2026 Soeda Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

Hikosan Shrine is the only shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture. The Hoheiden and copper torii gate are nationally designated Important Cultural Properties. From the copper torii gate, you can reach Hikosan Shrine by climbing over 300 stone steps along the approach. The main shrine is about an hour and a half's walk from the Hoheiden. It's located at the summit of Mount Hiko, so you probably won't be able to get there in casual clothing. Up the stairs next to the Hoheiden is Shimotsumiya Shrine, where visitors likely leave Tengu figurines. It's so charming I couldn't help but take a photo. Mount Hiko is known as one of Japan's three great mountains for ascetic practices. The many lodgings for ascetic monks who practice here remain along the approach, which was very interesting. The entire mountain of Mount Hiko is a sacred area and a power spot, so I felt like I was receiving a lot of energy!❗️ ▪️Hikosan Shrine 1 Hikosan, Soeda-cho, Tagawa-gun, Fukuoka Prefecture Reception: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 0947-85-0001 ⚠️You cannot drive to Hikosan Shrine. You can either walk along the approach or take the slope car from Hana Station. The slope car runs every 20 minutes, with the last run at Hoheiden (Kami Station) at 5:10 PM. #FukuokaTourism #HikosanShingu

Autumn foliage spots in Fukuoka Prefecture 🍁 To get to Hikosan Shrine, I purchased a round-trip ticket at Hana Station and took the slope car. ⚠️You cannot drive up to the shrine. An attendant will direct you to the slope car stop. After enjoying the vibrant autumn leaves, I arrived at Kami Station, located at an elevation of 710m. 　 All slope cars and stations are barrier-free, and there is an elevator 🛗 from Kami Station to the shrine. 🌸Hana Station → Kami Station (Hikosan Shrine) First train: 8:40 AM - Last train: 4:40 PM Hana Station is the former Hikosan Elementary School building, now home to a souvenir corner and a museum. The hallway really feels like the real thing! Please stop by. 　 🌸Kami Station → Hana Station First train: 8:50 AM - Last train: 5:10 PM Tickets will be collected when you disembark! Round-trip: Junior high school students and above: ¥700 Children (ages 4 to elementary school): ¥500 ▪️Hikosan Slope Car 1487 Hikosan, Soeda-machi, Tagawa-gun, Fukuoka Prefecture Easily search using your car navigation system: 0947-85-0375 🅿️Free parking for 20 standard-sized vehicles Inquiries: 0947-85-0375 (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM) #FukuokaTourism #AutumnFoliageSpots #HikosanShingu

#falladventures What is this place? Hikosan Daigongen is a rare public garden designed by Yasuo Kitayama, a leading modern landscape architect famous for his work at Kyoto's Kennin-ji Temple. This hidden gem in Kyushu blends traditional Japanese garden principles with a striking contemporary vision, creating a unique and captivating space for all ages. Why this place for a family sakura trip? This garden offers a magical "treasure hunt" for families. During sakura season, the delicate pink blossoms provide a stunning contrast to Kitayama's powerful stone arrangements and flowing water features. Children will love exploring the winding paths and discovering new views, while parents can appreciate the profound artistry. It’s an intimate, less-crowded alternative for a memorable family hanami (flower viewing). Your Perfect Family Itinerary: · Morning (10:00 AM): Arrive after the early dew has dried. Let the kids lead the way down the garden paths, spotting the cherry blossoms against the modern design. · Mid-Morning (10:45 AM): Find a peaceful spot for a family photo and a quiet moment. The blend of classic spring beauty and modern art makes for a unforgettable picture. · Late Morning (11:30 AM): Discuss what you all saw. Ask the kids what their favorite stone or tree was, turning the visit into a fun, shared discovery. Top Family Tips: · Prep the Kids: Show them pictures of Kitayama's work beforehand to make it a "masterpiece hunt." · Pack a Snack: Enjoy a simple treat in a designated area, if allowed, to keep energy high. · Verify Hours: Double-check the seasonal opening times and any special sakura illumination events. #KyushuFamilyBlossoms Create a unique spring memory where art and nature play together. Hikosan Daigongen offers a special, crowd-free setting for families to connect and be inspired by the beauty of the season.

