Fukuoka is an exciting and modern city on the island of Kyushu. Thanks to its modest size and comprehensive rail network, it's one of the easier Japanese cities to explore, and is a gentle introduction to the country for first-time visitors. Fukuoka Airport is only two train stops away from the city center, though many visitors arrive via the famous shinkansen – the bullet train. The city is divded in two by the Hakata River, along which many Fukuoka hotels are located. Fukuoka has many attractions to offer travelers – everything from golden sandy beaches to Kabuki theater to baseball. For something different, travelers can head to the Sky Dream Ferris Wheel – at 120 meters it's one of the tallest in the world and offers amazing panoramas of the city. Another great site of Fukuoka is the innovative 'green' building, the ACROS Fukuoka Symphony Hall. Engineered by Argentine architect, Emilio Ambasz, the ACROS's 15 terraces are covered in trees and plants, giving it the appearance of an urban mountain.There are two important festivals held every year in Fukuoka: the Dontaku festival and the Yamakasa festival. The Dontaku, held in May, attracts upwards of 2 million visitors a year and involves huge parades and elaborate costumes. July's annual summer festival - Yamakasa - attracts about a million spectators. The highlight of this is the pre-dawn race where teams of men in Sumo-style loincloths complete a five-kilometer course carrying a large float (the yamasaka). These are two of Japan's oldest and most popular festivals, so travelers are advised to book a hotel early if arriving during the summer. Fukuoka is also home to a handful of beautiful beaches, easily accessible by train. Beginner-class surfing is possible around Mitoma during the winter months, and all year 'round travelers will find a devoted surfing community.
