Japan Train Trip: Episode 11

Today is the first day we will be staying put, which is a rare occurrence. We have no plans to travel to another city today, but will instead explore the city we are in. It seems that the weather is on our side, with clear skies and sunshine, encouraging us to walk around and enjoy the city.

This morning was the first morning we didn't have to rush. We woke up leisurely, got ready, and then went out to explore the city. We walked around Tenjin, which is considered the heart of Fukuoka or Kyushu Island. It's the downtown area of Fukuoka, with many shops and large department stores. If you're serious about shopping, one day isn't enough. There's a wide variety of goods to choose from, including electronics, clothing, brand-name items, books, cosmetics, and many restaurants.

The cherry blossoms are starting to bloom more and more these days. On a sunny day like this, we can see a variety of cherry blossoms competing in color along the path we are walking. Seeing this makes me feel that it was worth coming here in the spring season, so I can go back and brag about it. Because for the past few days, we have encountered cloudy skies, some cherry blossoms have not yet bloomed, and some have been hit by heavy rain, making it impossible to travel. Today, I feel like I am truly experiencing a trip in the spring season.

With ample time on our hands, we decided to visit Tenmangu Shrine in Dazaifu. This renowned shrine is one of the two most prominent Tenmangu shrines among the thousands scattered across Japan, surpassed only by Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto.

This shrine is located in Dazaifu City, just 15 kilometers from Fukuoka. To get to Dazaifu, you need to start at Tenjin Station. You can get there by either JR train or subway. Once you arrive at Tenjin Station, exit through the Parco department store following the signs for Nishitesu. You will find another entrance to Nishitetsu Fukuoka Station. Go to the ticket office and ask for a ticket. There is a sign at the counter recommending this type of ticket.

The train journey begins at Nishitetsu Fukuoka Station and takes approximately 20 minutes to reach Nishitestsu Fukakaichi Station. Here, passengers will need to transfer to the Dazaifu Line for a further 5-minute journey to their final destination. Including waiting times, the total travel time should not exceed 45 minutes.

Upon exiting the station, follow the crowd. You will be greeted by a sea of people. On the way from Dazaifu Station to our destination, you will encounter a torii gate, marking the entrance to a street lined with various shops, including confectionery stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants. You can stop by for a bite to eat here. The most ubiquitous treat is Umegae Mochi, a grilled mochi filled with red bean paste, a local specialty. With so many shops selling it, it's hard to know which one offers the best. However, as a visitor, you'll likely find any mochi you try delicious. If you have the chance, do give it a try. The aroma of the grilled mochi, with its crispy exterior and soft interior, is enough to entice anyone. Just watching the preparation is a delight.

Another must-visit is the Starbucks branch here. Everyone who comes here is bound to be captivated by this architectural masterpiece, as it is remarkably eye-catching and unlike any other branch. This Starbucks branch is renowned among architects and is the work of Kengo Kuma, who is celebrated for his stunningly innovative designs.

It's time to visit the Tenmangu Shrine in Dazaifu.

The Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is one of the two most important Tenmangu shrines among the over 1,000 Tenmangu shrines in Japan. It was built during the Heian period to worship Sugawara Michizane, a scholar who is revered as the god of education. Therefore, the shrine is famous for granting wishes related to education, and students often visit to pray, especially during exam season.

To enter the shrine, visitors must cross three bridges and pass through the main gate, adorned with a large red lantern. Upon entering the shrine grounds, a large cow statue greets visitors. It is customary to rub the cow's head for good luck and blessings of wisdom and good health. Adjacent to the shrine is a museum showcasing the history of Sugawara Michizane through dolls, artifacts, and documents dating back over a thousand years.

Today, there were quite a few people visiting the shrine. Coincidentally, there was some kind of ceremony taking place, so we were able to stand at the edge of the field and watch. Everyone was dressed in full regalia. It was truly fortunate to be able to witness such an unusual ceremony.

Behind the shrine, there is a long escalator leading to the Kyushu National Museum. If you are interested in history, you can visit it. The building is very stylish, with a unique blue design. We did not visit it in detail, only some parts, because we were hungry and needed to find something to eat.

After leaving the shrine, we walked back the way we came to catch the train back to the city to find something to eat. The restaurants here were probably not an option because there were so many people. But before we left, we didn't forget to buy a mochi ping, a recommended menu item, to share as a snack. It was as delicious as its reputation, because, um, it was both fragrant and soft.

After returning to the city, we decided to find a street food stall for dinner. We stumbled upon a restaurant that served tempura rice sets. Driven by hunger and desire, we devoured everything on our plates. It was a satisfying meal that was both delicious and affordable. With the rest of the evening free, we continued exploring the city until nightfall.

Where are we going next? Stay tuned to find out.

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