Venice is a destination on many a bucket list, but with limited leave days, funds and friends willing to travel halfway across the world with you; it can sometimes seem a little out of reach.
If Europe is a tad too far, then set your sights on the closer, but not any lesser destination, of Fukuoka. Touted as the Venice of Japan, it ticks all the boxes of a relaxing Venetian holiday complete with ‘gondolas’, gorgeous flowers and European architecture for a taste of the real deal, without the long-haul flight.
Here are 12 things to do in and around Fukuoka that will have you believing you’re somewhere else:
The current exchange rate is ¥100 = ~S$0.80 as of 12th June 2026
There are many Grand Canal lookalikes out there, but the Yanagawa Canal has got to be one of the most peaceful and quaint alternatives. Much like the one in the City of Canals, this one is known for its intricate network of canals running hundreds of kilometres.
Image credit: Edwin Tandiawan via Google Maps
Hop on a boat to see the sights of Yanagawa, from the historic Meiji-era buildings to the willow trees lining the canals. There are 7 different companies that offer boat tours along the Yanagawa canal. Each company has its own routes with unique sights to see, and some offer different durations too, so do check the different routes ahead of time.
Image credit: 井上司朗 via Google Maps
While the gondolas in Venice are steered using an oar by gondoliers, the ones in Yanagawa are manoeuvred using a single 3-foot-long bamboo pole, in true Japanese fashion.
Yanagawa Canals review: “1 hour canals tour where we enjoyed a lot the beautiful small town view along the way and the interesting local song from the rower. Good local cultural experience worth try! Also the grilled eel rice bowel after the tour is highly recommended” – 董賢賜 via Google
Price: From JPY1,800 (~S$14.46) for adults | From JPY900 (~S$7.23) for children
Image credit: Visit Fukuoka
If you want to explore more of Fukuoka’s beautiful nature, you’d enjoy a trip down the winding Senbutsu Stalactite Cave. Venture into one of Japan’s largest caves as you explore the many naturally formed stalactites, and expect a journey about 900m long.
Image credit: 吉田洋 via Google Maps
Grab a pair of sandals, as you’ll be wading through the cave waters – the deepest waters are about knee-depth, so definitely prepare to get wet. The stream stays consistently at about 16 degrees Celsius all year long, so you can cool off in the summer or warm up in the winter as you traverse further in.
Senbutsu Stalactite Cave review: “It was a very special experience; inside the cave, it felt like climbing mountains and wading through water.” – Allen Huang via Google
Price: From JPY1,000 (~S$8.02) for adults | From JPY200 (~S$1.61) for children
*Payment is only permitted in cash at the Senbutsu Cave.
Image credit: พรญาณี ชาญประเสริฐ via Google Maps
Call us cat ladies or whatnot, but some of us would travel hours just to visit a cat town. In Japan, there are a few ‘cat islands’, and one of them is located in Fukuoka.
Image credit: Sin Yu via Google Maps
Ainoshima, also known as Cat Haven Island, is the purrfect place for cat lovers to spend a lazy afternoon. The island might only span 5.4km in width, but here, cats are as ubiquitous as humans. There are hundreds of them that can be spotted everywhere – at the pier, along the streets and snuggled on park benches and parked boats.
Image credit: Tanaporn Soontornchamorn via Google Maps
Ainoshima review: “Awesome experience, not only if you like the cats. You’ll be able to experience a big part of the island in around 3-4 hours.” – Joey Amrein via Google
Getting there: From Nishitetsu Shingu Station, take a 20-minute community bus to Shingu Port before boarding a ferry to Ainoshima (a 17-min journey). The ferry costs JPY480 (~S$3.86) per adult and JPY240 (~S$1.93) per child, and departs 5-6 times a day.
Image credit: おりひろ via Google Maps
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute and Doge’s Palace at the Venetian Lagoons add to the city’s iconic waterfront architecture. But if that doesn’t warrant a long-haul flight, Marizon, in Fukuoka, will be the perfect substitute.
Seemingly afloat on water, Marizon is a brick-walled wharf complex sticking out of the Momochi Seaside Park, with European architectural features such as domed roofs and arched walkways. The complex itself is home to seafood restaurants, shops selling marine sports items and a chapel.
Image credit: Visit Fukuoka
Like most beachside destinations, the best time to head over is during dusk, when the sun sets behind the platform, creating a backlit silhouette you won’t be able to keep your cameras away from.
