In the labyrinth of Hakata’s urban sprawl, the best secrets are often measured in footsteps. Standing as a monolith of modern commerce, the JRJP Hakata Building is more than a corporate fortress; it is the guardian of “Sanbyaku-po Yokocho”—a subterranean dining alley located exactly “300 steps” from the station’s gates. Here, the corporate polish of the upper floors gives way to the clinking glasses and charcoal smoke of Fukuoka’s gastronomic soul.
Unveiling the Essence: A Titan of Rail and Mail
The JRJP Hakata Building is a physical manifestation of two Japanese giants joining forces: JR Kyushu (Rail) and Japan Post (Mail). Erected in 2016 on the site of the former Hakata Post Office, this 12-story complex is a cornerstone of the “Hakata Connected” urban redevelopment project.
While the upper floors house the headquarters of tech heavyweights like LINE Yahoo Communications, the building’s true allure for the traveler lies in its foundation. Unlike a typical department store, this building splits its personality: a high-spec business hub above, and a raucous, authentic social playground below. It is designed for the modern nomad—offering premium caffeine fixes by day and high-fidelity local cuisine by night.
Your Insider Odyssey: The “300 Steps” to Gastronomy
The Legend of “Sanbyaku-po Yokocho” (B1F)
The basement floor, known as “Eki kara Sanbyaku-po Yokocho” (The Alley 300 Steps from the Station), is the building’s crown jewel. The concept is “Open & Seamless.” There are few walls here; the boundaries between restaurants are blurred, encouraging the beloved Japanese art of Hashigo-zake (bar hopping).
This is not a food court of generic chains. It is a curated collection of “Fukuoka’s Power Players”—local legends that define the city’s food culture:
- Hakata Tanka: Famous for its Gyutan (beef tongue) and BBQ. The texture is legendary among locals.
- Yakitori no Hachibei: The standard-bearer of Hakata-style yakitori. If you want to understand why locals love chicken skin and pork belly skewers, sit here.
- Hakata Hitokuchi Gyoza Yaoman: The place for “One-Bite Dumplings,” a Hakata specialty designed to be consumed by the dozen with beer.
- Ni-Maru-Ka-Ya Chosuke: The pioneer of the “Udon Izakaya” genre. It combines the comfort of Hakata’s soft udon noodles with a full menu of sake and side dishes.
The “Reserve” Experience (1F)
On the ground floor, the legacy of the site is preserved with a fully operational Post Office, but the draw for the traveler is the adjacent Starbucks Reserve®. Unlike standard outlets, this location offers rare, small-lot coffees and brewing methods (like Clover or Siphon) unavailable elsewhere. It is a quiet sanctuary for planning your next move.
Elite Navigator’s Codex: Strategic Maneuvers
- The Rain-Free Route: You never need to open an umbrella. The building is connected to Hakata Station via the Underground Passage (direct to the Yokocho) and a 2nd-floor Pedestrian Deck (connecting to the station and the neighboring KITTE Hakata).
- Terrace Dining: The 2nd floor features restaurants with outdoor terrace seating, such as Hakata Winery Takenoya. It offers a rare open-air vibe in the heart of the city concrete.
- Know Your Neighbor: Do not confuse JRJP with KITTE Hakata (Marui) next door.
- KITTE: Retail therapy (Fashion, Goods).
- JRJP: Gastronomy and Business (Food, Office, Post).
Kyushu Codex: Instant Insights
| Aspect | Details | Expert Reference Tip |
| Name | JRJP Hakata Building | “JR” = Rail, “JP” = Japan Post. |
| Vibe | Business Chic (Up) / Izakaya Chaos (Down) | Go to B1F for the real energy. |
| Must-Visit | Sanbyaku-po Yokocho (B1F) | A “Who’s Who” of Hakata restaurants in one hallway. |
| Access | 1 min walk from Hakata Exit | “300 Steps” isn’t a metaphor; it’s the actual distance. |
| Facility | Post Office & ATMs (1F) | Useful for withdrawing cash or mailing souvenirs. |
FAQ Nexus: Essential Knowledge for the Traveler
What is the “300 Steps Alley”?
“Eki kara Sanbyaku-po Yokocho” is a dining zone located in the basement (B1F) of the JRJP Building. It is named for its proximity to the station and features an open-plan layout with some of Fukuoka’s most famous local restaurants, perfect for casual dining and drinking.
How is JRJP Hakata Building different from KITTE Hakata?
They are adjacent but distinct. KITTE Hakata (which houses the Marui department store) is primarily for shopping (fashion, gifts). JRJP Hakata Building is primarily an office tower, but its lower floors (B1-2F) are dedicated to high-quality dining and the Post Office.
Is there a dress code for the restaurants?
No. Despite being in a high-end office building, the “300 Steps Alley” is casual and lively. It recreates the atmosphere of a street-side “Yokocho” (alleyway), so casual attire is perfectly acceptable.
Can I access the building without going outside?
Yes. The building is connected to Hakata Station via the underground shopping network (leading directly to the B1F dining area) and a 2nd-floor pedestrian walkway, making it accessible even during typhoons or heavy rain.
Is there still a post office in the building?
Yes, the Hakata Post Office is located on the 1st floor. It offers postal services and ATM facilities (Japan Post Bank), which are often compatible with international credit cards for cash withdrawals.
Coda: The Pulse of the Commuter
The JRJP Hakata Building is a testament to the city’s efficiency—a place where the rigid schedules of the railway meet the fluid conviviality of the izakaya. Whether you are mailing a postcard home from the ground floor or toasting with a stranger in the basement, you are standing in the engine room of Hakata’s daily life. Take the 300 steps. The walk is short, but the flavors are endless.