Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 13 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour worth booking?
Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour is a 7-hour experience in Fukuoka, Japan, from $717 per person. It scores 54 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 13 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 54 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (13)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $717 per person
This tour will allow the customer to see many more unique sights located all over Fukuoka Prefecture. Essentially you will be able to get to many more locations within a longer time frame and provide you and your party the opportunity to experience Fukuoka as a local. This tour is absolutely for customers interested in seeing more unique sites with scenic beauty, gourmet and history as its main points. You may customize this tour to suit your own interests.
What you get
About this experience
This tour will allow the customer to see many more unique sights located all over Fukuoka Prefecture. Essentially you will be able to get to many more locations within a longer time frame and provide you and your party the opportunity to experience Fukuoka as a local. This tour is absolutely for customers interested in seeing more unique sites with scenic beauty, gourmet and history as its main points. You may customize this tour to suit your own interests.
What's included
Included
- On-board WiFi
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Alcoholic beverages
- Parking fees
- Snacks
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Nanzoin Temple
Situated in the remote countryside on the outskirts of Fukuoka City, is one of the most remarkable places you will find called Nanzoin Temple. I have been to hundreds of ho hum temples all over Japan but without a doubt this location has been absolutely the most amazing place you could hope to visit. The Nanzoin Temple is home to the largest reclining buddha in Japan and possibly the world. The actual dimensions of the statue are 41 metres long by 11 metres in height and it weighs in at 300 tons, so as you can see, it isn't small! A Reclining Buddha is a relatively rare site in Japan as most are sitting or standing. Sitting indicates that the Buddha is meditating whilst the reclining pose represents the fact that the Buddha is just about to die and enter the state of Nirvana. This state is much more common in South East Asian countries such as Thailand and Laos, so we have discovered a rare find here in the rural confines of Fukuoka.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Without a doubt the best and most popular Shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture is the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. It is dedicated to the God of Learning and as such is busy all through the year with many student visitors coming here to pray for upcoming success in their educational endeavors, especially during examination time at various periods during the year. 6000 or so Plum Trees have been planted on the site and they begin to bloom around early February to early March. Of course the Cherry Blossoms are also unique to the area and it must be added that during Autumn the leaf changing season of the incredible beautiful Japanese Maple Trees are exceptional and worth a to visit the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in mid to late November. The entrance to the shrine is a long street lined with small stalls filled with local specialities, a variety of food and drinks and of course many different types of souvenirs that one can take back home after their travels in Japan.
45 minutes here
Ito Sai Sai Farmer's Market is a very popular shopping experience that specializes in locally sourced produce, flowers, meat, and seafood. It is renowned for its healthy livestock products such as Itoshima beef and pork and also boasts the largest catch of wild red sea bream in Japan. Visitors can enjoy fresh fruit at lower prices than supermarkets and a great selection of flowers and plants. In fact, during the right season you can get not only the freshest fruit and vegetables at the highest quality but also pricing that is so reasonable you will not be able to just buy 1. Case in point the strawberry growing season in Fukuoka. It is guaranteed that it will be the best strawberry that you will have even eaten!
20 minutes here
Everyone loves Ramen! It is the lifeblood of Fukuoka and most of Japan to tell you the truth. Ichiran Ramen is originally from Fukuoka and has been exported all over the world. The Tonkotsu (Pork Bone) broth is to die for and a local speciality! You can also learning about the manufacturing process and see noodles being made in front of your eyes. They have a small museum and a gift shoip to take some authentic product home with you for friends and family!
45 minutes here
Sakurai Futamigaura
Couples Rock is connected by a large Shimenawa (rope) which is 30 metres in length and weighs 1 tonne. The male rock is 11.8 metres high and the female rock is 11.2 metres in height. Shimenawa is a thick, twisted, straw rope that in ancient times, was believed to have the power to ward off evil sprits or was used to cordon off sacred area as a talisman and as a result many objects connected with Shinto Shrines are decorated with these types of ropes. A beautiful location worth visiting, on a nice day of course!
30 minutes here
Suginoya Brewery
Every now and then you come upon a special place that instantly makes a strong and lasting impression on you. Suginoya Sake Brewery is just one of these places and as a resultt we make this location a regular attraction on our tours. Each member of the tour will be given a voucher to choose beer, Japanese rice wine, various liqueurs or a non alcoholic drink and of course you are welcome to buy more samples out of your own pocket.
