Fukuoka, known for its delicious ramen, vibrant nightlife, and historical temples, is a popular destination in Kyushu, Japan. Located 1,100 km (684 miles) southwest of Tokyo, Fukuoka is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train), flight, highway bus, or car. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Tokyo to Fukuoka:
- By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): A comfortable and scenic journey.
- By Highway Bus: The cheapest but longest alternative.
- By Car: The most flexible but expensive choice.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Tokyo to Fukuoka.
Timetable
| Flight Tokyo - Fukuoka Â¥ 14,279–34,178 1h 50m – 1d 1h 13m | |
|
By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking a direct flight from Tokyo to Fukuoka is the quickest and easiest way to travel.
Key Details:
- Departure Airports:
- Haneda Airport (HND), Tokyo.
- Narita Airport (NRT), Tokyo.
- Arrival Airport: Fukuoka Airport (FUK).
- Duration: 1 hour 50 minutes (excluding airport transfers).
- Price: 10,000–35,000 JPY (~$70–$240 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
- Airlines:
- ANA (All Nippon Airways, full-service).
- JAL (Japan Airlines, full-service).
- Peach Aviation, Jetstar Japan (budget airlines).
- Flight Frequency: Over 50 daily flights from morning to evening.
Airport Transfers in Fukuoka:
- From Fukuoka Airport (FUK) to City Center:
- By Subway: 5 minutes to Hakata Station,
260 JPY ($2 USD). - By Taxi/Grab: 15 minutes,
1,500–2,000 JPY ($10–$15 USD).
- By Subway: 5 minutes to Hakata Station,
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~2 hours).
- Multiple flights available throughout the day.
- Affordable options with budget airlines.
Cons:
- Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.
- Narita Airport is farther from central Tokyo.
Booking Tip:
For lower fares, book flights at least 2–4 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.
By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): A Comfortable and Scenic Journey
For travelers who prefer a comfortable and scenic land journey, taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Fukuoka is a great choice.
Key Details:
- Route: Tokyo → Hakata (Fukuoka) via Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen.
- Departure Stations:
- Tokyo Station.
- Shinagawa Station.
- Arrival Station: Hakata Station (Fukuoka).
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours, depending on train type.
- Price: 23,390 JPY (Unreserved Seat) – 24,890 JPY (Reserved Seat) (~$160–$170 USD).
- Shinkansen Types:
- Nozomi (Fastest, 5 hours, fewest stops, not covered by JR Pass).
- Hikari & Sakura (Mid-speed, 5.5 to 6 hours, covered by JR Pass).
- Seating Options:
- Ordinary Class (Standard seating, comfortable and spacious).
- Green Car (First class, more legroom and reclining seats).
- Departure Frequency: Multiple trains per hour from morning to evening.
- JR Pass Valid: Yes, but only for Hikari and Sakura trains.
Pros:
- Comfortable and spacious seating.
- Scenic views of Mount Fuji and Japanese countryside.
- No baggage fees.
Cons:
- Nozomi Shinkansen is not covered by the JR Pass.
- More expensive than budget flights.
Booking Tip:
For the fastest travel, take the Nozomi Shinkansen. For JR Pass holders, take the Hikari or Sakura Shinkansen instead. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Highway Bus: The Cheapest but Longest Alternative
For budget travelers, taking a highway bus from Tokyo to Fukuoka is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes significantly longer than the Shinkansen or flight.
Key Details:
- Departure Points: Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Bus Terminal, or Ikebukuro Station.
- Arrival Point: Hakata Bus Terminal (Fukuoka City Center).
- Duration: 14 to 16 hours, including rest stops.
- Price: 9,000–15,000 JPY (~$60–$100 USD).
- Bus Operators:
- Willer Express (budget option).
- JR Bus (comfortable, JR Pass discount available).
- Bus Types:
- Standard Bus (Cheaper, fewer amenities).
- Premium Bus (More legroom, reclining seats, blankets).
- Departure Frequency: Overnight departures, daily.
Pros:
- Cheaper than flights and Shinkansen (~9,000 JPY for budget buses).
- Overnight buses save on accommodation costs.
Cons:
- Takes significantly longer (~14+ hours).
- Limited rest stops.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose a premium overnight bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Car: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, renting a car from Tokyo to Fukuoka is an option, though expensive due to toll fees and parking costs in Fukuoka.
Key Details:
- Route: Tokyo → Fukuoka via Tomei and Sanyo Expressway.
- Distance: 1,100 km (684 miles).
- Duration: 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic.
- Toll Fees:
20,000 JPY ($140 USD). - Gasoline Cost:
15,000 JPY ($100 USD). - Car Rental Price: 15,000–25,000 JPY per day (~$100–$170 USD).
- Rental Car Companies:
- Toyota Rent-a-Car.
- Nippon Rent-a-Car.
Pros:
- Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
- Comfortable for groups and families.
Cons:
- More expensive than trains and buses.
- Long driving hours (~12+ hours).
Booking Tip:
For ease of navigation, rent a car with GPS or use Google Maps. Use our online search form to compare rental car prices.
