Ohori Park is a large city park in central Fukuoka, built around a lake that was once the outer moat of Fukuoka Castle. The lake covers more than half of the roughly 40 hectares of parkland. A path of about 2 kilometers loops the water, with separate lanes for walkers, runners and cyclists, and three islands are linked by bridges. Rent a swan or paddle boat, walk to the Chikuzan Rinsen Japanese Garden and the vermilion Ukimido Hall, and visit the Fukuoka Art Museum at the southeast edge of the park. The park is free to enter and open at all hours.
From castle moat to city park
The lake at the center of Ohori Park was the outer moat of Fukuoka Castle. Kuroda Nagamasa, the lord of Fukuoka, had the land facing Hakata Bay reclaimed and turned into a trench for the castle, which is where the name comes from. In Japanese, ōhori means moat.
The castle was built in 1607 and abandoned after the Meiji Restoration, and most of it was later torn down. The area was reshaped into a public park, which opened in 1929. Today only stone walls and lookout points of the castle remain, in Maizuru Park next door.
Before the castle, the site was marshland connected to Hakata Bay. The northern part was filled in for the homes of samurai retainers, and the remaining water became the moat on the west side of the castle.
Around the lake
The lake path is about 2 kilometers around, and a walk round the water takes about 40 minutes at a steady pace. The path is divided into lanes for walkers, runners and cyclists.
Three islands sit in the lake. The central one, Nakanoshima, is reached by four bridges. Ukimido Hall, painted vermilion, stands on the water and is the park's best-known symbol. The Chikuzan Rinsen Japanese Garden, with its traditional teahouse, lies along the shore. The park also has a children's playground and a Noh theater.
The lake is home to wild birds, including gadwall and black-headed gulls. From November to March, hundreds of winter birds arrive from Siberia, and you can watch them from a boat on the water.
Fukuoka Art Museum
The Fukuoka Art Museum sits at the southeast edge of the park. The building was designed by Kunio Maekawa, a leading modern architect, and a major renovation in 2019 updated its facilities while keeping its design, which fits into the park's landscaping. Its low profile does not compete with the gardens around it.
A large spotted pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama stands near the entrance. The collection runs from 17th-century ceramics to works by Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró and Marc Chagall, along with works by local artists and Asian pieces.
The museum is a good stop in the middle of the day, when the heat or a sudden shower makes a walk around the lake less appealing.
Seasons in the park
Ohori Park has roughly a thousand cherry trees around the lake. They usually bloom from late March to early April, and the Fukuoka Sakura Festival is held here. At night the trees are lit, which turns the water into a reflecting surface.
In autumn, zelkova and Chinese tallow trees turn color and show up in the pond. The Japanese garden adds maples, and the pines keep green between the reds. The lake also hosts a fireworks festival.
In summer, pedal boats are on the water, and the lake path is shaded in the morning and evening.
Getting there and nearby sights
The park is about two subway stops from Tenjin Station, and it is close to Hakata Station. Bus stops at Ohori-koen are a short walk from the entrance.
The Fukuoka Castle Ruins in Maizuru Park are free to enter. A short path climbs to an observation deck built on the ruins, with views over the city. The Korokan Historical Museum is also nearby.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee for Ohori Park?
No. The park is free to enter. Boat rides and the Fukuoka Art Museum have their own charges.
How long do you need at Ohori Park?
A walk around the lake takes about 40 minutes. Allow one to three hours if you want to rent a boat, visit the Japanese garden or see the museum.
When is the best time to see cherry blossoms at Ohori Park?
The trees usually bloom from late March to early April. The park is lit at night during the blossom season.
Is Ohori Park accessible for visitors with mobility needs?
The park lists a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom and parking lot.
Can you rent boats on the lake?
Yes. Swan boats and paddle boats are available. On busy days there can be a line, so go early.
