Ohori Park

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Situated in the center of Fukuoka, it is a 400-square-meter large park created around a pond, measuring half of the total size of the park. This pond used be an inlet of the bay. It was transformed into a moat when Fukuoka castle was constructed around 1601. Now, a promenade surrounds 2 km around of the pond. It has became a perfect running course. It is also appreciated by locals as relaxing place where you can see a Japanese garden, museum, Noh theater, playground, forest with wild birds, etc. Environmentally friendly green Starbucks is also a popular place where people take a break on the terrace near the pond.

Starbucks Fukuoka Ohori Park

Made of scrap wood, it is an environmentally friendly concept store that matches the color of the natural landscape. It has a large terrace with many tables. It is also equipped with bicycle parking, bicycle pump, resting place and restroom for runners. There is even a place to tie a leash, so you can drop by after walking your dogs. It is a popular place where people can relax by the water on the terrace in this busy city of Fukuoka.

(Source: 食べログ)

Ukijima

There are three islands on the pond. They are connected by four bridges. Therefore, you can walk in the middle of the pond if you traverse these bridges. There are many resting spots on Ukijima islands. Therefore, it is a great spot for taking a nice walk.

Great Japanese garden

The garden has 3000 flowering trees including azalea, black pine, oak and maple trees. Those trees look different in different seasons. Inside the 12,000-square-meter territory, there are several gardens with different characteristics and linked by small paths. It is a great place to take a relaxing walk. I recommend you visit in early summer when azalea flowers bloom beautifully.

Boat house

If you want to enjoy this massive pond, a boat is the best way to do so. There are three types of boats available: pedal boat shaped in swan, rowboat and rare bicycle type boat called "Amenbo boat." You can take a close look at carps and turtles living in the pond from the boat.

Playground and running course

There are two playgrounds on the east and the west side of the park, where children can play freely. There is also a road measuring approx. 2 km around the pond, which is perfect for running or walking. There are many facilities that all the family members can enjoy in this open, liberating space. You can also take a quick break at the Starbucks.

Ohori Koen Firework Festival

Every August, Ohori Koen Firework Festival takes place in Ohori Park. Since there are no tall buildings around, it is a great place to observe fireworks from anywhere in the park. It is the biggest firework festival in Kyushu. The best firework artisan creates beautiful and creative fireworks.