Where to Stay in Fukuoka: Guide for the Best Areas & Hotels 

Updated on September 11, 2024
by Alex Miller

Fukuoka is one of the most dynamic and captivating cities in Japan, offering visitors a unique blend of modern and traditional experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, finding the right accommodation can make all the difference in truly immersing yourself in Fukuoka’s vibrant atmosphere.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels

Fukuoka is a city that truly has something for everyone, from the vibrant Hakata district, home to the Fukuoka Castle and the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, to the serene Nishijin area, where visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to find the perfect place to stay, whether you’re looking to explore the city’s bustling shopping districts, admire the panoramic views of Hakata Bay, or simply soak in the unique atmosphere that makes Fukuoka one of the best places to visit in Japan.

The Best Places to Stay: Quick Guide

  • 🛍️ For Luxury Travelers: Tenjin
  • 🌇 For First-Time Visitors: Nakasu
  • 🌳 For a Relaxed, Local Experience: Momochihama
  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 For Families: Hakata
  • 🎨 For Art and Culture Lovers: Daimyo

1. Tenjin: The Heart of the City 🌇

🛍️ Shopping Mecca: Tenjin is the heart and soul of Fukuoka. This vibrant downtown district is a veritable feast for the senses, offering world-class shopping, unique dining experiences, and a pulsating nightlife that will leave you captivated.

🏯 Cultural Gems: Start your Tenjin exploration by wandering through the Tenjin Underground Shopping Centre, the largest underground shopping area in Kyushu. This labyrinth of stores, boutiques, and eateries is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-end fashion to quirky local finds.

🌃 Nightlife Hub: As you emerge from the underground, be sure to visit the serene Suikyo Tenmangu Shrine and the Kego Shrine, both of which offer a peaceful respite from the bustling streets. For a dose of culture, head to the Fukuoka Prefectural Museum of Art, which showcases an impressive collection of works by local and international artists.

🍲 Culinary Delights: No visit to Tenjin is complete without strolling along the iconic Oyafuko-dori, a 400-meter stretch that’s home to an eclectic mix of temples, dance clubs, restaurants, and bars. This vibrant area is the epicenter of Fukuoka’s nightlife, so be sure to soak up the lively atmosphere and indulge in some local cuisine at one of the iconic Yatai food stalls.

🌳 Tranquil Oasis: For a tranquil escape, take a leisurely stroll through the Tenjin Central Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of the city. This serene green space is the perfect spot to unwind and recharge before diving back into the energy of Tenjin.

Tenjin Central Park
Tenjin Central Park
Tenjin Central Park
Tenjin Central Park
Tenjin Central Park

🚎 Convenient Connectivity: Tenjin is a centrally located area with excellent transportation links, making it a convenient base for exploring Fukuoka. The area is well-connected to the city’s subway system, providing easy access to other parts of the city.

Where to Stay in Tenjin

⭐ Best Hotels in Tenjin

  • Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Fukuoka: Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Fukuoka is a 4-star hotel located just a 3-minute walk from Tenjin Subway Station, offering Western-style accommodations and free WiFi. Guests praise its convenient location, excellent facilities, and comfortable rooms.
  • QuintessaHotel FukuokaTenjin Comic&Books: QuintessaHotel FukuokaTenjin Comic&Books is a 4-star property that provides a unique, book-themed experience in the heart of Tenjin. It offers modern amenities and easy access to the area’s shopping, dining, and transportation.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • HOTEL MYSTAYS Fukuoka Tenjin: HOTEL MYSTAYS Fukuoka Tenjin is a well-rated, budget-friendly option in the Tenjin district, offering comfortable accommodations and convenient access to the city’s attractions.
  • Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Tenjin: Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Tenjin provides a 3-star stay with modern amenities and a great location in the Tenjin area, making it a suitable choice for travelers on a moderate budget.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Justin Fukuoka: Justin Fukuoka is a highly-rated hostel that offers affordable, comfortable accommodations and a social atmosphere for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Comfort Inn Fukuoka Tenjin: Comfort Inn Fukuoka Tenjin is a budget-friendly hostel option located in the Tenjin district, providing basic but clean and convenient lodging.
  • Fukuoka Floral Inn Nishinakasu: Fukuoka Floral Inn Nishinakasu is an affordable hostel-style accommodation in a convenient location, catering to travelers on a tight budget.

