Fukuoka Nightlife, Japan

Fukuoka has no dearth of scintillating nightlife to suit every appetite and taste. Along with traditional temples and shrines, Fukuoka also boasts of unlimited entertainment, shopping and dining options and its nightclubs and bars are to be found across the city but most notably in the Nakasu district.

Now, the mention of Nakasu district may bring on a knowing smile for those on to the worst-kept secret, but the fact remains that though Nakasu is famous for its rather ‘adult’ nightlife, it also has hidden aspects which shows itself in its many decent cabarets, bars and fine dining restaurants which cater to both locals and visitors alike. If quiet drinks and a sophisticated crowd is what you are looking for, look no further than the Moghura no Salute which offers just the right ambience for an elegant evening out.

 Nakasu comes alive with neon lights in the night and the long rows of ‘yatai’ food stalls serving tempura, ramen noodles etc. along the Naka River throw a charming glow of lights from the lamps. Visitors can either take in any of the myriad shows on offer or simply walk along the river or even enjoy a pleasant ride on a boat.

Other nightlife areas of Fukuoka are Oyafuko-dori and Nishi-dori. Nishi-dori caters to the up market evening clientele and is full of fashion shops, attractive bars and eating places. To mingle with younger crowds, head for Off Broadway or Vodoo Lounge bars in Oyafuko-dori which will give you all the drinking experiences you need.

 The Tenjin ward has everything to delight the visitor with a penchant for shopping or eating with its innumerable shops and restaurants. On weekends, this area becomes very crowded as people from all over Kyushu congregate to make merry.

For movie and theater buffs, there is nothing better than the Canal City which boasts of a thirteen-screen movie complex and has a theater and countless restaurants and bars. The Bayside Place opening up on the Hakata bay front is where action is on until the late hours of the night. Popular with Fukuoka’s younger crowd, it is the favorite dating haunt of the city.  For a spot of traditional Japanese theater, make a beeline for the Hakata-za, a theater which not only puts up the traditional kabuki but also glamorous musicals.

And while in Japan you cannot miss out on a visit to an Izakaya which is the Japanese version of a pub. You can get beer, sake and cocktails and a variety of food. Though the bigger chains are cheaper, for real atmosphere, try the rustic Izakayas.

The night clubbers will have plenty of action to choose from while in Fukuoka.