Day Bus Trip to Fruits Pick & Dazaifu, Yanagawa in Fukuoka
This full-day journey takes you through some of Kyushu’s most charming spots — from the sweet scent of ripe strawberries to the peaceful waterways of Yanagawa. For around $1,300 per group (up to 20 guests), you get roughly 11 hours of sightseeing, food, and cultural experiences. Highlights include a hands-on strawberry picking, a visit to the historic Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, and a relaxing river cruise in Yanagawa.
Two aspects we really appreciate are the opportunity to enjoy delicious local food three times a day—a rare treat—and the chance to see Japan’s picturesque castle town scenery from a boat. The trip is especially appealing for those who want a well-rounded taste of Kyushu’s food, culture, and natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.
A possible drawback is the structured schedule, which might feel a bit rushed if you prefer slow, unhurried travel. The timing of some activities, especially the river cruise, may vary depending on the season, and not everything might be in full bloom or at its most vibrant during your visit.
This tour suits travelers who want an all-in-one experience that combines culinary delights, cultural sights, and scenic waterways—ideal for first-timers or those wanting a taste of Kyushu’s diverse attractions in a single day.
Key Points
- Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines food, culture, and scenery in one organized tour.
- Authentic Experiences: Includes strawberry picking, a shrine visit, and a river cruise.
- Cultural Highlights: Dazaifu Tenmangu is a top spiritual and artistic site.
- Gourmet Food: Enjoy meals three times a day, including local delicacies like steamed eel.
- Flexible and Convenient: Pickup at Fukuoka city, with an English-speaking guide, tolls, and parking fees included.
- Seasonal Considerations: The timing of flower blooms or fruit ripeness may affect some activities.
An In-Depth Look at the Fukuoka Day Trip
Starting the Day: Convenience and Comfort
We begin early with pickup from your hotel, Hakata Station, Hakata Port, or Fukuoka Airport, facilitated by a friendly driver holding a nameboard. This arrangement makes it straightforward to start your adventure without the fuss of public transport. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax knowing transportation and most fees are covered, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the day.
The Fruits Picking Experience
Our first stop is at a well-known Fukuoka strawberry farm—specifically, “LION” Strawberry Farm—where the air is filled with the sweet aroma of ripening strawberries. For about 2000 yen (roughly $15-20 USD), we get about an hour of all-you-can-eat strawberry picking, which is a highlight for many visitors. As the review by Joanne notes, the strawberries can be surprisingly sweet and plentiful even early in the season, thanks to careful cultivation.
What’s particularly nice is that you can buy extra strawberries by weight—perfect if you want to bring some home or share with friends. The farm also sells strawberry syrup and desserts, making it a tasty stop. Joanne’s comment about the guide, Aki, making the process smooth and fuss-free, highlights the value of having knowledgeable help managing the logistics.
Exploring Dazaifu: Culture and Art
Next, we head to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, one of Japan’s most important religious sites dedicated to the deity of learning, Sugawara Michizane. The approach to the shrine is lined with shops offering souvenirs, traditional snacks, and other treats. Inside, you’ll find a large, elegant shrine complex that has welcomed more than 10 million visitors annually—an impressive testament to its enduring appeal.
Adjacent to the shrine is the Kyushu National Museum, which offers an insightful look into the region’s history and culture. The museum is relatively modern and designed to blend with its surroundings, providing a calm environment for reflection and discovery. The small amusement park on the premises also adds a fun twist, especially if you’re traveling with children or simply enjoy lighthearted attractions.
Joanne’s review mentions the ease of navigating this stop, thanks to the guided walk and the variety of sights—placing Dazaifu as a must-see for anyone interested in Japan’s spiritual and artistic traditions.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic River Cruise in Yanagawa
After a generous lunch and some free time, the tour moves southward to Yanagawa, known as the “City of Water.” Here, you’ll experience a KAWA-KUDARI river cruise, which lasts about an hour. As you glide along the waterways using traditional donkobune boats, you’ll see charming castle town scenery—homes, narrow canals, and lush greenery.
The female gondolier singing during the cruise adds a uniquely Japanese touch to the peaceful ride. The cruise, costing around 1800 yen (about $15 USD), is a gentle way to see the town’s historic waterways and appreciate the craftsmanship of the boatmen. Joanne’s review admits that the cruise wasn’t as visually spectacular as hoped—perhaps because it’s early in the season or flowers haven’t fully bloomed—but the relaxing atmosphere and scenic views make it worthwhile.
Following the cruise, you’ll take a guided walk through Yanagawa’s historic streets. The visit to the former Tachibana clan residence offers a glimpse into feudal-era Japan, adding depth and context to the town’s history.
Dinner: Local Specialties in a Castle Town
The day wraps up with a dinner of steamed eel (seiro-mushi) at a local restaurant like Ohana. Yanagawa’s claim to fame is its unagi, caught locally and served in an elegant, simple style that emphasizes the rich, tender flavor of the fish. Joanne’s comment highlights how delicious and satisfying this meal can be, especially in a setting that feels like stepping back in time amid the town’s waterways.
Return to Fukuoka
By 8 p.m., you’ll be back on the bus heading to your hotel or initial pickup point. The 11-hour schedule ensures you see a good slice of Kyushu’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed—though, naturally, there’s plenty more to explore if you had extra time.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
While the price might seem steep at first glance, it includes a private group, transportation, tolls, parking fees, and a knowledgeable guide who helps streamline the experience. The activities selected—fruit picking, shrine visit, river cruise—offer a well-rounded look at Kyushu’s natural beauty, spirituality, and culinary delights.
The fact that you are guided through each step means you get meaningful context and insider tips, making the entire day more relaxed and enriching. Plus, the inclusion of meals and snacks ensures you don’t have to worry about finding places to eat or missing out on local flavors.
However, keep in mind that activities like the river cruise may have seasonal limitations—flowers might not be in full bloom early in the year, and fruit ripeness varies. Still, the overall balance of scenic, cultural, and culinary experiences makes this trip particularly appealing for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want an authentic, enjoyable taste of Kyushu.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?
This trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate organized convenience but want authentic local experiences. Food lovers will enjoy the chance to taste strawberries, eel, and regional snacks, while history buffs can appreciate the shrine and feudal mansion. Nature lovers will value the waterway scenery, and those interested in Japanese culture will find plenty to admire.
It’s perfect if you’re looking for a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail. If your time in Kyushu is limited but you crave diversity—food, history, scenery—this tour packs a lot into a single day.
FAQs
How long is the entire tour?
The full day lasts approximately 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning by around 8 p.m.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, a private bus and driver are included, making the trip comfortable and hassle-free.
Are meals included in the price?
No, meals are not included but are scheduled as part of the itinerary. You will need to book and pay for activities like fruit picking and river cruises separately.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing suited to the weather, some cash for additional purchases, and a camera to capture the scenic moments.
Can I customize this experience?
Since it’s a private group, some small adjustments might be possible—discuss with your guide if you have specific interests.
Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the tour is accessible and includes gentle activities like river cruising and shrine visits suitable for all ages.
To sum it up, this day trip offers an engaging mix of culinary delights, cultural heritage, and scenic waterways that captures the essence of Kyushu in one well-organized package. It’s perfect for those who want a manageable, authentic taste of Fukuoka’s surroundings without the complexity of planning multiple excursions. Whether you’re a foodie curious about regional specialties or a history buff eager to explore Japan’s spiritual sites, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just keep in mind the seasonal factors that might influence the scenery—timing is everything for the best experience.
This tour balances comfort, authenticity, and value, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking an accessible yet immersive day out in Kyushu.
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