Marizon review: “This area at Seaside Momochi Beach Park features restaurants, shops, and wedding facilities. Enjoying a drink while watching the sunset is a great experience!” – おりひろ via Google
Image credit: 成天樂《 10級在地嚮導 》 via Google Maps
At the European-styled Tenjin Underground Mall, you might literally be able to shop till you drop with 12 avenues of stores stretching 590 metres selling clothes and food. The mall was designed after European architecture with elements such as stained glass and Venetian brick walls with hanging flower pots dotting the complex.
Image credit: ig:lamueat via Google Maps
This long underground passageway is also conveniently connected to many malls above ground, including Fukuoka PARCO and DAIMARU. And of course, if you’re feeling peckish, refuel with the iconic Custard Cream Apple Pies (JPY450, ~S$3.62) from Ringo.
Tenjin Underground Mall review: “The lighting in the passageways is dim, but that actually makes the products stand out, creating a stylish underground shopping area. There are benches along the way, making it convenient for sightseeing and strolling.” – レク via Google
Image credit: Sam Chiu via Google Maps
Just as a great night out in Venice is incomplete without cicchetti (bar snacks), you can’t end the night in Fukuoka without popping by one of their yatai (street food stalls) for some local delights.
You’ll find yatai scattered around the city, but concentrated in Nakasu and Tenjin.
Raw mackerel and yakitori.
Image adapted from: Japan Airlines, Stephen Jung via Google Maps
Among their variety of savoury snacks, you can’t go wrong with the familiar oden, yakitori and tamagoyaki. But for those with taste buds craving for something a little more unique, Fukuoka is one of the rare places you can try goma saba, or raw mackerel!
Image credit: @dazaifutenmangu.official via Instagram
A shrine visit is undoubtedly one of the most unique Japanese experiences. While in Fukuoka, one shrine that you can’t miss is Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Built to worship Sugawara Michizane or Tenjin, the deity of learning, culture, and the arts, this particular shrine is the head of about 12,000 of Japan’s Tenjin shrines.
Image credit: Dazaifu Tenmangu
Be greeted with a massive stone Torii gate when you first reach the compound. You’ll notice that the street is flanked with quaint little stores, so you can get some shopping in before you venture further into the shrine compound.
Follow the path to find the heart of the shrine complex. As of writing, the main hall is undergoing renovations, but you can still make a prayer at the designated area. Once you’re done, you can also bring home an amulet for good luck, or make a wish on an ema too.
Image credit: Dazaifu Tenmangu
Head further inside the shrine compounds and you’ll see a stretch of bright red Torii gates leading you up a flight of stairs. You could stop and pose for an aesthetic picture here, but don’t just stop at the gates – go all the way up the stairs and you’ll find yourself at Tenkai Inari Shrine, a smaller shrine worshipping the Inari deity that grants good fortune.
Dazaifu Tenmangu review: “I came to Fukuoka for a day trip from Kyoto. It was fun browsing the various shops lining both sides of the approach to the temple. It was a shame that the main hall was under renovation and I couldn’t see it. I was also happy to find two Pokémon GO manhole covers nearby.” – しのぶ via Google
Image credit: どんべ先輩 via Google Maps
While some historical sites like Dazaifu Tenmangu have remained largely intact, not all places share the same fate, and Fukuoka Castle Ruins is one such landmark. While the current state of the castle might not be close to what it was like in its time, its remnants in Maizuru Park are still a sight to behold.
Image credit: 660 VP via Google Maps
This castle was built for Kuroda Nagamasa, Fukuoka’s first lord, and construction was completed in the early Edo period. From its start in 1601, it continued housing the province’s nobility until the beginning of the Meiji era in 1868.
While many parts of the castle could not stand the test of time, some parts of its structure have luckily still remained; walk through the compound to admire this historical architecture, from its towering stone walls to turrets that were crucial in its defence. However, do take note that access to Tenshudai, the main keep base, is temporarily closed for archaeological excavation; the area is set to reopen in December 2026.
Fukuoka Castle Ruins review: “Fukuoka Castle Ruins may not have towering walls and keeps anymore, but walking through the stone foundations and gates gives you a quiet glimpse into Japan’s samurai past. It’s less about grand sights and more about standing where lords once ruled, letting your imagination fill in the glory of the castle that once stood here.” – Renz Qui via Google
Image credit: Y via Google Maps
Walk into a Japanese eatery in Singapore, and chances are there’s mentaiko dishes all over the menu. But despite seeing it everywhere, you’ve probably never known that this iconic ingredient originated from Fukuoka. Stop by Fukuya Mentaiko Factory, and get a glimpse of the birthplace of mentaiko as we know it.
