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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Kurume sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Japan’s Kyushu Island, Kurume is a city that is bursting with cultural treasures and natural wonders waiting to be explored.
From strolling through picturesque gardens to indulging in savory local bites, Kurume is a dream destination for any adventurer seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
So pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to uncover the many secrets of this vibrant city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kurume:
1. Kurume Ramen Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of ramen noodle soup located in Kurume, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the origins and evolution of ramen, and try different types of ramen from various regions of Japan at the museum’s multiple restaurants.
There is also a hands-on workshop where visitors can make their own ramen noodles.
Don’t miss: The ramen tastings of different regional varieties, including Tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen, Kurume-style ramen, and Tsukemen (dipping noodles).
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day to avoid long lines, and plan to spend at least a few hours exploring and trying different types of ramen.
Consider purchasing tickets for the ramen workshop in advance as they often sell out quickly.
2. Ishibashi Museum of Art
The Ishibashi Museum of Art is a modern art museum located in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum houses a varied collection of Western modern art, including works by Renoir, Picasso, and Matisse. The wide range of exhibits showcases paintings, sculptures, and ceramics from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Don’t miss: The museum’s permanent collection which displays an extensive selection of masterpieces including Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should not miss the chance to explore the museum’s beautiful garden, which features seasonal flowers and sculptures.
Also, visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea at the museum’s cafe, which offers a stunning view of the garden.
Additionally, it is recommended to visit during the weekdays as it is less crowded.
3. Kasuga Shrine
Kasuga Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Kurume City, Japan. It is known for its beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and cultural significance.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various buildings and structures on the shrine grounds, including the main hall, worship hall, and museum. The museum houses a collection of cultural artifacts and treasures, including swords, armor, and art.
Don’t miss: The shrine is particularly famous for its stunning gardens, which feature a variety of trees, flowers, and ponds.
Visitors should also keep an eye out for the many stone lanterns and torii gates that line the paths throughout the shrine.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the shrine grounds cover a large area.
4. Kurume Forest Park
Kurume Forest Park is a sprawling nature reserve located in Fukuoka, Japan. It’s a peaceful retreat that offers visitors a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
What to see or do: Explore the lush forest and take a walk around the park’s serene lake. Kids will love the playgrounds and the mini-zoo which includes rabbits, guinea pigs, and goats.
There is also an observation tower that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For more adventurous visitors, the park has cycling and hiking trails that are perfect for exploring the woods.
Don’t miss: The park is home to numerous seasonal events, including a beautiful cherry blossom festival in the spring and an autumn foliage festival in the fall.
Be sure to check the park’s calendar of events and plan your visit accordingly.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch under the cherry blossom trees in the spring. Don’t forget to bring insect repellent during the summer months.
If you’re a fan of hiking, be sure to check out the park’s trail maps ahead of time to plan your route.
5. Yakimono Sanpomichi (Pottery Footpath)
Yakimono Sanpomichi or Pottery Footpath is a scenic walkway in Kurume, Japan, lined with pottery studios and galleries featuring traditional Kurume-yaki pottery.
What to see or do: As you stroll along the Pottery Footpath, you’ll pass by numerous studios and galleries where you can observe the production of Kurume-yaki pottery, chat with the artisans, and purchase their works.
The pottery is characterized by its pinkish-beige color and simple, elegant designs.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the Kurume Retired Teachers’ Pottery Museum, which showcases a fascinating collection of Kurume-yaki pottery and provides insight into the history and cultural significance of the craft.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in pottery-making, consider taking a workshop at one of the studios to learn traditional techniques and create your own piece to take home as a unique souvenir.
The Pottery Footpath is especially stunning in the fall, when the surrounding trees are a blaze of crimson and gold.
6. Henshokan Historical Museum
A museum showcasing the history of Kurume City and the Chikugo region, located in the Henshokan building which used to be a local courthouse.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibits on the various eras of Kurume, including artifacts from the Edo period and displays on local industries such as textiles and sake production.
There is also a special exhibit on green tea.
Don’t miss: The building itself is a beautiful example of Western-style architecture from the Meiji period. Be sure to take a look at the grand staircase and the courtroom where trials were held.
Insider travel tips: – English-speaking guides are available on request, so if you want to learn more about the exhibits, be sure to ask.
7. Kurume Bird Center
A popular destination for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers in Kurume, Japan.
What to see or do: The center houses a wide variety of birds, including hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons. Visitors can get up close and personal with the birds during the center’s popular bird shows and demonstrations.
Don’t miss: The bird show, where visitors can watch trained falcons in action. Also, make sure to take a stroll around the tranquil garden surrounding the center.