2. Nakasu: Nightlife District 🌃

🌆 Lively Atmosphere: Nakasu is the heart of Fukuoka’s vibrant nightlife scene. This lively district, nestled between the Naka and Hakata rivers, is home to over 2,000 restaurants, bars, and clubs packed into just a 1.5km stretch. The reflection of the neon lights on the river’s surface creates a mesmerizing atmosphere.

🍽️ Culinary Delights: Nakasu is renowned for its incredible street food scene, with the iconic yatai (food stalls) lining the riverbanks. These small, temporary eateries offer an authentic taste of local Fukuoka cuisine, serving up delights like Hakata ramen, yakitori (grilled skewers), and oden (simmered dishes). It’s a foodie’s paradise.

🎨 Cultural Gems: While Nakasu is primarily known for its vibrant nightlife, the district also offers a few cultural gems worth exploring. Visitors can visit the serene Kushida Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine, or the Hakatamachiya Furusatokan Museum, which showcases the traditional architecture and crafts of the region.

🚶‍♀️ Riverside Strolls: For a more relaxed experience, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Naka River, which runs through the heart of Nakasu. The riverside promenade offers beautiful views and a peaceful escape from the district’s lively energy.

🛒 Shopping and Entertainment: Nakasu is also home to a variety of shopping and entertainment options. Visitors can explore the Canal City Hakata, a massive shopping and entertainment complex, or browse the shops and boutiques along the district’s winding streets.

🌃 Nightlife Epicenter: As the epicenter of Fukuoka’s nightlife, Nakasu is the place to be for those seeking a vibrant, lively atmosphere. From neon-lit bars and clubs to cozy izakaya (Japanese-style pubs), there’s something to suit every mood and taste.

🚍 Transportation: Nakasu is well-connected to the rest of Fukuoka, with excellent public transportation options. The area is served by several bus routes and is in close proximity to Hakata Station, one of the largest and busiest stations in Japan, providing easy access to other parts of the city.

Where to Stay in Nakasu

⭐ Best Hotels in Nakasu

  • Hotel Okura Fukuoka: The Hotel Okura Fukuoka is a luxurious 5-star property located in the Hakata district, offering elegant accommodations, fine dining options, and a health club. Guests appreciate its convenient location and exceptional service.
  • Mitsui Garden Hotel Fukuoka Nakasu: The Mitsui Garden Hotel Fukuoka Nakasu is a well-rated 4-star hotel located in the heart of the Nakasu district, providing modern amenities and easy access to the area’s attractions via metro and railway.
  • The Royal Park Canvas Fukuoka Nakasu: The Royal Park Canvas Fukuoka Nakasu is another excellent 4-star option in the Nakasu area, offering stylish accommodations and great value for money.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate hotels

  • THE LIVELY FUKUOKA HAKATA: It is a well-reviewed, budget-friendly hotel in the Hakata district, providing comfortable rooms and convenient access to the city’s attractions.
  • Hotel Resol Trinity Hakata: Hotel Resol Trinity Hakata is a moderately priced hotel offering clean, comfortable accommodations and great value for money in the Hakata area.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • The Millennials Fukuoka: The Millennials Fukuoka is a highly-rated hostel that provides a unique, capsule-style accommodation experience with modern amenities and a social atmosphere.
  • Fukuoka Hana Hostel: Fukuoka Hana Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel option that offers clean, basic accommodations in a convenient location, making it a great choice for travelers on a tight budget.

