Fukuoka is one of those cities that everyone falls in love with. Home to some of the best cuisine, shopping and nightlife in Japan, you’ll soon see why this little gem of a city blows travellers’ minds.

Fukuoka is one of the most up-and-coming cities in Japan. A lively sports atmosphere, a rich history, and arguably one of the best food scenes in Asia, Fukuoka is absolutely one of Japan’s best-kept secrets.

Although the centre of the city is WILD, exciting and full of everything a Japanese city should be… You’re only a 20-minute drive from mountains and beaches. Fukuoka gives you the best of both worlds and I’m all about it!

Fukuoka is an incredible city, but it is sprawling and huge. Packed with loads of different neighbourhoods, deciding where to stay can be a daunting task. 

That’s where I come in! I’ve explored this epic city and created this guide on where to stay in Fukuoka to make your decision-making a hell of a lot easier. I’ll dive into my top five areas to stay in and what makes each unique. I’ve even thrown in some of the best activities in each spot.

So, keep scrollin’ and let’s get into the good stuff.

A girl dressed in a traditional Japanese kimono smiles for a photo.
Konichiwa my fellow Broke Backpackers!
Photo: @audyscala

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

Where is the Best Place to Stay in Fukuoka?

Are you backpacking through Japan and looking for a specific place to stay? These are my topmost recommendations for places to stay in Fukuoka.

The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka | Best Hotel in Fukuoka

The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka Japan

The Ritz-Carlton is always going to be the creme-de-la-creme, right?! This chic five-star hotel is set in the central location of the Tenjin neighbourhood. It is within walking distance of great dining, shopping, vibrant nightlife and sightseeing options.

With a fitness centre that includes an indoor swimming pool, staying fit on vacay is easy. Add in the Spa and wellness centre and you’ll be looking fit too.

Common de Hostel & Bar | Best Hostel in Fukuoka

Common De Hostel and Bar Fukuoka Japan

This hostel is centrally located in the Hakata Ward. It has large rooms with comfortable beds, a spacious shared lounge and an on-site bar. They also provide an American or vegetarian breakfast each morning. This is my pick for the best hostel in Fukuoka.

If you love hostels, you should check out my list of the coolest hostels in Fukuoka!

Spacious Japanese Studio | Best Apartment in Fukuoka

Spacious Japanese Studio Fukuoka Japan

This studio is beautifully designed in a modern Japanese way. It’s a bit further from the centre of Tenjin but still within 5-8min walking distance, depending on where you want to go. The building was recently renovated, so all amenities are new and high quality.

If you want to discover the streets, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a lot of nice places to eat and have a drink too.

Fukuoka Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Fukuoka

FIRST TIME IN FUKUOKA
Tenjin, Fukuoka
FIRST TIME IN FUKUOKA

Tenjin

Tenjin is Fukuoka’s downtown core. It is a neighbourhood known for its world-class shopping, unique dining, cultural attractions and vibrant nightlife. With so much to see, do and eat, its no wonder Tenjin is our top pick for where to stay in Fukuoka if you’re visiting for the first time.

ON A BUDGET
Hakata Ward, Fukuoka
ON A BUDGET

Hakata Ward

Hakata-Ku is the ward that makes up the city centre of Fukuoka. It is where you’ll find the vast majority of Fukuoka’s top cultural, religious and historical sites and is home to vibrant neighbourhoods like Tenjin and Nakasu.

NIGHTLIFE
A group of friends smiles for a photo in a Tokyo club.
NIGHTLIFE

Nakasu

Nakasu is a small island located in the Naka River. It is part of the Hakata Ward and is situated next to the Tenjin neighbourhood. This neighbourhood is one of the most famous in the city.

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY
Daimyo, Fukuoka
COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

Daimyo

Located at the centre of the Chuo Ward, Daimyo is, without a doubt, the coolest neighbourhood in Fukuoka. Daimyo is a neighbourhood brimming with boutiques.

FOR FAMILIES
Nishijin, Fukuoka
FOR FAMILIES

Nishijin

Nishijin is a neighbourhood located on the eastern side of Fukuoka. It is well-connected throughout the city and is just five minutes via subway from Tenjin.

Fukuoka is a massive and sprawling city.

