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Itoshima: 7 Must-Do Activities for a Perfect Day Trip from Fukuoka in 2024
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Itoshima, located to the west of Fukuoka, is known for its stunning sunsets, Shiraito Falls, the Totoro Forest Trail, and other natural landscapes. Apart from its beautiful scenery, the island is dotted with cafes and eateries, making it the perfect destination for day trips from Fukuoka.
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I am currently working as the Taiwan version editor for MATCHA. I am from Changhua County and during my time in Taiwan, I worked as a domestic Japanese tour guide and in interview PR for a Japanese television station. I am skilled at arranging travel itineraries, particularly for food and hot spring-related attractions. My interests include photography, especially food and portrait photography. Due to my age and my fondness for places like bars and izakayas, I call myself 'Matcha Uncle'.
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Itoshima: A Hidden Gem in Fukuoka
Photo by Pixta
Itoshima is an island city located west of Fukuoka Prefecture in the Kyushu region. It is bordered by the beautiful Genkai Sea and Karatsu Bay, making it a top choice for weekend getaways among locals!
With unbeatable sunsets, the Shiraito Falls, the Totoro Forest Trail, and other rich natural landscapes, along with specialty stores like Japanese shaved ice shops and seaside cafes, Itoshima has become a popular destination for day trips from Fukuoka.
Itoshima Travel Tips
1. CURRENT: A Cafe for Surfing Enthusiasts
2. Totoro Forest Trail: Keya no Oto
3. Kofuji Plum Grove
4. Murakamiya Honpo: Shaved Ice Desserts
5. Shiraito Falls
6. Beach Cafe SUNSET
7. Sakurai Futamigaura Coast: Torii Gate and Wedded Rocks
How to Get to Itoshima
How to Get to Itoshima
Since the attractions in Itoshima are somewhat scattered, it is highly recommended that you rent a car and drive from the Fukuoka Airport, Hakata Station, or Tenjin Station—all located nearby. It takes about 1 hour to drive from Fukuoka City to Itoshima.
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Using Public Transportation to Get There
If you prefer public transportation, take the Fukuoka City Subway Kuko Line from Fukuoka Airport and get off at JR Chikuzen-Maebaru Station. There's no need to transfer since the Kuko Line connects with JR along the way.
After getting off, you can use the Itoshima City Community Bus for sightseeing.
1. Enjoy the Ocean View at CURRENT, a Cafe for Surfing Enthusiasts
Photo courtesy of keikolee_1127
CURRENT is a seaside cafe located next to Nogita Beach along the coast. The cafe offers indoor seating and outdoor terrace seating. Those who sit on the outdoor terrace can enjoy the sea breeze while watching surfing enthusiasts ride the waves!
Apart from the authentic Italian cuisine that is highly praised here, the afternoon tea dessert platter is especially popular among diners!
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2. Keya no Oto: The Atmospheric and Fantastic Totoro Forest Trail
Photo courtesy of naoto_i0918
When it comes to Keya no Oto, most locals immediately think of the strange and unique scenery formed by the juxtaposition of Genkai Beach and the mystical sight at Genbudo Caves, one of the attractions accessible by ferry when visiting Itoshima.
Additionally, there is a Totoro Forest that drives Studio Ghibli anime fans wild. The trail, surrounded by trees, makes one eagerly anticipate the chance encounter with the legendary Totoro at the cave's exit.
3. Kofuji Plum Grove: The Fragrance of Plum Blossoms Fills the Air Every Winter
Photo courtesy of au525
Kofuji Plum Grove, home to over three thousand plum trees, is located on the southern slope of Mt. Kaya, affectionately known as "Itoshima Fuji."
The blooming season of early spring plum blossoms occurs at the end of February and beginning of March. This seasonal attraction garners numerous visitors eager to witness the spectacle of plum blossoms dancing alongside the views of Funakoshi Bay.
4. Murakamiya Honpo: Highly Popular Shaved Ice Dessert Spot
Photo courtesy of tomoaki_261
Murakamiya Honpo is located near Shiraito Falls in Itoshima. The shop initially started selling fluffy shaved ice to utilize the sweet, clean spring water directly sourced from the waterfall.
Several Zen-like paintings hang on the pristine white walls, complemented by tables and chairs made from natural wood throughout Murakamiya Honpo. This minimalistic decor enhances the focus on enjoying the shaved ice treats. The popular signature dish is the "Uji Kintoki," shaved ice topped with matcha syrup, red bean paste, and chewy shiratama dango (dumplings).