30 minutes here
Imazu Genkoborui Bulwark
Starting in the 13th century, the tribes of Mongolia succeeded in creating the largest empire in human history, which stretched from the Sea of Japan to Europe. In 1271, Kublai Khan renamed his empire the Yuan, and he sent an expeditionary force to invade Japan in 1274. Unfortunately for him, the invasion was unsuccessful. After this, the Kamakura Shogunate ordered its retainers in Kyushu to build a stone barricade in case of another Mongolian invasion. Most of the stones that were used in the Mongolian Invasion were transported to be used for the construction of the Fukuoka Castle and these stones can still be seen today at the remains of Fukuoka Castle. This is an amazing part of Japanese history in the fact that were able to keeping the rampaging Mongolians at bay (many say the 1281 Typhoon was a divine hand by the Japanese god`s to protect their lands) has resulted in the Japan we see and love today. If these efforts had been in vain, Japan would be a much different country today and one that maybe doesn`t speak Japanese?
25 minutes here
Yusentei Park
Yusentei Park located in the middle of Fukuoka City is in a nutshell a rare find of a location that will tick all your Japanese Cultural boxes. So many things, quintessentially Japanese that you will be constantly held in amazement and culturally in a head spin. I have lived in Japan for nearly 15 years now and I am still bewildered that it took me this long to find a place like this! Yusentei Park was first built in 1754 as a place of relaxation for a local Lord. After many years and a complete restoration it was opened to the public as the first Japanese Gardens within the Fukuoka City area. In modern times it has become a designated tourist spot with thousands of Japanese and international visitors alike, receiving calmness and peacefulness within its various activities and views to be enjoyed by all.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Hakata Port Tower
The Hakata Port Tower is not a one dimensional destination in any sense of the word. Literally, there is something here for everyone. Of course the main reason that people come is for the view and the experience of seeing nearly every part of Fukuoka City and its outlying areas. Not only can you see the Fukuoka Dome and Hilton Seahawk Hotel up come and personal but other areas are also easy to be spotted including the Airport, Hakata Station, the nearby Marinoa City Outlet Mall and its massive Ferris Wheel. In total, more than a dozen easily recognized landmarks can be spotted in an extremely short period of time.
40 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 2 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Extra large tour group
Duration: 9 hours: A flexible tour that can be shortened if necessary. Start and finishing times can be chosen by the client. Lunch and Refreshments: A Western or Japanese styled lunch is provided. Toyota Hiace Commuter Van: A professional driver and native English speaking guide is standard. Vehicle Specs: A 12 seater vehicle but doesn't have much luggage room, therefore seating 10 or 11 people allows for more luggage space. Pickup included
Super large tour group
Duration: 8 hours: A tour that is customizable and flexible. Client can choose their own start and finishing times. Lunch and Refreshments: A sit down or on the go lunch is provided. Many Western and Japanese options are available as well as a variety of beverages. Toyota Micro Bus: A spacious vehicle that seats a maximum of 15 adults plus up to 5 children. Special Feature: A professional driver and native English speaking guide is standard. Pickup included
Medium Group Day Tour
Duration: 9 hours: A fully customizable tour that can be shortened if desirable. Lunch and Refreshments: A Western or Japanese style lunch is available. Toyota Estima: A very comfortable vehicle that seats 6 average sized adults comfortably or 5 adults and 2 children. Vehicle Specs: Oversized/ limited mobility groups will be encouraged to upgrade to the more spacious Toyota Hiace Van. Pickup included
Large Group Day Tour
Duration: 9 hours: A customizable tour that can be lengthed or shortened as desired. Lunch is provided.: Both Western and Japanese options are available. Toyota Hiace: A large spacious vehicle that seats 9 passengers comfortably. Pickup included
Small Group Day Tour
Duration: 8 hours: A customizable tour that can be lengthened or reduced on the day. Lunch and Refreshments: A Western or Japanese styled lunch is provided on the day. Toyota Prius: A medium prized car that fits 3 adult or 2 adults and 2 children comfortably. Pickup included
Executive Tour Option
Private Sake Tasting: A bespoke private experience of the best Sake of the region will throughly impress you. Executive Tour: Travel in Luxury and Comfort and be treated to the highest level of service on your special day. Duration: 10 hours: Day Tours can sightsee for 10 hours however Shore Excursions will have to return to the ship in a timely manner. Inclusive of food and drinks: A Japanese Omakase (gourmet) lunch is provided as well as a variety of beverages are available throughout the day. Toyota Estima: Enjoy space and complete attention to detail as we travel all around Fukuoka Prefecture. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Shannon Lefebvre
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 13 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
3 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
13 verified traveler reviews for Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Food, Culture & an Unforgettable Day in Fukuoka with Shannon
Our cruise itinerary changed unexpectedly, and we were incredibly fortunate that Shannon was able to adjust our plans and meet us in Fukuoka. What could have been a disappointing change of schedule turned into a wonderful day centered around the food and culture of the city. Shannon was warm, kind, knowledgeable, and simply a pleasure to spend the day with. He shared the history and culture of Fukuoka while also giving us a glimpse into everyday life in Japan. One of the highlights was our visit to a traditional tea house. It was absolutely outstanding: beautiful, peaceful, and one of those experiences that makes you slow down and really appreciate where you are. We learned about Japanese tea ceremonies and the traditions and meaning behind them, which made the experience even more special. Later, we experienced a completely different side of Fukuoka at a local beer house. It was modern, lively, and gave us a look at Japan’s emerging craft beer industry. It was every bit as enjoyable as the tea house, just wonderfully different. Experiencing both in the same day was a fascinating contrast between tradition and a more contemporary Japan. The entire day was a terrific combination of food, culture, history, and local experiences. We enjoyed our time with Shannon so much that we were delighted to tour with him again the following day in Nagasaki. By the end of our two days together, it felt much less like being shown around by a guide and much more like exploring Japan with a knowledgeable local friend. We loved our time in Fukuoka and would absolutely reach out to Shannon again if we return. Highly recommend!
