Among the popular tourist destinations near Fukuoka City, Dazaifu tops the list. The city that is filled with cultural and historical spots is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle in the big city. Speaking of Dazaifu, Dazaifu Tenman-gū is a spot in the city that shouldn’t be missed. Besides being the biggest shrine in the Kyūshū Region and having a history of over 1,100 years, it is the best spot in Dazaifu to enjoy seasonal colors. There is also an amusement park to keep the children entertained near Dazaifu Tenman-gū. If you have more time, there are a couple more beautiful gardens in the city and hiking trails leading to panoramic views!
Table of Contents
- Dazaifu’s Profile
- How to Get to Dazaifu
- The Best Time to Visit Dazaifu
- What to Do in Dazaifu on a Rainy Day?
- Dazaifu Brewery (太宰府ブルワリー)
- Dazaifu Monzen Machi
- Dazaifu Tenman-gū (太宰府天満宮)
- Kyushu National Museum (九州国立博物館)
- Kōmyōzenji Temple (光明禅寺)
- Etoya (えとや本店)
- Kanzeon-ji Temple (観世音寺)
- Kaidanin Temple (戒壇院)
- Remains of Dazaifu Government Office (大宰府政庁跡)
- Sakamoto Hachiman-gū (坂本八幡宮)
- Kamado Shrine (宝満宮 竈門神社)
- Cafe Yamakujira (喫茶ヤマクジラ)
- Mt. Hōman (宝満山)
- Iwaya Castle Ruins (岩屋城跡)
- Mt. Shiōji (四王寺山)
The attractions are listed according to their distance from Dazaifu Station.
Dazaifu’s Profile
It might surprise you, but Dazaifu is said to be an older city than Kyoto. From the second half of the 7th century, it housed diplomatic and military institutions, and also had state houses for envoys and foreign officials from China and Korea.
Furthermore, the current Japanese era name, Reiwa (令和), was from a waka poem that described the banquet, Baika no Utage (梅花の宴), held in Dazaifu Tenman-gū each year.
How to Get to Dazaifu
- It only takes around 45 minutes by bus or train from Hakata.
- If you take a train from Tenjin (天神), you will get to Dazaifu in 30 minutes!
- Taking the express bus service, Dazaifu Liner Bus Tabito (太宰府ライナーバス 旅人) from Hakata Bus Terminal*(博多バスターミナル) to Dazaifu., you will get to Dazaifu in around 35 minutes.
The Best Time to Visit Dazaifu
The best seasons to visit Dazaifu are early spring, from early February to early March, when the plum blossoms are in full bloom, and autumn, from late November to early December, when the autumn leaves are the most vivid.
What to Do in Dazaifu on a Rainy Day?
If it rains on the day you visit Dazaifu, don’t be too disappointed. You can still enjoy indoor facilities such as Kyushu National Museum (九州国立博物館) and visit the cafes and shops on Dazaifu Monzen Machi. At Dazaifu Tenman-gū (太宰府天満宮), many areas, such as the main hall and corridors, are covered. Thus, you can pray while sheltering from the rain.
Moreover, Dazaifu Tenman-gū and Kyushu National Museum are connected by the rainbow tunnel. You won’t get wet when traveling between the two attractions.
Dazaifu Brewery (太宰府ブルワリー)
If you are a beer lover, try the craft beer made at a craft beer brewery on the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangū Shrine! It is the city’s first beer brewery, and the different beers they brew here express the charm of Dazaifu.
- Tenjin Daikichi Ale: Pale Ale (天神大吉エール)
- It features a gorgeous aroma of malt and pops of citrus. The Pale Ale is easy to drink and pairs well with any food.
- Tenjin IPA (天神IPA)
- Made with plenty of citrus soda, “Citra Mosaic”, it is characterized by juicy aroma and bitterness. The IPA is smooth and light on the palate.
- Tenjin UME Ale: Wheat Ale (天神UMEエール)
- You can enjoy the gentle texture of wheat and the subtle aroma of plum.
