Varies by nationality; many get 90-day tourist visa on arrival. Check with your embassy.

What language is spoken?

Japanese. English is limited; learn basic phrases or use translation apps.

Is credit card widely accepted?

Increasingly, but cash is still king. Carry yen for small shops and yatai stalls.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and tastes good.

What is the best way to get from the airport?

Fukuoka Airport is very close to the city; take the subway (5 min to Hakata Station) or a bus.

Are there any cultural taboos?

Don't blow your nose in public, avoid loud phone calls on trains, and never point with chopsticks.

Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for evenings, and an umbrella (rainy season June-July).

Is Fukuoka expensive?

More affordable than Tokyo. Budget travelers can manage $50-70/day; mid-range $100-150.

Fukuoka

CityFukuoka, Japan

Fukuoka is a CITY in Fukuoka, Japan.

Fukuoka, Japan's gateway to Kyushu, blends ancient traditions with modern energy. Stroll through the historic Kushida Shrine, then dive into the city's legendary street food scene at the yatai stalls along the Naka River. Explore the serene Ohori Park, shop at Canal City Hakata, and marvel at the views from Fukuoka Tower. The city's relaxed vibe, hot springs, and proximity to beaches make it a perfect blend of culture and leisure. Don't miss the vibrant Hakata Dontaku festival in May or the stunning autumn foliage at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine just outside the city.

Best time to visit Fukuoka

Spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November) offer mild weather, cherry blossoms, and colorful foliage. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid with festivals like Hakata Gion Yamakasa. Winter (December-February) is cool and less crowded, with illuminations and hot springs.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 18-23°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Autumn foliage begins

Know before you go

Getting there

FUK

Fukuoka Airport

International

5 km away

KKJ

Kitakyushu Airport

International

70 km away

HSG

Saga Airport

Domestic

50 km away

Getting around

"Fukuoka has an efficient subway system covering major areas. Buses and taxis are plentiful. Rent a bicycle for short trips. The JR line connects to nearby cities. A prepaid IC card (like Suica or Nimoca) works on all public transport. Walking is pleasant in the city center."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in city centre, cafes, and hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe overall; minor scams possible in tourist areas.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe overall; minor scams possible in tourist areas.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Fukuoka is very safe, even at night. Petty crime like pickpocketing is rare but possible in crowded areas. Be cautious of scams near tourist spots, such as overpriced taxis or fake monks asking for donations. Natural disasters: earthquakes and typhoons are possible; know evacuation routes. Follow local advice during storms."

Police

110

Ambulance

119

Fire

119

Entry and health

Health information

"No mandatory vaccinations. Tap water is safe. Hospitals and clinics are excellent; bring travel insurance. Pharmacies are common. For minor issues, try a 'drugstore' for over-the-counter meds. In case of emergency, dial 119 for ambulance. Note that some medications require a prescription in Japan; carry a doctor's note for controlled substances."

Culture

Local customs

"Bow when greeting. Remove shoes before entering homes and some traditional inns. Tipping is not customary; good service is expected. Use both hands to give and receive items. Avoid eating while walking. Dress modestly at temples and shrines. Public displays of affection are minimal."

Japanese (official)AinuRyukyuanEnglishChineseKoreanPortugueseSpanishJapanese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5-10 | a cheap local meal costs ~$5-10

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1.50 | local bus ride ~$1.50

Cost notes

Yatai street food is affordable; luxury hotels can exceed $200/night.

Timezone

Asia/Tokyo
Local time 05:51

More facts

Population

1,612,392

Type

City

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Shime

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: FUK, Fucuoca, Fukuoka, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuokashi, Fukuoko, Hukuoka, fu gang, fu gang shi, fukuoka, fukuokashi, fwkwka, hukuoka si, pwqwʼwqh, Фукуока, פוקואוקה, فوكوكا, ふくおか, ふくおかし, フクオカ, フクオカシ, 福岡, 福岡市, 후쿠오카 시, 400009, 福岡県, محافظة فوكوكا, prefektura Fukuoka, Präfektur Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture, Prefectura de Fukuoka, Préfecture de Fukuoka, Prefettura di Fukuoka, 후쿠오카현, Prefeitura de Fukuoka, Префектура Фукуока, 福冈县, JP-40, ふくおかけん, フクオカケン, Fukuoka-ken, 福岡縣, Fukuoka prefektúra, Prefektur Fukuoka, Fúgāng Xiàn

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