Charming Tourist Destinations Await! Discover the Unique and Captivating Islands of Fukuoka Prefecture!

Fukuoka Prefecture is known for numerous tourist attractions on the Kyushu mainland, such as Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Fukuoka Tower. However, the islands of Fukuoka Prefecture are also recommended for sightseeing. These islands offer a unique array of experiences, from World Heritage sites and cat-filled islands to serene shores perfect for enjoying the clear blue sea. With activities like camping and fishing, even locals frequently visit. Moreover, there are hidden spots perfect for solo trips. This time, we bring you sightseeing information about the islands of Fukuoka Prefecture!

1. Munakata Oshima

Munakata Oshima is Fukuoka Prefecture’s largest inhabited island, situated within Munakata City. It’s a quick trip of less than 30 minutes from Kounominato Port Terminal by ferry Oshima or the passenger boat Shiokaze. Known for its year-round mild climate free of frost, Munakata Oshima boasts especially sweet and delicious mandarins.

Notable attractions on Munakata Oshima include the Nakatsugu Shrine of Munakata Taisha and the Okitsumiya Yohaijo. These sites were collectively designated as World Heritage in July 2017 under "The Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region." The island also features wartime heritage, such as a gun battery relic from the Asia-Pacific War, enriching the visit with cultural and historical depth.

2. Cat Island

Fukuoka has several islands nicknamed "Cat Islands" where cat lovers can enjoy interacting with the feline residents. These islands, however, are not tourist-centric. They are home to local residents living alongside the cats, so it's essential for visitors to respect the rules: no littering, avoid feeding cats unnecessarily, and stay out of private areas.

▶ Himeshima

Himejima, part of Itoshima City, is a 16-minute ferry ride from Kishi Port on the city-run Himeshima ferry. This quaint 3.8 km-circumference island is filled with cats that can be seen fishing at the docks, sunning themselves at the port, or roaming around the villages and fields—creating a haven for cat lovers.

▶ Ainoshima

Ainoshima, located in Shingu Town, Kasuya District, is popular with not only Japanese visitors but also cat enthusiasts from around the world. The island gained international fame after being featured in a 2013 CNN article as one of the "Top 6 Cat Islands in the World." Accessible via a ferry ride from Shingu Port in under 20 minutes, Ainoshima’s popularity sometimes leads to crowded ferry rides.

▶ Aishima

Aishima can be reached with a 45-minute ferry ride aboard the city-run Kokura Maru from Kokura Port, Kitakyushu City. Like other well-known “cat islands,” Aishima’s cats are friendly and often approach visitors. A must-see is the “Senjojiki” rock formation during low tide, which looks like a field of tatami mats and is a signature sight.

3. Nokonoshima Island

Nokonoshima, located in Nishi Ward, Fukuoka City, is just a 10-minute ferry ride from the Nokonoshima Ferry Terminal. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the "Deer Fence" built in 1836 to protect crops and the Hayata Tumulus Cluster from the 7th century.

Renowned as a floral paradise, Nokonoshima’s “Nokonoshima Island Park” is one of Fukuoka’s famous flower destinations, showcasing seasonal blooms like rapeseed flowers, sunflowers, cosmos, and daffodils. The island also offers activities like athletic courses and mini-golf, making it a year-round favorite.

4. Shika Island

Shika Island, situated in Fukuoka City's Higashi Ward, is a scenic island connected to the Kyushu mainland by a sandbar formed by the action of waves and wind. Known as Umi no Nakamichi, this sandbar allows convenient access to the island by train, bus, and boat. Traveling along the route flanked by beautiful coastlines is an experience in itself.

One must-visit site on Shika Island is Shikaumi Shrine, which offers a unique purification ritual involving "Oshioi," a cleansing sand used before the water basin. Don’t miss the chance to try it! Shika Island is also famous as the discovery site of the National Treasure, the "Golden Seal." Be sure to explore Kin-in Park and check out related souvenirs.

5. Genkai Island

Genkai Island, located in the Nishi Ward of Fukuoka City, is about a 35-minute boat ride from Bayside Place Hakata Wharf. Despite its small size, which allows for a full walking tour in an hour, the island is steeped in history, being associated with the Legend of Yuriwaka, an ancient Japanese folktale. Points of interest include Kotaka Shrine, Tachibasaki, and Daijinyama.

The island’s emerald-green sea is breathtaking, perfect for leisurely beach visits. It's also a hotspot for fishing, ideal for enthusiasts. Note that there are limited dining options and no fishing supply shops, so it’s best to come prepared with food and gear.

6. Oro Island

Lastly, let me introduce "Oro Island," an island known for its challenging access compared to others on this list.
Oro Island, reachable by ferry from Meinohama in about 1 hour and 5 minutes, is effectively off-limits to tourists on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This is because the ferry operates only one round-trip service on these days, making same-day returns impossible. Furthermore, there are no accommodations on the island, and camping is not allowed. This means tourists can only visit during the 4-hour, 20-minute window available on days with two round-trip services (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays) before catching the return ferry to Meinohama. This hidden gem of Fukuoka City truly earns its title. It’s also important to note that ferries give boarding priority to residents, so visitors may be unable to board if the ferry reaches capacity.
The island is home to well-preserved remains of a former Japanese Navy observation tower and an Army artillery battery, although they were never used before the end of the war. As these sites are not maintained as tourist attractions, visitors should watch their step and exercise caution.
On a clear day, you can see Iki Island in Nagasaki Prefecture to the west of Oro Island. It’s fascinating to think that despite its distance from the mainland, this remote island is still part of Fukuoka City.

◎ There are Plenty of Islands you Can Enjoy on a Day Trip!

All the featured islands are close enough to visit on a day trip from Kyushu's mainland, each offering its unique charm. While fitting all these islands into one day may be impractical, choosing the perfect one for your interests, whether it’s Munakata Oshima for its world heritage sites or Ainoshima for its adorable cats, ensures a rewarding experience.