While the company was first established in 1948, its factory has continued to evolve and improve its mentaiko production methods, and its doors are open for visitors to get a glimpse with a free tour. With its newly renovated facilities, you’ll get to follow an interactive journey where you can watch the mentaiko being produced in real time and learn more about how it’s done.
Image credit: Visit Fukuoka
And if just watching the creation process wasn’t enough, have a go with the factory’s hands-on experiences. For JPY2,500 (~S$20.08), you can make and customise your own mentaiko, and you’ll get to adjust the spice level to your liking – perfect if you’ve ever wanted to try some extra spicy mentaiko. Just remember to make a reservation before heading down to ensure your spot in the workshop.
Fukuya Mentaiko Factory review: “The mentaiko (spicy cod roe) making experience is a unique and fun course that you won’t find at other food factories. You’ll feel a sense of familiarity with how that mentaiko is made. You can also easily enjoy mentaiko at the dining area.🍴😋🍴” – nishimomo1 via Google
Those who’ve been to Italy might have seen clusters of wisteria adorning lanes and streets. But for those who’d like to experience the lavender-tinted wonderland closer to home, head to Kawachi Wisteria Garden.
Image credit: Josephine Lallaban via Google Maps
The garden is only open to the public twice a year. Between April to early May, the private garden explodes into various shades of purple thanks to these gorgeous blooms. Stroll along one of their two 100-metre-long wisteria tree-lined tunnels and you might just feel like you’ve slipped right down the rabbit hole. Later in the year, around November and December, you can catch the beautiful autumn foliage as the surrounding maple leaves turn bright red and orange.
The garden usually announces opening dates on their website or on their Instagram page, so do keep an eye out for any updates when you’re planning your trip.
Kawachi Wisteria Garden review: “I visited on a day with light rain, but the wisteria and other plants were vibrant and beautiful. After seeing the wisteria here, other wisteria just won’t do.” – E “NR” via Google
Entrance fees: JPY600 (~S$4.82) -JPY1,600 (~S$12.85), depending on the state of the season
Fortunately for travellers, Japan has a fast and interconnected train network for you to easily hop on board for fuss-free day trips from the city. To add on to our list of Venice-esque places in Fukuoka, here are 3 other day trips you can take to add more value to your vacation:
Image credit: Liberty Moriyama via Google Maps
If you’d like to truly believe you’ve been swept up into another world just like Dorothy to land of Oz, head to Huis Ten Bosch, an entire theme park in the Nagasaki prefecture designed as a European town.
Image credit: REI NASU via Google Maps
The park is complete with several hotels sporting European architecture, a theme park modelled after an old Dutch town, and even a canal running through its premises.
Image credit: Ming Lili via Google Maps
As though it isn’t already picturesque enough, the town also has its own windmills, manicured gardens and a Ferris wheel. It’s no wonder that even Japanese folks from Tokyo frequent this gem.
Throughout the year, there are special events lined up such as a Miffy Halloween parade, wine and beer festivals and firework shows.
Huis Ten Bosch review: “It is a spacious amusement park in the small Netherlands that has been well-maintained for over 20 years. It would be nice to take a quiet stroll and enjoy a leisurely meal or a beer inside Huis Ten Bosch.” – OHHYUN KWON via Google
Tickets: From JPY7,6000/adult (~S$60.94) & JPY5,000/child (~S$40.09) for a 1-day pass
When it comes to the city of canals, bridges are ubiquitous and you can’t really say Fukuoka resembles Venice unless there’s a statement bridge somewhere in the area.
Image credit: 張肯尼 via Google Maps
Made of stone and wood, the medieval-looking Kintaikyo Bridge in Iwakuni features 5 grand arches supported by stone pillars that crosses over the Nishiki River. The iconic landmark dates back more than 300 years, and has undergone billions of yen worth of repair work.
Perhaps that’s why this is one of the few pedestrian bridges in the world that charge a crossing fee. But hey, JPY310 (~S$2.49) is a small price to pay for 300 years of history.
