Fukuoka

The coastal city of Fukuoka is located on Japan's southernmost main island, Kyūshū. Numerous Buddhist temples and Shintō shrines adorn the streets and squares of the city, including the magnificent Kushida-jinja dating back to 757. The remains of Fukuoka Castle from the 17th century can be seen in Maizuru Park. Fukuoka's huge shopping centers with up to 250 stores form a modern contrast to the historic buildings. On the coast in the northwest of the city is the 234-metre-high Fukuoka Tower with a 123-metre-high viewing platform.