Nokonoshima

Nokonoshima is an island located in Fukuoka City, situated in the center of Hakata Bay. It takes about 10 minutes by ferry to reach, yet it is known as a quiet island with abundant remaining nature, making it a popular sightseeing destination. The island has fields of canola flowers, cherry blossoms, cosmos, and daffodils; during bloom seasons many visitors come. The island is about 12 km in circumference, with a population of roughly 720 people and around 200 households. Local souvenir goods and specialty products are actively promoted and popular with tourists. Nokonoshima Island Park offers events, hands-on activities, a restaurant, shops, mini athletic courses, and playground equipment, making it easy to enjoy a full day; there are also accommodations. Nokonoshima is also known as a place that helped popularize kaiware daikon (radish sprouts), and it remains a noted local specialty. It often appears as a setting in novels and songs as well. Access is by ferry from the Meinohama Ferry Terminal; it takes about 10 minutes. Watching Fukuoka Tower from Nokonoshima is also recommended.