Hakata
A port town boasting japan‘s oldest Zen temple, biggest festival, and famous ramen
Hakata, located in Fukuoka, Japan, is a port town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Once a prominent merchant town, Hakata is now known as Fukuoka’s business hub, attracting both locals and tourists alike. This bustling city has a lot to offer, including Japan’s oldest Zen temple, the biggest festival in the country, and its famous Hakata ramen.
Hakata’s rich history can be traced back to its days as a merchant town. The area used to be a separate entity before it merged with the castle town of Fukuoka to become the modern-day city of Fukuoka. However, Hakata has managed to retain its distinct personality and traditions over the years.
One of the main attractions in Hakata is Shofukuji Temple, which is Japan’s oldest Zen temple. Founded in 1195 by the priest Eisai, Shofukuji introduced the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism to Japan from China. The temple’s serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply a moment of tranquility.
Another highlight of Hakata is its vibrant festival scene. The city is home to two major festivals that draw millions of spectators each year. The Hakata Dontaku festival, held during Golden Week in May, is the most attended festival in Japan. With over two million people in attendance and more than 30,000 participants, this parade extravaganza showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere.
The Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, held from July 1 to July 15, is another major event in Hakata. The festival features floats weighing approximately one ton, which race through the streets of Hakata while being cheered on by spectators. The climax of the festival takes place at 4:59 a.m. on the 15th, creating a thrilling and unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors.
Aside from its cultural and historical attractions, Hakata is also famous for its signature dish, Hakata ramen. This type of ramen is characterized by its unique taste and aroma, making it one of the most consumed types of ramen in the world. Hakata ramen is known for its rich and creamy pork broth, thin noodles, and various toppings such as chashu (braised pork), green onions, and pickled ginger. Visitors to Hakata should not miss the opportunity to try this delicious and comforting dish at one of the city’s many ramen shops or yatai food stalls.
In addition to its cultural and culinary offerings, Hakata is also a transportation hub, thanks to its central location and Hakata Station. Hakata Station is one of Fukuoka’s main transport hubs, connecting the city to greater Kyushu and the rest of Japan. The station serves as a gateway to various destinations, with bullet trains, local trains, and buses departing from here. Travelers can reach Hakata Station in as little as five hours from Tokyo or two and a half hours from Osaka by bullet train.
The Hakata area is also well-connected within the city itself. The 100 yen bus loop provides convenient transportation around Hakata, and two subway lines converge beneath Hakata Station. Additionally, Hakata Port offers ferry connections to various exotic Kyushu islands and even to Busan in South Korea. Visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride and explore the surrounding islands for a unique and memorable experience.
For those who love shopping and entertainment, Hakata has plenty to offer. The area around Hakata Station is a bustling commercial district with a wide range of shops, department stores, and restaurants. The middle floor of Hakata Station building is a shopping area, and the upper levels offer a variety of stores, including a delicious bakery that sells mini croissants. The outdoor garden on the floor of the building provides a stunning view of the cityscape, making it the perfect spot to take in the beauty of Hakata.
Hakata is also home to several venerable temples and shrines that are worth a visit. Tochoji Temple, located near Hakata Station, houses a 10.8-meter wooden statue of Buddha, one of the largest of its kind in Japan. Sumiyoshi Jinja, a shrine with close ties to sumo, holds a ceremony attended by top-tier sumo wrestlers every year before the start of the November Grand Sumo Competition. The Hakata Light-up Walk, which takes place every November, allows visitors to explore and appreciate the illuminated shrines in the area, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere.
In conclusion, Hakata is a city that offers a wealth of culture, history, and culinary delights. From its oldest Zen temple and biggest festival to its famous ramen, Hakata has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, a thrilling festival experience, or simply a delicious bowl of ramen, Hakata is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, the next time you find yourself in Fukuoka, make sure to visit Hakata and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and rich heritage.
Address And Maps Location:
Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka-ken
Subscribe, follow @idbcpr and idbackpacker.com