6 Must-See Sites in Fukuoka, Japan

In a Shingon Buddhist temple in Sasaguri is the bronze statue of a reclining Buddha, claimed to be the largest bronze statue of a reclining Buddha entering Nirvana in the world. The statue is massive, at 135 feet long and 36 feet high, weighing nearly 300 tons. Inside the statue are the ashes of Buddha and two Buddhist adherents. The site also holds sand from each of the 88 shrines along the Shikoku pilgrimage. © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime.com

Private Kawachi Wisteria Garden in Kitakyushu is famous for its 20 different types of wisterias. Buy tickets in advance and time your visit around April and May to best see these flowers in bloom, particularly along its purple, white and blue wisteria arches and tunnels. © Sutthinon Sanyakup | Dreamstime.com

Fukuoka’s skyline is dominated by Fukuoka Tower, the tallest seaside tower in Japan. The tower features an observation deck with 360-degree views of the city, especially popular amongst visitors at sunset. Because the city lies on the coast, it’s also got a well-established cruise port. © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime.com

Did you know Tonkotsu ramen originates in Kurume, Fukuoka? This specialty dish has won and warmed the hearts of people globally because of its savory pork bone broth, cooked for hours to achieve that comforting flavor. You’ll find this type of ramen throughout the city, with a variety of ingredients included, such as sliced pork belly, spring onions, garlic and onion. © Bankoo | Dreamstime.com

Meoto Iwa, also known as the Married Couple Rocks, is a formation of two rocks emerging from the ocean. Religiously significant in Shintoism, the two rocks represent the union of man and woman. These types of formations can be found throughout Japan, with several located within Fukuoka, including Itoshima, Yame, Miami Ward and Shingū. © Yyama3270 | Dreamstime.com