The staff at Dazaifu Brewery is friendly and full of energy. They will give you a rundown of what beers they have on tap and let you sample before ordering. While the spot is set up for takeout, it also has a small outdoor bar area. If you aren’t in a hurry, watch the passerby on the vibrant street while sipping the chilled beer!
Of course, snacks are the perfect companion with beer. Thus, Dazaifu Brewery also sell deep-fried food to allow their customers to get the most out of their visit. But just note everything is fried using the same oil. So, depending on your definition of veganism, the potato chips might not be vegan to you.
Coffee and other soft drinks are also on the menu. So, you can still visit the brewery with those who can’t drink alcohol.
If you like Dazaifu Brewery’s beer, grab a beer set on the way back to the station. Each of their three signature beer is included.
Dazaifu Brewery’s Business Hours and Access Information
- Dazaifu Brewery is open from 10 am to 5 pm from Thursday to Tuesday.
- The last order for food is taken at 4 pm.
- The last order for drinks is taken at 4:30 pm.
- The brewery is a 2-minute walk from Nishitetsu’s Dazaifu Station (大宰府駅).
Dazaifu Monzen Machi: The Approach to Dazaifu Tenman-gū
On the way to one of Fukuoka‘s landmarks, Dazaifu Tenman-gū, you will walk past Dazaifu Monzen Machi. The approach to the shrine that is lined with Umegae Mochi rice cake makers, trendy boutique shops, and cafes!
As there are many shops and cafes on the approach, refer to our article on Dazaifu Monzen Machi for the ones that we recommend to stop by!
Dazaifu Tenman-gū (太宰府天満宮)
Whether you believe gods exist or not, Dazaifu Tenman-gū is a must-visit in Dazaifu City. The shrine that enshrines the God of Learning (学問の神様) has a history of over 1,100 years and is the biggest shrine in the Kyūshū Region. In addition to the traditional architecture, there are various cultural things to see in the precinct. Moreover, the delicious cafes and and souvenir shops along the approach will ensure your visit enjoyable!
For more information, refer to our article on Dazaifu Tenman-gū!
Kyushu National Museum (九州国立博物館)
If you are a history buff or love spending time in museums, don’t miss out on Kyushu National Museum when you are in Dazaifu. It is the fourth national museum established in Japan, after Tokyo, Nara, and Kyoto. Not only are there exhibits demonstrating that Kyūshū has long been a crossroads of international culture, there is an interactive area where you can experience different Asian cultures though playing!
For more information, refer to our article on Kyushu National Museum!
Kōmyōzenji Temple (光明禅寺)
Besides Dazaifu Tenman-gū, Kōmyōzenji is another place in Dazaifu where you will find a beautiful Japanese garden. The garden is home to maple trees over 300 years old and over 50 types of moss, and is so beautiful that it has also been nicknamed the Moss Temple (苔寺). In the fall, the leaves turn fiery red, making Kōmyōzenji one of the best spots to admire the autumn colors in Kyūshū. Moreover, the temple’s garden was designed by Shigemori Mirei (重森三玲). He was a representative gardener in the Showa period (20th century). Kōmyōzenji is the only place in Kyūshū where you can adore his work.
Kōmyōzenji is a Rinzai sect Zen temple established in the Kamakura period. Apparently, it was founded by the descendant of Sugawara no Michizane (菅原道真), which connects the temple to Dazaifu Tenman-gū. Thus, inside the main hall, there is a shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane. Although the temple is within walking distance of the popular shrine, it doesn’t receive many visitors. So, if you don’t want to travel too far from the station but hope to escape the crowds, Kōmyōzenji is a good spot to add to your itinerary.
Kōmyōzenji’s Stunning Garden
The dry landscape garden at Kōmyōzenji consists of two parts, the front garden (前庭) and the back garden (後庭). The back garden, created by a mossy ground to represent land and white sand to represent the sea, is named Ittekikaitei (一滴海庭). The beautiful contrast between the lush green moss and white sand is why it is called Moss Temple. You will naturally relax and calm down just by looking at the garden.
