Ainoshima Cat Island Day Trip from Fukuoka

Fukuoka , Japan

Ainoshima Cat Island Day Trip from Fukuoka

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About this experience

A Cat Lover’s Day Out – Ainoshima Island from Fukuoka

Did you know Japan has several “cat islands”? If you're in Kyushu, Ainoshima is just a short trip from Fukuoka and perfect for a relaxing and heartwarming adventure.

Join this guided afternoon tour to Ainoshima, known worldwide as "Cat Island" and featured by CNN as one of the Top 6 Cat Spots in the World. Home to around 150–200 friendly cats, Ainoshima is a peaceful island where humans and felines live side by side.

Your English-speaking guide will share insights into the island’s history, culture, and the special relationship between the cats and local residents. Enjoy a gentle walk or use the included 2-hour rental bicycle to explore scenic spots like the Ainoshima Tumuli (ancient stone burial mounds), Hanagurise rock formation, and historic shrines.

You’ll also have time to relax at a cozy café and take in the island's coastal charm before returning to Fukuoka.

Available options

Ainoshima Cat Island Day Trip from Fukuoka

What's included

Bicycle Rental (2 hours)

English Speaking Guide

Round-trip by Local Transportation (Train, Bus, Ferry)

Detailed itinerary

Ainoshima Island
Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Shingu Port, Ainoshima is a perfect day trip from Fukuoka.

In 2013, CNN.com named it one of the “6 Big Cat Spots in the World.” Most cats on the island are friendly and roam freely as feral cats, living peacefully alongside the residents.

The island is small and easy to explore, with a 5.4 km loop road—great for walking or cycling. This tour includes a 2-hour bicycle rental!

Highlights include ancient sites such as the Ainoshima Tumuli (stone burial mounds), Hanagurise rock arch, and several historic shrines.

What's not included

Lunch

Personal expense (souvenir, drink, snack and etc)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour does not include a private charter vehicle. You will travel using public transportation, including train, bus, and ferry.

Lunch is not included, so please arrange and enjoy your own meal during the tour.

Please be at pick up point 10 minutes before pick up time

Times are subject to change with or without notice.

Important Note: The remaining hours of the itinerary will be allotted for the travel time from pick up until drop off.

Meeting point

Hakata Station Chikushi Gate, in front of LAWSON Oriental Hotel Fukuoka 1F. The guide will wait having a name board with our customer's name and the HIS logo.

About Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a vibrant coastal city in southern Japan known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm climate. As the largest city in Kyushu, it offers a perfect blend of traditional culture and modern urban living, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Top Attractions

Ohori Park

A large, beautiful park featuring a lake, gardens, and historic sites. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

The ruins of a historic castle that played a significant role in Japanese history. The site offers beautiful views and a glimpse into the past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Kushida Shrine

A historic Shinto shrine known for its vibrant festivals and beautiful architecture. It's a significant cultural and religious site.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Canal City Hakata

A large shopping and entertainment complex featuring a canal, theaters, and a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Shopping/Entertainment 1-3 hours Free to enter (costs vary for shops and restaurants)

Fukuoka Tower

A iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. It's a great spot for photography and sightseeing.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for observation deck and restaurant)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hakata Ramen

A type of ramen featuring a rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu (braised pork) and green onions.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles and broth)

Mentaiko

Spicy cod roe, often served as a topping for rice or noodles, or as a side dish.

Snack/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (if served with rice or noodles)

Motsunabe

A hot pot dish featuring offal, typically beef or pork, cooked in a savory broth with vegetables and tofu.

Dinner Contains meat, gluten (if served with noodles or dipping sauce)

Yaki Toro

Grilled chicken skewers, often seasoned with salt or soy sauce, and served with a side of grated daikon radish.

Dinner Contains chicken, gluten (if seasoned with soy sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains and parks Water sports at nearby beaches and waterways Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples, shrines, and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat rides on the canals of Yanagawa Swimming and water sports at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn features vibrant fall foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese (limited), Korean (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukuoka is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour guides
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN

Getting there

By air

Fukuoka Airport • 4.5 km from city center

By train

Hakata Station, Fukuoka Station

By bus

Hakata Bus Terminal, Tenjin Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Kūkō Line, Hakozaki Line, and Nanakuma Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tenjin Nakasu Hakata Dazaifu

Day trips

Dazaifu

10 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

A historic town known for its temples, shrines, and beautiful gardens. It offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience.

Yanagawa

30 km from Fukuoka • Full day

A picturesque town known as the 'City of Waterways' for its network of canals. It offers a unique and charming experience with its historic houses, boat rides, and local specialties.

Beppu

120 km from Fukuoka • Full day to overnight

A popular hot spring resort town known for its numerous hot springs, or 'hells' (jigoku), and scenic beauty. It offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival • July 1-15 (main events on July 15) Hakata Dontaku Festival • Early May (typically the first Sunday and the following day) Fukuoka Hakata Matsuri • October 15-18

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as Suica or Icoca, for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try local specialties, such as Hakata ramen, mentsuyaki, and yakitori, at yatai (food stalls) or local restaurants
Visit popular attractions, such as Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle Ruins, during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Tenjin, Nakasu, and Hakata, for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival and the Hakata Dontaku Festival, for a unique and memorable experience