Kurume
Introduction
Located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Kurume offers you a glimpse into Japanese life within its expansive urban landscape.
Before you go
Before you arrive, you can consult the local tourist association's website to access a multilingual guide designed to help you navigate your visit.
Getting there
You can reach Kurume by train via the JR Kagoshima Main Line from Hakata Station in Fukuoka. While local trains offer a steady connection, you can opt for limited express trains such as the Relay Tsubame, Ariake, or Yufu trains to complete the journey in half an hour. Alternatively, the Nishitetsu Railway operates on the Tenjin Omuta Line, providing access to Nishitetsu Kurume station from the Tenjin area of Fukuoka.
If you prefer traveling by road, highway buses run from Fukuoka Airport as well as from Nishitetsu Tenjin Station and JR Hakata Station. For those arriving by car, numerous parking lots are located near both train stations to accommodate your vehicle.
Getting around
You can easily navigate the city by bicycle, as Kurume feels compact despite its appearance of tall buildings and cramped quarters. For public transportation, you can find the main bus center located on the ground floor of the Nishitetsu train station where buses depart frequently.
While there is no English-language timetable posted at the station, you may be able to get advice from a travel agency located on the same floor during business hours.
Where to stay
Since no specific accommodation details are provided in the source material, you can explore local lodging options to find a place that suits your needs while exploring the area.
Food & drink
You can find a variety of dining options throughout the city if you explore the different neighborhoods. In the Ichibangai pedestrian mall across from the Nishitetsu Kurume station, several large Japanese Izakaya restaurants are located near the am/pm store. If you prefer international flavors, head west from the station to find a popular Korean restaurant, or travel to Shojima-machi between the JR and Nishitetsu stations to find another Korean spot named Uji. For those seeking Western cuisine, several quaint options line the canal west of Ichibangai, including Toride for French and Italian dishes, Nixon for fusion, and Le Peu for French specialties. You can also find Mexican food at El Sol or visit little Okinawa near St. Mary's Hospital for Okinawan cuisine and occasional live music.
For a local staple, you should try Taiho Ramen to experience some of the best ramen in Kurume.
What to see and do
Explore the cultural landmarks of Kurume, starting with the Kurume City Art Museum and its adjacent traditional Japanese koi garden. You can visit the Jibo Kannon Statue at Naritasan Temple, where you can climb stairs to the top of the concrete structure for a view or explore the basement to see an animatronic Buddhist Hell, a museum of Japanese mythology, and a small Heaven. For a vantage point over the city and the Chikugo plain, head to the top of the tall city hall located near JR Kurume Station. Other notable sites include Bairinji Temple, which features a zen garden and an orchard of plum trees that blossom in early spring, and the Suitengu shrine set in a small grove in the center of town.
Experience local traditions by attending festivals and parades held throughout the year. During these events, you can walk through hooded shopping streets to participate in matsuri games like fishing and balloon tosses. In the summer, fireworks are held at the local temple. You can also visit the Kurume Azalea Festival to see a vast display of azaleas, bonsai trees, and potted plants.
Three days in Kurume
Day one, you can start your journey at Fukuoka Airport or Hakata Station. From there, take the JR Kagoshima Main Line to reach Kurume.
Day two, you can explore the local area and visit a Japanese Izakaya for dinner. You might also find variety in local dining options such as Korean, French, Italian, or Mexican cuisine.
Day three, travel via the Nishitetsu Railway on the Tenjin Omuta Line to reach Nishitetsu Kurume or head toward Tenjin.