Fukuoka Dazaifu Travelogue – A Leisurely Stroll Through Japan's Old Charm

Hello there :) Today, I’m sharing my experience visiting **Dazaifu (太宰府)**, a popular travel destination near Fukuoka. From a shrine dedicated to the god of learning to charming alleys and the famous Umegae Mochi, Dazaifu is perfect for a day trip. Let’s get started 🚃 ⸻ 🚉 Starting from Tenjin: A Simple Train Journey From Fukuoka’s Tenjin Station, take the Nishitetsu train to Dazaifu Station, which takes about 30–40 minutes. If you can catch the ‘Dazaifu Tourist Train’ called Koyomi Densha, it’s even more fun! The train is colorful on the outside and adorably decorated inside. ⸻ ⛩️ Dazaifu Tenmangu – Make a Wish to the God of Learning After getting off at the station, walk through the shopping street for about 5 minutes to reach the magnificent Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine (太宰府天満宮). Dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning and wisdom, this shrine is famous among students and parents wishing for academic success. With its red pillars, grand entrance, and bridge over the pond, it’s quintessentially Japanese in its beauty. 📌 Wish Tips! • There are various “Omamori (amulets)” for making wishes. • Don’t miss the bamboo area where you can write and hang your wishes! ⸻ 🍵 Alley Cafes & Umegae Mochi The retro-style cafes and souvenir shops lining the alley in front of the shrine are a delight. Among them, **Umegae Mochi (梅ヶ枝餅)** is a must-try specialty! It’s a warm rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste, lightly grilled for a crispy exterior. There’s always a line for a reason. I enjoyed it on the street and even bought some to savor back at my accommodation 😋 ⸻ 🌸 Beauty in Every Season • Spring: Cherry blossoms • Summer: Lush greenery • Autumn: Vibrant autumn leaves • Winter: Snow-covered shrine I visited during late spring, and the pond, stone bridge, and red bridge around the shrine blended beautifully with the cherry blossom petals, creating a dreamy atmosphere. The photos turned out amazing, and I managed to capture a few perfect shots 📸