Fukuoka Overlooked, Part 1: Nokonoshima's Hilltop Tower

Fukuoka Overlooked is a series on less-well-known places to visit, things to see, and businesses to patronize. Everyone knows about Fukuoka Tower, Yahoo! Dome, Hakata-za, and the yatai of Nakasu, but here we'll be showing the hidden gems and little things of interest that most tour brochures omit.

First up: Nokonoshima's lookout tower.

Nokonoshima, or Noko Island, is one of Fukuoka's most-visited tourist hotspots, as well as being a favorite with locals. Different species of flowers populate its fields nearly year-round, and sandy beaches with a view of the city await Summer's beachcombers. But most people only visit for the fee-for-entry park, and overlook the rest of the island.

The toll-park only occupies a small portion of the island's northern area. The rest is free to explore! So instead of taking a bus from the ferry terminal straight to the park, consider setting off on foot and winding your way around the island.

At the center of the island is a small hill which makes for a good 30 minute hike. It leads up roads lined with old houses, new schools and seemingly unused fields. At the top, there's a 20-metre or so lookout tower with an excellent, panoramic view of Fukuoka city and the entire harbour area.