Is Fukuoka Worth Visiting? 8 Firsthand Reasons After Exploring

Fukuoka is the central hub and gateway to the southwestern region of Japan. While not as bustling as Tokyo or Osaka, this fifth-largest city in Japan offers everything you'd expect. Plus, Fukuoka provides convenient access to other cities like Nagasaki, Beppu, and Kumamoto.

Curious if Fukuoka is worth a visit? In this article, I'll share my real experiences in Fukuoka and explain why I think Fukuoka is worth exploring from every angle.

1. Fukuoka is the Gateway to Explore Southwest Japan

Fukuoka is the largest city and the center of Kyushu. Many international flights connect it to countries like the United States, the UK, and Australia. You could also easily reach other famous cities in this region, such as Nagasaki, Beppu, and Kagoshima.

Additionally, staying in Fukuoka is an excellent choice for day trips to Nagasaki or Beppu. It offers more hotel options, and you could get to these places in no more than 2 hours.

2. Fukuoka is Easy to Reach Beppu's Onsens

Beppu is a famous onsen city known for having the highest hot springs output in Japan. With a 2-hour drive from Fukuoka, you could enjoy some of Japan's best onsens.

Beppu offers both hot springs for sightseeing and those for soaking. This is unlike other hot spring cities like Hakone, where you could only bathe in onsens.

The biggest highlight is the Hells of Beppu. There are seven hot springs for viewing only, each with unique colors and scenery. To avoid visual fatigue, you're suggested to pick 3-4 onsens to visit, as some may be less interesting.

Moreover, you could also enjoy other onsen experiences like relaxing in a sand bath, trying hell-steamed food (using hot spring steam to cook), and soaking in a foot bath.

3. Fukuoka Offers Some of The Best-Tasting Ramen in Japan

Ramen is a must-try and one of Japan's most famous dishes. At the top of the list is Tonkotsu ramen (pork broth ramen), originating in Fukuoka. You could easily enjoy the tastiest ramen here.

The special part of tonkotsu ramen is its milky white soup. The broth is made from boiled pork bones, giving it a richer and thicker flavor than other ramen soups. However, it can be a bit salty. If you prefer a milder taste, it's okay to request a light broth when ordering.

4. Enjoy Nature Beauty and Outdoor Adventures

Fukuoka is convenient for exploring the beautiful nature nearby. You could reach various landscapes like Sakurajima, Mount Aso, or Kumamoto's gorge within 2 hours.

Here are some details about the most popular natural beauty close to Fukuoka for your inspiration.

Sakurajima is an active volcano in Kagoshima. Although it has hundreds of minor eruptions every year, it's safe to visit due to continuous monitoring systems. However, it doesn't erupt every day.

Mount Aso is a volcanic crater that emits steaming white smoke and surrounds a volcanic lake. Unlike Sakurajima, it only erupts a few times a year. If you're short on time and not too interested in seeing volcanic eruptions, Mount Aso is a perfect option.

Takachiho in Kumamoto is famous for its canyon landscapes. You could explore the Takachiho Gorge by boat and take a ride on an open-air sightseeing train to enjoy the natural beauty. Check out our Guide to Visiting Takachiho for more firsthand information.

5. Discover Authentic Japan Without the Big-City Price

Hotels in Fukuoka are more affordable, spacious, and easier to book compared to Tokyo or Osaka at the same star rating. This is because Fukuoka attracts fewer travelers and has more available land.

Take our early April cherry blossom trip to Japan as an example. In Tokyo, the hotel was 60% more expensive, and the room was so small that we couldn't lay our 28-inch suitcases flat. In contrast, our suitcase could spread out easily in Fukuoka's hotel room, leaving ample walking space in the aisle.

6. Slow Down and Savor the Real Japan in Fukuoka

Fukuoka provides a more relaxed vibe with fewer crowds and attractions than popular cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. You could enjoy local culture at your own pace and taste delicious food in a peaceful atmosphere.

If you're planning to visit many attractions during the first half of your Japan trip and need a break for a day or two, Fukuoka is the perfect choice. This quieter city lets you recharge before you continue your journey.

7. It's Worth Spending Your Second Japan Trip in Fukuoka

We suggest you visit Fukuoka during your second trip to Japan.

For your first trip to Japan, you should prioritize exploring the "Golden Triangle" cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. These cities will make you feel real Japan and easily exceed your expectations.

Based on our experience, it's perfect to combine Fukuoka with other cities in Kyushu for a trip at least 7 days. Since Fukuoka doesn't have many highlights, 1-2 days in the city are enough. Then, dedicate the rest of your time to exploring other cities.

If you decide to visit Japan only once or want to explore Fukuoka during your first trip, that's also doable. In this case, staying in Japan for at least 10 days and visiting 3-4 cities is highly recommended. This way, you could enjoy as many highlights as possible without feeling too rushed.

8. It's Conveniently Connected to Tokyo or Osaka

Fukuoka is easily accessible from Tokyo or Osaka via plane or Shinkansen (bullet train). We recommend flying from Tokyo to Fukuoka and using the Shinkansen when traveling from Osaka.

Fukuoka is quite far from Tokyo. Taking the Shinkansen takes about 5 hours and costs around US$170 per ticket. In comparison, flying to Fukuoka only takes 2 hours, with plane ticket prices between US$50-110.

On the other hand, Fukuoka is closer to Osaka, making the Shinkansen a great choice. The journey typically lasts two and a half to three hours and costs around US$130.

Let's Plan Your Fukuoka Trip

Ready to plan your trip to Fukuoka and Japan? Our experienced Japan travel advisors are here to assist you in customizing your itinerary based on your preferences, answering any questions you may have, and taking care of all the details for you. Contact us now!

Here are two popular Japan tours to inspire you. Choose your favorite, and we can help you connect with Fukuoka or adjust attractions/cities based on your vacation length and requirements.

• 11-Day Traditional Japan Tour with Historical Hiroshima
• 13-Day Japan Family Vacation with Theme Parks