Late night ‘Date night’ at Kyushu National Museum, Dazaifu

Last weekend saw the launch of late nights at the Kyushu National Museum, Dazaifu. From now on, every Friday and Saturday evening, the museum will remain open until 8pm. Late night info

We took a stroll down there to see what all the fuss is about, and I have to say, an evening visit might just be the alternative ‘date night’ you were looking for.

Both the shrine (Tenmangu) and museum grounds are tastefully lit, making for and enjoyable, atmospheric walk. Gone is the bustle of the crowds that throng the place during the daytime. It’s pleasantly peaceful, and beautiful in the moonlight. (Having said that, probably too quiet and dark for a first date… awkward!)

The approach from the car-park side is also nicely lit, should you travel by car. Access by Nishitetsu train, to Dazaifu station (by way of Futsukaichi) is relatively easy. If you arrive by train, your approach will be made through Tenmangu Temple grounds (10-15 min on foot).

For access information and a map of the museum area (including walks) in English, click here:

http://www.kyuhaku.jp/visit/img/dazaifu-en.pdf

Pin it: Kyushu National Museum

Wheelchair access is well provided for, and the rainbow tunnel to the museum from Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is rather cool.

The charming Museum Café is also open until 8pm.

In the foyer you will also find, what has to be, the best Interactive Exhibition Gallery in any museum around. Kids will love it, but I often spy couples in “Ajippa” too enjoying the musical instruments and traditional board games. Not to be missed! (Entry free of charge).

Ajippa KNM

You will find the exhibition galleries on the upper floors of the museum; special exhibitions (3F) and Cultural Exchange Permanent Exhibition (4F). Don’t forget to purchase your tickets for these on the ground floor (1F) though. Current Exhibitions (English info)

So where to go afterwards?

When the museum closes at 8pm, the grounds of Tenmangu will still be lit, should you wish to exit that route. Although the temple itself will be closing, you can still view it and get some better photo opportunities along the bridge.

So what next? The area around Tenmangu can seem a little dead after 8pm. Starbucks would be ideal, but they close their doors at 8pm sharp.

All is not lost. Japan Local Guide can highly recommend Café COCCOLO (near Dazaifu Cultural Centre, the last right-hand turn on your way back to Dazaifu station, before the main cross-roads.