Kitakyushu Fukuoka, Japan Travel Guide
Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ): A smaller regional airport. It primarily handles domestic flights and some international routes to East Asia (e.g., Busan, Seoul, Taipei). KKJ sits on an artificial island in Suo-nada, located about 30-40 minutes from Kokura Station, the city’s central hub.
Fukuoka Airport (FUK): Fukuoka Airport functions as the main international gateway for Kyushu. It lies closer to Fukuoka City but presents extensive domestic and international connections. Travel from FUK to Kitakyushu (Kokura Station) takes approximately 1 hour by train.
Direct international flights to Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ) confine themselves to specific East Asian cities. For most major global hubs (e.g., North America, Europe), direct flights will likely arrive at Fukuoka Airport (FUK). From FUK, you will journey onward to Kitakyushu. Flight prices typically climb during Japanese holidays (Golden Week, Obon, New Year) and peak tourist seasons (cherry blossom, autumn foliage).
Direct international flights to KKJ are limited; FUK serves as the main gateway for global hubs. For options, check Dollar Flight Club.
Flight prices climb during Japanese holidays and peak tourist seasons. Booking in advance is suggested. Utilize Skyscanner for comparisons.
Both KKJ and FUK provide dining, shopping, car rental, and currency exchange. FUK offers a broader range of facilities.
Kokura Station is a major stop on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, connecting Kitakyushu to Hakata, Hiroshima, Osaka, and Tokyo. JR lines also link to other parts of Kyushu and Shimonoseki.
An extensive highway bus the network joins Kitakyushu to Fukuoka, Osaka, Tokyo, and other major cities. Companies like Nishitetsu and JR Bus operate these routes.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed, obtained in your home country before arrival. Carry it with your home country driver'a driving license and passport. DiscoverCars.com offers options.
Kokura Station is a major stop on the Sanyo Shinkansen line. This line links Kitakyushu to major cities like Hakata (Fukuoka), Hiroshima, Osaka, and Tokyo. Shinkansen offers fast and efficient inter-city travel.
An extensive highway bus network connects Kitakyushu (Kokura Station) to Fukuoka, Osaka, Tokyo, and other major cities. Companies like Nishitetsu and JR Bus operate these routes.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained in your home country before your trip is a requirement. Carry it along with your valid home country driver's license and passport. The minimum driving age in Japan is 18.
Japanese roads generally exhibit excellent maintenance and condition. There can be a lot of traffic in urban areas during peak hours. Japan maintains strict traffic laws and a low accident rate, making driving generally safe.
Japan introduced an international tourist tax, often named the "Sayonara Tax," of ¥1,000 per person, per departure. This tax typically appears covered by your airfares or ferry fares, so you generally avoid separate payment at the airport or port.
International Flights: Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight. This grants ample time for check-in, security screening, customs (if applicable), and immigration procedures.
Domestic Flights: Arrive 1-2 hours before your domestic flight.
Trains/Ferries: For trains and ferries, arriving 30-60 minutes before departure generally serves as sufficient.
Airports offer various facilities for departing travelers, including waiting lounges, shops (duty-free at international airports), and restaurants.
Major train stations also present waiting areas, shops, dining options, and currency exchange services.
As a smaller airport, KKJ's facilities remain more limited than those at Fukuoka Airport.
Verify your flight/ferry details and departure terminal well in advance.
