5 Days of Fun in Fukuoka, Japan

Discover the perfect blend of tradition and modernity in Fukuoka, Japan.

22 April 2023

Fukuoka is a bustling city on the southern island of Japan, known for its vibrant food scene and historic landmarks. Visit the ancient ruins of Fukuoka Castle, soak in the hot springs of Yufuin, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Nakasu. Don't forget to try the local specialty dishes like tonkotsu ramen and mentaiko.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Eat Your Heart Out

  • Check into the trendy Hotel WBF Fukuoka Tenjin MINAMI
  • Enjoy a delectable bowl of tonkotsu ramen at Ichiran, known for its unique solo dining booths
  • Sample fresh seafood at Nakasu Yatai, a row of food stalls lining the river
  • Try Hakata motsunabe, stewed beef/pork offal, at Yamakasa Honten
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with matcha desserts at Tsujiri
Day 2

Journey into the Past

  • Visit the historic Fukuoka Castle ruins, surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring
  • Stroll through Ohori Park, a tranquil oasis with a large pond and Japanese garden
  • Explore the magnificent Shofukuji Temple, the first Zen temple in Japan
  • Take a dip in the rejuvenating hot springs of Nanzoin Temple
  • Watch a traditional Hakata puppet show at the Hakataza Theater
Day 3

Artistic Flourish

  • Marvel at the contemporary art at the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum
  • Admire the stunning architecture of the Fukuoka City Public Library
  • Browse the unique boutiques and art galleries in the trendy Daimyo district
  • See the colorful street art and murals in the nearby Kurume Street Art Village
  • Watch a performance at the ACROS Fukuoka Symphony Hall, with its iconic glass facade
Day 4

Natural Wonders

  • Hike through the serene forests and waterfalls of the Fukuoka Prefectural Nature Park
  • Relax on the sandy shores of Nokonoshima Island, accessible by ferry
  • Experience Hakata bay's dynamic tidal bore phenomenon, known as "Dragon King"
  • Spot exotic animals at the popular Marine World Uminonakamichi aquarium
  • Take a scenic drive to the stunning Kawachi Fuji Garden, with its breathtaking wisteria tunnel
Day 5

Fuk and Run

  • Have a quick breakfast at the famous Kushida Shrine food stalls
  • Take a stroll through the lively Tenjin Underground Shopping Mall
  • Buy unique souvenirs at Canal City Hakata, a shopping complex with a theater and fountain show
  • Catch a train to nearby Dazaifu to see the ancient Tenmangu Shrine and Kyushu National Museum
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at the upmarket Yamanaka Sushi, with its innovative sushi creations

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.

More travel plans

Fukuoka Fun: A Family-Friendly 4-Day Adventure on a Budget

Fukuoka, Japan offers a delightful family-friendly getaway with its vibrant culture and incredible sights. Begin your adventure by exploring the scenic beaches and parks, such as Momochi Seaside Park and Nokonoshima Island, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. Immerse yourselves in the city's rich history by visiting historical landmarks like Fukuoka Castle and Tocho-ji Temple, and indulge in tasty local cuisine at the famous street food stalls of Yatai, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Fukuoka, Japan: 3 Days of Food, Culture, and Fun

A family-friendly trip to Fukuoka, Japan offers a perfect blend of traditional and modern experiences. Discover the rich history and culture at attractions like Fukuoka Castle and Tocho-ji Temple, while enjoying the exciting amusement parks and shopping centers at Canal City Hakata and Marine World Uminonakamichi. Fukuoka's renowned food scene, featuring famous ramen and fresh seafood, is sure to satisfy the taste buds of both adults and children.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Fukuoka

Fukuoka, Japan is a perfect destination for a romantic trip. The city is an enchanting mix of traditional and modern Japanese culture, offering plenty of opportunity for exploration and adventure. From wandering the bustling streets to relaxing in the serene parks, Fukuoka is sure to delight any couple seeking a romantic getaway.

Fukuoka Fun: A Day Trip Guide

As a tourist, Fukuoka offers an exquisite blend of traditional Japanese culture and modernity. The vibrant city is a gastronomic paradise, renowned for its mouthwatering ramen, fresh seafood, and the world-famous Hakata-style dishes. From visiting Buddhist temples and shrines to relaxing in natural hot springs, Fukuoka provides an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Japan.