Korokanatotenjikan

Korokanatotenjikan, or the Korokan Historical Museum, sits within Maizuru Park in central Fukuoka, near the ruins of Fukuoka Castle. This modern museum showcases the history of the Korokan, a guest house built in the 7th century to host foreign envoys from China, Korea, and other Asian countries. The museum's exhibits include excavated pottery, roof tiles, wooden tablets, and reconstructed models that illustrate the building's role as a hub of international exchange. Visitors can see the actual foundation stones of the Korokan, preserved in situ, and learn about the diplomatic missions that passed through. The museum is compact but well-curated, with English explanations alongside Japanese. A highlight is the short video that recreates the Korokan's appearance during the Nara and Heian periods. The surrounding park offers a pleasant walk, with cherry blossoms in spring and views of the castle ruins. For history enthusiasts, the museum provides a unique glimpse into Japan's early foreign relations. It's a quiet, reflective spot away from Fukuoka's urban bustle, ideal for a one-hour visit. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on related themes, so check ahead for special displays.

Don't miss

• View the preserved foundation stones of the original Korokan building.
• See ancient pottery and wooden tablets with inscriptions.
• Watch the video reconstruction of the Korokan in its heyday.
• Explore Maizuru Park and the adjacent Fukuoka Castle ruins.
• Check out temporary exhibitions on ancient diplomacy.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Korokanatotenjikan

Cheapest way inDay trip from central Fukuoka.Rental cycle in Shikanoshima island5★ · 115 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$25 per personSee dates →Best full dayUltimate Sumo Tournament: Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka4.9★ · 530 travelers~24 hoursFrom$175 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleFukuoka Evening Tours: Yatai, Izakaya, Karaoke and more5★ · 29 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$95 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Photography is allowed in most areas, but no flash near delicate artifacts.
• Free audio guides are available in English at the reception.
• Restrooms are clean and located near the entrance.
• The museum is closed on Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a holiday) and over New Year.

A bit of history

The Korokan was established in the 7th century as a guest house for foreign diplomats, particularly from Tang China and Silla Korea. It operated for over 500 years until the 12th century, when it fell into disuse. Excavations began in the 1980s, leading to the museum's opening in 1995.