Itoshima: 8 Must-Do Activities on a Day Trip from Fukuoka

Itoshima: A Hidden Gem in Fukuoka

Photo by Pixta

Itoshima is a coastal city located in the western part of Fukuoka City. Bordered by the scenic Genkai Sea and Karatsu Bay, it is a favorite weekend getaway for locals.

With its stunning sunsets, Shiraito Falls, and the Totoro Forest Trail, Itoshima offers a rich natural landscape complemented by charming seaside cafes and artisan shops—making it the perfect day-trip destination from Fukuoka.

• Table of Contents
• How to Get to Itoshima
• 1. Beach Cafe SUNSET: A Passionate Cafe Hosting Music Festivals
• 2. Sakurai Futamigaura Coast: White Torii Gate and the Wedded Rocks
• 3. Itoshima Sabo: Ocean Views and Delicious Pancakes
• 4. CURRENT: A Cafe for Surfing Enthusiasts
• 5. Keya no Oto: The Beautiful Totoro Forest Trail
• 6. Kofuji Plum Grove
• 7. Murakamiya Honpo: Popular Shaved Ice Desserts
• 8. Shiraito Falls: Hydrangeas and Trout Fishing
• Hotel in Itoshima: seven x seven 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 the center of Fukuoka City to Itoshima.

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. Beach Cafe SUNSET: A Passionate Cafe Hosting Music Festivals

The owner of Beach Cafe SUNSET is an avid surfer who opened this cafe in 1990 to offer beautiful sunset views. There is a small hut right in front of the cafe, which has become a must-visit photo spot when sightseeing in Itoshima.

One of the reasons why Fukuoka's Itoshima became so widely renowned is that every September, the beach in front of the cafe hosts Sunset Live. This massive rock music festival attracts tens of thousands of people.

Beach Cafe SUNSET

284 Nishiura, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 819-0202

Beach Cafe SUNSET opened in 1990 as a cafe where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets. There is a small gazebo in front of the cafe, which is a must-see photo spot for any visit to Itoshima.

2. Sakurai Futamigaura Coast: White Torii Gate and the Wedded Rocks

Sakurai Futamigaura Coast, featuring its iconic white torii gate and the Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks), is a famous scenic spot voted one of "Japan's Top 100 Beaches" and "Japan's Top 100 Sunsets."

While stunning by day, it truly comes alive during the golden hour. Watching the sun dip below the horizon as the evening glow blankets the coast proves why this is one of Fukuoka’s best sunset destinations.

Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones

819-1304 Shima Sakurai, Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture

The Meoto Iwa rocks at Futamigaura in Sakurai are a spectacular spot that has been chosen as one of the "100 Best Beaches in Japan" and "100 Best Sunsets in Japan."

3. Itoshima Sabo: Ocean Views and Delicious Pancakes

Itoshima Sabo is the sister store of Shirogane Sabo, a well-known cafe in downtown Fukuoka.

While the main branch offers a quiet escape from the bustling city, this seaside location lets you savor delicious pancakes with a panoramic ocean view right before your eyes.

Alongside seasonal fruit flavors and a savory thick-cut bacon and egg option, our top recommendation is the classic original pancake. Its dense yet fluffy texture and rich, eggy aroma make for a truly unforgettable bite.

The cafe also features homemade pasta with a wonderfully chewy texture.

A standout choice is the seafood tomato pasta, which is generously loaded with sweet, fresh ingredients like plump shrimp, squid, and clams. Better yet, the portion size is incredibly satisfying.

Itoshima Sabo
Address: 2195-1 Kota, Nishi, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture (Google Maps)
Opening Hours: 11:00-19:00 (Last Order 18:00)

4. 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!

CURRENT

819-1303 2290 Shimanokita, Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture

CURRENT is a sea view cafe located next to the beach on the north coast. In addition to its delicious Italian food, the afternoon tea dessert platter is also very popular with young women!

5. Keya no Oto: The Beautiful 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.

Keya no Oto

819-1335 520 Shimakeya, Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture

It is the largest of the three major basalt caves in Japan. It is a cave that rose up from the rough waves of the Genkai Sea and was formed by marine erosion.

6. 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.

Kofuji Plum Grove

819-1321 Shima Kofuji, Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture

The Kofuji Plum Grove has over 3,000 plum trees planted on the southern slope of Mount Kaetsu, also known as Island Fuji.

7. Murakamiya Honpo: Popular Shaved Ice Dessert Spots

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).

Murakamiya Honpo

819-1154 426-1 Shiraito, Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture

Murakamiya Honpo is located near Shiraito Falls in Itoshima City. Wanting to make use of the naturally sweet spring water of the waterfall, they started selling fluffy snowflake ice.

8. Shiraito Falls: Hydrangeas and Trout Fishing

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!

Shiraito Falls Fureai-no-Sato

819-1154 Shiraito, Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture

Shiraito Falls is one of the must-see tourist spots if you visit Itoshima in the summer. In addition to feeling refreshed under the spray of the waterfall, you can also try trout fishing and hand-made hiyashi noodles.

Hotel in Itoshima: seven x seven Itoshima

seven x seven Itoshima reopened in April 2026 following a fresh renovation.

Centered around a "Sunset Beach Club" concept, the property now features a creative bistro and lounge highlighting local ingredients, alongside a brand-new sauna and pool zone.

Guests can choose from six distinct room types, including a four-person bunk-bed room that is perfect for families or groups. Each space is roomy and comfortable, complete with an ocean-view balcony and a handy kitchenette for light cooking.

As daylight fades into sunset and the quiet twilight hours, guests can enjoy a soothing retreat to gently restore body, mind, and soul.

seven x seven Itoshima
Address: 266 Nishiura, Nishi, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture

Head to Itoshima for Instagram-Worthy Photos of Fukuoka!

Fukuoka is so much more than just street food stalls, tonkotsu ramen, and Dazaifu!

If you want to capture the most eye-catching Instagram photos in the region, Itoshima is an absolute must-visit. Located just a short trip from the city center, this coastal paradise is brimming with breathtaking natural landscapes.

Photo by Pixta