Exploring Fukuoka Prefecture.

#Fukuoka.

Home to historic temples and shrines, trendy shopping malls, and a vibrant waterfront area, the port city of Fukuoka is a great place to spend a few days. Best still, Fukuoka has all the perks of a city yet manages to retain a chilled atmosphere.

Highlights: Sumiyoshi Jinja, Canal City Mall (pictured), Fukuoka Castle Ruins, Ohori Park Japanese Garden, Kushida Jinja, Tochoji, Shofukuji, Tookaebisu Shrine, Hakozakigu, Hakata Port Tower, Momijihachimangu, Atago Shrine, Fukuoka Tower, and Momichi Seaside Park.

#Dazaifu & Ogori.

Boasting many unique and beautiful temples and shrines, the cities of Dazaifu and Ogori lie close by, making it relatively easy to visit both in a day.

Highlights - Dazaifu: Alight at Dazaifu Station for Dazaifutenmangu, Tenkaiinari Shrine, Ishianainari Shrine, Kanzeon-ji, Kaidanin, Sakamoto Hachimangu, and the remains of Dazaifu Government Office - end at Tofuro-Mae Station for direct train to Mitsusawa.
Highlights - Ogori: Alight at Mitsusawa Station for Nyoirinji (Frog Temple - pictured) and Yokogumahayataka Shrine.

#Kitakyushu.

Also located in the Fukuoka Prefecture, Kitakyushu is an easy day trip from Fukuoka City and offers plenty of attractions, including the trendy Mojiko Retro.

Highlights - JR Kokura Station: Yasaka Shrine, Tanga Market, Kokura Castle & Garden, Katsuyama Park.
Highlights - JR Minami-Kokura Station: Kokura Factory Railway Land, Itōzu Hachiman Shrine, Shinozaki Hachiman Shrine, Itôzu no Mori Park.
Highlights - JR Mojiko Station: Kanmon Strait Museum, Kyushu Railway History Museum, Mojiko Retro (pictured).
Highlights - Kanmonkaikyō Mekari Station: Mekari Park, Kanmon Bridge, Mekari Shrine, Kanmon Tunnel for Pedestrians (walkway to Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi).