We specifically hit up Hakatagawa Street for one thing: painting Hakata dolls. While the street has all that traditional charm stuff going on, if you're into hands-on crafts like my family, the doll painting workshop is what you're really here for.

Fair warning: it's not cheap to paint these traditional dolls, but watching my wife and kids get totally absorbed in decorating their own piece of Japanese craft history was pretty special. They've got the whole setup for you to create your own take on these famous dolls that have been made here for generations.

Just know what you're getting into - this isn't a budget activity, but for craft enthusiasts, it's one of those unique Japanese experiences you can't really get anywhere else. Plus, you walk away with a pretty cool souvenir you made yourself!