Dazaifu, Historical administrative center in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan
Dazaifu is a city in Fukuoka Prefecture, nestled between forested mountains and crossed by a small river that winds through residential neighborhoods and temple grounds. The streets lead from the railway station to the shrine and transform into a busy path lined with shops, tea houses, and traditional sweet stalls.
The settlement emerged in the 7th century as a fortified administrative seat for the entire southern island group and managed contacts with the mainland. Over centuries, this place was the gateway between Japan and its continental neighbors until the capital functions later shifted to other cities.
The city takes its name from the former government office that stood here for hundreds of years and administered the southern main island. Visitors still come to the shrine today to hang wooden plaques with wishes for exams and study, a tradition that has continued across generations.
Travelers reach the city in about half an hour from the prefectural capital downtown using the private railway line and one transfer at the intermediate station. Most attractions lie within walking distance from the terminal station, making it easy to explore the core of the place on foot.
In spring, around 6000 plum trees bloom on the shrine grounds and transform the complex into a white and pink sea of blossoms that has been drawing poets and artists for centuries. The nearby national museum displays exhibitions documenting the centuries-old connections between the region and mainland Asian cultures.
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