While You Are in the Neighborhood… 23 Day Trip Ideas From Fukuoka
If you happen to base your vacation in Fukuoka, why not visit some of many amazing spots around Kyushu Island? Here is a list of 23 great places where you can visit by making a day trip from Fukuoka.
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1. Kokura Castle [Fukuoka]
Kokura Castle tower was built in a unique “Karazukuri” style. One of the particularities is the way the 5th floor is made larger than the 4th floor. Inside the castle various interactive exhibitions are found, with such as the miniature model of the traditional castle town, and reenactment of the scenes from a famous, historic war, you will find much about the history in which this castle has lived through during the Edo period. You can also breathe in the history out in the garden, as you stroll around the pond amidst the graceful landscape.
Open：Apr-Oct 9am-6pm, Nov-Mar 9am-5pm
HP: www.kokura-castle.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: 2-1 Jonai Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Via Kyushu hwy: about 1hr 10min.
【by train】JR Kagoshima Honsen、Hakata Sta. - Kokura Sta.（about 40 min.）then 15 min. walk, or 5 min. walk from Nishikokura Sta.
2. Port Moji (Mojiko) [Fukuoka]
Retro Area of Moji Port is teeming with a nostalgic, exotic feel. As you stroll along, you will find classic red brick buildings, glass house, observation deck, music box museum, Blue Wing Moji (a beautiful draw bridge) to name a few, you can also take a retro cruise. Don’t forget to taste grilled curry, Moji’s speciality!
HP: www.cn.mojiko.info/ (中文)
HP: www.mojiko.info/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Moji-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Via Kyushu Hwy、exit Moji I.C.（about 70 min), then 7 min. drive to the port
【by train】From Hakata Sta. to Mojiko Sta. about 52 min.
3. Dazaifu Tenmangu [Fukuoka]
Dazaifu Tenmangu receives 7 million worshippers a year. Inside the premises you will also find many attractions such as Kyushu National Museum, Kyushu’s oldest Inari Shrine “Tenkai Inari”, giant “chozubachi”, “goshingyu”(a statue of a sacred bull). The path leading up to the shrine is lined with shops, as you walk along you can try the shrine’s special products made with the famous plums, or Dazaifu burger.
Open for visit 6am-7pm* *depends on the season
HP: www.dazaifutenmangu.or.jp/en
HP: www.dazaifutenmangu.or.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: 4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu-city, Fukuoka (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by train】Take Nishitetsu railway and get off at Dazaifu Sta. (about 20 min.) then walk for 5 min.
4. Yanagawa [Fukuoka]
Yanagawa is highly popular both by international and Japanese tourists. Take a boat ride down Yanagawa river while listening to the skipper and his tale of the history of Yanagawa, visit the ruins of Yanagawa castle, the farmer’s market, the birth-house of the famous poet Hakushu Kitahara, or Shotoen garden, which is famous for its old pine trees, Yanagawa is chock full of interesting sights. Make sure to sample the local delicacies, especially their famous unagi (or eel)!
HP: www.yanagawa-net.com/eng/index.html
HP: www.yanagawa-net.com/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Yanagawa-shi, Fukuoka (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】about 50 min.
【by train】Nishitetsu railway：from Tenjin Sta. to Yanagawa Sta. about 47 min.
5. Itoshima [Fukuoka]
Itoshima is nicknamed “Hawaii of Fukuoka”, because of its lush, tropical landscape. Futamigaura beach, which overlooks the famous wedded rocks, is noted for its sunset view. The exquisite Shiraito waterfall, impressive Keya-no-oto cave which rises 64m/200ft high, Anego beach and its compact sand, there are plenty to be seen and experienced. Itoshima takes pride in their own brand of gourmet cuisine, so make sure to enjoy a hearty meal while there, too!
HP: www.city.itoshima.lg.jp/site/prof-en/
HP: www.city.itoshima.lg.jp/site/prof-ch/ (中文)
HP: www.city.itoshima.lg.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Itoshima-shi, Fukuoka (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】about 40 minutes
6. Noko Island (Nokonoshima) [Fukuoka]
You can reach Nokonoshima in 10 minutes by ferry. It is a famous resort island featuring “Nokonoshima Island Park”, where you can enjoy camping, barbecue, cycling, golf and other attractions and activities. For a meal, its famous Noko noodle is especially recommended. You can take a daytrip to the island, or you can stay overnight.
HP: nokonoshima.com/zh-hant/ (中文)
HP: nokonoshima.com/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Nokonoshima, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
Take a bus from Tenjin Station to Meinohama Dock (about 30 min.) then take a 10 minute ferry ride to the island.
7. Saga International Balloon Fiesta [Saga]
An annual international event since 1980, this is the largest hot air balloon festival of the orient. The competitors flock from far and wide, all around the world, Sky full of balloons of all shapes and colors , many featuring famous characters and animals, it’s a sight to behold. It is particularly spectacular during the evening, with illuminated hot air balloons floating over the night sky.
HP: www.sibf.jp/en/
HP: www.sibf.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Kasegawa Kasenshiki, Saga-shi, Saga (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by train】Take JR from Hakata Sta. to Saga Sta. (about 1 hour)
8. Morning Market Yobuko [Saga]
Yobuko morning market is one of the most famous in Japan. Yobuko, part of Karatsu-city, is known for its special delicacy, squids. The market features 50 stalls during the week, and up to 70 on weekends, offering their famous squid products, along with other fresh seafood and vegetables at amazing prices.
Open 7:30am - Noon
HP: www.yobuko.net/?p=53 (Japanese Only)
Address: Yobuko Asaichi-dori, Yobuko-cho, Karatsu-shi, Saga (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】from Nagasaki Hwy. Taku IC about 60 min. drive
9. Hizen Yumekaido [Saga]
Hizen Yumekaido is a reconstruction of Ureshino town from the Edo era, when it blossomed as a post station along Nagasaki road. Ninjas and Samurais are found roaming around the premises, as well as many attractions, it is an ideal place to experience the bygone era for all ages.
HP: www.hizenyumekaidou.info/ (Japanese Only)
Address: 716-1 O-aza Shimonoko Ureshino-machi, Ureshino-shi, Saga(Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Nagasaki Hwy, exit Ureshino IC (about 65 min) then 5 min. drive.
【by train】Take JR from Hakata Sta. to Takeo Onsen Sta. (about 1hr) then bus to Kokaido-mae stop, then 10 minute walk.
10. Yoshinogari Historical Park [Saga]
Yoshinogari historical parkis an archeological site where you can witness and experience the ancient Yayoi culture and the reconstruction of its village which dates back to 400BC. Its scale is one of the largests in Japan. You can enjoy the view of the entire village from an observatory tower, it makes you feel like you have just made a magical time travel.
HP: www.yoshinogari.jp/ch/ (中文)
HP: www.yoshinogari.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: 1843 Tade, Yoshinogari-machi, Kanzaki-gun, Saga (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【By Car】from Fukuoka City Hwy to Kyushu Hwy to Nagasaki Hway, exit at Higashisefuri IC, take the provincial road 385. (total of 65 min. drive)
11. Karatsu Castle [Saga prefecture]
Karatsu Castle was constructed by the order of Hirotaka Terasawa, a personal attendant of the legendary leader Hideyoshi Toyotomi in the early 17C. The castle has an exhibition room and observatory, which offers a sweeping view of Matsuuragata. Apart from the main castle, you can also visit the remains of the other three sections from the original structure.
Open: 9am - 5pm* *depends on the season
HP: www.karatsu-bunka.or.jp/shiro.html (Japanese Only)
Address: 8-1 Higashijonai, Karatsu-shi, Saga (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Kyushu Hwy exit at Fukuoka IC, then National Rd 202 (70 min. drive)
【by train】JR Karatsu Line、get off at Karatsu Sta. then 15 min. walk
12. Ureshino Onsen [Saga prefecture]
Ureshino Onsen’s skin beautifying effect is famous, it is said that just by soaking yourself in its pure alkaline spring water your skins will turn extra smooth! There is also a written record that the onsen also has a therapeutic effect. It has been popular ever since the Edo period, when the town blossomed as a post station. After a relaxing time, enjoy the special tofu dish with Ureshino tea!
HP: spa-u.net/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Ureshino-shi, Saga (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】 Nagasaki Hwy, exit at Ureshino IC. (about 70 min. drive)
【by Expressway Bus】 Hakata Sta. Depot - Ureshino Depot（about 2hr）
13. Yunotsubo Kaido [Oita]
The pretty, quaint street of the Yufu spa town is lined with cafés and shops offering enticing snacks of all sorts, and craft shops. You may easily forget the passing of time while sampling the goodies and shopping for souvenirs. Then you will reach the magical little lake Kinrin, the way the mist rises from its warm spring water is an unforgettable sight.
HP: xn--54q032alym0wz3in.com/tour.html (Japanese Only)
Address: Yufu-shi, Oita (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】From Kyushu Hwy to Oita Hwy, exit at Yufuin IC, then 10 min. drive（150 min. drive in total）
【by train】JR From Hakata Sta. to Yufuin Sta. (about 3hr 20 min.)
14. Kuju Flower Park [Oita Prefecture]
The spacious, 49 acre Kuju Flower Park adorns itself with unique colors depending on the season throughout the year. Daffodils and Tulip in the spring, Lavender and sunflowers in the summer, cosmos and chrysanthemum in the autumn, and pansies in the winter, just to mention a few examples. There are a plenty of restaurants and shops in the park, a lovely place to spend a day out surrounded by colorful flowers.
Open: 8:30am - 5:30pm
HP: www.hanakoen.com/ (Japanese Only)
Address: 4050 O-aza Kuju, Kujumachi, Taketa-shi, Oita (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】 From Kokonoe IC - Shikisai Road - Yamanami Highway - via Senomoto（about 50 min. drive）
15. Kokonoe Yume Grand Suspension Bridge [Oita]
Located in Narukogawa valley at the altitude of 777m/2550ft and the height from the river bed at 173m/570ft, Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi is the largest pedestrian only suspension bridge in Japan. From the bridge you can also admire some famous waterfalls like Shindonotaki, its 360° view is purely enchanting, especially during the autumn, when the trees turn red and golden.
Open: 8:30am-5pm* *depends on the season
Admission: 12yr old and up 500¥, Elementary students 200¥, younger children free
HP: www.yumeooturihashi.com/eng/
HP: www.yumeooturihashi.com/twn/ (中文)
HP: www.yumeooturihashi.com/ (Japanese Only)
Address: 1208 Tano, Kokonoe-machi, Kusu-gun, Oita (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Oita hwy exit at Kokonoe IC、take provincial road 40 for 25 min.（about 2hr 20min. drive）
【Bus】Take an Expressway bus from Hakata or Tenjin Sta to Kokonoe IC. Then take a local bus (Hida bus) to Otsuribashi Nakamuraguchi.（about 2hr 30 min. journey）
16. Yufuin Onsen [Oita]
Yufuin is one of the most famous onsen spas in Japan. There are about 900 fountains which provide spas of Yufuin, its water is pure and invigorating. Most of the spa water is clear, but there are some fountains with blue shade. There are about 120 accomodations in Yufuin, where you can enjoy the high quality spa experience, the local cuisine, and hospitality.
HP: www.city.yufu.oita.jp.e.nr.hp.transer.com/
HP: www.yufuin.gr.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Yufu-shi, Oita (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by expressway bus】Hakata/Tenjin Depot - Yufuin Depot（about 2hr journey）
【by train】JR from Hakata to Yufuin（about 2 hour and 10 min.）
17. Beppu Onsen [Oita]
Beppu Onsen, or Beppu Hatto is a collective name of 8 different Onsen locales, Beppu, Kannawa, Kankaiji, Myoban, Kamegawa, Shibaseki, Horita, and Hamawaki. It is the largest onsen in Japan by its number of the springs and the volume of the water. Apart from the relaxing time in the spa, the tour of Beppu Jigoku (Hells) is also a big attraction.