3. Momochihama: Seaside Serenity 🏖️

🌊 Seaside Bliss: Momochihama Beach is a serene and picturesque spot in Fukuoka, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The beach stretches 2.5 kilometers along Hakata Bay, providing stunning views and a variety of activities for visitors.

🏞️ Family-Friendly: The area is particularly popular among families and couples, who come to enjoy meals on the patio, play beach volleyball, or simply relax in the sun. The beach is also known for its summer night parties, making it a lively spot during the warmer months.

🏢 Shopping and Dining: At the center of the beach is the Marizon shopping complex, where visitors can browse a variety of stores and restaurants. Additionally, there is a stunning wedding hall on the premises, making it a perfect spot for special occasions.

🏰 Attractions Nearby: Momochihama is conveniently located near several notable attractions, including the Fukuoka Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck. The Fukuoka City Museum and the Yahoo Dome are also within easy reach.

🚌 Easily accessible: The area is easily accessible via a 15-minute bus ride from Tenjin, making it a convenient base for exploring Fukuoka’s western subcenter. The unique “Yellow Bird” logistics system in Tenjin helps manage the flow of delivery vehicles, reducing congestion and improving efficiency.

Where to Stay Momochihama

⭐ Best Hotels in Momochihama

  • Hilton Fukuoka Sea Hawk: The Hilton Fukuoka Sea Hawk is a top-rated 4-star hotel located in the Momochihama area. It offers stunning views of Hakata Bay, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to the beach and nearby attractions.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • The Residential Suites Fukuoka: The Residential Suites Fukuoka is a well-reviewed, moderately priced hotel that provides spacious, apartment-style accommodations, making it a great option for couples or small families visiting Momochihama.

4. Hakata: Convenience and Connectivity 🏙️

🏯 Historic Charm: Hakata is the heart of Fukuoka’s historic district, known for its traditional architecture, cultural attractions, and vibrant shopping and dining scenes. The area is steeped in history, with ancient temples and shrines, as well as modern shopping complexes and trendy eateries.

🍽️ Culinary Delights: Hakata is famous for its culinary delights, particularly its ramen, which is considered one of the best in Japan. Visitors can sample a variety of ramen styles, from traditional to modern, at the many ramen shops and restaurants in the area.

🏫 Cultural Attractions: Hakata is home to several cultural attractions, including the Fukuoka City Museum, which showcases the region’s history and culture. The area also features numerous temples and shrines, such as the historic Kawabata Shopping Arcade and the scenic canals.

Fukuoka City Museum
Fukuoka City Museum
Fukuoka City Museum
Fukuoka City Museum
Fukuoka City Museum

🚕 Logistics: Hakata is centrally located and well-connected to the city’s transportation network, making it a convenient base for exploring Fukuoka. The area is served by Hakata Station, one of the largest and busiest stations in Japan, providing easy access to other parts of the city.

Where to Stay in Hakata

⭐ Best Hotels in Hakata

  • Grand Hyatt Fukuoka: The Grand Hyatt Fukuoka is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the Hakata district. It offers an indoor pool, fitness center, and spacious rooms with sophisticated furnishings. Guests praise its convenient location, attentive staff, and excellent amenities.
  • Hotel Nikko Fukuoka: Hotel Nikko Fukuoka is another 5-star option in the Hakata area, providing elegant accommodations, great service, and a central location near major attractions.
  • Miyako Hotel Hakata: The Miyako Hotel Hakata is a well-regarded 4-star property that offers comfortable rooms, quality amenities, and a convenient location in the Hakata district.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Hakata Central: JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Hakata Central is a budget-friendly, 3-star hotel that provides clean, comfortable accommodations and easy access to Hakata Station.
  • The Royal Park Hotel Fukuoka: The Royal Park Hotel Fukuoka is a well-rated, moderately priced 4-star hotel located in the Hakata area, offering quality facilities and amenities.
  • Hotel Torifito Hakata Gion: Hotel Torifito Hakata Gion is a 3-star hotel that provides a comfortable and affordable stay in the Hakata Gion neighborhood.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Nest Hotel Hakata Station: Nest Hotel Hakata Station is a highly-rated hostel option located near Hakata Station, offering budget-friendly accommodations and a convenient location.
  • HOTEL FORZA HAKATA-GUCHI: HOTEL FORZA HAKATA-GUCHI is another well-reviewed hostel in the Hakata area, providing basic but clean and affordable lodging.
  • 9 HOTEL Hakata: 9 HOTEL Hakata is a budget-friendly hostel option that caters to travelers seeking a no-frills, cost-effective accommodation in the Hakata district.

