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The Glossary
Fukuoka, one of the most beautiful places in Japan, is an un-spoilt treasure trove of surprises and is the capital city of Fukuoka Prefecture, situated in Kyushu Island, in northern Japan. It's the oldest city in Japan! Embraced by mountains on three sides, the city of Fukuoka welcomes the Sea of Genkai in the north.
The ancient feel of the place is palpable in the many quaint historical sites that dot Fukuoka. The lush green gardens and parks offer a soothing vista to tired eyes. In the hope of embracing the mountains, the roaring sea's enthusiastic flow and disappointed ebb has made Fukuoka a fertile land with cool breeze greeting you. The numerous Zen temples house shrines dedicated to Gods of wisdom, prosperity etc, lending a mystic charm to the land. Museums have a splendid collection from bygone eras.
Shofukuji Temple is the oldest Zen temple in the whole of Japan, dating back to 1195. The temple has an interesting history, with the fusion of three different cultures. It was founded by a priest Easai, who introduced Zen Buddhism in Japan, which was widely followed in the Sung dynasty in China. The temple boasts of a bronze bell popular in Korea! A visit to the Shofukuji Temple is a must. The divine ambience transforms your very spirit, as you at once feel disconnected with the materialistic world. The sudden insignificance of the self in the vast expanse of the universe enables you to reconnect with your inner core!
Within the confines, are gardens, you can traverse, lost in deep thought. The Sumiyoshi Shrine within, is the oldest in Kyushu and is dedicated to protect sea-farers. The shrine looks sacred and serene, surrounded by a grove of Japanese Cedars and Camphor trees. A fine vista of River Naka from the grove is a unique experience.
Komyozenji Temple is another marvelous Zen Temple in Dazaifu, famous for its quaint moss covered stone gardens. Stone gardens are unique to Japan. This stone garden in Komyozenji Temple, have stones displaying fascinating colors in the fall season!
Businessmen will profit from visiting the Toka Ebisu Shrine, whose principal deity is Ebisu, who bestows prosperity. The annual festival in January, sees worshippers receive bamboo grass, whose flexible, yet sturdy trunk symbolizes success, hinting that one can bend to straighten flaws! Melodious Shinto music and dance reverberates at night.
The Kushida shrine dedicated to the deity Ohata Nushina-mikoto, located at the heart of old Hakata, is an awesome feature with its wooden and grey combination and also contains the Chinese zodiac! The Kazariyamakasa- decorated floats are a sight too.
On the north of Kyushu is Fukuoka Castle, which once contained 47 turrets. Of the many turrets, only two remain, while the rest are in ruins. The most beautiful sight here, are the cherry trees, which burst into cherry blossoms during season. The Fukuoka Art Museum in Ohori Park, displays Japanese paintings, arts and crafts from China, Korea, Persian glassware et al.
The Fukuoka Tower is impressive at a height of 234 meters in the Momochihama region. The tower is a landmark offering a panoramic view of the city.
If you want to have a bird's eye view of Fukuoka with your beloved, on a giant wheel, then head for Sky Dream Fukuoka. The wheel 120 meters high, is the tallest wheel in Asia and the world's largest Ferris wheel!
To explore your wild side, head for Iriomote National Park, has the Haemida beach, whose long coral reefs, rich marine and wildlife are the attractions. The Kirishima-Yaku National Park in the Kirishima mountain range, contains a chain of volcanic mountains, lava, exotic crater lakes, hot springs and lakes whose waters are of varying hues!
The Marine Park Uminonakamichi within Fukuoka city is an all-purpose marine and amusement park, having a zoo, garden, beaches, a huge marine aquarium and a star hotel!
Heard of man-made beaches? At Momochi Seaside Park, aside form man-made beaches, you can spot futuristic buildings that will leave you gaping.
To carry mementoes, in Hakata, ask for Hakata Ningyo and you'll be shown an array of pretty Japanese dolls! You will glut your bag with priceless Japanese antiques, dolls, electronic goods from Tenjin.
Fukuoka Landmarks:
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