Shintencho Shopping Arcade

Let’s enjoy everything the Shintencho Shopping Arcade has to offer!

Located right in the heart of Tenjin, Shintencho Shopping Arcade offers a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere, even amid the city’s hustle and bustle. Within its covered walkways—where everyday life and travel adventures come together—you’ll find around 90 unique specialty shops and restaurants. From signature dishes to stylish local finds, take a stroll through the arcade like a treasure hunt and enjoy a mini getaway in the city.

3things to do in
Shintencho Shopping Arcade

①Local × Retro × Now × Future
Discover timeless charm

Shintencho Shopping Arcade is wrapped in a joyful, welcoming atmosphere. With a wide variety of specialty shops lining the street, visitors are sure to feel a sense of excitement around every corner. Friendly shopkeepers greet you with warm smiles, and casual chats may just make your day. A symbolic presence within the arcade, the large clock tower changes its appearance with the seasons. At set times, its bell rings out through the street, and charming dolls begin to dance to music — it’s simply adorable! Every July, a decorative float from the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival makes an appearance, signaling the arrival of summer with a traditional flair.

The History of Shintencho Shopping Arcade

Stretching from Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station toward Tenjin Nishi-dori, Shintencho Shopping Arcade has long been a beloved part of the city. After World War II, the area—then known as Tenjin-machi—was reduced to ashes by air raids. In 1946, local Hakata merchants came together with the goal of restoring vitality and smiles to their community, opening 21 shops in wooden buildings with traditional tiled roofs. By 1950, a large arcade stretching 288 meters was completed, giving the street its iconic covered look. A major sales event held at the time of the arcade’s opening marked the beginning of the Shinten Festival, which has since evolved into the much-loved Wagon Sale. The pioneering spirit of Hakata merchants also breathed fresh energy into the centuries-old Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival. Today, the sight of decorated festival floats and the lively “Osshoi!” chants running through Shintencho have become a treasured part of the local summer scene.

Now, with 79 years of history behind it, the arcade is stepping into the next era. A large-scale redevelopment is scheduled to be completed in about five years. While new buildings and scenery will gradually take shape, the warm spirit and heartfelt hospitality of Fukuoka will remain unchanged.The story of Shintencho is far from over—it continues to evolve.

２. From Lunch & Dinner to One-Handed Bites
Savor a Deliciously Diverse Food Scene

From hearty Japanese meals like kamameshi (rice cooked in an iron pot), udon, and soba, to cozy cafés perfect for a break—Shintencho is home to a wide variety of eateries .

Eat In（Dine in）

Take Out（To go ）

3. From Classic Souvenirs to Stylish Finds
Shop Unique Treasures to Take Home

One of the charms of Shintencho Shopping Arcade is its wide variety of unique specialty shops. You’ll even find stores dedicated to picture frames and knives! From trendy fashion items to traditional sweets and fine teas perfect as gifts for someone special—there’s so much you’ll want to take home!