5. Shiraito Falls: A Natural Recreational Spot With Hydrangeas, Trout Fishing, Flowing Cold Noodles!
Photo courtesy of hakatanoko
Shiraito Falls is undoubtedly a must-visit attraction in Itoshima during the summer. In addition to enjoying the refreshing mist under the waterfall, visitors can experience trout fishing in the stream and hand-making flowing cold noodles simultaneously.
Photo courtesy of Pixta
If you visit at the right time, more than 100,000 hydrangea plants blooming around Shiraito Falls will leave you in awe!
6. Beach Cafe SUNSET: A Passionate Cafe That Hosts Music Events
Photo by Pixta
The owner of Beach Cafe SUNSET is a passionate surfer who opened this cafe in 1990, providing a place where visitors can enjoy beautiful sunsets. In front of the cafe is a small pavilion that is a must-visit spot for sightseers in Itoshima!
One reason why Itoshima in Fukuoka has gained prominence is that every September, a massive rock music event called Sunset Live gathers thousands of people on the beach in front of the cafe.
7. Sakurai Futamigaura Coast: The Torii Gate and Wedded Rocks
Photo courtesy of kyusyutraveler
Sakurai Futamigaura Coast, with its white Torii gate and Meoto Iwa ("wedded rocks"), is a trendy spot that has been selected among "Japan's Top 100 Beaches" and "Japan's Top 100 Sunset Views."
It is recommended to visit during the golden hour when the sun is setting and the evening glow. You'll enjoy this premier sunset viewing location in Fukuoka Prefecture!
Head to Itoshima for Instagram-Worthy Photos of Fukuoka!
Fukuoka is not just about street food stalls, tonkotsu ramen, and Dazaifu! If you want to capture the most eye-catching Instagram photos in Fukuoka, don't miss out on Itoshima. It is not far from the city and brimming with natural landscapes!
FAQs
How to get to Itoshima?
Renting a Car
Since the attractions in Itoshima are quite spread out, it is recommended that you rent a car near Fukuoka Airport, Hakata Station, or Tenjin Station and drive to Itoshima. It takes about 1 hour to drive from Fukuoka city to Itoshima.
Taking the Train
- From Fukuoka Airport (approximately 45 minutes)
You can take the Fukuoka City Subway. From Fukuokakuko (Airport) Station via Mihama Station, get off at JR Chikuho Main Line's Chikuzen-Maebaru Station.
- From Hakata (approximately 40 minutes)
You can take the Fukuoka City Subway. From Hakata Station via Mihama Station, get off at JR Chikuho Main Line's Chikuzen-Maebaru Station.
- From Tenjin (approximately 35 minutes)
You can take the Fukuoka City Subway. From Tenjin Station via Mihama Station, get off at JR Chikuho Main Line's Chikuzen-Maebaru Station.
What are some good dining places in Itoshima?
Near Itoshima, there are many cafes and seafood restaurants. Here are some recommended establishments:
Restaurants
Makino Udon Kukoten Main Store
Ichiran no Mori Itoshima Store
Ekimae BAR (Station Front Bar)
ITOSHIMA’S EYE
Shimano Kaisendon-ya
Cafes
Beach Cafe SUNSET
Mori to Coffee (Forest and Coffee)
Taisho Coffee Roaster
LONDON BUS CAFE
Petani coffee
What are the must-visit places in Itoshima?
Meoto Iwa - Sakurai Futamigaura Coast
Shiraito Falls
Tateishi Mountain
Ukidake and Ukidake Shrine
Keya no Oto
Kazan Ruriko-ji Temple
What are some recommended places to stay in Itoshima?
Sea and Sunset Turquoise Serenity
Villa Sora no Umi in Oku-Itoshima
ITOSHIMA’S EYE
Minshuku Nagisa - Local Fish Cuisine Restaurant
HF akka punto effe
What would be a good itinerary by car in Itoshima?
Here is a suggested one-day itinerary with a rental car:
Stop 1: Palm Tree Swing
Stop 2: Futamigaura Coast
Stop 3: LONDON BUS CAFE
Stop 4: Totoro Forest
Stop 5: Mt. Tateishi
Stop 6: Mataichi no Shio - Salt Manufacturing Plant
Stop 7: Hakoshima Shrine
Stop 8: Chinkaiseki Hachimangu Shrine
Stop 9: Kamo Yurarinko Bridge
Photo by Pixta
Written by
I am currently working as the Taiwan version editor for MATCHA. I am from Changhua County and during my time in Taiwan, I worked as a domestic Japanese tour guide and in interview PR for a Japanese television station. I am skilled at arranging travel itineraries, particularly for food and hot spring-related attractions. My interests include photography, especially food and portrait photography. Due to my age and my fondness for places like bars and izakayas, I call myself 'Matcha Uncle'.
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