As a historical trading hub, Hakata was once the center of goods being traded all over Japan and internationally. Before the shopping begins, visit locally famed Kushida shrine, the annual summer Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival is dedicated to the shrine and the intricately designed 10 meter high floats are displayed year round. As the traditional manufacturer of Japanese 'Hakata ningyo' dolls, the exhibition of the dolls and other local handicrafts are a must see in Fukuoka. Begin your real shopping expedition at Hakata's Kawabata shopping street - with over 100 stores it's hard to resist the souvenirs on offer. Continue on to the Hakata Riverain mall where you will also have the chance to sample various Japanese sauces accompanied by the local knowledge of your guide and translator.

Hakata