Product Description

Discover Hakata’s Rich Merchant Culture Through Gardens, Food, and Local Markets

Tour Overview

Step into the timeless charm of Hakata, one of Japan’s most historic trading ports, known for its vibrant merchant culture and culinary traditions. On this guided walking tour, you will explore hidden gems of daily Japanese life—including local markets, historic gardens, and traditional shopping streets—guided by a local expert with deep knowledge of the area’s history and customs.

Whether you’re a food lover, culture enthusiast, or curious traveler, this tour is designed to immerse you in the daily life of the locals.

What You Will Experience

Rakusui Garden – Meiji-Era Tranquility
Begin your journey at Rakusui Garden, a beautiful traditional pond garden dating back to the Meiji era. Here, you will be welcomed into a quiet tea room for a relaxing tea ceremony. Enjoy the refined simplicity of Japanese hospitality as you sip green tea while admiring the manicured landscape and seasonal beauty of the garden.

Sumo Wrestler Statue – Power and Prayer
Visit a unique local shrine where a statue of a sumo wrestler stands as a symbol of strength. Your guide will teach you how to offer a prayer for good luck, health, or perseverance—following the customs locals practice to receive “power” from this symbolic figure.

Sun Road Shopping Street – Everyday Japan
Stroll through Sun Road, a shopping arcade that has served locals for over 50 years. Here you’ll find greengrocers, local butchers, traditional side dishes, and daily necessities in a nostalgic, community-friendly atmosphere. This is an excellent chance to interact with shop owners and see what everyday life in Japan looks like beyond tourist areas.

Yanagibashi Market – Hakata’s Kitchen
Explore Yanagibashi Market, affectionately called “Hakata’s Kitchen.” This bustling market has long been the go-to place for chefs and home cooks alike, offering fresh seafood, vegetables, local delicacies, and Japanese sweets. One of the highlights is karashi mentaiko—Hakata’s iconic spicy cod roe, known as the soul food of the region. Your guide will help you navigate the flavors and introduce you to recommended stalls.

Itinerary Summary

• Meet at Hakata Station (West Exit)
• Visit Rakusui Garden and enjoy a tea ceremony
• Stop at the Sumo wrestler statue for a cultural ritual
• Walk through Sun Road Shopping Arcade
• Explore the local flavors of Yanagibashi Market
• Tour ends near the market (return transfer not included)

What’s Included

• One-way transfer from Hakata Station to activity location
• Japanese green tea (at Rakusui Garden)
• Local English-speaking guide
• English translation materials (available in English/Korean)

Tour Details

• Package Name: Traditional Japanese Shopping Tour
• Price: ¥3,800 per person
• Duration: Approximately 2–2.5 hours
• Language: English (with some printed materials in Korean)
• Group Size: Small groups for a personalized experience
• Meeting Point:
  Hakata Station – West Exit
  (Exact details provided after booking)

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Guest Reviews

“Well-organized and insightful tour”
“I joined this tour on November 18. I was pleasantly surprised by how well-structured it was. Our guide, Naga-san, came prepared with printed materials in both English and Korean, making it easy to follow along. He explained each stop with care and detail.”

“Great way to talk to locals”
“If you’re in Hakata for half a day, this walking tour is a fantastic way to see the area and chat with locals. Even if you don’t speak Japanese, the guide makes it very accessible. Highly recommended!”

“Excellent local guide and support”
“The tour guide was friendly and knowledgeable. After the tour, he even gave us tips on nearby places to visit. I really appreciated his enthusiasm and dedication.”