Comfortable and romantic seaside resort

When winter descends on Japan, Fukuoka becomes a unique vacation destination, combining the charm of seaside spots with romantic seasonal lights. Despite its southern location, it offers a surprisingly cozy winter experience, famous in the area for its freshly caught oysters and sparkling light displays.

For those looking for an unforgettable winter getaway and an escape from cold, snowy destinations, Fukuoka offers the perfect combination of culinary delights and visual wonders.

An Oyster Lover’s Dream: Persimmon House

One of the most striking attractions in Fukuoka in the winter is the oyster shack, known locally as “kaki-goya”. Open from October to April, these seasonal restaurants are the perfect way to enjoy oyster season. The appeal of Kaki-Goya is not only the freshness of the seafood, but also the unique dining experience of cooking it yourself over charcoal fire.

Across the prefecture, especially in areas like Itoshima and Munakata, visitors can find bustling oyster grills where diners grill their own oysters at the table. This interactive approach allows diners to savor the savory flavors of local delicacies freshly caught from the nearby waters, while enjoying a local experience and picturesque waterfront views. Itoshima has “Oyster Cottage Lane”, the entire street is lined with persimmon huts, run directly by local fishermen, providing the freshest catch. Munakata also owns several popular huts, including Genkai YokochoIt is a fishing port food stall village that turns into a vibrant persimmon house in winter.

Fukuoka city itself is also home to several delicious persimmon shops. The city’s seafood is renowned for its freshness and flavor, with oysters being plump and rich, embodying the essence of Fukuoka’s coastal bounty. Paired with a glass of hot sake, this gastronomic experience is one not to be missed when visiting Fukuoka in winter.

city ​​of light

There isn’t much snow in Fukuoka, but as the sun sets, the city transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland with light shows. The city is lit up with a festival of colors, creating a romantic atmosphere that attracts couples and families.

Key points for viewing lighting fixtures Famous attractions in Fukuoka City include JR Hakata Castle and the Fukuoka Deai Bridge, where twinkling lights surround modern buildings and delicate Christmas trees take center stage. Canal City is a large shopping and entertainment complex that features spectacular light shows synchronized to music and a “river of light” that spans the entire length of the canal.

It feels like the whole city is sparkling in winter. The two streets of Tenjin Underground Street stretch for about 590 meters and transform into a white tree boulevard, flashing with champagne gold-themed lights. In Ohori Park, the famous Mizuki Bridge and Ukimido Pavilion are decorated with LED lights that sparkle on the water of the large pond in the center of the park. Fukuoka Tower and Momochi Seaside Park also sparkle during this season, providing the perfect backdrop for photos and romantic strolls.

Photo credit: HIKARINOMICHII DMO FUKUTSU

For a truly unique experience, head to Fukutsu City in mid-to-late February to see “path of lightMiyajitake Shrine. The shrine is located at the end of a long, straight road that leads directly to the sea. Twice a year, the setting sun aligns perfectly with this path, giving it a spectacular golden glow from the water to the shrine’s steps and picturesque torii gate. This rare and mysterious event is commemorated with festivals and creates unforgettable sights.

An unexpected winter wonderland

With its stunning seaside spots and stunning seasonal lights, Fukuoka is a great place for a winter vacation. During this season, the city is filled with warmth and romance, from cozy oyster shacks to sparkling light displays. Whether you’re planning a couple’s outing or a family adventure, this is a great place to escape the winter blues.

Warm up with comforting food at the Komachi Nada Manfukuoka Villa

Among Fukuoka’s signature dishes are many hearty specialties that are perfect for enjoying outside in the cold and dark. Shabu-shabu and the region’s beloved Mizutaki, a chicken-based hot pot cooked with locally sourced vegetables, are great opportunities to experience Japanese hospitality around the table.

These dishes are on the menu year-round at Kojimachi Nadaman Fukuoka Bettei, a collaboration between the Fukuoka Prefectural Government and Nadaman, a restaurant brand located in the heart of Tokyo. But in winter they are especially satisfying.

in restaurant Special hotpot menuvisitors can choose from hearty Itoshima pork or Hakata Wagyu beef shabu-shabu, or misi-yaki made with umami-rich Hakata chicken, paired with an array of delicious local dishes.

For more information about Komachi Nada Manfukuoka Villa, please visit their website.