Itoshima (Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Itoshima (Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture) is a peninsula stretching west of Fukuoka City, and is a tourist destination that combines a beautiful coastline, cape, and rural landscape. Long ago, it developed as a fishing and agricultural town, but in recent years, it has become increasingly popular as a weekend tourist destination and holiday retreat due to its proximity to the city, its abundance of nature, its ability to enjoy both the sea and the mountains, and its dotted with unique cafes and restaurants using local ingredients. With plenty of sunset spots, driving courses, and active ways to enjoy yourself, such as surfing and hiking, it is popular with a wide range of generations, from young people and families to couples.

Highlights

• Futamigaura Couple RocksThe view of the large torii gate floating in the sea and the two rocks lined up is particularly beautiful at sunset, and is a famous photo spot.
• Keya no Ooto Gate: A large sea cave (sea tunnel) that opens into the sea. You can see it up close on a sightseeing boat and enjoy the dynamic seascape.
• Itoshima Beach: There are many beaches where you can enjoy swimming and surfing (they are bustling as swimming spots in the summer).
• Hiking (Mount Kaya, Mount Raizan, etc.): The small mountains on the peninsula offer panoramic views of the sea and countryside, and you can enjoy the natural scenery of each season.
• Cafes & GourmetThere are many stylish cafes overlooking the sea and restaurants serving dishes made with fresh local seafood and vegetables.
• Direct sales store/marche: The direct sales store where you can buy locally grown fruits, vegetables, and seafood, and the weekend market are also popular.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• RailwayChikuzen-Maebaru Station on the JR Chikuhi Line is the closest station to the Itoshima area. It is about a 30-40 minute train ride from central Fukuoka (times may vary depending on the train type and transfers).
• bus: Express buses, local buses, and tourist buses operate from Fukuoka city (Tenjin and Hakata) and the surrounding areas. You can travel to major spots by local buses and community buses, but please note that there are some sections where the number of buses is limited, so it is necessary to check the timetable.
• car: From central Fukuoka City, it takes about 30 to 60 minutes via local roads and expressways (depending on traffic conditions). Itoshima is convenient to get around by car, and many of the main spots have parking lots.
• Rental cars and bicycles: We recommend renting a car to increase your freedom when sightseeing. On sunny days or for short trips, you can also enjoy riding a rental bicycle along the coast.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Day trip (half day to full day)：You can enjoy it in half a day to a full day if you focus on the main spots (Meotoiwa Rocks, Keya, and visiting cafes). If you want to see the sunset, we recommend staying in the afternoon.
• 2 days and 1 night: If you want to relax at cafes, farm shops, and the beach, or go hiking and take your time to visit multiple tourist spots, a two-day, one-night trip is ideal.
• Estimated length of stay: We recommend spending the time at each spot at Meoto Iwa (30 minutes to 1 hour), Keya no Oto (1 to 1.5 hours by sightseeing boat), and relaxing at the cafe (1 to 2 hours).

Nearby spots

• Fukuoka city center (Tenjin/Hakata): Approximately 30 to 60 minutes by car, convenient as a base for sightseeing.
• Nokonoshima: A remote island in Hakata Bay where you can enjoy seasonal flowers and views (ferry ride available).
• Karatsu: If you head west from Itoshima, you can access Karatsu Castle Town and Rainbow Pine Grove.
• Nearby tourist farms and direct sales stores: You can pick seasonal fruit and purchase local ingredients (check opening hours as they vary by season).

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: It gets especially crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays, during the summer beach season, and at sunset. The parking lot tends to fill up quickly, so we recommend planning to come early in the morning, on a weekday, or arrive earlier.
• MannersTo protect the environment, please be sure to take your trash with you, do not enter restricted areas on coasts or mountain trails, and enjoy the scenery quietly. Please also slow down when riding on local residential roads and in settlements.
• Weather and sea precautions: The ocean conditions are subject to change depending on the tide and wind, and there are days when swimming is prohibited or the waves are high. When surfing or playing in the ocean, please follow local information and signs and always put safety first.
• Check transportation options in advance: Some public transportation routes have limited service, so it's a good idea to check return times and bus and train operating times in advance.
• Seasonal precautions: In summer, the sun is shining and hot, and in winter, the wind is strong and the temperature can feel low. The number of tourists increases during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn leaves season.
• Commercial facility opening hours: Privately run cafes and direct sales stores may have irregular closing days and opening hours, so we recommend checking official information or social media before visiting.

Itoshima is a region where you can enjoy a good balance of sea, mountains, and food. Because it is a popular tourist destination, please be mindful of your manners and take your time to enjoy the nature and local attractions.