Discover the Beauty of Itoshima A Hidden Gem in Fukuoka - Japan Travel Sights

Itoshima, located in the western part of Fukuoka Prefecture, is a peninsula known for its stunning coastline along the Genkai Sea to the north and serene mountain ranges to the south.

In between, you’ll find the Itoshima Plain, a gentle rural landscape.

This guide introduces you to the breathtaking natural scenery, must-visit tourist spots, and delicious local specialties that make Itoshima a must-visit destination.

Getting to Itoshima

Although “shima” means island in Japanese, Itoshima is a peninsula, easily accessible from Hakata in central Fukuoka by train, bus, or car. It’s close enough for a convenient day trip.

By Train

The main station in Itoshima is Chikuzen-Maebaru Station on the JR Chikuhi Line.

• From Fukuoka Airport: About 45 minutes
• Fukuoka Airport Station → Meinohama Station → Chikuzen-Maebaru Station
• From Hakata: About 40 minutes
• Hakata Station → Meinohama Station → Chikuzen-Maebaru Station

By Bus

The central area of Itoshima is Maebaru. You can take the “Ito-Shima” express bus from Hakata Bus Terminal and arrive in about 50 minutes. Itoshima also has a community bus, the “Hamabo-Go,” which is convenient for getting around.

By Car

Renting a car in Fukuoka City and driving to Itoshima is a great option. From Fukuoka IC, take the Fukuoka Urban Expressway and the Nishi-Kyushu Expressway to Maebaru IC, a journey of about 30 minutes.

Top Attractions in Itoshima

Itoshima is packed with photogenic spots perfect for your Instagram feed. From beaches to mountains, here are some top recommendations:

PALM BEACH THE GARDENS

A resort mall located in Futamigaura, featuring restaurants and cafes. The angel wings mural is especially popular for photos.

Address: 285 Nishiura, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka 819-0202
Access: About 54 minutes by car from Hakata Station

Itoshima London Bus Cafe

A cafe along Sunset Road housed in a converted London bus. Enjoy the view of the beautiful sea from the bus.

Address: 2289-6 Shima-Nohoku, Itoshima City, Fukuoka 819-1303
Access: About 10 minutes on foot from the “Nohoku” bus stop

Sakurai Shrine & Sakurai Futamigaura

Sakurai Shrine, built in the early Edo period, is a designated cultural property. Nearby, Sakurai Futamigaura offers breathtaking views, especially at sunset when the sun sets between the “married rocks.”

Address: 4227 Shima-Sakurai, Itoshima City, Fukuoka 819-1304
Access: About 15 minutes on foot from the “Sakurai” bus stop

Shiraito Falls

Located on the slopes of Mount Haganeyama, Shiraito Falls is surrounded by about 100,000 hydrangeas that bloom from mid-June to early July. Enjoy fishing for yamame or flowing somen noodles during Golden Week to late November.

Address: 460-6 Shiraishi, Itoshima City, Fukuoka 819-1154
Access: About 30 minutes by car from Chikuzen-Maebaru Station

Keya no Oto

Japan’s largest basalt cave, formed by coastal erosion. Accessible only by sightseeing boats from March to November, it’s a popular activity in Itoshima.

Address: 677 Shima-Keya, Itoshima City, Fukuoka 819-1335
Access: About 10 minutes on foot from the “Keya” bus stop

Hakoshima Shrine

A shrine dedicated to the god of love, situated on a small island reachable only during low tide. Known for its legend that blowing through the bamboo tubes can cure ear ailments.

Address: 2143-1 Futamigaura, Nijo-Fukae, Itoshima City, Fukuoka 819-1614
Access: About 25 minutes on foot from the “Ikisan” station

Tateishiyama

A 210-meter-high mountain offering panoramic views of Itoshima’s western coast and the mountains on the border of Fukuoka and Saga. The hike to the summit takes about 30 minutes.

Address: Shima-Keya, Itoshima City, Fukuoka 819-1335
Access: About 30 minutes by bus from Chikuzen-Maebaru Station, alighting at the “Keya” bus stop

Local Delicacies

Itoshima is a food haven, rich in fresh agricultural and marine products. Visit local markets or enjoy meals at cafes and restaurants that use these ingredients.

Natural Sea Bream

Itoshima has been Japan’s top producer of natural sea bream for eight consecutive years. The fish caught here are known for their firm texture and excellent taste.

Itoshima Oysters

Known as “milk of the sea,” oysters are rich in nutrients and are in season from autumn to winter. During this period, many oyster huts open, offering freshly grilled oysters.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Itoshima? Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, make sure to include this beautiful and unique destination in your itinerary.