HP: taiwanese.beppu-navi.jp/ (中文)
HP: www.beppu-navi.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Beppsu-shi Oita (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Oita Hwy exit at Beppu IC (about 1hr 40 min.) then about 20 min. drive to Beppu city center
【by train】JR from Hakata Sta. to Beppu Sta.（about 2 hr journey）
18. Kumagawa River Cruise [Kumamoto]
Along with Mogami and Fuji, Kumagawa is one of the most famous rapid torrents in Japan. You can cruise down the wild stream on a wooden boat navigated by an expert skipper. You can choose the medium or long tour, or if you are an adventurous type, why not the raging stream tour? In order to come in contact with the raging stream even more up close and personal, you can also go for the rafting. It is an experience that get your adrenaline going to the max!
Rate: Adult from ¥ 2160 (short tour)
HP: www.kumagawa.co.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Hitoyoshi-shi, Kumamoto (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Kyushu Hwy exit from Hitoyoshi IC、then proceed for 10km/7miles.（total of about 2hr 30 min.）
19. Giant Sakura of Isshingyo [Kumamoto]
A 400 year old giant sakura (or cherry tree), 14m/46ft in height, circumference of its trunk 7m/22ft, Isshingyo Sakura is purely magnificent when it blossoms. The tree is said to be planted by a wife and son of a fallen warrior, and faithfully worshipped by them in honor of their husband/father for many years. The name “Isshingyo” reflects their legendary ritual.
HP: www.vill.minamiaso.lg.jp/site/userguide/foreigh.html
HP: www.vill.minamiaso.lg.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: 3226-1 Nakamatsu, Minamiaso-mura, Aso-gun, Kumamoto (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Kyushu Hwy exit at Kumamoto IC, then proceed for about 50 min. on route 57 (total of about 3hr 20 min. journey）
20. Kikuchi Valley [Kumamoto]
Located in Aso Kuju National Park at the altitude of 500-800m/1640-2600ft, Kikuchi valley covers about 2500acre. An ideal oasis to get away from the summer heat, or to enjoy the colorful autumn leaves, the valley is loved by tourists throughout the four seasons.
HP: kikuchikeikoku.jimdo.com/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Hara, Kikuchi-shi, Kumamoto (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Kyushu Hwy exit at Ueki IC, proceed for 50 min. （total of just under 3hr drive）
21. Tsunoshima Bridge [Yamaguchi]
Inaugurated in Nov. 2000, 1780m/5840ft long Tsunoshima bridge is toll free. Feast your eyes with the tropical vista of the emerald sea and Hatoshima island as you drive across this amazingly scenic bridge.
HP: www.visit-jy.com/taiwan/ (中文)
HP: www.oidemase.or.jp/tourism-information/spots/11030 (Japanese Only)
Address: O-aza Kanda-Tsunoshima, Hohoku-cho, Shimonoseki-shi, Yamaguchi (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Kyushu Hwy、then Chugoku Hwy、exit at Kozuki IC、then take provincial road 276（about 2hr, 20 min. drive）
22. Kanmon Straits [Yamaguchi]
700m/2300ft wide Kanmon strait separates Kyushu and Honshu islands. A busy passage which sees 700 ships sailing by daily, has been chosen by the ministry of the environment as one of 100 Soundscapes of Japan because of its unique mixture of the wave and ship whistles. Fireworks, which are held during the summer is particularly famous.
HP: www.kanmon.gr.jp/ (Japanese Only)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Via Kyushu Hwy, exit at Shimonoseki IC、proceed on provincial road 57（total of about 1hr and 30 min. drive）
23. Ganryujima [Yamaguchi]
Ganryujima island is well known for the famous duel between the legendary swordsman Musashi Yamamoto and his nemesis Kojiro Sasaki. The proper name of this island is “Funashima”, but it became commonly called “Ganryu”, the fighting style Sasaki was known for. (although he lost the duel to Miyamoto in this duel) A monument of the two figures depicting the duel can be found at the scenic square of the island.
HP: www.city.shimonoseki.yamaguchi.jp/kanko/ganryujima/ (Japanese Only)
Address: O-aza Hikoshima Funashima, Shimonoseki-shi, Yamaguchi (Google Map)
How to get there from Fukuoka city center
【by car】Via Kyushu Hwy, exit at Shimonoseki IC、proceed on provincial road 57 to Ganryujima dock、then a 10 min. ferry ride（about 2hr journey）
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.
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