Introducing Fukuoka’s Best Running Spots, from the Streets to the Mountainsides!
Running is generally considered an excellent way to exercise and let off stress all while enjoying the scenery outdoors. In this article we will introduce you to some of Fukuoka’s best running spots, from routes in town to mountains and the seaside. All of these are close to the main areas in the city, and therefore close to the hotels that many will likely be staying in. Also perfect for those on business trips!
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For those staying in the Tenjin area
Ohori Park, perfect for beginners or advanced runners
Located about 2 kilometers away from Tenjin is Ohori Park. In the middle of the park is a large pond which features a running course that is 2 kilometers in circumference. The route is entirely flat, and the nature makes it a joy to run there. The route also has a rubber pavement, reducing the stress on your knees and joints, allowing beginners to run with more peace of mind. Furthermore, since the road around the pond is divided into three sections for runners, walkers, and bikers, it is easy to get into your run without distractions. The running road also features markers letting you know how many meters you’ve run, so you can run according to your level with precision.
Ohori Park
Adress: Ohori Koen, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City
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Feel the history of the area running in Maizuru Park
Located to the East of Ohori Park, Maizuru Park’s Heiwadai Track-and-Field course is otherwise known as the start and end point of the Fukuoka International Marathon. Since there is no pre-determined running course, runners can choose whatever path suits them. Furthermore, Fukuoka Castle’s remaining ramparts, walls, and turrets are joined by greenery such as Sakura, Plum, and Japanese Iris flowers, making this a route filled with both history and natural beauty. For this reason, the park is also perfect for those who just want to take a scenic walk.
Maizuru Park
Address: Jonai, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City
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Full of varied terrain for the most experienced runners to enjoy, Nishi Park
Nishi Koen is a park that allows visitors to experience all that Fukuoka’s seasons have to offer, whether you be jogging amidst the flowering Sakura of spring or the golden gingko leaves of autumn. With this plentiful nature to enjoy, the park also has several steeper and even wooded paths, allowing you to experience something closer to trail running than what either Ohori or Maizuru Parks have to offer on the 1.4-kilometer course.
Inside the park there is a viewing deck that affords a panoramic view of Hakata Bay and a large lawn. This park is perfect for people who want to exercise in nature.
Nishi Park
Address:Nishi Koen, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City
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For those in the Hakata Area
A natural oasis just next to Hakata Station, Sanno Park
Sanno Koen is conveniently located just 1 kilometer away from Hakata Station. Since it is close to many office buildings, many of the people working at them come to exercise during their lunch breaks. Since there are plenty of trees in the park, they provide much needed shade for those who want to work out during Fukuoka’s hot summers.
The park offers two courses, one 500-meter the other 1-kilometer long. Runners of all levels can decide which one suits them more. The 500-meter-long course is flat for the most part, whereas the 1-kilometer course features some variation in terrain height. Like with Ohori Park the route is paved with rubber chips, making this light on the joints and suitable for beginners.
Within the park there is a large lawn as well as a large playground and athletic equipement. Adults and children alike can find something to enjoy in the park!
Sanno Park
Address:1-9, Sanno, Hakata Ku, Fukuoka City
Perfect for runners seeking to run at their own pace, Higashi Park
Also close to Hakata Station, Higashi Park is located directly in front of the Fukuoka Prefectural Hall building. The route titled [The Refreshing Health Road] is 760-meters long. The clean, paved course with no ups and downs allows everyone from beginners to advanced runners to run at their own pace, making it popular with a wide range of people.
Higashi Park
Address: Higashi Koen, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City
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For those staying in the Momochi (Hilton etc.) area
Feel the refreshing sea breeze by the Seaside Momochi Seaside Park
The Seaside Momochi Seaside Park features a wide sandy beach and faces out onto Hakata Bay. With the refreshing sea breeze blowing through the beach, running here is pleasant even in the hot summer months. Along the sea there is a course that runners can use that is wide and easy to run on. With the symbol of the city Fukuoka Tower standing in the background, the scenery changes depending on the time of day, giving this route a lot of variety.
Momochi Seaside Park
Address:Seaside of Jigyohama, Chuo-ku and Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka City
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A riverside route you’ll want to run every day, the Muromi River path
The Muromi River runs through Fukuoka City, dividing the Nishi and Sawara wards. The well-maintained course along the river is about 4.7 km one way. It is a pleasant course where you can run along the quiet riverfront where the water and greenery are in harmony. The course is flat and easy to run, and you can also extend the distance by taking a circuit course at the Seibu Undo Park on the way.
The course allows you to experience the great outdoors, and you may want to re-visit it even if you are not a runner.
Muromi River path
Address: Toyohama, Nishi ku, Fukuoka City
As a reminder, respecting running etiquette when using these routes is paramount. Make sure not to run as too large of a group and stagger your starting times so as not to congest the routes. In narrow spaces do not try to overtake one another in order to avoid inconveniencing other runners or pedestrians. By running responsibly everybody benefits!