Delve into the heart of Fukuoka with this immersive 2-day tour that blends local cuisine, traditional arts, and historical insights. Start by crafting sushi and painting lanterns, then explore the stunning ruins of Fukuoka Castle and experience the vibrant atmosphere of yatai food stalls. The second day features a Japanese cooking class with a local mother and a rare opportunity to learn about Noh theater from a master. This hands-on journey offers a unique glimpse into Japanese culture, perfect for food and art enthusiasts.
- Duration: 2 days of guided experiences in Fukuoka
- Hands-on sushi making and lantern painting sessions
- Explore historical sites like Fukuoka Castle and Shofukuji Temple
- Enjoy a Japanese cooking class and an authentic Noh theater experience
Meet at Sushi Sanyo (Heisuke Fukkodo Building 3F) The facility faces the river along Nakasu. The entrance is on the opposite side from the river (on the road). Please take the elevator to the third floor.
The experience begins at 11:00 and lasts approximately 2 hours, including a sushi-making workshop and meal. Sushi-Making Experience at Sushi Sanyo Introduction Session (30 mins) Start with an introduction to the world of sushi. Learn about its history and culture, the fresh seafood of Northern Kyushu, and the unique regional differences in soy sauce. Hands-on Session (60 mins) Watch a professional chef demonstrate key techniques before trying them yourself. From preparing sushi rice (shari) and slicing fish to shaping nigiri, experience the full sushi-making process while learning practical skills. Tasting Session (30 mins) Enjoy the sushi you made and compare it with pieces prepared by the chef to appreciate the difference in technique. The workshop ends with a small souvenir and a certificate of completion to take home.
Meet at Kadota Chochin Shop (Kawabata Street Shopping District, near Nakasu-Kawabata Station). The experience begins at 2:00 PM and lasts about 1–1.5 hours. Mini Chochin Lantern Painting Experience Enjoy a traditional Japanese lantern painting workshop at Kadota Lantern Shop in the heart of Fukuoka. Guided by skilled artisans, you will create your own design on a white paper chochin lantern using brushes and colors. The hands-on activity is suitable for all ages, from children to adults. After finishing your artwork, your lantern will be carefully packed in a special box so you can take it home as a unique souvenir. Note: If Kadota Lantern Shop is closed, the activity will be replaced with a Hakata Doll Painting Experience.
Meet your local guide at Ohori Park Station (ticket gate). The guided walking tour begins at 4:00 PM and lasts approximately 3 hours. Walking Tour with Local Guide Total walking distance: about 3.5 km (approx. 60 minutes of walking) Stops: Ohori Park – 30 minutes, Fukuoka Castle Ruins – 30 minutes. Noda Coffee – 60 minutes Fukuoka is known for its long-established coffee shops. During the tour, you will visit one of these local favorites and enjoy a relaxing break with a cup of quality coffee. Other drinks, such as tea, are also available.
Fukuoka Famous: Enjoy the Food Stalls Trial tasting set included (approx. 60 minutes) Fukuoka Yatai (Food Stall) Experience Discover Fukuoka’s iconic evening culture at a traditional yatai food stall. Enjoy a special mini tasting set prepared exclusively for the tour. If you enjoy the lively atmosphere, you can continue exploring and hopping between other yatai stalls afterward. Sample Menu: Half-size chewy gyoza, Half-size chef’s special dish, Half-size tonkotsu ramen, 1 drink
08:20 – Meet your local guide at the Fukuoka City Tourist Information Center (Hakata Station). The guided walking tour begins at 8:30 AM and lasts about 2 hours. Walking Tour with Local Guide Total distance: approx. 2.5 km (about 40 minutes of walking) Stops: Shofukuji Temple – 20 minutes, Tochoji Temple – 20 minutes, Mochikichi – 20 minutes, Kushida Shrine – 20 minutes The tour ends at the ticket gates of Kushidajinja-mae Station. After the tour, please make your own way to Befu Station on the Nanakuma Line. The train ride takes about 13 minutes (7 stops).
10:50 Meet your host mother at Befu Station. Enjoy a Japanese Mother’s Cooking Class (approx. 3 hours). Schedule: 11:15 AM – Cooking session at the instructor’s home / 1:15 PM – Enjoy the meal you prepared / 2:00 PM – End of experience Standard Washoku Course: Japanese rice and miso soup, Teriyaki chicken, Dashi-maki tamago (Japanese rolled omelet), Tempura, Served with Japanese green tea, sweets, and fruit Join a friendly local host mother in Fukuoka for a hands-on cooking class in her home kitchen. During this experience, you will learn about fresh local ingredients and essential Japanese cooking techniques while preparing a variety of traditional washoku dishes. After cooking together, sit down and enjoy the homemade meal in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Morimoto Noh Stage Authentic Noh Theater Experience with interpretation guide included (approx. 60 minutes) Noh Experience Discover the 650-year history of Noh, Japan’s classical theater that originated in the Muromachi period. Guided by Master Tetsuro Morimoto, a designated Preserver of Important Intangible Cultural Property of the renowned Kanze School, this experience introduces the stories, movements, and refined beauty of Noh. Participants will also have the opportunity to step onto the stage and learn the traditional etiquette of this sacred performing art.
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience