Fukuoka Itinerary Ideas: Day Trips & City Highlights

Are you planning your Fukuoka Itinerary BUT have no idea where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you! Here’s our MUST-SEE Fukuoka Itinerary suggestions including day tours to explore the rest of Kyushu Island AND Fukuoka city highlights!

Kinrin Lake near Yufiun Floral village, a great day trip idea from Fukuoka
Fukuoka Itinerary Lake Kinrin, Yufuin

Itinerary Ideas in Fukuoka & Kyushu

Fukuoka is the ultimate base for your Kyushu itinerary and where you will likely arrive, and where we suggest you base yourself or at the very least spend a few days.

It is a vibrant city that boasts a fantastic food scene and is famous for its delicious ramen and street stalls.

Fukuoka’s proximity to many of the amazing experiences Kyushu has to offer makes it the ultimate launchpad for your itinerary.

Get ready to EAT, explore, and enjoy everything that Fukuoka and Kyushu has to offer!

10 x BEST Things to add to your Fukuoka Itinerary (Downtown Fukuoka)

What Rail Passes do you need for your Kyushu & Fukuoka Itinerary?

Where we stayed in downtown Fukuoka

Where to stay in Fukuoka

Want more choice?…

Click to view our guide and suggestions of where to stay in Fukuoka!

How to get around Kyushu and Fukuoka

When planning your Fukuoka Itinerary, it is important to consider how you will travel from place to place. Whilst Fukuoka City is well connected by trains, reaching the regional areas of Kyushu can be more of a challenge. Below we have set out your options to ensure your Fukuoka Itinerary runs smoothly.

Kyushu Travel Passes
Hire a car
Hire a CamperVan
Hire a Driver
Fukuoka Temple photo

Grab our Fukuoka & Kyushu Map

Day Trips from Fukuoka, to add to your Fukuoka Itinerary

Things to know before going to Japan

Everything I wish I knew before Travelling to Japan

Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge was one of our itinerary highlights. It’s a stunning natural wonder located in Miyazaki Prefecture, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and the beautiful Gokase River that flows through it.

One of the highlights is the enjoying a scenic boat ride to experience through the gorge from the water.

Takachiho Gorge is a 2-hour drive from Fukuoka, making it a perfect day trip destination.

GETTING TO TAKACHIHO GORGE:

  • Driving – 2.5 hours
  • Train – 4 hours +
  • Bus – 3.5 hours +

Kumamoto Castle

The Kumamoto Castle, often said to be one of Japanโ€™s most impressive castles, was originally built in the 17th century and is an icon of Kyushu.

Kumamoto Castle in Fukuoka
Kumamoto Castle – Day trip from Fukuoka

Fukuoka’s Yanagawa – the Venice of Kyushu

Another great place to add to your Fukuoka Itinerary is the regional town of Yanagawa. Yanagawa is known as the “Venice of Kyushu”.

Yanagawa is a charming historical city located just an hour from Fukuoka. Here you can enjoy a boat ride along the picturesque canals being serenaded and taking in the local history, wildlife and sites.

Yufiun & Yufiun Floral Village

Yufuin is a charming onsen town located in Oita Prefecture. This quaint village town boasts beautiful traditional countryside views, Kinrin Lake, Yufugawa canyon and many onsens. A definite highlight of Yufuin is the Yufuin Floral Village which is nick named the Ghibli Village.

Visitors can stroll along cobblestone paths, explore the themed cafes and boutiques selling local crafts. The FOOD is also an absolute HIGHLIGHT with so many options lining the main street.

Beppu

If youโ€™re looking to add some relaxation to your itinerary head to Beppu. Beppu is an onsen town known for its MANY hot springs and onsens. Just 2 hours from Fukuoka, you can soak in various baths, enjoy unique experiences like the โ€œHells of Beppu,โ€ a set ofย seven uniquely colored hot springs.

Itoshima

Next stop in your Fukuoka and Kyushu itinerary, it’s time to hit the beach!

Just a short ride from Fukuoka you find Itoshima. Itoshima is a hidden gem thatโ€™s perfect for a day trip or a relaxing weekend escape.

This charming coastal town is known for its stunning beaches, lush rice fields, and fun cafe scene. Picture yourself eating gelato at a beachside London Bus cafรฉ, soaking up the sun, or exploring quirky cafes in the area. Itoshima is also home to the instafamous, Sakurai Futamigaura white Tori Gates.

Koura Taisha Shrine

Last place to consider for your Fukuoka Itinerary is the Koura Taisha Shrine. This stunning shrine, surrounded by lush greenery, is dedicated to the deity of safe travels and good fortune, making it a popular stop for both locals and travelers.

It also offers a great vantage point overlooking Fukuoka City below.

Explore beyond your Fukuoka Itinerary…

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