The front garden is known as Bukōsekitei (仏光石庭) because 15 stones are forming the character for light (光). The stones are arranged so the character for light surrounds the three rocks that represent Gautama Buddha (釈迦如来), Manjusri Bodhisattva (文殊菩薩), Samantabhadra Bodhisattva (普賢菩薩).
Tip: The fall foliage season at Kōmyōzenji is from mid to late November.
Important: Due to the visitors’ bad manners previously, photography is now forbidden at Kōmyōzenji’s garden from 2018.
Kōmyōzenji’s Opening Hours and Access Information
- Unfortunately, the temple doesn’t have set opening days.
- The brewery is a 5-minute walk from Nishitetsu’s Dazaifu Station (大宰府駅).
Etoya (えとや本店)
A unique souvenir is always something that we want to bring home when travelling. In Dazaifu, Etoya is where you head to for something that will remind you of Japan. It is where you can purchase a local specialty called Plum Hijiki (Ume no Mi Hijiki, 梅の実ひじき), which adds flavor to your staple food. For example, you can blend it into rice, pasta, or top it on tofu. In particular, Plum Hijiki fixed rice is a delicious and healthy substitute for snacks between meals (^_-)-☆.
Hijiki is a brown seaweed. Etoya mixes and seasons carefully selected thick hijiki seaweed with locally harvested plums to create a refreshing topping. In addition to the original flavor, there are also flavors such as chili, Japanese pepper and ginger. Moreover, Etoya also sells plum-flavored ochazuke seasoning without bonito!
Just note that Etoya also has Plum Hijiki with bonito added. Thus, if you are vegan/vegetarian, check before purchasing.
Etoya’s Business Hours and Access Information
- Etoya’s main store opens from 10 am to 6 pm.
- The shop is a one-minute walk from Nishitetsu-Gojo Station (西鉄五条駅).
- Etoya also has a store near Dazaifu Tenman-gū.
- HERE is Etoya Dazaifu Sandō Store.
Kanzeon-ji Temple (観世音寺)
After having your fill of the spectacular scenery at the Remains of Dazaifu Government Office, how about immersing yourself in the cultural properties at Kanzeon-ji? You will definitely be impressed by a Buddha statue over 5 meters tall!
For more information, refer to our article on Kanzeon-ji Temple!
Kaidan-in (戒壇院)
South of Kanzeon-ji‘s grounds, you will find a temple called Kaidan-in. It was erected as a designated place for monks to receive Buddhist precepts. Apparently, there were only three places where monks could receive precepts. The other two temples are Tōdai-ji (東大寺) in Nara and Yakishi-ji (下野薬師寺) in Tochigi Prefecture. Besides the cultural properties, the nature and the dry garden are the highlights at Kaidanin.
For more information, refer to our Kaidan-in article!
Remains of Dazaifu Government Office (大宰府政庁跡)
The Remains of the Dazaifu Government Office were once the political center of ancient Japan, and hence are a spot of great historical value. Between the mid-7th and the mid-12th century, Dazaifu was the capital of Kyūshū. Although only a small part of the stone walls and foundations remain today, it won’t be hard to imagine its scale thousands of years ago. Plus, the scenic Kanzeon-ji is just next door, killing two birds with one stone!
But the reason we recommend visiting the Remains of the Dazaifu Government Office is the surrounding nature. It is the perfect setting for a relaxing stroll. Especially if you visit Dazaifu in early spring, it is the spot to head to for the plum and cherry blossoms. In autumn, the beautiful landscape becomes more stunning with the fall foliage.
If you are interested in seeing the 1/100 scale replica of what the government office looked like in its heyday, visit the Dazaifu Exhibition Hall (太宰府展示館) in the park.
How to Get to the Remains of Dazaifu Government Office
- The Remains of Dazaifu Government Office is a 15-minute walk from Nishitetsu’s Tofurō-mae Station (都府楼前駅).
- You can also take the community bus Mahoroba-gō (まほろば号) and get off at Dazaifu Seichō-ato (大宰府政庁跡).