Insider travel tips: Come early to avoid the crowds and make sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning birds in action. If you’re traveling with kids, the center also offers interactive experiences where children can handle and feed the birds.
8. Mori Rakuyu Park
A stunning park in the city of Kurume, Japan.
What to see or do: – Stroll through the beautiful Japanese garden filled with seasonal flowers and trees.
Don’t miss: – The park’s stunning cherry blossom trees which bloom in springtime.
Insider travel tips: – Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
9. Yame Dento Kogeikan (Traditional Crafts Museum)
Yame Dento Kogeikan is a museum dedicated to showcasing traditional crafts and products from the Yame region of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can browse through an extensive collection of locally made traditional crafts ranging from ceramics, pottery, lacquerware, textiles, and woodwork. The exhibits offer an in-depth insight into the traditional crafting techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the famous Yame lanterns and tea caddies that are popular souvenirs from the museum. You can also observe the craftsmen at work, creating beautiful and intricate designs by hand.
Insider travel tips: Take part in the “Yame no Kogeikan Meguri” program where you can travel to workshops and studios across the city and gain hands-on experience in traditional craft-making and pottery.
Additionally, the museum has an on-site shop where you can buy souvenirs and gifts to bring back home.
10. Suitengu Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful garden.
The shrine is dedicated to the water god, Suitengu, and is considered to be a place of good luck and prosperity.
Many visitors also come here to pray for fertility and easy childbirth.
Don’t miss: The stone stairs leading up to the main shrine, as well as the various stone statues of animals and deities that line the path.
Also, the nearby Kurume City Plaza shopping center, which offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during one of the shrine’s annual festivals, such as the Hatsu Uma Matsuri (January 1st), when people pray for good fortune in the coming year.
It is best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Additionally, there are many traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) resorts in the surrounding area that are worth a visit.
11. Chikugo River Lift Bridge
Chikugo River Lift Bridge is a popular tourist attraction located in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The bridge features a unique design with a movable center section that lifts to allow boats and ships to pass through.
Visitors can witness this impressive sight of the bridge lifting up to 20 meters high.
Don’t miss: If you plan to visit the Chikugo River Lift Bridge, don’t miss the sunset view from the bridge. It’s a stunning and romantic experience that you will cherish forever.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the bridge is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is mild and comfortable.
12. Hikosan Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in the city of Kurume, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the sacred grounds of the shrine and observe ancient Shinto rituals and ceremonies. The main hall of the shrine, Chokushiden, is a designated national treasure of Japan.
Hiking trails also surround the shrine, offering views of the lush natural scenery.
Don’t miss: The annual Hikosan Ennichi festival, held from July 9th to 11th, which features food stalls, traditional performances, and a grand procession of portable shrines known as mikoshi.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit the shrine early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid the crowds. Visitors should also be mindful of proper etiquette, such as bowing and cleansing hands before entering the shrine grounds.
13. Kurume City Library
A modern public library located in the heart of Kurume City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can browse through a collection of over 300,000 books, including Japanese literature, manga, and academic publications. The library also provides access to various multimedia resources such as DVDs, CDs, and e-books.
Free Wi-Fi and computer workstations are available for public use, making it a great spot for studying or working.
Don’t miss: Check out the library’s special exhibition room and events area to discover more about Japanese history, culture, and art. There is also a cozy reading room outfitted with comfortable chairs and plenty of natural light.
Insider travel tips: – The library is conveniently located within walking distance of Kurume Station.
14. Kurume Municipal Traditional Crafts Center
The Kurume Municipal Traditional Crafts Center is a facility that showcases the beautiful and intricate traditional handicrafts of Kurume, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can watch skilled artisans at work creating Kurume Kasuri textiles, Hakata dolls, and other traditional crafts. The center also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase handmade crafts as souvenirs.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the intricate Kasuri weaving, where hundreds of small, geometric patterns come together to create beautiful and unique textiles.
Insider travel tips: Consider taking a workshop to learn how to make some of the traditional crafts yourself. The center also hosts cultural events throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.
15. Tachibana Gardens
Tachibana Gardens is a beautiful Japanese garden located in Kurume, Fukuoka prefecture.
What to see or do: Stroll around the serene garden and enjoy the seasonal flowers, ponds, and traditional Japanese architecture. Admire the stunning view of Mt.
Sakurajima in the distance.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the cherry blossoms in the spring, or the vibrant autumn foliage in the fall. The garden also features a tea house where visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese tea and sweets.
Insider travel tips: Visit the garden early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and take beautiful photos. The garden is closed on Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Nearby the garden, you can also visit the Kurume Castle and the Kurume City Plaza to complete your Kurume experience.