It is the capital of the Fukuoka prefecture and is the largest city on the southern island of Kyushu.

Fukuoka is a modern city famous for its unique and delicious culinary scene, as well as its world-class shopping. You could easily spend a few days exploring Fukuoka.

The city is divided into seven wards. Each ward is home to a number of neighbourhoods that offer something different for travellers. To get a good feel for the city, I recommend you visit at least three or four different neighborhoods depending on the nature of your trip.

Backpacker walks into a 7/11 in Japan with her backpack on.
7/11. IYKYK.
Photo: @audyscala

Tenjin is Fukuoka’s downtown core. It’s a hub for history, culture, good food, great shopping and lively nightlife. The big scene is on Oyafuku-dori Street which has a vibrant nightlife.

To the west of Tenjin is Nakasu. A small island on the Naka River, Nakasu is a buzzing and vibrant neighbourhood that has a whole host of nightclubs, cafes, restaurants and bars. This is also where you can enjoy a tasty riverside meal at a Yatai.

Continue travelling east from here and you’ll arrive in Hakata Ward. Bursting with history, charm and stunning nature, the Hakata Ward has a great variety of landmarks and attractions, plus delicious restaurants and good-value accommodations.

Set west of Tenjin is the Daimyo neighbourhood. A hub for hipsters and artists, this trendy neighbourhood is brimming with cool vibes and colourful décor. If you’re someone who likes to be where the cool kids are, Daimyo is the neighbourhood for you.

And finally, Nishijin is a neighbourhood located in the Sawara Ward. It is an excellent base for families and has everything from an artificial beach and pristine parks to professional baseball and interesting museums.

Still not sure where to stay in Fukuoka? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

Fukuoka’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighbourhoods to stay in Fukuoka. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to read each section carefully and pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you!

1. Tenjin – Where to Stay in Fukuoka for Your First Time

Tenjin is Fukuoka’s downtown core. It is a neighbourhood known for its world-class shopping, unique dining, cultural attractions and vibrant nightlife. With so much to see, do and eat, it’s no wonder Tenjin is my top pick for where to stay in Fukuoka if you’re visiting for the first time.

This neighbourhood is nothing short of a shoppers’ paradise. Here you’ll find a great selection of shops and boutiques selling everything from high-end and high-street fashions to local handicrafts and one-of-a-kind pieces.

Tenjin, Fukuoka

But that’s not all! Head beneath the streets and explore the Tenjin Underground Shopping Centre. The largest underground shopping area in Kyushu it stretches approximately 1 kilometre and here you can shop until you drop no matter the weather.

There aren’t any hostels in Tenjin but check out Airbnb’s or get a bit splurgy and stay in a budget hotel. Or, make the most of the epic metro system and pop in for visits, I’ve got more budget-friendly areas to stay in. 

Hotel WBF Fukuoka Tenjin Minami | Best Hotel in Tenjin

Hotel WBF Fukuoka Tenjin Minami Japan

Thanks to its excellent location and spacious rooms, this is one of my favourite hotels in Fukuoka. The WBF Fukuoka is in a central location and within walking distance of restaurants, cafes, shops and the metro. Rooms are outfitted with air conditioning, coffee and tea supplies and free wifi, all you need, no frills.

Hotel Il Palazzo | Best Luxury Hotel Tenjin

Hotel Il Palazzo Fukuoka Japan

One of the best hotels in Tenjin, this modern hotel has sleek rooms and easy access to the vibrant nightlife. You’ll be able to tap into the city’s hustle and bustle and then kick back in your spacious rooms and enjoy the big bath. You can book a room with or without a balcony and breakfast is included and yummy!

Noise Hotel That Never Sleeps | Best Airbnb in Tenjin

Noise Hotel That Never Sleeps Fukuoka Japan

If you’re here to make the most of the lively nightlife in Tenjin, this is the joint for you! With a restaurant and sake bar underneath the building and a supermarket within walking distance, this Airbnb has everything you need for a good time. You’re also just an eight-minute walk to the train station, so getting to Hakata Station and Hakata Bay is easy.

