Kyushu National Museum

Kyushu National Museum is a history-focused museum in Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. It holds a total of 1,279 items in its collection, including National Treasures; additional materials are housed separately, and the total number of exhibited items is 1,894. About 670,000 people visit annually. The museum mainly covers Japan from the Paleolithic period through the end of the early modern era. The building is designed with softened edges so that it visually harmonizes with the surrounding environment. Much of the exterior wall is glass, and the ceiling uses wood, so even inside you can feel a connection with nature. There are also hands-on, five-senses exhibits designed to be enjoyable for both children and adults. The museum includes plenty of “gimmicks” such as the moving walkway known as the “Rainbow Tunnel,” a super high-vision theater, and costume where you can try on ethnic clothing. Inside are a café, restaurant, and museum shop, making it easy to spend the whole day. Nearby attractions include Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Access is about a 10-minute walk from Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station.