- Refer to HERE for the bus timetable.
- You can also use one of Japan’s Transport Apps to plan your visit.
Sakamoto Hachiman-gū (坂本八幡宮)
If you visit Dazaifu between late February and early March, head to Sakamoto Hachiman-gū to adore the plum blossoms. While the shrine, located within the Ruins of the Dazaifu Government Office, wasn’t a popular tourist spot in the past, it received much more attention in 2019 after the Japanese era name changed to Reiwa (令和). The name was taken from a waka poem that described the banquet, Baika no Utage (梅花の宴). It was determined that the shrine might be where the banquet was first held.
The banquet is now held annually during the plum blossom season at the Ruins of the Dazaifu Government Office.
If you are interested in seeing the banquet recreated by Hakata dolls, head to Dazaifu Exhibition Hall (太宰府展示館).
The main god at Sakamoto Hachiman-gū is Emperor Ōjin (応神天皇), and has been worshipped as the guardian deity by the locals. The precinct beyond the torii gate is like a small park filled with vegetation. On the other end of the precinct, you will find the plum blossoms that bear fruit in late May/early June.
Sakamoto Hachiman-gū’s Opening Hours and Access Information
- Sakamoto Hachiman-gū’s shrine office is open from 10 am to 4 pm on weekends and public holidays.
- The shrine is a 5-minute walk from the Remains of Dazaifu Government Office.
Kamado Shrine (宝満宮 竈門神社)
If you are an anime fan, Demon Slayer is probably one of your favorite anime. The spot for you to visit in Dazaifu is Kamado Shrine. Starting from the shrine’s name, it has many connections to the popular anime. The shrine is also a popular spot to pray for good relationships. Moreover, Kamado Shrine is a renowned spot to hunt for cherry blossoms and fall foliage.
For more information, refer to our Kamado Shrine article!
Cafe Yamakujira (喫茶ヤマクジラ)
After visiting Kamado Shrine, take a rest at Cafe Yamakujira. The cakes here are incredible! Sitting at the window seat, you will be able to adore Japan’s countryside view with Dazaifu’s cityscape at afar (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
Once you get off the bus, Cafe Yamakujira is rather easy to find. All you need to look for is a big blue house in the residential area. It is the most stylish architecture near Mt. Hōman’s trailhead. The interior is spacious, and everything from the lighting to the sofas, tables, and bookshelves is fashionable. It even has a private Japanese-style room at the back!
Cafe Yamakujira has a fruity dessert menu. Seasonal fresh fruits are used to carefully craft their cakes and tarts. The sugar level is reduced, so you won’t find their dessert sugary. Once you try their cakes, you will understand why it has been popular among the locals since they opened.
Tip: It is best to visit Cafe Yamakujira in the morning so you have more dessert options.
Cafe Yamakujira’s Business Hours and Access Information
- Cafe Yamakujira is open from 11 am to 4 pm on weekdays.
- Please refer to Cafe Yamakujira’s Instagram Account for the business calendar.
- You can take the community bus Mahoroba-gō (まほろば号) from Nishitetsu’s Dazaifu Station and get off at Uchiyama/Kamado Jinja-mae (内山/竈門神社前). The cafe is then a 3-minute walk away.
- Refer to HERE for the bus timetable.
- You can also use one of Japan’s Transport Apps to plan your visit.
Mt. Hōman (宝満山)
While Mt. Hōman’s height is only 829 meters, it attracts the most climbers in Fukuoka Prefecture. Why? Because Mt. Hōman is a sacred mountain that is recognized as a National Historic Site, second only to Mt. Chōkai (鳥海山) and Mt. Fuji (富士山). Don’t underestimate it because of its height; the slope is steep. Be well prepared if you want to climb to the summit. Even on the standard hiking trail, it takes an average person about two hours to reach the top. Thus, be sure to give yourself plenty of time.
