Fukuoka, on Japan's northern Kyushu coast, is a vibrant city where history, culture and nature converge. With experiences unique to each season - from samurai heritage and cherry blossom to thrilling festivals, autumn colours and winter traditions - Fukuoka offers year-round reasons for UK travellers to visit.  For those seeking cherry blossom, this year's forecast currently predicts Fukuoka to come into bloom on 21st March.

Spring: Maizuru Park, home to the historic Fukuoka Castle ruins, is one of the city's most beloved cherry blossom spots. Around 1,000 trees of 19 varieties including Somei Yoshino, Shidarezakura, and Yamazakura transform the park into a pink wonderland. Visitors can enjoy illuminations at night, stroll past the Tamon Turret and Otaka Residence Site or sample local treats such as Yame tea, Japanese sweets and sake. Nearby Uminonakamichi Seaside Park offers the 'Hill of Flowers', a breathtaking display of nemophila 'baby blue eyes' stretching across the field like a sea of blue. Marine activities such as boat cruises, diving and fishing are complemented by overnight stays at The Luigans Spa & Resort or INN THE PARK Fukuoka, where their unique spherical tents make the park experience fully immersive. 

Summer: Fukuoka comes alive with the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival (1–15 July), a 784-year-old tradition where towering decorative floats (Kazariyama) are displayed, and huge one tonne Kakiyama floats are raced through the streets. The festival culminates on 15th July with a thrilling 5km dash through Hakata City. For a quieter, more luxurious summer escape Snow Peak YAKEI SUITE ABURAYAMA FUKUOKA on Mt. Abura offers villas, cottages and innovative 'LAND CAVE' tents. Guests enjoy panoramic city views and nature-driven design in an experience overseen by architect Makoto Tanijiri. 

Autumn: Fukuoka's autumn brings beautiful foliage to city parks and surrounding hills. Maizuru Park and Ohori Park are lined with maples and ginkgo trees, providing vivid reds, oranges and golds. Uminonakamichi Seaside Park also offers seasonal walking trails with autumn colours against the coastal backdrop. Just a 10-minute ferry ride from central Fukuoka City, Nokonoshima Island is a must-visit day-trip destination. This eggplant-shaped island in Hakata Bay offers fishing, swimming, hiking and leisurely strolls amid its rich natural environment. Nokonoshima Island Park, to the north, is famous for its flowers, and from October to November, the area is blanketed with colourful cosmos. The contrast of the blossoms with the blue sea and open sky creates a breathtaking autumn landscape for which Nokonoshima is famous. The Hakozaki Shrine Hojoya Festival adds a cultural highlight, with seven days of Shinto rituals, over 500 stalls along the shrine's approach and local treats such as Shanichi Mochi. With lively performances attracting around a million visitors, the festival provides a fascinating glimpse into Fukuoka's spiritual traditions. 

Winter: Fukuoka celebrates the Japanese New Year (Shōgatsu, 1–3 January) with vibrant traditions and festive energy. Visitors can take part in Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, at Hakozakigu Shrine and Sumiyoshi Shrine, and enjoy street decorations, seasonal markets and cultural performances. On 3rd January, the Tamaseseri Festival at Hakozakigu Shrine symbolises a prosperous year of harvest and fishing. Winter also offers the opportunity to warm up with hearty local hot pots such as mizutaki (chicken) and motsunabe (beef or pork). These comforting meals are perfect for experiencing Fukuoka's local flavours during the colder months. 

For more information about Fukuoka City visit www.gofukuoka.jp 

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About Fukuoka City:

Fukuoka City, the vibrant heart of Kyushu, serves as a hub for politics, economy, and culture in the region. Known as the "Gateway to Asia," it is a dynamic city thriving with international exchange. Boasting exceptional accessibility, Fukuoka offers seamless connections from Fukuoka Airport to key destinations within the city, making it one of Japan's most convenient urban centers for transportation.

Historically a crossroads for cultural exchange with the Asian continent, Fukuoka has flourished into a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. It is home to renowned festivals such as Hakata Gion Yamakasa and Hakata Dontaku, a rich culinary scene featuring its famous street food stalls (yatai), and a unique balance of urban convenience and natural beauty that make it a highly livable city. Compact, convenient, and infused with nature, Fukuoka provides both residents and visitors with comfort and excitement, offering a globally appealing charm that sets it apart. www.gofukuoka.jp