Shikajima

Shikanoshima is an island in Fukuoka City. Although it is called an island, it is connected by land, so you can drive there. It is famous as the discovery site of the National Treasure gold seal “Kan’i Wakokuo” (King of Na of Wa in Han). It takes about 30 minutes to reach from central Fukuoka, and the island is small—about 10 km around—making it popular with cyclists; rental bicycles are also available. At Shikanoshima’s Shoganji Temple, experiences such as zazen meditation, matcha tea, and shakyo (sutra copying) are offered and are popular with both domestic and international visitors. During swimming season, many families come for the beaches. Despite its small size, the island also has hot springs, making it popular as an overnight stay destination. Spending a night on sea-surrounded Shikanoshima sounds wonderfully refreshing. At Shikaumi Shrine, there is an unusual ritual of purifying the body using sand from the sea—when in Rome, do as the Romans do, so it’s worth trying. Access is about 60 minutes by bus from “Tenjin Chuo Yubinkyoku-mae.” In addition to buses, you can also go by boat via the municipal ferry from Hakata Port.