Renowned as a shrine of learning, this major Fukuoka spiritual location attracts millions of people every year, who come here to pray for academic success. The shrine grounds offer an urban oasis with thousands of plum trees and nearly 100 camphor trees, as well as modern art installations dotted across the area.

Hotel Cultia Dazaifu is a charming, decentralized hotel that uses renovated traditional buildings from the Edo and Meiji eras near Dazaifu Tenmangu. Their restaurant Le Un serves a delectable selection of fusion French dishes that incorporate locally sourced ingredients.

Dig deep into Kyushu culture and history at Japan’s fourth national museum, which is an immersive, interactive facility. There are thousands of historical artifacts, many dating back several millennia.

Umegae mochi — a grilled rice cake with a soft adzuki bean filling embossed with a plum blossom image — is a delicious local specialty and a must-try when in Dazaifu. The teahouse is on shrine grounds and offers the perfect place to take a break before moving on.

Fukuoka City’s open-air food stands offer a slew of exciting dining options, as well as opportunities to meet locals and fellow travelers, who may have some more destination recommendations to share.