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Fukuoka
Gateway to Asia - Bridge to the World

🌏 Where East Begins – Welcome to Fukuoka

Fukuoka is located on the northern coast of Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island. Set along the shores of Hakata Bay, the city looks out across the sea to its close neighbours – South Korea and China. Historically, Fukuoka has served as Japan’s Gateway to Asia, and today it continues to thrive as a dynamic crossroads of Asian culture, trade, and ideas.

Its strategic location has made Fukuoka one of Japan’s most international cities – a place where traditions, languages, and people have long converged. For professional tourist guides, there is no better place to experience cross-cultural understanding in action.

 

📜 A Story Shaped by Encounters

Fukuoka’s history is rooted in centuries of exchange. The ancient port of Hakata was once Japan’s main maritime link to the Asian mainland, serving as a hub for diplomacy, commerce, and cultural transmission. Buddhism, Chinese writing systems, and even tea ceremonies first arrived in Japan through ports like Hakata.

In the 17th century, the city became a vital centre for learning and craftsmanship. Its dual identity – as the merchant town of Hakata and the castle town of Fukuoka – continues to define the city’s open spirit and proud heritage.

✨ What Makes Fukuoka Special

Big Enough to Inspire, Small Enough to Feel Welcome
Fukuoka is a modern city with a warm heart. With its relaxed pace, walkable streets, and vibrant neighbourhoods, it’s the kind of place where global visitors feel instantly at home.
A Culinary Capital
Fukuoka is famous for its local Hakata-style ramen, and the city’s Yatai (open-air food stalls) are a nightly ritual – a perfect opportunity to experience Japanese hospitality up close.
Tradition and Innovation Side by Side
From the historic Kushida Shrine to the cutting-edge Canal City shopping complex, Fukuoka blends ancient and contemporary Japan effortlessly. Nature lovers will appreciate green spaces like Ohori Park, while urban explorers will enjoy discovering the unique mix of temples, shopping arcades, art museums, and cafés.
Exterior view of Shinto Sakurai Shrine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Nature and Art
In Fukuoka, nature and art don't just coexist—they beautifully intertwine. Ohori Park is just one of many tranquil urban oases. Here Western and Japanese gardening styles harmoniously blend and while you're there, you can stop by the Fukuoka Art Museum to delve into traditional and contemporary Japanese art, gaining unique insights into the culture.
Exterior view of Shinto Sakurai Shrine, Fukuoka, Japan.

Why Fukuoka for the WFTGA Convention?

Hello members of WFTGA,

I am TAKASHIMA Sōichirō, Mayor of Fukuoka City.
Fukuoka is Japan’s most dynamic city, with an unrivalled balance between ancient and modern cultures.
I hope that as tourism professionals, you will experience the wonders of both Fukuoka and Japan.
Our all-Fukuoka team will provide you with the highest level of support and hospitality during your time here. I hope the Convention in Fukuoka City will be a great success and leave you all with wonderful memories.
I look forward to seeing you in Fukuoka!

  • Authenticity
  • Cultural exchange
  • Living heritage

 

Hosting the WFTGA Convention in Fukuoka is both a celebration of Japan’s guiding excellence and an invitation to experience East Asia’s cultural crossroads. In a world increasingly shaped by Asia’s presence in tourism, there is no better setting to explore how we guide across cultures – and across borders.

TAKASHIMA Sōichirō

Mayor of Fukuoka City