Another wonderful site that many people should see is Atago Shrine, which offers from the top of the 68m Mt. Atago a spectacular view of the western area of the city, as well as Hakata Bay and Fukuoka Tower. You can also get an excellent view of Nokonoshima and Shikanoshima when the weather is good. This shrine is said to be the oldest in Fukuoka City, going back to the year 72 A.D., and until 1901 was known as Washio Shrine. While there are over 900 Atago Shrines across Japan, this one is the 3rd most important after the ones in Kyoto and Tokyo. Unfortunately, this wonderul site is nearly completely overlooked or ignored by the most popular travel and tourism books and guides. Entrance is free and if you have the time is definitely worth a visit. There are also many smaller shrines nearby on the way up. Some of the best times to visit are usually late March to early April during cherry blossom season, with over 2000 cherry trees that are also illuminated after the sun goes down, as well as usually from late November when the autumn leaves change color. The first week of the year is also very active with over 700,000 people visiting the shrine. It's also a popular place for couples on dates looking to get away from the crowds. From 1928 to 1943 there was a popular cable car going up to the top, but was closed to use the metal in Japan's war effort.
Just get off the subway at Muromi Station (Exit #1 or 6), walk west 4 minutes across the bridge and take the stairs going up on your right when you see the stone torii gate. By bus it's a 5 minute walk from the Atago-Shita bus stop. If you want, there is a winding road which you can take instead of the stairs.