Response from the operator: Thankyou for this unbelievable review Deborah! It is amazing that a possible hiccup in your cruise turned into an incredible adventure., 2 shore excursions completed instead of just the planned one. I am so pleased that you and your parents were able to throughly enjoy all the cultural and gourmet aspect of our day together in Fukuoka. There is just so much to appreciate! Looking forward to seeing you again in Japan with your family.
via Tripadvisor
A Day in Fukuoka
Shannon is not only an excellent guide, he is a really nice person and very accommodating. He provided a very extensive and detailed tour. He shared his love of Japan, the people and culture with pride and joy; he added personal stories of his background and family which made our time with him very pleasurable and special. We highly recommend Shannon as a guide.
Response from the operator: Hello Barbara, I am so grateful for your review and kind comments. The many attractions visited on the day were obviously spectacular but the atmosphere and feeling in and out of the car with never ending commentary was the highlight of the day. Unless of course the impromptu visit to a local Yatai (traditional Fukuoka Food cart) stole the thunder? Please return to Japan again in the not too distant future!
via Tripadvisor
Definitely worth spending the day on this tour
My family had an unforgettable private tour in Fukuoka with Shannon as our guide. He tailored the tour to our interests, balancing must-see landmarks, local lifestyle, and food (the most important part of the tour). The highlight of the tour was our visit to the Ichiran factory and Sake brewery.
Response from the operator: I am so glad we got to see and do all the main aspects but of course as you know, Fukuoka is a foodies paradise and arguably the gourmet capital of Japan. Please return and I will take you to other major food areas of Kyushu next time!
via Tripadvisor
Perfect full day Kyushu tour experience
Lovely full day touring experience with Shannon. Good commentary as well, with the just the right amount of detail for our family. Shannon was also very accommodating towards our family's dietary needs when it came to lunch
Response from the operator: Hello Corey, Thankyou for this glowing review. We had a great day together and although gluten free is not a big thing in Japan we were able to survive with a Yakiniku lunch which was well received by all. Hope your memories of Fukuoka and our day together last for many years to come.
via Tripadvisor
Day trip to Itoshima Peninsula from Fukuoka
We worked with Shannon to develop a lovely custom itinerary for a day trip through the Itoshima Peninsula, including to a lovely oyster hut and some nice strawberry picking. A nice way to see some parts of Fukuoka that are hard for a foreigner to access otherwise, with a friendly, knowledgeable, and interesting guide. Highly recommended!
Response from the operator: Hello David, You came at the right time, peak season for Oysters and nearly peak season for the incredible strawberry picking and all you can eat experience. May I say your party did a great job and really had the best gourmet experience including the incredible Ichiran Tonkotsu Ramen to boot. Please come back for more!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Non-refundable
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $717 to $415,000
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 5
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Shannon Lefebvre, who run 7 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 63.1.
See everything Shannon Lefebvre runsWhy this scores 54
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Fukuoka.
How much does Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour cost?
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Prices start at $717 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Fukuoka usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour take?
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Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Fukuoka is not rushed.
Is Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 54 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 13 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable food & drink in Fukuoka, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour?
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No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.
Is Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour?
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Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Fukuoka can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Fukuoka and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Fukuoka within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Fukuoka?
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On Outty we rank every Fukuoka experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Day trip from central Fukuoka.Rental cycle in Shikanoshima island, Fukuoka Private Tour with a Local: Highlights & Hidden Gems, YokaBus Yame Tea & Sake Tasting Expedition(From Hakata, Kumamoto). The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Fukuoka?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Fukuoka?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour?
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Included: On-board WiFi; Bottled water; Lunch; Alcoholic beverages; and Parking fees. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 271 listed pickup locations in and around Fukuoka. Be ready about 2 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour?
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Across 13 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Private Fukuoka culture, history and foodies Tour?
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There are 6 options to choose from, including Extra large tour group, Super large tour group, Medium Group Day Tour, Large Group Day Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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