一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人's Reviews Page 19/32

Strolling along the lively approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, the sweet aromas wafting through the air make it hard not to stop. This time, I chose “Dazaifu Umegae Mochi Kanoya (KANOYA)” along the approach to try this local traditional treat.

Despite the name Umegae Mochi, it doesn’t actually contain any plums. It’s made with a thin, chewy wrapper grilled until crisp and filled with sweet red bean paste. Taking a bite while it’s piping hot and fresh off the grill, the outside is slightly crisp and the filling is smooth and dense. It pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea. There are many long-established shops selling Umegae Mochi along the approach, each with its own unique qualities. If you come here, don’t miss the chance to try this warm, handmade treat.

After visiting the solemn Tenmangu Shrine, I highly recommend stopping by this distinctive Ichiran Dazaifu Sando location on your way back to the station.

Its biggest highlight is the pentagonal ramen bowl symbolizing success in exams. The bowl's design is filled with thoughtful wishes for good fortune, making it especially fitting for travelers praying for success on exams or good luck. The classic, rich tonkotsu broth and signature noodles with just the right firmness are still a familiar flavor that perfectly suits Taiwanese tastes. It was raining that day, and after visiting the shrine, I stepped inside and enjoyed a steaming bowl of flavorful ramen. It left me feeling incredibly satisfied and comforted, both physically and emotionally.

Walking along the Omotesando approach to the shrine, you definitely won't miss the striking design of the Starbucks Coffee Dazaifu Tenmangu Omotesando Store. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, this distinctive location perfectly showcases his aesthetic.

The store's most impressive feature is the extensive use of 1,000 pieces of natural wood, interwoven and extending in different directions using traditional construction techniques, running from the indoor ceiling all the way to the exterior walls. As soon as I approached this unique geometric structure, I somehow felt a familiar sense that it echoed the Starbucks location in Kawagoe, Saitama.

When strolling around Dazaifu, I recommend making a detour to admire this architectural work of art that perfectly blends traditional woodworking with modern design. Order a cup of rich coffee, pause quietly to take it all in, and enjoy an incomparable feast for the eyes and soul.

Easily accessible by train from Hakata, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is a popular and relaxing destination near Fukuoka. This historic shrine is dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, Japan’s “god of learning,” so during exam season or whenever there is a student preparing for exams in the family, countless visitors come to pray sincerely for success.

On the day of my visit, the main hall happened to be under renovation. What was remarkable was the Japanese attention to detail: the construction team had cleverly covered the roof under renovation with a large expanse of beautiful greenery. From a distance, it looked like a garden floating in the air, completely changing the usual impression of construction work. While visiting the shrine, don’t forget to stop by and touch the sacred ox, which is said to bring good luck and wisdom. Also, remember to slow down and take in the elegant and charming Japanese garden scenery around the shrine.

An unexpected encounter. I visited Kitakyushu in July, in early summer, and was very fortunate to come across one of the area's most iconic traditional celebrations, the centuries-old Kokura Gion Daiko Festival.

This special festival originated in the Edo period as a prayer for protection from misfortune and for commercial prosperity, and the tradition continues to this day. Not only can you experience the powerful taiko drumming and lively market around Kokura Castle, but the shopping streets become even more spectacular after dark. Processions from each neighborhood compete to put on the most impressive display. The taiko performances are especially striking, with the performers creating intensely powerful rhythms and beats, expressing the spirit of the festival in the most traditional and authentic way.

Being able to take part in this cultural journey, which combines a rich history with a stunning audiovisual experience, and to feel the passion and unity that electrifies the entire city was definitely the most unforgettable and profound local experience of my trip to Kitakyushu.

On the walk from the train station to Kokura Castle, you’ll pass through Uomachi Gintengai, a shopping street filled with the atmosphere of everyday local life. It is not only one of Japan’s earliest covered shopping arcades, but also a place rich in local history and character.

When I visited in the summer, I happened to catch a rare festive occasion: the Kokura Gion Festival, held every July. That evening, I chose to dine at Tetsunabe Sohonten, a long-established local restaurant famous for its iron-pan fried dumplings. Sitting by the window, I could enjoy their signature dumplings, crispy on the outside and juicy inside, while watching the lively festival procession pass right before my eyes through the glass. It felt incredibly immersive.

I highly recommend taking a stroll here if you enjoy traveling at a slower pace and exploring the local culture of smaller cities. You can experience the most authentic side of daily life in Kitakyushu and the warmth of its festivals. I still remember that night filled with festive energy.

During this trip to Kitakyushu, I also stopped by Kokura Castle, a place rich in history and culture. I walked there from the station, enjoying the pleasant streets along the way. When I arrived, a taiko drum performance happened to be taking place at the foot of the castle, and I couldn’t help but stop to watch. It added boundless enthusiasm and energy to a summer afternoon at Kokura Castle.

Unfortunately, by the time I followed the slope up to the castle tower, I had missed the hours for touring the interior, which was a little disappointing. But as evening arrived, the night market in the plaza below the castle came alive. The aromas of delicious food and the wonderful performances seemed to instantly sweep away my disappointment over missing the tour. Perhaps this is what travel is all about—not being overly attached to a predetermined idea of perfection. By taking things as they come, you may instead find unexpected moments of warmth and delight.

If you're visiting Mojiko, I highly recommend stopping by the historically significant Kyushu Railway History Museum. It's not only a dream destination for railroad enthusiasts, but also a fascinating attraction that even adults can get deeply absorbed in.

The most impressive highlight is the hands-on miniature train experience. The whole setup feels very authentic and lets you fulfill your dream of driving a train. In addition to displaying a variety of classic retired locomotives and the rich history of railway development in Kyushu, the museum also sells many unique railway-themed items and souvenirs. Whether you're visiting as a family or making a pilgrimage as a railroad enthusiast, you can have a fun and rewarding time here filled with surprises.

After taking the ferry from Mojiko, you can head straight to Shimonoseki’s Kamon Wharf as soon as you arrive, where you’ll find a laid-back resort atmosphere. Not only can you see the large pufferfish art installation that represents the area, but there are also all kinds of great shops offering local food and souvenirs.

Strolling along the comfortable wooden boardwalk in the sea breeze, you can easily walk to the neighboring Karato Market while enjoying the pleasant scenery along the way. I especially recommend buying a Japanese soft-serve ice cream and enjoying it on a bench by the waterfront while taking in the harbor views. Just stay alert while eating so the watchful seagulls nearby don’t snatch it away. This is definitely a great place for a walk and to shop for unique souvenirs.

It takes less than ten minutes by ferry from the Mojiko pier to reach Karato Market in Shimonoseki, a city famous from history textbooks for the Treaty of Shimonoseki. As soon as you disembark, the market right by the harbor greets you with the atmosphere of a local port town.

Travelers who enjoy an in-depth experience of local life definitely shouldn't miss this place. The market is filled with lively vendors calling out and an impressive array of fresh seafood, while all kinds of nigiri sushi and sashimi will make your mouth water (be sure to check the business hours in advance so you don't arrive when it's closed). Besides enjoying freshly caught seafood on the first floor, there are also market restaurants on the second floor serving piping-hot, authentic seafood dishes. When you get tired of walking around, head upstairs for a meal, then finish with a rich, creamy ice cream for a perfectly relaxing afternoon. Shimonoseki has far fewer tourists, so it's very comfortable and ideal for travelers who enjoy wandering around.