Fukuoka 5-Day Trip Itinerary
Fukuoka Trip - Mar 1 to Mar 5
Embark on a captivating 5-day solo cultural journey through Fukuoka, Japan, navigating entirely by public transportation. Immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage, exploring historical sites, museums, and vibrant local markets. Discover serene parks, charming neighborhoods, and indulge in authentic local cuisine and cozy cafes, capturing every moment through your lens.
Arrival & Hakata Exploration
Sunday, March 1Arrival at Fukuoka Airport
Arrive at Fukuoka Airport (FUK).
Clear customs and proceed to the domestic terminal by free shuttle bus, then take the Fukuoka City Subway to Hakata Station.
Fukuoka Airport is conveniently located very close to the city center. The subway ride to Hakata Station is only 5-10 minutes.
Take the free shuttle bus from the International Terminal to the Domestic Terminal. From Fukuoka Airport Station (Kuko Line), take the subway to Hakata Station (K06).
Hotel Check-in
Check into your hotel near Hakata Station, a convenient base for exploring Fukuoka via public transport.
The Hotel Nikko Fukuoka offers a comfortable stay and is directly across from Hakata Station, making it ideal for subway and train access.
Lunch at Hakata Station
Explore the dining options within Hakata Station, a bustling hub with various restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
Hakata Station (JR Hakata City) has numerous restaurants, cafes, and food courts. Look for local specialties like Hakata ramen or Motsunabe.
Kushida Shrine Visit
Discover Kushida Shrine, Fukuoka's oldest and most important Shinto shrine, known for its Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival floats and ancient ginkgo tree.
The shrine is famous for its elaborate decorative floats, some of which are on display year-round. It's a peaceful spiritual oasis in the city.
From Hakata Station, take the subway Kuko Line to Gion Station (K09), then a 5-minute walk. Or a 15-minute walk from Hakata Station.
Explore Canal City Hakata
Wander through Canal City Hakata, a large shopping and entertainment complex known as a 'city within a city' with shops, restaurants, and a canal running through it.
Enjoy the fountain shows at the central canal. This is a great spot for souvenir shopping or a coffee break.
From Kushida Shrine, it's a short 5-10 minute walk.
Dinner at Nakasu Yatai
Experience Fukuoka's famous Yatai (open-air food stalls) along the Naka River in the Nakasu district.
Enjoy local dishes like ramen, yakitori, and tempura.
Yatai typically open in the evening and offer a unique, communal dining experience. Be aware that some stalls are cash-only.
From Canal City Hakata, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the Nakasu Yatai area.
Temples, Tower & Seaside
Monday, March 2Tochoji Temple Visit
Visit Tochoji Temple, famous for its magnificent 10.
8-meter tall wooden Great Buddha statue and a beautiful five-storied pagoda.
The Great Buddha (Fukuoka Daibutsu) is one of the largest wooden seated Buddha statues in Japan. You can also try a walk through 'hell'.
From Hakata Station, take the subway Kuko Line to Gion Station (K09), then a 5-minute walk. Or a 10-15 minute walk from Hakata Station.
Sumiyoshi Shrine
Explore Sumiyoshi Shrine, one of Japan's oldest shrines dedicated to the gods of the sea, known for its tranquil atmosphere and traditional architecture.
This shrine is said to be the first of all Sumiyoshi shrines in Japan. It's a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.
From Tochoji Temple, take a short subway ride from Gion Station (K09) to Hakata Station, then transfer to a local bus (approx. 5-7 minutes) or a 15-minute walk south from Hakata Station.
Lunch in Hakata
Enjoy a casual lunch at a local eatery in the Hakata area.
Many small restaurants offer daily lunch specials (teishoku) which are good value.
Fukuoka City Museum
Dive into Fukuoka's rich history and culture, from ancient times to modern days, at the Fukuoka City Museum.
Highlights include the King of Na gold seal, a National Treasure, and exhibits on Fukuoka's trade history.
From Hakata Station, take the subway Kuko Line to Nishijin Station (K04), then a 15-minute walk, or a short bus ride to Fukuoka City Museum.
Fukuoka Tower Views
Ascend Fukuoka Tower, Japan's tallest seaside tower, for panoramic views of Fukuoka city, Hakata Bay, and beyond.
Enjoy the sunset from the observation deck on a clear day. The tower is especially beautiful when lit up at night.
Fukuoka Tower is a 5-minute walk from Fukuoka City Museum.
Dinner in Momochihama
Dine at one of the restaurants in the Momochihama area, enjoying the relaxed seaside ambiance.
There are several cafes and restaurants with bay views near Fukuoka Tower and Seaside Momochi Park.
Uminonakamichi & Cafe Culture
Tuesday, March 3Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Spend the morning exploring Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, a vast leisure park with seasonal flowers, a zoo, and various recreational activities.
The park is huge, consider renting a bicycle to cover more ground. Check seasonal flower blooming schedules if you have specific interests.
