Photo: Young's I/O
Tenjin — Fukuoka's biggest shopping district
Tenjin is Fukuoka's downtown, packed with department stores, an underground shopping mall and fashion buildings. Underground passages connect the buildings, so it's easy to get around even when it rains.
Getting there
From Fukuoka Airport, the Airport Line subway takes about 11 minutes (¥260); from Hakata Station, about 6 minutes (¥210). Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station is connected on foot.
What to see
Tenjin Underground Shopping Mall
A long north–south shopping street below ground, with European-style interiors and shops on both sides. It links to the main department stores without going above ground.
Department stores
Iwataya, Mitsukoshi and PARCO are close together.
Daimyo
5–10 minutes' walk from Tenjin. A neighborhood of lanes full of small clothing shops, cafés and concept stores — where Tenjin is about department stores, Daimyo is about independent shops.
ACROS Fukuoka
A building with a stepped garden up its side, which you can climb to the top.
What to do
Shopping
Everything from department stores to budget brands in one place, with many tax-free shops.
Cafés and desserts
Independent cafés cluster around Daimyo. Desserts made with Amaou strawberries are a local specialty.
Nightlife
Live music venues and bars around Tenjin and Maizuru.
What to eat
Ramen, udon, sushi and seafood are all close by. Daimyo has many small restaurants with character.
Taking a break
Department stores and the underground mall have good restrooms, and the mall has benches for a short rest.
Best times to visit
Department stores usually open at 10 a.m. and close around 8 p.m. Small shops in Daimyo tend to open between 11 a.m. and noon. At night you can walk to Nakasu to see the yatai (food stalls).
Good to know
The underground mall has many numbered exits and is easy to get lost in. Check which direction you need before heading up to the street.