About leisure spot in Japan

Hakata

Hakata District in Fukuoka is the biggest city in Kyushu. A harbor town with a rich historical background, it was once a separate city but was renamed Hakata District when it was merged with Fukuoka City. It is home to famous dishes like tonkotsu (pork flavor) ramen and mentaiko (spicy cod roe), the famous "Hakata Dolls" (a well-known souvenir), as well as the home of "Mentai Rock," a musical style famous in the 1980s. Those familiar with J-rock may be interested to know Shiina Ringo, Blankey Jet City and others called Hakata home at one time.

Tenjin

The largest shopping district in Fukuoka, Tenjin is home to three major department stores, IMS, Tenjin Core, Solaria Plaza, mina tenjin and other specialty shops.

Marine World - Uminonakamichi

This large aquariumﾕs name may seem like a mouthful but actually it's short for "Uminonakamichi Museum of Marine Science". Located in the East District of Fukuoka City, its major theme is the Tsushima Current and is home to over 350 species of fish which can be observed close-up and personal. The aquarium also features dolphin and sea lion shows, as well as a huge "panorama tank". A "Megamouth Shark" specimen (one of only three in the world!) can also be seen there. The aquarium is also open late during parts of spring and summer, offering the chance to observe nocturnal fish.

Mentaiko (Cod Roe)

Hakata is known for its mentaiko, or spicy cod eggs. Cod eggs are much smaller than salmon roe (ikura) or caviar. Hakata mentaiko is salted and flavored with chili pepper, and is widely available in stores around Japan in recent years.

Hakata Ramen

Hakata Ramen is a popular style of ramen soup from Fukuoka. Hakata Ramen has thin noodles and a broth made from boiling pork while still on the bone, the gelatin giving the soup its silky white color and rich yet light flavor. Some like to add ginger and other toppings. Hakata, Tenjin, Nagahama and other areas are especially famous for this style of ramen.