Purple love in Fukuoka

Every June is the season for hydrangeas in Fukuoka. This trip was mainly for shopping in the Fukuoka city area. On the afternoon before returning, I took some time to walk in Maizuru Park.Tsuruga Park boasts around 2,900 hydrangea plants, painting the landscape in dreamy shades of pink and purple, reminiscent of cherry blossoms.

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Once you leave the subway station, just head to your right, and you’ll see a huge expanse of blue water.

In early June, Fukuoka basks in the radiant sun, with a pleasant breeze accompanying the late afternoon stroll.

Walking towards the center of the lake, there’s still no sign of hydrangeas. But the pleasant scenery along the way, lush and vibrant, keeps our steps light.

Kai took the lead, eager for Mom to see the hydrangeas early so we could head to Tenjin for shopping afterward.

We soon found the hydrangeas and ancient city walls.

This place is about a 15-minute walk from downtown Fukuoka, known as “Tenjin.” It offers natural scenery that changes with the seasons and is the site of Fukuoka Castle, built in the Edo period of the 17th century.

It’s the most famous park in Fukuoka city, blending with the surrounding urban landscape. It’s a convenient spot for locals to take a stroll, jog, or enjoy the facilities.

It’s close to Ohori Park and the Fukuoka City Art Museum, making it a popular spot for visitors to take a break after exploring the museum.

The hydrangeas all around the lake are in full bloom.

We came in mid-June, the end of the blooming season, yet the hydrangeas still look stunning.

As it’s the former site of Fukuoka Castle, the architecture and stonework retain an ancient charm. Maizuru Park’s symbol is the “Remains of Fukuoka Castle.”

The castle, known for its flatland style, boasts a main keep, inner and outer citadels, and 47 turrets, making it one of Fukuoka’s grandest ancient structures. Designated a national historic site in 1957.

It’s the castle constructed by Kuroda Nagamasa, consisting of 520,000 stones and taking seven years to build, during the Battle of Sekigahara.

Walking to the central grass plaza, it’s a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring, attracting many visitors. Nearby are Ohori Park and the Fukuoka City Art Museum. It’s also known as one of Fukuoka’s cherry blossom viewing spots. 

The park features amenities like a running track, rowing, and a children’s playground. Many parents bring their children here to burn off energy, and there are plenty of shaded areas under the trees where you can relax and have snacks.

The playground here has a wide range of facilities, including a large slide that children absolutely love.

There are people rowing boats on the lake.

It’s a very leisurely and relaxing place.