SIGHTSEEING

Fukuoka Tower: A Beacon of Leisure in Seaside Momochi

2023.11.08

Fukuoka Tower stands majestically in the Seaside Momochi area, a prime tourist destination that boasts some of Fukuoka’s most iconic facilities. With its facade changing with the seasons, the tower offers a plethora of activities that can fill an entire day for families, friends, and couples alike.

Enveloped in 8,000 half-mirrored panels, Fukuoka Tower’s shimmering triangular exterior reflects the azure sky by day and transforms into a vibrant display of lights at night. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Fukuoka’s seascape and cityscape. While daytime views are spectacular, an evening visit is highly recommended for those seeking to behold the stunning night lights.

What’s particularly interesting is the dedication to hospitality for visitors, marking it as a leading tourist spot. The ascent to the observation room is not just an elevator ride accompanied by an automated voice guide; a companion onboard provides personalized navigation, sharing insights into the tower’s attractions and elevating the sense of excitement as you rise into the Fukuoka skies.

At 123 meters above ground, the observation room provides sweeping views of Fukuoka’s seas, mountains, and cityscape.

As the tallest seaside tower in Japan, the observation room is uniquely positioned to offer an unparalleled view, particularly of Hakata Bay to the north, resembling a panoramic view from high above the ocean. The Sky Lounge is another highlight, offering an enhanced experience of the evening glow. While light meals and drinks are available during regular hours, booking in advance allows visitors to savor full-course meals. During the transition from dusk to night, the lounge offers an opportunity to enjoy truly memorable moments as the sky’s hues shift minute by minute.

Seasonal tower illuminations have become a cultural icon in Fukuoka’s nightscape.

With lights coming on at dusk and shining until 11 PM, the tower’s illumination designs feature a variety of themes including cherry blossoms, the Milky Way, moon viewing, and Christmas trees, echoing the passing of seasons. Though the illumination can be seen from various points in the city, the best view is undoubtedly from the front. Proceeding northward from the tower leads to the plaza in front of the Fukuoka City Public Library—a prime photography spot. It is common to see students and passersby capturing the seasonal tower illuminations with their smartphones.

Access

– About a 25-minute bus ride from “Hakata Bus Terminal” to “Fukuoka Tower Minamiguchi” via expressway.
– Approximately 20 minutes from “Hakata Station” to “Nishijin Station” on the Fukuoka City Subway, followed by a 9-minute bus ride from “Nishijin Palace Mae” to “Fukuoka Tower Minamiguchi”. A 20-minute walk from “Nishijin Station” is also an option.

Operating Hours:
9:30 AM to 10:00 PM (last admission at 9:30 PM).
*Operating hours may vary during events such as New Year’s Day, Tanabata, and Christmas.

Closed Days:
Closed for maintenance annually on Monday and Tuesday of the last week of June (if either day falls into July, closure is scheduled for the previous week’s Monday and Tuesday).

Admission Fees:
Adults: 800 yen, Elementary/Junior High Students: 500 yen, Young Children (4 years and older): 200 yen
Seniors: 500 yen (proof of age required)

For more details, visit the official website at [Fukuoka Tower Official Site]