5. Daimyo: Artistic Vibes 🎨

🎨 Art & Fashion Hub: Daimyo is often considered the heart of Fukuoka’s youth culture, a maze of narrow streets filled with unique shops, trendy cafes, and art galleries. The area is known for its vibrant street art and cutting-edge fashion scene, making it a hub for creative minds and style enthusiasts.

🛍️ Local Experiences: Staying in the Daimyo area is perfect for visitors who want to dive into the local culture and experience the latest trends in Fukuoka. It’s a place where traditional and contemporary Japan intersect, offering an eclectic mix of experiences from shopping and dining to art and nightlife.

🏨 Accommodations: Accommodations in Daimyo range from chic boutique hotels to cozy, locally-run guesthouses, offering a more personalized and immersive stay. These properties often reflect the area’s artistic and fashionable vibe, providing guests with a unique and authentic experience.

🚖 Well-connected: Daimyo’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the wider city. With excellent transportation links, visitors can easily access other notable areas like Tenjin and Hakata, as well as Fukuoka’s cultural attractions and entertainment hubs.

Where to Stay in Daimyo

⭐ Best Hotels in Daimyo

  • The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka: The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka is a luxurious 5-star hotel that epitomizes sophistication and elegance. It offers impeccable service, sumptuous accommodations, and fine dining options, making it an excellent choice for discerning travelers.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • APA Hotel Fukuoka Tenjin Nishi: It is a well-reviewed, budget-friendly hotel that provides comfortable accommodations and convenient access to the Daimyo area.
  • LAMP LIGHT BOOKS HOTEL fukuoka: It offers a unique, book-themed experience in the heart of Daimyo, combining modern amenities with a cozy, literary-inspired atmosphere.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • TEN APARTMENT HOTEL: It is a highly-rated hostel option that provides apartment-style accommodations, catering to travelers seeking a more independent and spacious stay.
  • AK302 Guest House AKASAKA: It is a budget-friendly hostel that offers clean, basic accommodations in the Daimyo area, making it a suitable choice for travelers on a tight budget.

Where to Stay in Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a city that offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and appeal. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling energy of Tenjin, the historic charm of Hakata, the serene coastal vibes of Momochihama, the artistic flair of Daimyo, or the pulsating nightlife of Nakasu, Fukuoka has a perfect place to stay for every type of traveler.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular areas to stay in Fukuoka?

The most popular areas for accommodations in Fukuoka are Hakata and Tenjin, both of which offer a wide range of hotels and easy access to the city’s top attractions.

What are some budget-friendly hotel options in Fukuoka?

Fukuoka offers several budget-friendly hotels that provide comfortable and convenient accommodations for travelers on a tighter budget.

What are the best luxury hotels in Fukuoka?

For travelers seeking a luxurious stay, Fukuoka is home to a selection of top-rated luxury hotels that offer exceptional service, sumptuous accommodations, and high-end amenities.

Where can I find hotels with local breakfast options in Fukuoka?

Guests looking to experience Fukuoka’s local cuisine can find hotels that offer Fukuoka-style breakfast options, allowing them to immerse themselves in the city’s culinary traditions.