Things to See and Do in Tenjin

A man cooks shrimp at street food stall in market in Kyoto, Japan.
Street food for the win every time!
Photo: @audyscala
  1. Admire the beautiful and serene Suikyo Tenmangu Shrine.
  2. Eat at a Yatai, one of Fukuoka’s famous street food stalls.
  3. Explore the shops of the Tenjin Underground Shopping Centre.
  4. Go for a stroll through Tenjin Central Park.
  5. Marvel at the Kego Shrine.
  6. Discover the natural beauty of Fukuoka on this customisable day tour. You could see Kyushu, Minami-Aso in Kumamoto and Takachiho in Miyazaki as well as Shirakawa Spring Park and the Takachiho Gorge
  7. See a collection of great works by local artists at the Fukuoka Prefectural Museum of Art.
  8. Shop until you drop on Shintencho Shopping Street.
  9. Take in great views of the city from the ACROS rooftop garden.
  10. Wander along Oyafuko-dori, a 400-meter long stretch that’s home to temples, dance clubs, restaurants and bars.
Is This the Best Backpack EVER???
audy on top of a mountain in japan with the osprey aether

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

View on Osprey View on REI

2. Hakata Ward – Best Place to Stay in Fukuoka on a Budget

Hakata-Ku is the ward that makes up the city centre of Fukuoka. It’s where you’ll find the vast majority of Fukuoka’s top cultural, religious and historical sites and is home to vibrant neighbourhoods like Tenjin and Nakasu. Getting in and out of Fukuoka from here is easy via Hakata Station, Fukuoka’s major transportation hub.

Hakata Ward, Fukuoka
Hakata bay Skyline

In addition to being the top destination for history and culture, the Hakata Ward boasts the finest capsule hotels in Fukuoka. Here you’ll find a high concentration of budget accommodations. From backpacker hostels to good-value hotels, this ward is packed with options that will fit budgets of all shapes and sizes.

Love to eat? Well, Hakata is for you! This ward is packed with delicious restaurants and the vibrant nightlife of riverside stalls serving local delicacies like Tonkotsu ramen, motsunabe and mentaiko.

Hotel Eclair Hakata | Best Hotel in Hakata Ward

Hotel Eclair Hakata Fukuoka Japan

Hotel Eclair Hakata is centrally located in Fukuoka and is one of the best hotels. It provides easy access to the city’s top attractions and landmarks and is surrounded by restaurants, shops and bars. It offers a range of modern features, including air conditioning and kitchenettes, and you’ll also enjoy an on-site coffee bar and a beauty centre.

Hotel Hakata Place | Another Great Hotel in Hakata Ward

Hotel Hakata Place Fukuoka Japan

This modern three-star property is my favourite hotel in Hakata Ward. Rooms are well-equipped with kitchenettes, free wifi and flat-screen TVs. They provide a variety of services, including laundry facilities.

There is also an on-site restaurant that serves delicious Japanese and seafood cuisine. And, Hakata Station is easy to get to if you want to explore.

Common de Hostel & Bar | Best Hostel in Hakata Ward

Common De Hostel and Bar Fukuoka Japan

This hostel is centrally located in Fukuoka with easy access to Hakata Station. It has large rooms with comfortable beds, a spacious shared lounge and an on-site bar.

They also provide an American or vegetarian breakfast each morning. This is my top pick for where to stay in Hakata Ward, hands down.

Cézanne | Best Airbnb in Hakata Ward

Cézanne Fukuoka Japan

This apartment is in central Hakata, you can walk to Hakata station in three minutes. In a central location with easy access to the train station and the Fukuoka Airport, making moves through the canal city, Hakata is simple. You can be in the thick of the city’s hustle and bustle in a heartbeat from the train station or take a walk and enjoy the traditional charm of Hakata.

The Airbnb itself is very affordable, you get a full kitchen and two bedrooms that accommodate up to four guests. The rooms are sleek, spacious and equipped with good amenities to make the most of the vibrant nightlife vibes even when you’re home.

