3-Day Fukuoka Fun: History, Beaches & Ramen

Discover the vibrant culture and cuisine of Fukuoka, Japan – where tradition meets modernity.

22 April 2023

A trip to Fukuoka, Japan as a tourist offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Visitors can explore the bustling city's vibrant food, shopping, and entertainment scenes, while also soaking up the history and culture of ancient temples, shrines, and gardens. Fukuoka is also the perfect base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of nearby mountains, hot springs, and beaches.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Ramen Delight

  • Check-in at the funky 9 Hours Capsule Hotel for a unique experience
  • Fuel up on Fukuoka's famous tonkotsu ramen at Ichiran Ramen Yatai (food stall) in Nakasu
  • Take a stroll through the vibrant Canal City Hakata mall for some shopping and entertainment
  • Marvel at the stunning architecture of Fukuoka Tower and take in the panoramic views from the observation deck
  • Finish the day off with a drink and live music at the laid-back Monde Lounge Bar
Day 2

History, Temples, and Beaches

  • Begin the day at the Kyushu National Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture
  • Visit the serene Shofuku-ji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in Japan
  • Head to the nearby Nanzoin Temple to see the largest bronze statue of a reclining Buddha in the world
  • Take a quick train ride to the coastal city of Itoshima for a relaxing afternoon at the picturesque Sunset Beach
  • Have a seafood feast at the lively Hakata Tontonme Eki mae branch for dinner
Day 3

Markets, Shrines, and Farewell

  • Start the day at the bustling Yanagibashi Rengo Market, known for its fresh seafood and local produce
  • Make a visit to the serene Kushida Shrine, home to the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival
  • Take a leisurely walk through Ohori Park, a tranquil oasis in the city center
  • Explore the quirky and colorful Kawabata Shopping Arcade for souvenirs and snacks
  • End the trip with a bang at the vibrant Nakasu entertainment district, filled with restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

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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A trip to Fukuoka, Japan as a tourist offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Visitors can explore the bustling city's vibrant food, shopping, and entertainment scenes, while also soaking up the history and culture of ancient temples, shrines, and gardens. Fukuoka is also the perfect base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of nearby mountains, hot springs, and beaches.