2 Days: Fantastic Fall Foliage
As the trees explode into vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange, cool breezes sail through and people start to move. Autumn in Japan is ripe with opportunities for seasonal delicacies and comfortable travel. Our two-day tour will take you on an autumn adventure to find some of Fukuoka’s best-kept secrets. Hikosan Jingu Shrine has a long and fascinating history – almost as long as the serene mountain walk to reach it – that is visible as you walk around its buildings and structures. Don’t miss the stunning garden halfway up the hill, only open in spring and autumn. Toho Village is a tiny village with a lot to offer – fans of pottery will enjoy strolling between potteries and meeting the craftsmen and women who carry on a centuries-old tradition. Kaho Theater is a marvel of Meiji period architecture and worth exploring fully. Finally, Seiryuan offers a hidden fall foliage paradise reserved for only the lucky few who make it there.
Hikosan Jingu Shrine
Located on the sacred mountain of Hikosan, this spiritual location was a gathering place for practicing mountain ascetics. The only shrine dedicated to the oldest son of Amaterasu, many people come from all over Japan to pray here. The shrine grounds are expansive and much of it is deep in the forest, making it the perfect autumn destination. Take two cable cars to reach it, or, if you feel inclined, walk up the mountain path.
Takatori-yaki Souke
With 44 working potteries in a village of just over 2,000 people, Toho Village is unique. The area boasts two styles of pottery — Takatori-yaki and Koishiwara-yaki, both with over 400 years of history. Discover the beauty of Takatori-yaki’s seven distinct glazes at Takatori-yaki Souke, where two generations work together to create stunning pieces using a combination of the harmony of tradition and modern ingenuity.
Seiryuan
An hour from Fukuoka City lies the perfect hideaway – Seiryuan. Known as little Kyoto, this inn boasts a property that spans almost 8000m² yet houses only six guest rooms, making a stay here an exclusive and private experience. Though beautiful in all four seasons, Seiryuan truly shines in autumn when framed by the vibrantly colored leaves and lit by the large harvest moon. Note: Food restrictions can be catered for if notice is given in advance.
Kaho Theater
Built-in 1931, this traditional kabuki theater is constructed using the Meiji period design. When there are no rehearsals, it is open to the public and visitors can explore this historic venue to their hearts’ content — including backstage. Groups of 30 people or more can book a ninja experience, which includes a stage show and ninja try-outs where guests dress up in ninja garb and learn how to throw shuriken and other ninja techniques.