Things to See and Do in Hakata Ward

Guys get ready for a traditional dance at a festival in Japan.
The performing arts are as old as time in Japan
Photo: @audyscala
  1. Admire the Kushida Shrine, built in 757, and its 1,000-year-old gingko tree.
  2. Catch an incredible performance at the Hakataza Theatre.
  3. Explore the zen gardens of the Jotenji.
  4. Learn about the culture and lifestyle of Hakata in the Meiji and Taisho periods at the Hakata Machiya Folk Museum.
  5. Marvel at the Tochoji Temple.
  6. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by painting your own traditional Hakata doll. Learn about local heritage as you have fun creating an original piece of art.
  7. See an excellent collection of modern and contemporary art at the Asian Art Museum.
  8. Shop for local handicrafts at the Kawabata Shopping Arcade.
  9. Try mentaiko, a spicy form of Pollock roe that is especially popular in Fukuoka.
  10. Visit Shofuku-Ji Temple, Japan’s first Zen temple founded in 1195.

3. Nakasu – Best Area to Stay in Fukuoka for Nightlife

Nakasu is a small island located in the Naka River. It is part of the Hakata Ward and is situated next to the Tenjin neighbourhood.

This neighbourhood is one of the most famous in the city, here you’ll find Fukuoka’s neon-lit entertainment and red-light district. It’s packed with bars, clubs and restaurants, as well as karaoke parlours and gaming arcades. If you’re looking to experience Fukuoka’s unique nightlife scene, look no further than Nakasu.

A group of friends smiles for a photo in a club in Japan
Trust me when I say clubs in Japan POP OFF
Photo: @audyscala

The island also boasts a staggering 3,500 restaurants, ramen stalls and Yatai (street for stalls). All this makes Nakasu an excellent destination if you’re keen to excite your taste buds with some traditional culinary charm.

Vessel Inn Hakata Nakasu | Best Hotel in Nakasu

Vessel Inn Hakata Nakasu Fukuoka Japan

This hotel is set on the island of Nakasu and is just steps from Fukuoka’s best bars, clubs and restaurants. It is ideally located for exploring the city and is well-connected via public transport. This hotel offers modern rooms with refrigerators, cable/satellite channels, and comfortable amenities, like slippers and bathrobes.

Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu | Best Luxury Hotel in Nakasu

Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu Fukuoka Japan

This hotel is my top choice for where to stay in Nakasu thanks to its great location and city views. Set in a central location, this four-star hotel provides easy access to the city’s top tourist attractions and landmarks. It has spacious rooms, comfortable beds and a variety of amenities.

Fukuoka Hana Hostel | Best Hostel in Nakasu

Fukuoka Hana Hostel best hostels in Fukuoka

Located right in the heart of Hakata, this hostel is a short walk from the bright lights and fun nights of Nakasu. They offer deluxe private and shared accommodations with comfortable beds and reading lights. Guests can make use of the common area, luggage storage and free wifi and, they also offer on-site bike rentals.

Posh balcony apartment | Best Airbnb in Nakasu

Posh balcony apartment Fukuoka Japan

Visiting Japan, you’ll realize quite quickly that everything is very small. However, this apartment is spacious – a great spot to relax during the day or after a night out. It’s located close to great nightlife options like pubs and bars.

A little bonus: your apartment has a balcony which overlooks the busy streets. There are many bus stops nearby, so you won’t have any problems getting around.

Things to See and Do in Nakasu

Delicious ramen with tofu in Japan.
Yeah, yom!
Photo: @audyscala
  1. Feast on tasty local cuisine at a Yatai, an open-air food stall.
  2. Marvel at the view as you enjoy relaxed drinks at Ishibashi.
The Future of the SIM Card is HERE!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.

Grab an eSIM!

4. Daimyo – Coolest Place to Stay in Fukuoka

Located at the centre of the Chuo Ward, Daimyo is, without a doubt, the coolest neighbourhood in Fukuoka.

Daimyo is a neighbourhood brimming with boutiques. It is the unofficial fashion capital of Fukuoka and is where you can enjoy an afternoon of people-watching people dressed in quirky, unique and off-the-wall fashions. Daimyo residents boast a distinct style and flair, which makes it the ideal destination for fashion inspiration.

Daimyo, Fukuoka
Photo: Geraldshields11 (WikiCommons)

But Daimyo is more than just fashion, shopping and style. This trendy neighbourhood is also a feast for the eyes. It boasts stunning architecture and a labyrinth of narrow streets, making it a joy to wander around and get lost in the vibes.