#falladventures What is this place? Tucked away in Kyushu, "Hikosan Daigongen" is a rare public garden by Yasuo Kitayama, one of Japan's most influential modern landscape architects. Known for his philosophical and deeply spatial designs, like the famous "Tsuboniwa of Sanzonseki" at Kyoto's Kennin-ji, this work offers a unique chance to experience his genius outside the ancient capital. Why this place for a solo escape? For the solo traveler, this is a pilgrimage to a modern masterpiece. Kitayama's gardens are meant to be felt and contemplated, not just seen. Alone, you can fully absorb the powerful arrangement of stones, the flow of water, and the play of light and shadow that define his style. It’s a quiet, personal dialogue with a space designed to evoke deep reflection and tranquility. Your Perfect Solo Itinerary: · Morning (10:00 AM): Arrive after the morning rush. Have the space largely to yourself to experience its initial impact in peace. · Mid-Morning (10:30 AM): Find a seated viewpoint. Don't just walk through; sit and observe. Study how Kitayama used every stone and plant to create balance and narrative. · Late Morning (11:30 AM): Take a final, slow walk, noticing how the light has changed the garden's mood since you arrived. Top Solo Tips: · Research First: Look up images of his Kennin-ji work to understand his aesthetic before you go. · Embrace Stillness: The garden’s power reveals itself to those who linger. · Check Access: As a specific site, verify its public opening days/hours before your trip. #SoloModernMasterpiece Discover a hidden chapter of Japanese garden design. This garden offers a profound, personal encounter with the work of a true visionary, making for an unforgettable and inspiring solo detour in Kyushu.

#falladventures What is this place? Hikosan Daigongen refers to the sacred mountain of Hikosan in Soeda Town, Fukuoka Prefecture. For over 1,300 years, it has been a premier center for Shugendō, the Japanese practice of mountain asceticism. It is one of Japan's three great sacred mountains, alongside Dewa Sanzan and Mt. Haguro. The "Daigongen" signifies the powerful deity believed to reside there, a fusion of Buddhist and Shinto divinities. Why This Place for a Solo Traveler? This is the ultimate destination for the solo traveler seeking a challenging and spiritually resonant journey. Unlike a simple hike, ascending Hikosan is a form of active meditation. Walking the ancient stone paths and mossy stairs alone allows you to connect deeply with the mountain's profound silence and spiritual energy. It’s a physically demanding but immensely rewarding test of personal resolve, offering a powerful sense of accomplishment and inner peace. Your Solo Itinerary: · Start at the Base: Begin at the Jōgyōdani area, passing through the main gate (Ichino Torii) and purifying yourself at the river. · The Ascetic Ascent: Follow the historic pilgrimage route, visiting sacred sites like the Nanimatadaki Waterfall and the Monju-in Temple ruins. · Summit & Shrines: Reach the summit complex, exploring the main shrine, Hikosan Jingū, and absorbing the breathtaking views. Essential Tips: · Prepare seriously. This is a real mountain. Wear proper hiking boots, bring water and food, and check the weather. · Respect the tradition. This is an active religious site. Be quiet and mindful, especially at shrines and along the path. · Consider the cable car. If the full hike is too daunting, you can take a cable car partway up to access the summit area. #SoloMountainPilgrim

