Getting Around, Fukuoka Travel, Transport and Car Rental
(Fukuoka, Kyushu, Japan)
Getting to Fukuoka is fairly straightforward, with a number of popular transport options available. Most people prefer to arrive by air at the city's central airport, and then travel into nearby Fukuoka by using the available ground transport.
The city is also accessible by bus and high-speed train transport, suiting those travelling from the international airports at either
Tokyo or
Osaka.
Fukuoka International Airport (FUK) / Arriving by Air
A number of domestic and international flights leave from Fukuoka daily for destinations throughout Asia. This airport is a modern facility and is located just 15 minutes' drive from downtown Tenjin. Facilities include banks, a post office, currency exchange facilities, VIP lounge, restaurants and bars, information desks and extensive facilities for those passengers travelling with disabilities. Free shuttle bus transport provides travel between the Domestic and International terminals every ten minutes.
A number of international and local car hire firms can be found at Fukuoka Airport. Further ground transportation options include subway services, which travel from the station at Domestic Terminal 2; bus transport to and from destinations around the island; and also taxis, available from both terminals.
Car Rental
If you want to rent a car while you are in Fukuoka, you will need to have a valid international driving licence and passport. You will find a range of car hire companies throughout the city and at Fukuoka Airport. However, you should be aware that the staff at many of these transport companies do not have a good grasp of English and therefore communication may prove to be difficult. Many people choose to rent a car so that they can travel farther afield, in the comfort and convenience of their own vehicle. If you drive around Fukuoka city centre, it is important to note that parking here can be very expensive.
Fukuoka Travel by Bus and Coach
There are three local bus companies providing transport both in and around the city of Fukuoka. JR, Showa, and Nishitetsu all offer routes throughout the city, as well as between the city centre and surrounding suburbs. Local bus transport is an inexpensive way to travel, as well as being extremely convenient for reaching many of the city's main tourist attractions.
Fukuoka is home to three bus terminals, where you will find timetables and other useful information, such as maps, fares and service updates. It is also possible to travel to destinations throughout the country by bus, with services being regular, efficient and comfortable.
Fukuoka Travel by Train
Fukuoka boasts an extensive subway system consisting of three lines that connect the entire city. Line 1 runs west from Fukuoka Airport to Meinohama and on to Karatsu, Line 2 travels east from Nakasu-Kawabata to Kaizuka, and Line 3 connects 16 stations between the Tenjin and Hashimoto areas.
There are two railway companies offering overground train transport to other destinations in the city, as well as towns throughout Japan. Train fares are charged according to how far you travel, although surcharges apply for some journeys. There are two types of trains - express trains, which stop at all stations, and limited express trains, which only stop at major stations. Be sure to get on the right train.
Fukuoka Travel by Taxi
Taxis in Fukuoka are a popular way to travel around and can be flagged down in the street, hired at a taxi stand, or simply booked in advance by telephone. They are very easy to spot and have a 'vacant' sign illuminated in red on the lower side of the windshield when they are available. The left rear passenger door of the taxi will be opened and closed automatically for you, when you get in and out.
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