Hotel Monterey La Soeur Fukuoka | Best Hotel in Daimyo

Hotel Monterey La Soeur Fukuoka Japan

Thanks to its great location, this is one of my favourite hotels in Daimyo. Surrounded by malls, boutiques and shops, it’s an ideal base for guests interested in shopping. This elegant hotel has a variety of features, including a coffee bar, massage services and an in-house restaurant.

Nishitetsu Grand Hotel | Another Great Hotel in Daimyo

Nishitetsu Grand Hotel Fukuoka Japan

The Nishitetsu Grand Hotel is my ultimate pick for where to stay in the Daimyo neighbourhood. This four-star hotel boasts cosy rooms with air conditioning. They provide a variety of amenities and services including a coffee bar, massage services and free wifi.

Bright and spacious apartment | Best Apartment in Daimyo

Bright and spacious apartment Fukuoka Japan

This charming apartment is the right place to stay if you want to check out the coolest area of Fukuoka. Beautiful and bright, with a variety of sleek rooms, the apartment is luxurious and well-equipped. There are a couple of local restaurants and cafes around the corner and you’re within walking distance of the modern shopping malls and train station.

This Aparthotel has a few apartment options, some of them with bunk beds. This is the closest option to a hostel in Daimyo.

Heart of Fukuoka Apartment | Best Airbnb in Daimyo

Heart of Fukuoka Apartment Japan

This apartment is in an epic central location close to modern shopping malls and the train station, making it an ideal base. Sleeping up to four people, it’s a good option if you’re travelling as a group or a family. There are famous restaurants close by too, convenience stores and pharmacies so if you ever find yourself needing something, you can get it. 

Tenjin Don Quijote is a two-minute walk away so take me seriously when I say you can get anything you want!

Things to See and Do in Daimyo

A picture taken in the crowd during an electronic music festival.
This could be you, vibing out
Photo: @audyscala
  1. See exhibitions and interesting works of art at Gallery Enlace.
  2. Shop for gently used and new-to-you items at Union 3.
  3. Watch quirky and unique musical performances at Queblick.

5. Nishijin – Best Neighborhood in Fukuoka for Families to Stay In

Nishijin is a neighbourhood located on the eastern side of Fukuoka. It is well-connected throughout the city and is just five minutes via subway from Tenjin. Nishijin offers a great selection of activities and attractions, which is why it is my pick for where to stay in Fukuoka for families.

This neighbourhood is bursting with fun. It has everything from an artificial beach where you can play in the sand to nature trails and pristine parks.

Nishijin, Fukuoka

There are also historical and cultural landmarks, ancient castle ruins, and a buzzing baseball park for travellers to enjoy. No matter what your interests or ages, there’s something for everyone in fun and exciting Nishijin.

Seaside Hotel Twins Momochi | Best Budget Hotel in Nishijin

Seaside Hotel Twins Momochi Fukuoka Japan

The Seaside Hotel is one of my favourite hotels in Nishijin. This hotel is ideally placed in the neighbourhood and is within walking distance of the train station, great shops and popular tourist attractions. Each room is outfitted with air conditioning and boasts free wifi, a bathtub and a refrigerator.

The Residential Suites Fukuoka | Best Hotel in Nishijin

The Residential Suites Fukuoka Japan

This four-star property is my pick for where to stay in Nishijin, there are spacious rooms and free wifi for starters. This property is close to top tourist attractions and landmarks and is surrounded by restaurants, shops and activities. Plus, this hotel has a fitness centre and a swimming pool.

UNPLAN Fukuoka | Best Hostel in Nishijin

UNPLAN Fukuoka Japan

This hostel is ideally located for exploring the nature of this side of Fukuoka, including Ohori Park. It is well-connected via the train station (Fukuoka Airport is 15 minutes away by train) and provides easy access to Tenjin and the canal city. This hostel offers a variety of comfortable and relaxing rooms at a very reasonable price.

You can enjoy free breakfast, and free wifi, and have access to bicycle hire, a perfect way to get to Ohori Park!

