SEA SPICA (Setouchi Shimatabi Cruise) | Review by Linda Liao

Fukuoka City Science Museum

Located within the Ropponmatsu 421 complex-a hub that includes various shops and Kyushu University’s Law School-this science museum is designed under the concept of "A place where people grow and shape the future through science." It offers engaging experiences for both children and adults to cultivate their curiosity about science.

• Fukuoka
• Museums

The Fukuoka City Science Museum is located at Ropponmatsu Station. Even before entering the museum, you'll find lots of interesting and cute science facts displayed on the station platform, full of surprises. These details show how much care went into the overall design and planning, making you look forward to visiting the museum even more.

Canal City Hakata

On the vast 43,500m² premises, a shopping mall, movie complex, theater, amusement park and two hotels cluster. Its symbol, a 180m-long canal, crosses along the center of the space lined with colorful buildings.

• Fukuoka
• Commercial Buildings

Canal City Hakata is a great mixed-use shopping complex to explore. It has not only all kinds of stores but also plenty of food options, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon there. During my last visit, an in-person fan event for a girl group happened to be taking place by the fountain on the first floor. The girls sang and danced onstage with lots of energy, while the fans below enthusiastically cheered them on with glow sticks. I don't usually follow celebrities and had only been passing by, but I couldn't help stopping to watch for quite a while. Seeing how immersed the fans were also gave me a glimpse of an interesting side of Japanese fan culture.

Ohori Park

Ohori Park is located in downtown Fukuoka City, only two stations away from Tenjin Station, but is a favorite place for citizens to relax and enjoy the abundant nature centered around a large pond.

• Fukuoka
• Parks & Gardens

Ohori Park is a well-known green space in central Fukuoka, similar to Daan Forest Park in Taipei. Many people come here for activities on both weekdays and weekends. There is a lake in the center of the park, and its surface sparkles in the sunlight. Many people walk, jog, and walk their dogs, and you can also see families with children spending time together. The overall atmosphere is very relaxing. When I visited in late spring or early summer, it wasn't too hot, and the gentle breeze on my face felt comfortable and even made me a little sleepy. If you get tired from walking, you can also sit down at a nearby small cafe, order a light meal, watch people come and go outside the window, and feel time quietly passing by.