Fukuoka on a Budget: Your 3-Day Adventure!

Discover Japan's vibrant city of Fukuoka without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A budget-friendly trip to Fukuoka, Japan offers a unique blend of modern city life and traditional Japanese culture. The city is known for its delicious food such as ramen and street snacks. Must-visit attractions include Fukuoka Tower, Ohori Park, and the bustling Tenjin district for shopping.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Fukuoka's Rich Cultural Heritage

  • Visit the Fukuoka Castle ruins for a glimpse into local history
  • Take a stroll through Ohori Park, complete with a picturesque lake
  • Stop by the iconic Kushida Shrine, known for its grand festivals
  • Learn about traditional Japanese ceramics at Hakata Traditional Craft Center
  • Explore the quirky shops and cafés in the trendy district of Nakasu
  • Stay at: Capsule Hotel Asahi Plaza Shinsaibashi for a budget-friendly overnight option in a convenient location.
Day 2

Exploring Fukuoka's Delicious Cuisine

  • Start with a hearty breakfast at one of the stalls in Yanagibashi Market
  • Head to Hakata Station for a taste of the famous tonkotsu ramen at Ichiran
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at Mizutakiyokan, a traditional Japanese sweet shop
  • Visit Yatai, the city's outdoor food stalls, for some of the best street food in Fukuoka
  • Enjoy a nightcap at The Bank, a cozy bar housed in a former bank
  • Stay at: Fukuoka Hana Hostel for a charming and affordable stay in a bustling neighborhood with great access to public transportation.
Day 3

Island-Hopping in Fukuoka's Scenic Surroundings

  • Take a ferry to Nokonoshima Island for panoramic views and stunning flora
  • Head to Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, a sprawling park with various attractions
  • Visit the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, a beautiful shrine surrounded by nature
  • Take a scenic drive to Itoshima, known for its stunning beaches
  • End your day with a delicious seafood dinner at Robata Motsunabe Ichiyon.
  • Stay at: Toyoko Inn Hakata-guchi Ekimae for a comfortable and affordable option near transportation hubs and popular attractions.

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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