From Hakata Station, take the JR Kagoshima Line to Kashii Station, then transfer to the JR Kashii Line to Uminonakamichi Station (approx. 40 minutes). The park entrance is right outside the station.
Lunch at Park Cafe
Have lunch at one of the cafes or restaurants located within Uminonakamichi Seaside Park.
Several options are available, from casual eateries to picnic spots.
Return to Hakata
Travel back to Hakata Station from Uminonakamichi Seaside Park.
Take the JR Kashii Line from Uminonakamichi Station to Kashii Station, then transfer to the JR Kagoshima Line to Hakata Station.
Cafe Break at Little Stand Daimyo
Enjoy a coffee or light snack at Little Stand Daimyo store, a highly-rated cafe in the stylish Daimyo district.
Daimyo is known for its trendy boutiques and cafes, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
From Hakata Station, take the subway Kuko Line to Tenjin Station (K08), then a 10-minute walk to Daimyo.
Tenjin Shopping & Walk
Explore the vibrant Tenjin area, Fukuoka's main shopping and entertainment district.
Wander through department stores, boutiques, and underground malls.
Tenjin offers everything from high-end fashion to quirky souvenir shops. Great for people-watching.
The Daimyo area is adjacent to Tenjin, so it's a short walk.
Dinner in Tenjin
Savor dinner at one of the many restaurants in Tenjin, offering a wide array of dining experiences from casual izakayas to upscale dining.
Tenjin has excellent options for any cuisine you might be craving.
Seaside Park & City Views
Wednesday, March 4Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Explore the extensive leisure park known for its seasonal flowers and various events.
Perfect for a relaxing morning amidst nature.
Enjoy beautiful flower gardens. Rent a bicycle to explore the vast park more easily.
Take the Fukuoka City Subway to Hakata Station, then transfer to the JR Kagoshima Line to Saitozaki Station, followed by a short walk or shuttle bus to the park entrance.
Lunch near Park
Enjoy a casual lunch at a restaurant near Uminonakamichi Seaside Park or on your way back to the city.
Look for local eateries offering Japanese comfort food.
Fukuoka City Museum
Discover Fukuoka's rich history and cultural heritage, highlighting its role as a gateway to Asia.
Explore exhibits on local history, folklore, and trade. Check for temporary exhibitions.
Take the Fukuoka City Subway to Nishijin Station (K04), then it's about a 15-minute walk, or take a local bus from Nishijin to Fukuoka Tower Minamiguchi.
Fukuoka Tower Views
Ascend Fukuoka Tower for panoramic views of the city skyline, Hakata Bay, and Momochihama Beach. It's especially beautiful around sunset.
The observation deck offers stunning photo opportunities. Walk along Momochihama Beach afterward.
A short walk from Fukuoka City Museum.
Dinner in Tenjin
Savor dinner in the bustling Tenjin district, a hub for shopping, entertainment, and diverse dining options.
Explore the many restaurants ranging from casual izakayas to more upscale dining.
Take the Fukuoka City Subway to Tenjin Station (K08/K09).
Anmitsu Hime Show
Experience a unique and lively drag queen cabaret show at Anmitsu Hime, a popular entertainment spot in Fukuoka.
Known for its vibrant performances and entertaining atmosphere. Booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends.
A short walk from Tenjin Station in the Daimyo area.
Island Escape & Departure
Thursday, March 5Nokonoshima Island
Take a refreshing trip to Nokonoshima Island in Hakata Bay, known for its beautiful flower fields and scenic views.
Enjoy a leisurely walk, admire seasonal flowers, and take in the tranquility. There are also small cafes and shops on the island.
From Hakata Station, take a bus or subway to Meinohama Ferry Terminal. Then, take a ferry to Nokonoshima Island (approx. 10-15 min ferry ride).
Lunch in Hakata
Return to the city for a final lunch, perhaps trying some local Fukuoka specialties like Tonkotsu ramen.
There are many excellent ramen shops and local eateries around Hakata Station.
Canal City Hakata
Spend your afternoon exploring Canal City Hakata, a large shopping and entertainment complex with canals, fountains, and diverse stores.
Enjoy shopping, watch a fountain show, or find unique souvenirs. It's a great place for some last-minute gift buying.
A short walk or bus ride from Hakata Station.
Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a final dinner in Fukuoka, reflecting on your trip and savoring Japanese cuisine one last time before heading to the airport.
Choose a restaurant close to your departure point for convenience.
Departure Preparation
Final packing and preparations for your departure from Fukuoka.
Ensure all travel documents are in order.
The Hotel Nikko Fukuoka is conveniently located directly across from Hakata Station, making it easy to access the airport.
Travel to Fukuoka Airport
Head to Fukuoka Airport (FUK) for your outbound flight.
Fukuoka Airport is easily accessible from Hakata Station by subway (two stops, approx. 5 minutes).
Take the Fukuoka City Subway Kuko Line directly from Hakata Station to Fukuoka Airport Station.
This 5-day itinerary for Fukuoka can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.