Frugal Fun in Fukuoka: 2-Day Island Adventure

Discover the beauty of Fukuoka, Japan without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A budget trip to Fukuoka, Japan can be an incredible experience for frugal travelers. From exploring the stunning Fukuoka Tower to enjoying a bowl of delicious ramen at the famous Shin-Shin restaurant, visitors can enjoy world-class attractions without breaking the bank. With affordable public transportation options and plenty of affordable accommodations, Fukuoka is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the wonders of Japan without overspending.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Stay: Hotel New Gaea Hakata-Eki Minami
  • Start the day with breakfast at the iconic Ichiran Ramen, known for its delicious tonkotsu ramen
  • Visit the serene Shofukuji Temple, Japan's first Zen temple, and take a peaceful stroll around the garden
  • Take a dip in the natural hot springs at the Fukuoka Yufuin Onsen hot spring park
  • Learn about Fukuoka's history at the Fukuoka City Museum, which showcases local artifacts and artwork
  • End the day with yakitori at the popular and affordable Kashiwaya restaurant
Day 2

Island Adventure

  • Stay: The Residential Suites Fukuoka
  • Take the ferry from Hakata Port to the beautiful Nokonoshima Island
  • Take a hike through the scenic trails on the island, with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains
  • Visit the Nokonoshima Island Park, a botanical garden with over 2,000 plant species
  • Relax on the beach and try your hand at beach volleyball or frisbee
  • Have a seafood feast at the popular and affordable Tairyo-Takoyaki restaurant and enjoy the ocean views
  • Fukuoka may seem like a small city, but it has so much to offer. From serene temples to island adventures, anyone can have an incredible experience here on a limited budget. Don't forget to try some of Fukuoka's delicious ramen and seafood, and take in the natural hot springs while you're here.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Fukuoka, Japan by plane is to fly into Fukuoka Airport, which is located about 5 km east of the city center. There are many airlines that offer direct flights to Fukuoka from major cities in Asia, including Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai, and Taipei.

Car

Driving to Fukuoka from other parts of Japan is also possible, but it can be a long and expensive journey. If you do decide to drive, you will need to take the Honshu-Shikoku Bridge and then drive across Kyushu Island to Fukuoka. The journey can take up to 14 hours or more depending on traffic, so it is recommended to break up the journey with overnight stops.

Train

While it is possible to take a train to Fukuoka, it is not the most practical option for most travelers. The easiest way to get to Fukuoka by train is to take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo or Osaka and transfer to a local train at Hakata Station. However, this can be a long and expensive journey, and it is usually quicker and more economical to fly instead.

Boat

While there are no direct passenger ferries to Fukuoka, it is possible to take a ferry from Busan, South Korea to Hakata Port, which is located just a short distance from the city center. The ferry journey takes around 3 hours and is operated by Camellia Line. However, this option can be more expensive than flying, and it is not recommended for travelers who are short on time.

Bus

If you are traveling on a budget, taking a bus to Fukuoka can be a good option. Buses run regularly from major cities throughout Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. One popular bus company is Willer Express, which offers comfortable overnight buses with reclining seats and onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and USB chargers.

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