7 Top-Rated Day Trips in Fukuoka
Approximate reading time: 6-8 minutes
The Solhaugens in Japan!
Table of contents
Introduction
Disclaimers
7 Top-Rated Day Trips in Fukuoka
Dazaifu
Itoshima
Yufuin
Beppu
Kumamoto
Nagasaki
Kitakyushu
Hotel Recommendations
Quick Tips
Ready for your next adventure?
Ending notes
Looking for the best travel hacks?
Introduction
If you’re spending time in Fukuoka, lucky you! This bustling city in the Kyushu region is one of Japan’s best-kept secrets. You come for the ramen, the slower pace, the sea breeze—then you realize it’s also the perfect launchpad for some of the best day trips in the country. From quiet shrine towns to coastal escapes and steamy hot spring villages, Kyushu has a bit of everything.
We went on a few day trips over our 10-day stay in Fukuoka and really enjoyed seeing a more rural side of Japan. So if you have a day or two to spare during your trip, we highly recommend making the time to check out one of these spots! You can travel to all of these places by public transport, but if you want a hassle-free experience, you can book a private car tour on Klook like we did.
Here's your guide to six incredible destinations you can reach in just a few hours from Fukuoka. Whether you're craving nature, culture, or just a break from city vibes, these places deliver.
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Disclaimers
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7 Top-Rated Day Trips in Fukuoka
Dazaifu
Watch the vlog on Martin’s YouTube channel : Shrine
This ancient town feels like stepping into another era. The main attraction here is Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the god of learning (students pray here like their finals depend on it). Just 30 minutes by train from central Fukuoka, it’s such a convenient stop for a quick day trip.
The lush gardens around Dazaifu are especially magical during cherry blossom season, with pink petals floating through the air. If you’re feeling a bit of travel fatigue, this is the kind of place that restores your energy.
The path leading to the shrine is lined with mochi shops, cafés, and souvenir stands, so the journey is half the fun. Don’t leave without trying umegae mochi—grilled rice cakes filled with red bean paste. While you're in town, pop into the Kyushu National Museum for a bit of historical immersion. Or if you’re travelling with little ones, hop on some rides at the Dazaifu Amusement Park.
Itoshima
Sakurai Futamigaura is a scenic spot on the coast in the northern part of Itoshima City, overlooking the Sea of Genkai.
Less than an hour west of Fukuoka, this coastal getaway is where a lot of locals go to for some relaxation. For anime fans, this is often the place for a classic beach episode.
Watch the waves roll in at Sakurai Futamigaura, two sacred rocks joined by a giant rope in the sea, framed by a torii gate. From there, you can take a detour at Shiraito Falls, or just wind down at a beachside cafe. Itoshima is also known for its arts scene so keep your eyes peeled for quirky shops and local crafts along the way.
Klook also offers a guided 1-day tour of Itoshima if that’s more your speed.
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Yufuin
You can watch the vlog on Martin’s Youtube channel
Nestled at the base of Mount Yufu, this charming little town is about 2 hours away from Fukuoka. While it is a bit of a trip, trust us when we say that it’s worth every minute. The scenery on the way there is an experience in itself.
You can either go on a sightseeing train or arrange a car service to get to Yufuin. Once there, take a slow stroll down Yunotsubo Kaido, a shopping street full of boutiques, cafés, and food stalls. Don’t miss the Yufuin Floral Village—it’s designed after England's Cotswold villages and feels like walking through a storybook.
Before heading back to the city, stop by Lake Kinrin for some scenic nature views. The lake is surrounded by trees and shrouded in mist from the nearby hot springs.
Beppu
"Hells of Beppu" (Jigoku), a collection of spectacular hot springs known for their unique characteristics and high temperatures.
If you’re coming to Japan for an onsen experience, why not pay a visit to the capital city of hot springs? Because of Beppu’s unique geothermal activity, it’s known for producing more hot spring water than any other place in the country.
Check out the “Hells of Beppu”, a collection of mysterious hot springs that are more for looking than bathing. These hot springs are distinct in color, ranging from bright blue to blood-red.
During our trip, we took the Kanpachi Ichiroku between Fukuoka and Beppu. It’s a luxury sightseeing train that takes you on a five-hour ride between destinations. Honestly, it’s the most relaxing way to travel, so you can only imagine what it’d be like to top it off with a dip at an onsen.
Kumamoto
See the vlog at Martin’s YouTube channel : Kumamoto Castle
In under an hour by Shinkansen, you’ll find yourself in Kumamoto, a city that’s all about bold history and even bolder flavors. Kumamoto Castle is one of the best in Japan, and while parts are still being restored from the 2016 earthquake, it’s an absolute must-see.
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Come explore cherry blossoms and quiet shrines with us in Fukuoka!
Foodies can also try local specialties like basashi (raw horse meat) for the adventurous, and Kumamoto-style ramen, which is known for its roasted garlic flavor.
Nagasaki
The Peace Statue located in Nagasaki Peace Park.
Nagasaki might be one of Japan’s most fascinating cities, and it's only about two hours from Fukuoka. This hillside port city has one of the most unique cultural mixes in Japan, thanks to centuries of trade and foreign influence.
Start with a visit to the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum, a heavy but important experience that offers powerful lessons in resilience. Then, wander through Glover Garden for views over the bay and historic European-style houses.
Before you head back, grab a slice of Nagasaki’s famous castella sponge cake or slurp up some champon noodles.
Kitakyushu
Mount Sarakura (Sarakurayama) in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
Only about 45 minutes from Fukuoka by train, Kitakyushu blends modern city life with old-world charm and coastal views. Your first stop should be Kokura Castle, a peaceful and well-preserved landmark surrounded by scenic gardens, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Then make your way to Mojiko Retro, a port town with European-style architecture, vintage train stations, art galleries, and cafés overlooking the sea. You’ll feel like you've stepped into a different era. The whole area is perfect for a relaxed stroll and some retro photo ops.
Feeling hungry? Don’t leave without trying yaki curry, a local specialty, a rich Japanese curry baked with cheese and egg, served hot in a gratin dish.
Whether you're into panoramic views from the Kanmon Bridge, quiet museums, or seaside vibes, Kitakyushu is an easy, underrated day trip that adds something different to your Kyushu experience.
Each of these day trips brings something different—whether you want to chill by the beach, soak in an onsen, explore ancient temples, or wander through history. Mix and match depending on your mood (or the weather), and you’ll leave with lasting memories.
Looking for the perfect stay in Fukuoka Japan?
Here are our top three hotel recommendations.
Simply click the hotel name and make your reservation today!
Premium
Miyako Hotel Hakata [ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ]
Address : Fukuoka, Hakata-ku Hakataeki-higashi 2-1-1
Standard
CROSS Life Hakata Tenjin [ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ]
Address : Fukuoka, Chuo-ku Haruyoshi 3-26-30
Budget
Hotel Halrotto Fukuoka Hakata [ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ]
Address : Fukuoka, Hakata-ku Hakataekihigashi 2-9-10
Want to visit the Philippines?
Are you ready to enter a tropical paradise? Book that much deserved beach vacation and skip the hassle of planning with Dream Philippines Tours. We’ll make sure that you get the very best beach experience wherever you choose to go. Dream Philippines Tours connects you to nothing but the best accommodations, services, and activities. Let Dream Philippines Tours handle all your planning concerns so that all you have to do is sit back, relax, and feel the seabreeze on your skin.
Quick Tips
Money
While cashless options are available in most stores in Japan, always have cash on hand since some stores (especially locally run, small businesses) do not accept card payments. We’ve found that convenience store ATMs are the next best thing for withdrawing cash if there’s no money exchange nearby.
There’s also good news for all Filipinos using GCash! You can use the app abroad to pay in Japan at a good conversion rate. Just have them scan the QR code generated using AliPay+. If you use WePay or ApplePay, you can also look for the sign first before you ask.
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Transportation cards
If you haven’t gotten yourself a Suica, PasMo, or ICOCA yet, it might be the best time to get one (affiliate). Makes traveling that much easier!
Special tickets
Got the JR Pass? Make sure to keep it with you ALWAYS since it’s nonrefundable! If you want to know more about the Japan Rail Pass and its different alternatives, check out our article here (link to transpo article)!
Etiquette / Cultural customs
Remember to be respectful and mindful of Japanese culture while visiting, especially at shrines and temples.
For our complete guide on proper etiquette when in Japan, read our article here!
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Ending notes
Ohori Park in Fukuoka, Japan
Still wondering about what else Fukuoka has to offer? Check out our article on 12 Things to Do in Fukuoka for a glimpse at the city.
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