Hakata is Fukuoka's main railway station and commercial center, home to a massive station building with shopping, dining, and connections to Shinkansen bullet trains.

About Hakata Station / Fukuoka City Center

Hakata Station is Fukuoka's main transportation hub and one of the largest railway complexes in Japan. It serves as the western terminus of the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen (bullet train) line, connecting directly to Osaka (2.5h), Hiroshima (1h), and Tokyo (5h). The JR Hakata City complex above the station houses the Amu Plaza shopping mall, a rooftop garden, and dozens of restaurants.

The surrounding Hakata district is Fukuoka's commercial heart, blending modern commerce with 800 years of history. Shofukuji, Japan's first Zen temple, is a short walk away. The area is famous for Hakata ramen—rich, milky tonkotsu broth noodles available at countless shops and the iconic yatai (open-air food stalls) that line the nearby Nakasu canal.

Fukuoka Airport's remarkable proximity to the city center—just 3.5 km—makes it one of the most conveniently located major airports in the world. The subway ride takes only 5 minutes.

Nearby Landmarks

Hakata Station Shofukuji Temple Canal City Hakata Kushida Shrine Nakasu yatai stalls

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $8-12
Time 10-15 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Train (Fukuoka City Subway Kuko Line)

Cost $2
Time 5 min
Frequency Every 5-8 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

Take the Kuko (Airport) Line from Fukuoka Airport Station (domestic terminal basement) to Hakata Station — just 2 stops, 5 minutes.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $8-12 10-15 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Train $2 5 min Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The Fukuoka subway runs until approximately 12:25 AM. After that, taxis are available at the airport 24/7 and cost only ¥1,000-1,500 ($7-10) to Hakata Station. Late-night bus options are limited. Hakata Station area has many 24-hour restaurants and convenience stores.

Luggage Tips

The Fukuoka subway has luggage space near doors. The journey is so short that even bulky luggage is manageable. Hakata Station has coin lockers in multiple sizes (¥300-700) throughout the concourse. Takkyubin luggage delivery services are available at the airport.

Accessibility

Fukuoka Airport subway station has elevators and barrier-free gates. All subway trains have priority spaces. Hakata Station has comprehensive accessibility with elevators, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms on every floor. Staff assistance is readily available at both the airport and station.