Getting to
Fukuoka City

Fukuoka: The Gateway to Kyushu

Fukuoka, the largest city in the Kyushu region, is an essential transportation hub that makes getting here a breeze from anywhere in Japan. Thanks to its well-developed network of railways, air travel, and buses, you can easily reach the city and begin your adventure.
Flights from Tokyo take just 1 hour and 35 minutes, while a quick 1 hour and 15-minute flight from Osaka or a 2 hour and 28-minute bullet train ride will have you here in no time. For international visitors, direct flights are available from various Asian destinations, including South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore. The flight from Seoul, for example, is only about 1 hour and 10 minutes, making for a smooth and easy trip.
We've compiled all the essential information you need to plan your journey and arrive in Fukuoka feeling relaxed and ready to explore!

JR Trains to Fukuoka City

Hakata Station: The Rail Gateway to Kyushu

Traveling to Fukuoka by train is both fast and convenient, offering a seamless journey right into the heart of the city. Hakata Station is the largest station in the Kyushu region and serves as a major railway hub, connecting you easily to destinations across Japan.

Hakata Station is one of the busiest railway hubs in Japan, offering excellent connections not only throughout Kyushu but also from major metropolitan areas like Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka via the bullet train.

With the Shinkansen (bullet train), you can reach Hakata in:
From Osaka: 2 hours and 28 minutes
From Tokyo: 4 hours and 52 minutes

Access from Kyushu is incredibly fast: Travel times from nearby cities range from just 32 minutes from Kumamoto to about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Kagoshima and Nagasaki.

The JAPAN RAIL PASS is valid on almost all JR lines to Hakata. Once you arrive, transferring is a breeze; Hakata Station is directly connected to the subway and bus network, allowing you to reach any of the city’s tourist spots quickly.

Buses to Fukuoka City

A Budget-Friendly Way to Explore

Traveling by highway bus is a convenient and affordable way to reach Fukuoka City from both within Kyushu and major destinations across Japan.

Express bus service operates from many major cities, providing easy access to Fukuoka City.
Many transportation companies, including Nishitetsu, offer routes from Western Japan and various regions within Kyushu.
For travelers coming from afar, some long-distance routes, such as those from Osaka and Tokyo, even offer comfortable overnight sleeper buses, turning your transit time into rest time.

Estimated Travel Times (Long Distance):
•From Tokyo: Approximately 14 hours
•From Osaka: Approximately 8 hours

Fukuoka is home to several major highway bus terminals, including the Hakata Bus Terminal and the Nishitetsu Tenjin Expressway Bus Terminal, both of which have frequent services to and from various areas in Kyushu. You can also find connections directly at the Fukuoka Airport International Terminal.

Tickets are easily secured; you can purchase them online, by phone, or directly at the bus terminal and ticket counters.

Ferries to Fukuoka City

Arrival by Sea: The Port of Hakata

Arriving by ferry or cruise ship offers a unique and relaxing start to your Fukuoka adventure. The Port of Hakata is a popular port of call for international cruise ships and serves as a major gateway to the city.

The Port of Hakata is well served by public transportation, making your arrival seamless. The port hosts both domestic and international terminals.

International Connections
For travelers coming from across the water, the Port of Hakata has a regular international ferry route connecting Fukuoka directly to Busan, South Korea (served by Camellia Line).

Getting to the City Center is Easy
Disembarking is easy, and you can access the city of Fukuoka quickly:

By Taxi: It takes about 15 minutes by taxi from the port directly to Hakata Station or Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station.

By Bus: The bus stop at the Hakata Port International Terminal is a short five-minute walk from the port. Buses run frequently, reaching Tenjin in 13 minutes or Hakata Station in 17 minutes.

Important Note: When using the bus service, please remember that buses only accept cash or IC cards (such as the SUGOCA or Suica) as payment. Credit cards are not accepted.