Dazaifu was the western capital of Japan from 7th century

 

From the late 7th century to the late 12th century, Dazaifu was the western capital

of Japan and controlled Kyushu as an administrative institution.

Geographically, it served as the front line of Japan’s diplomacy and defense, as well

as it is gate way to the Asian continent.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine was built in 919 and Dazaifu is now Fukuoka most

important tourist destination with more than 8.5 million tourists visiting annually.