Hakata-ku, Administrative ward in Fukuoka, Japan
Hakata-ku is an administrative ward in Fukuoka that covers roughly 31 square kilometers and includes several important transport hubs. The ward contains the city's main railway station, the airport, and the international port terminal.
The ward served as a trading center with China and Korea during medieval times and grew into one of the country's key ports over the centuries. Its importance continued as the region became the prefectural capital.
The ward takes its name from a former port district, still visible in the layout of streets and the design of buildings. Many shops sell handwoven belts and small painted figures that have been made locally for generations.
Government offices and key administrative centers are concentrated here, so the area sees heavy activity during business hours. Travelers reach the ward easily through rail or air connections and find signage in multiple languages throughout.
More than 245 cruise ships dock at the port each year, making it one of the most visited passenger terminals in the country. Many guests use the brief stopover to visit local markets and workshops.
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