1. Secret Hiking Routes 1. Mt. Hiko "Shugendo Ascetic Path" • Highlights: Millennium-old cedar trees intertwined with red leaves, chanting monks at the summit • Timing: Late November to early December, summit foliage peaks 10 days earlier • Transportation: 1.5-hour drive from Fukuoka or bus transfer from Kumamoto 2. Kokonoe Town "Tatsumihara Wetlands & Kokonoe Yume Grand Suspension Bridge" • Highlights: Japan’s largest alpine wetland, suspension bridge overlooking a red leaf canyon • Timing: Mid-November to early December, silver grass and red leaves change color simultaneously • Transportation: 2-hour drive from Oita Airport or bus from Beppu then taxi 3. Takachiho Gorge "Red Leaf Tunnel & Manai Falls" • Highlights: The divine valley from the Kojiki, boat rides close to the 17-meter waterfall • Timing: Mid-November to early December, morning mist creates a fairyland atmosphere • Transportation: 2.5-hour drive from Kumamoto or direct bus from Miyazaki 2. In-Depth Experiences 1. Hot Spring Healing • Kokonoe Sujiyu Onsen: Soak in open-air baths after hiking, surrounded by red leaves and the Kokonoe mountain range; some inns offer shuttle service for hikers • Unzen Jigoku Onsen: Sulfur springs relieve fatigue, with surrounding sulfur smoke and red leaves creating a magical scene 2. Local Cuisine • Kokonoe Lava Grill: Wagyu beef grilled on volcanic rock paired with red leaf tempura • Takachiho Red Leaf Manju: Maple leaf-shaped red bean buns filled with local sweet potato • Imari Pottery Kaiseki: Autumn foliage season limited kaiseki served on handcrafted red leaf patterned ceramics 3. Night Activities • Takachiho Night Kagura: Torchlight shrine performances every Saturday night, tickets 1000 yen, reservation required on official website • Kokonoe Stargazing: Daikanbo near Tatsumihara Wetlands, clear view of the Milky Way in autumn 3. Pre-Trip Tips 1. Transportation: For off-the-beaten-path routes, renting a car is recommended or check Kyushu Transversal Bus schedules 2. Gear: Windbreaker + waterproof hiking shoes, trekking poles needed for some sections 3. Accommodation: Book popular inns 2-3 months in advance during foliage season, prioritize those with shuttle service 4. Safety: Beware of sulfur gases in volcanic areas like Yatake, avoid Takachiho Gorge trails on rainy days 💡 Recommended Itinerary: Day 1 Fukuoka → Mt. Hiko hike → Bessho Onsen Day 2 Kokonoe Tatsumihara Wetlands → Kokonoe Yume Grand Suspension Bridge → Sujiyu Onsen Day 3 Takachiho Gorge boat ride → Night Kagura performance → Takachiho Town Day 4 Imari Okawachiyama → Return to Saga In these rarely trodden mountains and fields, every red leaf holds whispers of nature and culture. Measure autumn’s colors with your footsteps and make the journey your own special memory.

『Authentic Handcrafted Soba Johan』 Located in Soeda Town, Tagawa District, Fukuoka Prefecture, this hidden gem of a soba restaurant is known for its delicious offerings. I stopped by during my trip to Oita after hearing about it. The soba here is "Gaiichi Soba" (10 parts buckwheat flour, 1 part wheat flour), made with homemade buckwheat flour and hand-kneaded every morning. ✤ Tempura Zaru Soba The tempura is delightfully crispy, featuring eight varieties including shrimp, carrot, eggplant, pumpkin, onion, shimeji mushrooms, and bell peppers. It was served with salt. The soba noodles had a strong texture and aroma. I first enjoyed them plain, then with salt, and finally with wasabi and dipping sauce. ✤ Seasoned Rice The seasoned rice, filled with burdock root and shiitake mushrooms, was surprisingly light in flavor despite its appearance and tasted fantastic. The owner was very kind ☺︎. I’d love to visit again. Thank you for the meal (⋆ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈)” ※ Menu and prices may have changed. ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈𖠚ᐝ𖠿𖠋𖧧┈ 【Authentic Handcrafted Soba Johan】 ■ Address: 195-23 Sho, Soeda Town, Tagawa District, Fukuoka Prefecture ▶ Hours: 11:30–14:00 (Weekends and holidays: 11:30–15:00) Closed: Wednesdays and Thursdays Parking: Available ༶ஐ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

