To get around Fukuoka, you can use a variety of transportation options, including an extensive rail network, buses, and taxis, as well as rent a car or use ride-hailing apps.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Fukuoka is easily accessible by air, with Fukuoka Airport (FUK) being the main international airport serving the city. The airport is located about 3 kilometers east of Fukuoka's city center and offers direct flights to many major cities in Asia, including Tokyo, Seoul, and Hong Kong, as well as some destinations in Europe and North America. Fukuoka can also be reached by bus or train from other cities in Japan, with the Hakata train station being a major hub for the JR Kyushu rail network.
In addition to flying, Fukuoka can be reached by bus or train from other cities in Japan, with several overland entry points, including the Hakata train station and the Fukuoka bus terminal. The city is also connected to the nearby city of Sasebo by a highway and to the city of Kitakyushu by a tunnel under the Kanmon Strait. Visitors from other parts of Asia can also reach Fukuoka by ferry, with several routes connecting the city to ports in South Korea and China.
Domestic Flights
Fukuoka is well-connected to other cities in Japan by domestic flights, with several airlines operating out of Fukuoka Airport, including Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Skymark Airlines. The main domestic routes from Fukuoka include flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo, as well as several smaller cities on the island of Kyushu. Booking domestic flights in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, and can be done online or through a travel agent. Approximate costs for domestic flights from Fukuoka start from around $100 USD for a one-way ticket to Tokyo.
Trains & Rail
Fukuoka has an extensive rail network, with several train lines connecting the city to other parts of Kyushu and Japan. The JR Kyushu rail network is the main operator of train services in Fukuoka, with several lines radiating out from the Hakata train station, including the Kyushu Shinkansen line, which connects Fukuoka to Shin-Osaka and Tokyo. The Nishitetsu rail network also operates several lines in Fukuoka, including the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line and the Nishitetsu Dazaifu Line. Booking train tickets in advance is recommended, especially for long-distance journeys, and can be done online or at train stations.
Buses & Coaches
Fukuoka has an extensive network of buses and coaches, with several companies operating services within the city and to other parts of Kyushu. The Nishitetsu bus company is one of the main operators, with several routes connecting Fukuoka to other cities on the island, including Sasebo and Kitakyushu. The JR Kyushu bus company also operates several routes, including the Fukuoka-Sasebo route and the Fukuoka-Kitakyushu route. Bus fares in Fukuoka are generally affordable, with a single ride costing around $2-$3 USD.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Fukuoka | $2-$3 | Three lines, including the Kuko Line and the Hakozaki Line |
| City Bus | Fukuoka | $2-$3 | Extensive network, with several routes connecting to the Hakata train station |
| Taxi | Fukuoka | $5-$10/km | Available at Hakata train station and other major transportation hubs |
| Ride-Hailing | Fukuoka | $5-$10 | Available through Uber and Grab |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Not available |
Driving
- To drive in Fukuoka, you will need to have a valid Japanese driver's license or an International Driving Permit.
- Road conditions in Fukuoka are generally good, with several highways and expressways connecting the city to other parts of Kyushu.
- Fuel costs in Fukuoka are generally high, with gasoline prices averaging around $1.50 USD per liter.
- Car rental companies in Fukuoka include Toyota Rent-a-Car and Nissan Rent-a-Car, with prices starting from around $40 USD per day.
- Hazards to watch out for when driving in Fukuoka include narrow streets and aggressive drivers.
- Parking in Fukuoka can be challenging, especially in the city center, with prices averaging around $5-$10 USD per hour.
Transport Tips
- When using public transportation in Fukuoka, it is a good idea to buy a prepaid IC card, such as a Sugoca or Nimoca card, which can be used on buses and trains.
- Be aware of peak travel seasons, such as Golden Week and New Year's, when transportation in Fukuoka can be very crowded.
- Download the Google Maps or Hyperdia app to help navigate Fukuoka's transportation system.
- Be prepared for language barriers, as not all transportation staff in Fukuoka speak English.
- Keep an eye out for scams, such as overpriced taxis or fake train tickets.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected transportation costs or delays.
- Be respectful of local customs and rules, such as not eating on public transportation or not tipping at restaurants.