However, today we will be introducing a route of unique holes-in-the-wall. Not only are these places accessible, they are also cheap, and will allow you to truly enjoy Hakata to the fullest. 

Boat Race Fukuoka

Did you know that there is actually a boat race track right downtown in Fukuoka?
Boat Race Fukuoka is located right next to the North Tenjin ramp of the city expressway.

“Boat racing…?” you say? Don’t feel intimidated! There are plenty of adults over the age of twenty, and even parents accompanied by children enjoying the fun and energetic atmosphere. 

The four-story building houses a restaurant as well as a place where betting tickets can be purchased. 

If over 20 one can purchase tickets starting from 100 yen. Only 100 yen! All you need to do is think of an order you think the six racers will place. Of course, if you do not want to place bets you can simply come and enjoy the atmosphere when the races begin. There are also VR games where you can put yourself in the racer seat to get a better idea of what racing is like, and even an outdoor lawn area to get some sunlight. 

Hmm… Maybe if you’re lucky you may even get to meet “Pera-bo” the boat race mascot? From watching the races to spending time together with family there is plenty to see and do at Boat Race Fukuoka! 

Boat Race Fukuoka
Address: 1-7-5 Nanotsu, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City
Tel: 092-771-6061
Business hours: 10:00-17:00
*Subject to change depending on the race
Closed: No holidays
Admission: 100 yen
https://www.boatrace-fukuoka.com/

Hakata Bayside Museum・Hakata Port Tower

Roughly 15 minutes away from “Boat Race Fukuoka” by foot you will find the gateway to Kyushu, Hakata Port. Within the port area there is a museum that explains the evolving role of the city’s port and even features scaled models of boats and other important features of the area. 

Together with the history of Hakata Port, visitors can learn about the development and evolution of trading ships in this fascinating corner of the museum. Hakata Port has served as a vital location of commerce and exchange since ancient times, and the more one learns the more one wants to find out more about the rich history of this area.

Once we’ve finished learning about Hakata Port we can ascend the distinct tower nearby. 

The symbol of Hakata Port, the Hakata Port Tower is 100 meters tall. At 70 meters off the ground there is an observation deck with a 360 degree view of the surrounding area and cityscape. 

In an interesting bit of trivia, the designer of the Hakata Port Tower was in fact none other than Tachu Naito, known more famously for designing Tokyo Tower and the 2nd generation Tsutenkaku building in Osaka. At night the tower is also illuminated, with the colors often chosen to reflect the current holiday or season. 

The best part? The Hakata Port Bayside Museum and Port Tower are both free to enter! From the information inside the museum to the view 70 meters above the ground, both are experiences that are totally free of charge.

Whether it be the sight of boats entering and exiting the port in the day or the deep amber orange color of the evening sky, Hakata Port is a place teeming with activity and tinted with a kind of nostalgic beauty. Whenever you come, you will be treated to a unique and different kind of sight. 

Hakata Bayside Museum・Hakata Port Tower
Address: 14-1 Chikko Honmachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka
Tel: 092-282-5811（Hakata Port Bayside Museum)
　　  092-291-0573 (Hakata Port Tower)
Business hours: 10:00-17:00 (admission until 20 minutes before)
Closed: Wednesdays (if Wednesday is a holiday, the following weekday), year-end and New Year holidays: December 29-January 3
Homepage: 
https://www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/kowan/somu/hakata-port/port_museum.html

*Photos supplied by Boat Race Fukuoka/Fukuoka City Port and Airport Bureau