Kintaikyo Bridge review: “It wasn’t as drum-shaped as I expected. The steps on the staircase section were surprisingly difficult to see, so I stumbled a couple of times. It’s nice to slowly look up at Iwakuni Castle, and it’s also nice to look down at it from the castle.” – 湯浅秀昭 via Google
On one hand, Japan carries the minimalistic and modern image many of us are familiar with, yet on the other, it hides hidden treasures such as the Yufuin Floral Village in Oita, modelled after the Neolithic Era.
Image credit: Winny Chang via Google Maps
Resembling elven houses right out of a children’s book, the whimsical stone houses here have low-lying roofs and walls painted a faded yellow. Fun fact: the village was heavily inspired by the Cotswolds in England, which was one of the locations they filmed Harry Potter!
Beyond just looking superbly fictional, these buildings also house themed stores such as a bakery modelled after the anime, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and a Peter Rabbit petting zoo.
Image credit: Garance S via Google Maps
After exploring, take a dip in one of the natural hot spring resorts or public bathhouses in the vicinity. Popular spots include Musouen (JPY1000 ~S$8.03 onwards) and Sansuikan (JPY1000 ~S$8.03 onwards).
Yufuin Floral Village review: “Even on a weekday, it’s still crowded! The street signs aren’t very clear. The flower village is actually quite small; you can walk around the small shops and that’s it. Most people here use cash.” – Storm Wind via Google
Late March-April for Cherry Blossoms, Oct to November for a mild, drier climate.
Image credit: @fukuoka.airport_official via Instagram
There are 2 airports in Fukuoka prefecture – Fukuoka Airport (FUK) and Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ). Fukuoka Airport is the prefecture’s main airport, located in Hakata near Fukuoka City. Meanwhile, Kitakyushu Airport is further northeast, servicing the Kitakyushu City area. A much smaller airport, flights from only 4 destinations fly here – Tokyo (Haneda), Seoul (Incheon), Cheongju and Taipei (Taoyuan).
If you’re coming straight from Singapore, you’d most likely find yourself landing at Fukuoka Airport.
Image credit: @fukuoka.airport_official via Instagram
At the time of writing, Singapore Airlines is the only carrier that offers direct flights between Singapore and Fukuoka. This 6-hour journey from Changi Airport to Fukuoka Airport operates daily, so you don’t need to worry too much about adjusting your dates around the flight schedule.
We found round-trip fares on this route going from around S$1140, but prices are usually around the S$1,300 range, even if you’re booking months in advance.
Image credit: @fukuoka.airport_official via Instagram
Alternatively, there are many layover routes that can take you to Fukuoka Airport too, with the shortest journeys taking you about 10 to 15 hours, depending on your stopover destination and duration.
For an all-Japan journey, you can stopover at Tokyo – Japan Airlines offers flights to Fukuoka via Haneda Airport on an estimated 10-hour journey. That said, this route is also on the pricier side, with fares going from about S$1528.
Image credit: @fukuoka.airport_official via Instagram
Consider catching a connecting flight from a 3rd country, too. South Korea is a popular stopover destination – Korean Air, Jeju Air, and T’Way Air all do transfers at Incheon, but you can also consider transferring at Busan with Jeju Air or Jeju with T’Way Air. Alternative carriers include Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong, or China Eastern flying through Shanghai.
If you want to maximise your savings, these routes offer the cheapest flights – we’ve found prices going as low as S$468 for round-trip flights even during peak season, but do try and book your flight earlier before these prices go up.
City dupes are great fun, and certainly unexpected when they’re found within countries with a very strong cultural identity such as Japan – in the largely undiscovered prefecture of Fukuoka at that.
For all those looking for a quaint and relaxing holiday away from the famous Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka combo, Fukuoka is certainly a great alternative off the beaten track with lots to explore. European-esque attractions aside, it’s also known for great tonkatsu ramen, gorgeous flower fields and shrines. So pack your bags, a new bucket list awaits!
Check out these other spots in Japan:
Cover image adapted from: 井上司朗 & Sin Yu via Google Maps, Visit Fukuoka
Article first published on 22nd August 2019. Last updated on 12th June 2026 by Andrea Chandra Putri.
Here are supermarkets in JB where you can shop 'n save.
Feline fanatics, listen up.
Prices start from just $18.92/night for budget travellers!
Buckle up for major discounts on popular brands like Samsung, Calvin Klein and more.
The 1st drop features Cinnamoroll.
Don’t worry, demons won’t show up here. Probably.