The Starbucks in Kawagoe is designed in the style of a traditional Japanese kura-style townhouse, blending historic architecture with modern design beautifully. It has a charming old-town atmosphere.
The interior is comfortable and elegant, and enjoying coffee next to the garden feels especially relaxing. It’s one of Kawagoe’s popular photo spots.
Kokura Castle
Hosokawa Tadaoki helped in the victory of the Battle of Sekigahara, entered the area and started building a castle in 1602. It took seven years to complete. Then, it was occupied by Lord Ogasawara, but all but the stone wall was burned down in 1866. After WWII, upon the citizens’ fervent request, the castle tower was rebuilt.
At Kokura Castle, I slowly explored the grounds and learned about its history through the exhibits. After climbing to the top, I could look out over Kitakyushu and admire the city from different angles, which felt very special.
I really liked how Kokura Castle blends history with the modern city. After visiting the castle, you can also stroll around the nearby shopping district and enjoy some good food.
Marine World Uminonakamichi
Marine World Uminonakamichi, opened in 1989, is an aquarium that exhibits about 350 species and 30,000 organisms under the theme of "Kyushu's Sea”.
Marine World Uminonakamichi is a very popular aquarium in Fukuoka. It features many marine creatures, from schools of colorful fish to large marine animals, and stepping inside feels like the start of an underwater adventure.
What I was most looking forward to on this visit was seeing the impressive dolphin and sea lion shows. Watching them move so gracefully through the water was really soothing. The enormous aquarium tank was also memorable. Standing in front of the glass and watching the fish swim leisurely by made me feel as if I were underwater too.
The entire visit felt very fulfilling. Besides seeing cute marine animals, I also learned more about marine ecosystems. It's especially suited for exploring slowly and taking everything in. After experiencing it for myself, I think it's an attraction that both adults and children will enjoy, and it added a lot of fun to my trip to Fukuoka.
Akama Shrine
This shrine is notable for its vivid vermilion Suitenmon gate, inspired by the mythical Dragon Palace. It enshrines Emperor Antoku, who tragically perished by drowning at the age of eight following defeat in the Battle of Dan-no-ura. Additionally, the site's predecessor, Amidaji Temple, is famous as the setting for the eerie ghost story Mimi-nashi-Hoichi (Hoichi-the-Earless).
Akama Shrine is located in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, and is filled with history. Its most striking feature is the bright red Suitenmon gate. With the ocean scenery around it, the gate stands out even from a distance and looks very different from those at typical shrines.
During my visit, I felt the solemn and peaceful atmosphere as I entered the shrine and also learned about its history connected to Emperor Antoku. From near the shrine, you can also enjoy views of the Kanmon Strait. Feeling the sea breeze and watching the ships pass by was very relaxing.