Flower Base Tsubaki | Best Airbnb in Nishijin

Flower Base Tsubaki Fukuoka Japan

Feel like you’re in one of the best hotels in Canal City with this Airbnb near Ohori Park (a 15-minute walk). With three sleek bedrooms and a lounge that feels like it belongs in a modern hotel, you’ll feel right at home. Take advantage of the full kitchen (there are shops nearby), or you can venture out to street food stalls for some traditional charm. 

Fukuoka Airport is 17 minutes away and Hakata Station is 11 minutes away via the local train station. 

Things to See and Do in Nishijin

Two people sit in chairs posing for a photo dressed in traditional samurai armor.
There’s so much family-friendly fun in Japan!
Photo: @audyscala
  1. Catch the Japanese baseball frenzy at the Fukuoka Dome.
  2. Climb to the top of Fukuoka Tower and enjoy sweeping views of the city and the sea.
  3. Dive deep into the history of the prefecture at the Fukuoka City Museum.
  4. Enjoy a day at the beach at Momochi Seaside Park.
  5. Explore the grounds of Ohori Park.
  6. Get close to your favourite animals at the Fukuoka City Zoological Garden.
  7. See incredible displays and a massive planetarium at the Fukuoka City Science Museum.
  8. Shop until your drop in the bustling Nishijin Shopping District.
  9. Stop and smell the roses at the Botanical Garden.
  10. Take in a breath of fresh air at the Momochi Central Park.
Travel with peace of mind. Travel WITH a security belt.
Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Hide Yo’ Money!

FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Fukuoka

Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Fukuoka and where to stay.

What To Pack For Fukuoka

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Product
Description
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Keep your laundry organized and stink free
Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel
Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Make Some New Buddies…
Make Some New Buddies…

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!
Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

Why is Fukuoka Called the Canal City?

It’s not. Canal City Hakata is one of Fukuoka’s modern shopping malls. If the weather is too wet to traipse around the streets, you might find good luck inside Canal City Hakata or Hakata Station.

Where Do I Find Hot Spring Baths in Fukuoka?

There are so many incredible sights in Fukuoka, including hot spring baths (onsen). One of the largest hot spring bath setups in Fukuoka Prefecture is Harazuru Onsen. They have 14 different onsen ryokan (hot spring baths) to choose from.

With a wonderfully unique combination of alkaline and sulphuric waters, it’s no wonder over 800,000 tourists visit the rejuvenating hot spring baths every year.

What Does Tea Have to Do With Fukuoka?

Fukuoka is home to what’s known as “Japan’s first tea tree“. A plant brought back by Buddhist priest My?an Eisai from Teng whose direct descendant now sits in the grounds of Sh?fuku-ji Temple in Fukuoka. Sh?fuku-ji Temple is the oldest Zen temple in Japan originally established by Eisai himself. 

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Fukuoka

Ichi, ni, san, shi… are you sick of checking you’ve got everything all the time? Everyone needs good travel insurance that looks after them, make sure you’ve got yours!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Fukuoka

Fukuoka is an incredible city. It has so much to offer travellers from world-class shopping and delicious food to a rich history, vibrant culture and traditional charm. No matter your age or interests, you certainly won’t regret adding Fukuoka to your Japan travel itinerary.

In this guide, I’ve given you a look at the five best neighbourhoods to stay in Fukuoka. If you’re still not sure where to stay, here is my 50/50 for you.

My favourite hostel in Fukuoka is the Common de Hostel & Bar. Located in the Hakata Ward, this hostel is within walking distance of the city centre and offers large rooms, comfortable beds, and tasty breakfast daily. Fukuoka’s such a rad place that you’re sure to meet rad people and get on that good good hostel buzz.

The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka is my pick for Fukuoka’s best hotel. Thanks to its great location, contemporary amenities (hello fitness centre), and its modern and spacious rooms. This luxury hotel is an absolute splurge but if you’ve got the cash to splash then spend it, baby!

Wherever you stay in Fukuoka I’m sure your holiday will be magic and full of wonder. This pocket of Japan is so special and full of hidden gems.

Have you been to Fukuoka? Have I missed something? Are you going? Hit me up in the comments, I’d love to chat!

Air China Airplane, Aeroplane Flight, Sunset
Sayonara!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Looking for more info on travelling to Fukuoka and Japan?

Buy Us a Coffee!

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
Thank you <3