FUKUOKAthen line the five-kilometre long course to
witness the race, some would even purchase
paid seating!
Away from the festivities lies Hakozaki
Shrine, widely known as one of the most
important shrines in Japan. Founded in the
10th century, Mongol invaders subsequently
burned down the shrine in 1274, but it was
rebuilt and has stood in the same spot ever
since. Hakozaki is known as one of the three
great Hachimangu shrines; referring to shrines
dedicated to Japan’s 15th emperor Oujin. It is
known as a site of good luck, as it was said
Emperor Kameyama’s prayer for victory here
was the deciding factor in the battle against
the much stronger Mongols. A typhoon
subsequently turned up and destroyed all
Mongolian fleets! Up above the tower gate
hangs a gold-framed calligraphy with the
inscription “surrender of the enemy nation,”
written by Emperor Daigo during the shrine’s
reconstruction. Military personnel would come
to the shrine to pray for victory, today, this act
is mostly performed by sports teams.
A trip to a coastal city would not be
complete without a sunset view. Take a
boat or bus to Shikanoshima Island. From
the Shiomi Observatory, breathe in the salty
air of the Genkai Sea, look into the distance
at Hakata Bay and marvel at the silhouette
of Fukuoka as golden hour emerges. With
your trip to this mid-sized city in its twilight,
perhaps you’d realise you’ve seen more of
Japan in Fukuoka than you have in Tokyo.middle
A float on display
at Canal City Hakatatop
Kushida Shrinebottom
Taking day trips from Fukuoka is
also an option. The nearby city
of Kumamoto and the beautiful
Aso Mountain Range (pictured)
are incredibly popular routes
reachable by train.