Since ancient times, Mt. Hōman has been revered as a sacred place for Shugendō (修験道), or mountain worship in English. Thus, there are several climbing routes to the summit. The main and easiest hiking trail starts from Kamado Shrine and goes up the mountain from the west. It is also the pilgrimage route to travel from Kamado Shrine’s Gegū (下宮) to Jōgū (上宮) at the summit. So, before taking the challenge, remember to pray at the shrine for your safety! Throughout the route, there are several mountain worship-related things you can check out. The views shaped by nature are also magnificent.
If you want to know more about what Shugendo is, refer to our article on Mt. Yoshino.
Things to Note When Climbing Mt. Hōman
- If you plan to hike Mt. Hōman from late May to June, you might have several dark colored small Japanese common toads (ニホンヒキガエル) climbing up with you. Please be careful not to step on them. It will take them a month to reach the summit.
- You can refer to the left Instagram post at the top for what the little toads look like.
- It is recommended to start hiking in the morning. It gets darker faster in the mountains.
Iwaya Castle Ruins (岩屋城跡)
Besides the Remains of Dazaifu Government Office, Iwaya Castle Ruins are another spot in Dazaifu to admire the cherry blossoms. Iwaya Castle used to occupied Mt. Iwaya’s summit. Although the castle is gone, a stone monument (嗚呼壮烈岩屋城址) is there to remind us the fierce battle that happened in 1586. Even without the cherry blossom, it is still worthwhile to hike up the mountain to overlook Dazaifu City that is surrounded by mountains. With a height of 281 meters, you can see as far as Ōnojō City from the summit.
Tip: The 300 cherry blossom trees that lined the part of Shiōji Forest Road usually blooms between late March and early April.
How to Get to Iwaya Castle Ruins
- From the trailhead at Dazaifu Citizen’s Forest, it will only take you 15 minutes to reach Iwaya Castle Ruins.
- From Nishitetsu’s Dazaifu Station (太宰府駅), it is around 60 minutes on foot.
Mt. Shiōji (四王寺山)
If you love hiking or capturing the beautiful nature with your camera, Mt. Shiōji is a must-go for you in Dazaifu. The mountain range has several hiking trails, making it a good hiking destination for a variety of experiences. You can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Dazaifu City and Fukuoka City from the summit. The scenery is especially stunning at dusk and sunrise. Moreover, Mt. Shiōji also has several historical spots scattered.
Mt. Shiōji is formed by four mountains. Mt. Ōki (大城山), with a height of 410 meters, is the tallest. The other three are Mt. Iwaya (岩屋山), Mt. Mizugame (水瓶山), and Mt. Ōhara (大原山). In addition to Iwaya Castle that we have introduced, Ōno Castle (大野城) was constructed at the top of Mt. Ōki in 664. Like Iwaya Castle, Ōno Castle doesn’t exist anymore. The remaining stone walls and foundation stones are now covered by grass and vegetation that you probably wouldn’t realize there was a castle there without the indicators in front of the remains.
While in Japanese, HERE is the standard trail map that you can refer to. The starting point (S) is where the Fukuoka Prefectural Shiōji Prefectural Forest Center (福岡県立 四王寺県民の森センター) is located.
It is also possible to hike to Mt. Ōki from Mt. Iwaya.
Tip: Mt. Shiōji’s autumn foliage season usually peaks from mid to late November.
Why Is Mt. Shiōji Named Shiōji?
The four mountains are named Shiōji because Shiōji Temple (四王寺) was erected on Mt. Ōki in 774. At the time, diplomatic relations between the Korean Peninsula and Japan were tense. To pray for country’s safety, each statue of the Four Heavenly Kings was enshrined in one of the four mountains according to the direction they protect.
Unfortunately, except for the Bishamondō Temple (毘沙門堂) in Mt. Ōki, the temples in the other three mountains are gone now, with little structures left.
Explore Fukuoka City, The Capital of Fukuoka Prefecture
Fukuoka, the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of the best cities in Japan to experience unique Japanese culture and enjoy a wide range of recreational activities. The city also has abundant historical attractions and destinations with breathtaking scenery for you to discover!
For more information about what you can do in Fukuoka City, next to Dazaifu, refer to our article on Fukuoka City!