#FukuokaItinerary Day 1: Urban Greenery and Cultural Exploration In the early morning, we set out from Maizuru Park in the center of Fukuoka City to explore the ancient ruins of Fukuoka Castle. The red and golden leaves spreading on the city walls were intertwined, reflecting the autumn atmosphere with clear skies. Then we went to Ohori Park. The lake was as calm as a mirror, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. We took a leisurely stroll and felt the healing power of the city's greenery. In the afternoon, we went to the Fukuoka Art Museum, where the collection of Asian art and modern works will make you linger. In the evening, head to Nakasu Yatai to enjoy Hakata ramen and experience the lively atmosphere of the night in the gentle breeze. Day 2: Quiet Mountain and Faith Journey The next morning, we drove to Hikoyama Shrine. This shrine, located on the hillside of Hikoyama, is surrounded by late autumn forests and seems like a paradise. As you climb the steps, the towering ancient trees and bright red leaves on both sides of the mountain road complement each other, making people feel awe and peace. Inside the shrine, the Amaterasu Omikami enshrined gives people a strong sense of faith, and the simplicity of the shrine architecture blends in with the surrounding nature. On the way back in the afternoon, we visited Fukuoka Tower and climbed to the top of the tower to overlook the entire city and Hakata Bay. The sunset dyed the sky and the sea into golden orange, which was a perfect end to the journey. Fukuoka's nature and culture are intertwined, allowing people to feel the bustle of the city while immersing themselves in the tranquility of the mountains and forests, bringing unparalleled spiritual cleansing.

#Fukuoka Attractions Mount Yingyan is the number one spiritual place for cultivation in Kyushu, filled with a strong religious atmosphere. At the beginning of the hiking trail, you will walk up a long stone staircase to the shrine, with towering cedar forests on both sides of the shrine. The highest main peak is Nanyue, which is 1,199 meters above sea level. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery when you reach the top of the mountain. The autumn leaves are so colorful and beautiful that they take your breath away; red, yellow and purple... a riot of colors that makes the hiking trails even more charming at this time. Jibutsu is the place of practice for the Buddhist sect Shugendo, which is based on ascetic mountain-based spiritual practice. Mt. Hiko is also famous for the many temples and shrines located on the mountain. The Hobiden is the largest shrine among them and was once a lecture hall. Its architectural style is solemn, exuding a strong historical atmosphere, and the wooden tile roof adds to the solemnity.

#Fukuoka Attractions Hikoyama Garden is a garden full of life and color, a paradise for visitors seeking natural tranquility. Every corner here is filled with the fragrance of flowers, attracting various birds to live here, forming a beautiful natural picture. Colorful flowers, from cherry blossoms to roses, are available. When spring comes, flowers bloom in competition, as if competing for beauty. Visitors stroll in this sea of ​​flowers, feeling the pleasure of the fragrance, as if they are in a dream. The paths in the garden meander through the gardens, and you can admire a variety of flowers and trees along the way. The environment here is quiet and the air is filled with the fragrance of flowers, which makes people feel happy, forget the worries of life, and truly experience the beauty of coexisting in harmony with nature.

#Fukuoka Attractions Hikoyama Gardens is a stunning floral paradise, especially known for its beautiful tulip fields. Every spring, when the tulips are in full bloom, the colorful flowers in the garden undulate like waves, forming a spectacular sea of ​​flowers🌷. This sea of ​​flowers has attracted countless tourists to take photos and appreciate them, making it a must-see attraction in spring. Walking into the garden, the fresh air is filled with the fragrance of tulips, which makes people feel happy. Tulips of different colors are intertwined, red, yellow, purple, and white, forming a gorgeous visual feast🎨. Visitors can stroll in the sea of ​​flowers and feel the soft touch of the petals, as if they are in a dream garden. In addition to tulips, Hikoyama Garden also has a variety of other flowers and plants that make the entire garden full of vitality. Pavilions, trails and bridges are cleverly integrated into the sea of ​​flowers, providing visitors with a space to rest and quietly appreciate the surrounding beauty☀️.

