike.

When travelers plan a trip to Japan, the cities of Kyoto and Tokyo are often at the top of their itineraries. However, when the Japanese seek a city escape, many head south to Fukuoka, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Situated between the mountains and the sea on Kyushu Island, Fukuoka boasts a rich 2,000-year history as a key gateway to Asia. Today, it continues to play a similar role, drawing start-ups and tech companies from around the globe. 

“Fukuoka strikes a perfect balance between being an important economic and cultural hub in Japan, while still offering a relaxed, high-quality urban lifestyle,” says Nick Szasz, editor and publisher of Fukuoka Now, who has called the city home since 1990. 

Although Fukuoka is Japan's sixth-largest city, it lacks the stress often associated with Tokyo, thanks in part to its close connection with nature. Within an hour's drive, residents can enjoy beach swimming or mountain hiking, while the city itself features numerous parks with peaceful ponds and well-maintained gardens. Fukuoka's serene atmosphere is further enhanced by its many ancient shrines and temples, which remain spiritual centers for locals today.

The city’s laid-back charm may help explain why it consistently ranks highly in Japan's happiness surveys. “The people are generally open to new things, friendly, and warm-hearted, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home quickly,” says Hisato Fukuyama, a local DJ and web designer who has lived in Fukuoka for 46 years. “I’ve found that people in Fukuoka are friendlier and more accustomed to welcoming tourists,” adds Simon Metcalfe, manager at the Kyushu Tourism Organization. “It’s nice to feel welcomed and to fit in, rather than standing out as an outsider.” In contrast to the two-plus-hour airport commute typical in Tokyo, Fukuoka's airport is just 15 minutes from the city center by subway. And that might be the only time you need to take the subway—Fukuoka is remarkably compact and easy to explore on foot. In one day, you can stroll through the ruins of a 400-year-old castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, shop for retro Japanese vintage in the trendy Imaizumi district, and mingle with locals at the historic yatai food stalls serving piping-hot tonkotsu ramen, all without leaving the city center. 

Fukuoka offers as much variety in cuisine, culture, and shopping as Tokyo, but without the crowds, high costs, or cold winters. “It’s an ideal city for those who’ve already seen the major spots and want something different—more authentic and closer to everyday Japan, away from the typical tourist paths,” explains Szasz. 

By Naila Huseynova