Historical Shrines and Temples, Vivid Azaleas, and Local Crafts
Kurume is a city located in the southwest of Fukuoka Prefecture, japan. Situated on the banks of the Chikugo River, it was once a castle town surrounded by the Minou Mountain Range. Today, Kurume is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural landscapes, and local crafts.
One of the highlights of Kurume is its numerous shrines and temples. These sacred sites hold great significance in Japanese culture and attract visitors from all over the country. Suitengu Shrine is a popular destination for those seeking blessings for water-related endeavors and easy childbirth. The shrine is dedicated to the God of Water and is believed to bring good fortune to those who visit. Another notable temple is Bairinji Temple, known for its collection of plum trees and its unique form of Zen meditation. The temple provides a serene environment for visitors to reflect and find inner peace. Additionally, Daihonzan Naritasan Kurume Temple stands out with its impressive 62-meter statue of the Mother Kannon, the bodhisattva of mercy. This iconic landmark can be seen from afar and serves as a symbol of Kurume’s spiritual heritage.
Kurume is also famous for its vibrant azaleas. The city’s symbolic flower, the Kurume azalea, blooms in abundance from mid-April to early May. The sight of these colorful flowers is truly mesmerizing and adds to the beauty of the city. Kurume Forest Azalea Park and the Kurume World Tsutsuji Center are popular spots to admire the blooming azaleas and immerse oneself in nature’s beauty.
In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Kurume is renowned for its local crafts. One such craft is Kurume kasuri, a traditional indigo-dyed cotton fabric. Kurume kasuri has been designated as a National Important Intangible Asset and a National Traditional Craft Product. The fabric is produced using traditional methods that require months of labor. It is used to create a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, and home decor items. Rantai lacquerware is another traditional craft of Kurume. Made from locally grown bamboo, the bamboo ware is meticulously woven and coated with lacquer to create lightweight and durable daily use items.
When it comes to food and drink, Kurume offers a delightful culinary experience. The city is known for its production of sake, with one of the largest numbers of sake breweries in Japan. Sake lovers can indulge in a wide variety of flavors and learn about the brewing process at the local breweries. Kurume is also the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen, a popular Japanese dish made with pork bone broth. The rich and flavorful broth, combined with chewy noodles and various toppings, makes Kurume’s tonkotsu ramen a must-try delicacy. Additionally, Kurume is home to numerous yakitori restaurants, where visitors can savor grilled skewers of chicken, beef, and pork.
To reach Kurume, there are several transportation options available. The city is easily accessible by air from Tokyo, with a flight duration of approximately three hours. Additionally, Kurume is only a short distance away from Fukuoka City. Visitors can take a bullet train, which takes around 17 minutes, or opt for the local JR Line or Nishitetsu Line, with travel times of approximately 35 minutes and 30 minutes, respectively.
In conclusion, Kurume is a city that offers a blend of history, nature, and craftsmanship. Its shrines and temples provide a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions, while the blooming azaleas add a touch of natural beauty. The local crafts, such as Kurume kasuri textiles and Rantai lacquerware, showcase the city’s artistic heritage. Lastly, the culinary delights, including sake, tonkotsu ramen, and yakitori, satisfy the taste buds of visitors. Whether you are interested in immersing yourself in Japanese culture, enjoying scenic landscapes, or exploring traditional crafts, Kurume has something to offer for everyone.
Address And Maps Location:
Kurume-shi, Fukuoka-ken
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