#Fukuoka Attractions Takazumi Shrine⛩️ is a religious building rich in history and cultural characteristics. This shrine building can be called a masterpiece of nature's work. The majestic main hall and arched corridors are built on a steep mountain. The entire building blends into the natural landscape, as if it is one with the world and the mountains and rivers. The eaves of the palace are upturned and the tiles are glittering, full of unique oriental charm. The stone steps in front of the main hall are winding, with towering trees planted on both sides, full of greenery, creating a solemn and sacred atmosphere! Climbing up to the shrine, I couldn't help but feel awe and a strong sense of history. Being in this quiet and peaceful environment, my heart also calms down, as if I have become one with nature! Takazumi Shrine is truly a treasure of Japanese ancient architectural art and a cultural attraction worth visiting.

#Fukuoka Attractions The trip to Hikoyama Shrine coincided with the cherry blossom season. From the entrance of the mountain gate, you can see the whole mountain covered with pink cherry blossom petals, the scenery is magnificent and ingenious. I walked through the sea of ​​flowers, the pink and white petals fell in the wind, and the whole mountain was truly picturesque. When you arrive in front of the main shrine, stop to admire the cherry blossom trees hidden halfway up the mountain. The cherry blossom buds are about to bloom, which is very touching. Spend the whole day admiring the sea of ​​flowers, your nose filled with the fragrance of flowers, and your mood blooming with the flowers. Under the influence of this sacred beauty, the soul is cleansed and infected with elegance. This trip to the cherry blossoms on the mountain left unforgettable memories.

Yingyanshan Garden is a precious park that combines natural landscape and cultural atmosphere. The garden covers a vast area, but perfectly combines the beauty of mountain gardens with traditional Japanese gardening, creating a series of beautiful and poetic paintings. The most unique thing is the refreshing mountain pool in the park. This waterscape is surrounded by peaks. The emerald green water is like a mirror, quietly reflecting the green mountain scenery around it. With duckweed dotted in between, it creates a quiet and poetic atmosphere of ancient charm. The pondside landscaping is also a major selling point of the park. Many old cherry trees and pine and cypress plants are planted around it. Whenever the flower season comes, this place becomes a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, attracting countless tourists to appreciate the unique beauty of the mountain garden cherry blossom scenery. Coupled with the traditional buildings such as the quaint Japanese pavilions and covered bridges in the garden, all of them demonstrate the unique style of Yingyanshan Garden, which is rich in layers and combines natural landscape with cultural atmosphere. #Fukuoka Attractions

#Fukuoka Attractions Hikoyama Garden is a perfect example of the ingenious fusion of Japanese and Western cultural wisdom. The harmonious integration of Japanese gardens and Western courtyards makes this garden a moving landscape that combines the characteristics of the East and the West. Being in it, visitors feel like they have explored a natural Zen realm with cross-cultural charm. Standing in the Yingyanshan Garden, the graceful dry landscape is like a quiet and elegant Zen world, which makes people feel harmonious. The tangled stone path twists and turns, like a passage leading to a quiet spiritual realm. The pool water is as clear as a mirror, reflecting the pavilions and towers around it, creating a tranquil and otherworldly mood. Next to the Japanese area, there is a garden scene with a very Western style. The emerald green and soft lawn, like a natural green carpet laid on the ground, exudes a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere. The clusters of flowers in the flower beds are like colorful flowers, competing with each other in beauty and embellishing the entire garden landscape. Wandering around here, you feel like you are in an English country courtyard.

#tripmemory2022 In mid-November, I went to Hiko-san Shrine in Tagawa to see the autumn leaves. I thought it would be hard to climb up, but there was a slope car. The autumn leaves viewed from the slope car were also beautiful. There was also a garden below.