This past summer, I found a lovely place to take in the atmosphere of colorful tinkling windchimes – Mitsuidera or Byodoji in Tagawa City, Fukuoka. While there were no frog statues here like at my other favorite place, Nyoirinji Temple (Frog Temple), the small bubble show and row upon row of chimes were lovely.
This spot is out of the city, about a 1-hour car drive from Hakata Station. Since it’s not a well-known tourist destination, I enjoyed the quietness and lack of people when I visited.
The windchime festival takes place from the end of April to the end of August. Visit later for an atmosphere with more windchimes. You can check the official Instagram here for updates.
Note: There are only a few car parking spaces available right next to the temple. A bit of a walk away are more parking spots. The route given by Google Maps to the temple leads to the back which is inaccessible. Head here for the correct parking area and entrance.
In addition to summer wind chimes, this spot is also a popular place to visit for autumn leaves, a pinwheel festival, and light-up events.
Where to Stay in Fukuoka
If you are looking for a place to stay in the heart of Fukuoka, here are the areas I recommend.
Near Hakata Station
Hakata Station is the main transportation hub for Fukuoka and the rest of Kyushu. Shinkansens, trains, subway lines, and buses – all connect with Hakata Station. Fukuoka Airport is also conveniently located just a 5-minute subway ride away. If convenient travel is a top priority, then booking a hotel near Hakata Station is recommended!
High-end: Miyako Hotel Hakata is located on the eastern side (Chikushi-guchi) of Hakata Station, mere minutes walk from the exit. Breakfast is served on the upper floors with a grand view of the city below. I have also had visitors stay at Nikko Hotel Fukuoka who enjoyed their stay.
Budget: APA Hotel is a large chain with many locations around Japan. The rooms are economical (aka a bit small) but have everything you need for a simple stay.
Tenjin and Daimyo
Tenjin is a bustling business district full of shops, bars, restaurants, and more. The area is super walkable and connects to Hakata Station easily via bus or train. Expect a louder and more dynamic atmosphere.
High-end: For a top-tier stay, you can’t go wrong with the recently built Ritz-Carlton that overlooks the brand-new Daimyo Garden City area.
Many hotels also line Watanabe-dori which is a large streets between Hakata Station / Canal City area and Tenjin.
Staying Outside of the City
For a truly unique stay outside of the city, I recommend Craft Inn Te in Yame. Read about what it’s like to stay at this art-themed accommodation here!
For a luxurious getaway by the sea, Itoshima is my top recommendation. This area is great for cycling, winter oyster huts, seaside cafes, hiking, and more. A great place to stay in Itoshima is the newly built seven x seven Hotel that sits right out over the water. Learn more about Itoshima in my full guide!