A Perfect Fukuoka Weekend Itinerary: Cherry Blossoms, Baseball, and BBQ

Heading to Japan and looking for the perfect Fukuoka weekend itinerary? Steal mine! I visit Fukuoka, Japan in early April 2025 and have the most amazing trip. My goal is to experience the best of Fukuoka — a mix of must-see spots, local activities, and plenty of time to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

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🌸 Day 1: Exploring the Fukuoka & Catching a Baseball Game

Morning:
Start your day with a quick breakfast at your hotel and get ready to explore. First stop: Ohori Park. The park features a peaceful pond filled with koi fish and swan-shaped paddle boats. During cherry blossom season, the park comes alive with pink blooms and food stalls. I visit during one of the festivals and try a crispy rice sushi roll — delicious!

Need a caffeine boost? There’s a Starbucks overlooking the water, perfect for sipping coffee while walking among the cherry blossoms.

Afternoon:
For lunch, stop at a local soba restaurant to try freshly made soba noodles — light, flavorful, and perfect before an afternoon of sightseeing. After lunch, wander over to Nishi Park. It’s filled with small shrines, great views of the city, and even more cherry blossoms to enjoy. Stop by Torisu Fruit Shop and pick up some early season Miyazaki Mangoes.

Evening:
To experience local culture, head to a Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks baseball game at the Mizuho PayPay Dome. The energy is contagious! Grab a Japanese bento box and join the crowd in cheering for the home team.

Late Night:
After the game, explore the famous Fukuoka food stalls (yatai). These tiny pop-up kitchens serve fresh local fares including delicious ramen and handmade gyoza — crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Expect a friendly local vibe and late-night laughs over cold beer and dumplings.

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🏯 Day 2: Temples, Cherry Blossoms & Yakiniku BBQ

Morning:
Start your morning with coffee from a local café, or grab one from 7-Eleven if you’re in a rush. Then, take the train to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, one of Fukuoka’s most iconic temples.

Afternoon:
Spend your afternoon strolling Dazaifu Monzenmachi Street, lined with souvenir shops, matcha treats, and snack stands. Enter the shrine and wander across its red bridges surrounded by lush gardens and traditional architecture. During cherry blossom season, it’s absolutely breathtaking — the petals drift across the ponds like a dream. Afterward, grab lunch on the main street before heading back to the city.

Evening:
Return to your hotel to freshen up, then head out for dinner. Tonight’s must-try: Yakiniku BBQ. This Japanese-style barbecue lets you grill premium meats and Japanese A5 Wagyu right at your table. My favorite spot is Ariran, where they use a charcoal grill instead of gas. The flavor is smoky, rich, and unforgettable — a true Fukuoka dining experience.

Late Night:
After dinner, dive into one of Japan’s most beloved pastimes — karaoke! In Fukuoka, karaoke bars like Jankara offer private rooms where you can sing your heart out with friends (or solo). Many include unlimited soft drinks, ice cream, and snacks, plus you can order drinks right from the room. It’s the perfect, lighthearted way to end your weekend in Fukuoka.

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Where to stay in Fukuoka Japan

I stayed at the Candeo Hotel in Fukuoka Tenjin. This was a wonderful spot for exploring, we were within walking distance to all of the sites. While the hotel room wasn’t anything special, the location definitely made up for it!

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💮 Final Thoughts: Fukuoka weekend itinerary

This Fukuoka weekend itinerary is the perfect mix of culture, food, and fun. From cherry blossoms at Dazaifu Tenmangu to baseball games, street food, and karaoke, Fukuoka offers a taste of Japan’s warm and lively spirit. Whether it’s your first visit to Japan or a return trip, Fukuoka is a city that blends modern energy with timeless charm — and it deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.