Things To Do
in Kurume

Kurume is a city located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It is famous for its traditional crafts, including Kurume Kasuri textiles, and delicious local cuisine, particularly ramen. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers a mix of urban and rural experiences.

Visitors can enjoy numerous parks, historical sites, and local festivals throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kurume
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kurume Castle ruins, where you can explore the historical site and enjoy the surrounding park. Afterward, head to the Nishitetsu Kurume station and take a short train ride to the scenic Yame area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local ramen shop famous for Kurume-style tonkotsu ramen. After lunch, visit the Yame Traditional Craft Museum to learn about local crafts and culture.

evening
:

End your day by dining at a local izakaya to experience authentic Japanese cuisine and socialize with locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your second day with a visit to the scenic Kora Taisha Shrine, known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. Take a leisurely walk through the shrine grounds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

For lunch, visit the Kurume City Food Market to sample various local delicacies. After lunch, visit the Kurume Kasuri Museum to see traditional textile-making demonstrations.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a stroll along the riverside parks and enjoy a sunset view, followed by a visit to a nearby bar to experience Kurume's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Ramen meal$8
🍺Local beer$5
Coffee$4
🍣Sushi platter$15
🚌Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially ramen.
  • Friendly locals and a safe environment.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Public transportation can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Some attractions may be less accessible for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "お会計お願いします" - The check, please
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Kurume

Visit one of these nice places.

Kurume Castle Ruins

Capture stunning views of the remaining castle walls and the surrounding park, especially during cherry blossom season.

Kora Taisha Shrine

A picturesque shrine with beautiful architecture and serene gardens, perfect for photography.

Yame Area

Known for its lush landscapes and tea fields, this area offers breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kurume

Kurume is a food lover's paradise, especially known for its exceptional ramen and local delicacies. The city offers a variety of dining options, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants, ensuring a memorable culinary experience.

Kurume Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kurume Ramen

A rich and creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen known for its hearty flavor and chewy noodles.

Must-Try!

Goya Champuru

A stir-fry dish made with goya (bitter melon), tofu, and pork, offering a unique taste of Okinawan influence.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kurume City Food Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of local foods, fresh produce, and street food stalls to explore.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kurume experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with occasional rain. Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, while winter (December to February) is cool to cold, with occasional snowfall. Overall, the city has a comfortable climate for travelers throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance and avoid loud conversations in public places.

Bowing as a Greeting

Bowing is a common way to greet others and show respect in Japanese culture.

Removing Shoes Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kurume is considered a very safe city with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take general safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secured and being aware of your surroundings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance services.

Tipping in Kurume

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be seen as rude; excellent service is considered standard.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash, and credit cards are widely used in major establishments. Mobile payment options are also gaining popularity.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. Great for enjoying local summer festivals and events.

Autumn

A fantastic season for viewing colorful foliage in parks and gardens, accompanied by pleasant temperatures.

Winter

Cool temperatures with occasional snowfall. Enjoy winter festivals and warm dishes like ramen to keep cozy.

Nightlife Guide

Kurume at Night

Kurume has a vibrant nightlife scene with various izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. The city comes alive in the evenings, especially around the Nishitetsu Kurume Station area, where you can find lively establishments offering local drinks and cuisine. Many bars serve unique local liquors, and karaoke is a popular way for locals to unwind after work. The nightlife is generally family-friendly, with options suitable for all ages.

Hiking in Kurume

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Sefuri Trail

A well-maintained hiking trail on Mt. Sefuri, offering various difficulty levels and stunning panoramic views.

Kiyomizu Mountain Trail

A scenic trail that winds through lush forests and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Airports

How to reach Kurume by plane.

Fukuoka Airport

Located about 30 minutes from Kurume, Fukuoka Airport is the closest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kurume is a walkable city with many attractions located within walking distance of each other, especially around the city center. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the city layout is easy to navigate. However, some areas may require public transport or taxis to reach, especially for attractions outside the city center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Kurume has a growing population of young families attracted to the city's quality of life and educational opportunities.

Senior Citizens

The city has a significant number of senior citizens, benefiting from healthcare facilities and community programs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Kurume, with local teams and a strong following among fans.

Soccer

Soccer is also widely played and followed, with several youth teams and community leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kurume is generally manageable, but can become congested during rush hours. Public transportation is efficient, with trains and buses connecting various parts of the city. The Nishitetsu train line is a popular choice for both locals and visitors, providing easy access to Fukuoka and surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kurume.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While ramen is typically meat-based, some restaurants offer vegetarian versions or tofu dishes.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's advisable to check with restaurants about their offerings.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Kurume is excellent, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. Most hospitals have English-speaking staff, and emergency services are quick to respond. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance to cover medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide