Getting Around Fukuoka
Fukuoka is a major Japanese city with a well-developed public transport network. Walking is common and practical in the city center, complemented by a subway system, trams, buses, and regional rail connections. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available. Most visitors will find a combination of these modes sufficient for exploring the city.
The Subway Network
Fukuoka City Subway consists of three lines, with Hakata Station serving as a central hub directly beneath JR Hakata Station. The subway connects major districts including access to Fukuoka International Airport and Tenjin, the city's principal downtown area.
Single subway tickets vary by distance, ranging from ¥210 to ¥380. An all-day pass costs ¥640. Contactless credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Amex, Diners, and Discover) can be used at all ticket gates on all subway lines by simply tapping. The Hayakaken is the local rechargeable smart card and is compatible with systems like PASMO (Tokyo) and ICOCA (Kyoto and Osaka), making it convenient if you plan to travel beyond Fukuoka.
A special one-day tourist pass is available for ¥2,500 (¥1,250 for children) and offers unlimited rides on buses, trains, and subways, plus some discounts at local attractions.
Trams and Local Rail
The public transport system is supported by tram services that complement the subway network. Beyond the city, a broader regional rail network connects Fukuoka to surrounding areas, with Hakata Station, Tenjin Station, and Kokura Station serving as major hubs. This regional network includes services to intercity destinations and is operated by several public and private companies.
Buses
Fukuoka is well served by multiple private and public bus companies operating hundreds of routes throughout the city and region. Buses complement the rail and subway network to form an integrated transit system. Fares start at ¥150 and vary based on distance traveled.
IC cards and contactless credit cards are accepted on buses from multiple operators. When boarding, tap your card or smartphone as you enter and again as you leave to ensure you are charged the correct fare.
Cycling
Cycling is common in Fukuoka, particularly for short trips within the city. The city's relatively flat terrain is conducive to bicycle travel. The "Chari Chari" bike-sharing service allows visitors and residents to rent bicycles from various locations across the city, offering an eco-friendly alternative to motorized transport.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis operate throughout Fukuoka and are readily available. Ride-hailing services are also available in the city, providing additional options for getting around.
Walking
Downtown Fukuoka is compact enough to explore on foot. The Tenjin area is particularly walkable and includes Tenjin Chikagai (Tenjin Underground Shopping Center), which runs beneath Watanabe Street and connects the Tenjin and Tenjin-Minami subway stations with major department stores and the Nishitetsu Fukuoka station. The underground passages allow up to 120 minutes for transfers between stations and are useful during Fukuoka's frequent summer rains and winter wind. A passenger tunnel also connects Hakata and Gion subway stations, providing weather protection during inclement conditions.
Getting from Fukuoka Airport to the City
Airport Location and Layout
Fukuoka Airport is conveniently located to the east of the city center, surprisingly close to downtown. The airport has two terminals: the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal.
Subway Access
The subway serves the Domestic Terminal and is the most convenient option for most visitors. From Hakata JR Station, the subway is just two stops away. The journey from the Domestic Terminal to central Fukuoka via subway is quick and inexpensive at ¥260 and takes approximately 6 minutes.
Between Terminals
A free bus shuttle operates between the Domestic and International Terminals approximately every 10 minutes, with a transfer time of about 10 minutes.
International Terminal Access
The International Terminal faces the city side and is approximately a 5 km walk from the city center. Buses depart directly to the airport from Hakata Station. Alternatively, visitors can take the subway to the Domestic Terminal and then use the free shuttle to reach the International Terminal.
Regional and Long-Distance Connections
Hakata Station serves as Fukuoka's main railway hub and is the junction point between the Sanyō Shinkansen (connecting to Honshu) and the Kyūshū Shinkansen (connecting to other parts of Kyushu). The station provides connections to major cities across Japan via high-speed rail.