Fukuoka

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Ticketing

Various ticketing systems like IC cards and apps make using public transport convenient and seamless.

Sections

1. Overview of Fukuoka’s Public Transportation System

Fukuoka’s public transportation system is modern, reliable, and easy to use. It includes:

  • Subway: Operated by Fukuoka City Transportation Bureau, the subway has three lines: Kuko Line (Airport Line), Hakozaki Line, and Nanakuma Line.
  • Buses: Operated primarily by Nishitetsu (Nishi-Nippon Railroad), with extensive coverage across the city and surrounding areas.
  • Trains: JR Kyushu operates regional and intercity trains, while Nishitetsu operates private rail lines.
  • Ferries: Ferries connect Fukuoka to nearby islands like Nokonoshima and Uminonakamichi.

2. Types of Tickets and Passes

Fukuoka offers a variety of ticketing options to suit different needs. Here’s a breakdown:

A. Single Tickets

  • Subway: Tickets are priced based on distance, ranging from Β₯210 to Β₯370 for adults. Children pay half the fare.
  • Buses: Fares are also distance-based, starting at Β₯100 for short trips. The maximum fare within the city is typically around Β₯420.
  • Trains: JR Kyushu and Nishitetsu train fares vary by distance. For example, a short trip on the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line starts at Β₯150.
  • Ferries: Fares to Nokonoshima Island are around Β₯240 one-way for adults.

B. Prepaid IC Cards

Fukuoka uses two main IC cards for cashless travel:

  1. Hayakaken: Fukuoka’s local IC card, usable on subways, buses, and some trains.
  2. SUGOCA: Issued by JR Kyushu, it works on trains, buses, and subways in Fukuoka and other regions in Japan.

Both cards can also be used for small purchases at convenience stores and vending machines. They are rechargeable and offer convenience by eliminating the need to buy individual tickets.

  • Cost: A refundable deposit of Β₯500 is required when purchasing an IC card. You can load money onto the card in increments of Β₯1,000.
  • Where to Buy: Available at subway stations, JR stations, and some convenience stores.

C. Day Passes

  1. Fukuoka Subway 1-Day Pass:

    • Unlimited subway rides for one day.
    • Cost: Β₯640 for adults, Β₯320 for children.
    • Where to Buy: Subway ticket machines or station counters.

  2. Fukuoka Tourist City Pass:

    • Unlimited rides on subways, Nishitetsu buses, and trains within designated areas.
    • Cost: Β₯820 for adults, Β₯410 for children (city area only). For wider coverage, the cost is Β₯1,340 for adults and Β₯670 for children.
    • Where to Buy: Available at subway stations, Nishitetsu Tenjin Station, and Fukuoka Airport.

  3. Nishitetsu Bus Passes:

    • 1-Day Bus Pass: Unlimited rides on Nishitetsu buses within Fukuoka City.
    • Cost: Β₯900 for adults, Β₯450 for children.
    • Where to Buy: Purchase directly from bus drivers or at Nishitetsu counters.

D. Regional Passes

If you plan to explore beyond Fukuoka, consider these passes:

  • JR Kyushu Rail Pass: Unlimited rides on JR trains in Kyushu. Options include Northern Kyushu, Southern Kyushu, or All Kyushu passes.
  • SunQ Pass: Unlimited rides on highway and local buses across Kyushu. Available in Northern Kyushu or All Kyushu versions.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

  • Ticket Machines: Found at subway and train stations. Machines have English language options and accept cash or IC cards.
  • Station Counters: Staffed counters at major stations can assist with ticket purchases, including day passes and IC cards.
  • On Buses: For single rides, pay the fare in cash or use an IC card. Exact change is required if paying in cash.
  • Online: Some regional passes (e.g., JR Kyushu Rail Pass) can be purchased online in advance.

4. Using Public Transportation

Subway

  1. Purchase a ticket or tap your IC card at the ticket gate.
  2. Keep your ticket until you exit the station.
  3. Subway stations are well-marked in English, and announcements are bilingual (Japanese and English).

Buses

  1. Enter through the rear door and take a numbered ticket from the machine (if paying cash).
  2. Check the fare display at the front of the bus, which corresponds to your ticket number.
  3. Pay the fare or tap your IC card when exiting through the front door.

Trains

  1. Purchase a ticket or use your IC card at the ticket gate.
  2. Keep your ticket for exiting the station.
  3. JR and Nishitetsu trains have clear signage in English.

Ferries

  1. Purchase a ticket at the ferry terminal or use cash/IC cards where accepted.
  2. Board the ferry and enjoy the scenic ride.

5. Costs and Budgeting

  • Subway: Β₯210–Β₯370 per ride.
  • Buses: Β₯100–Β₯420 per ride.
  • IC Cards: Β₯500 deposit + recharge as needed.
  • Day Passes: Β₯640–Β₯1,340 depending on coverage.

For tourists, day passes or IC cards are the most convenient and cost-effective options.

6. Local Apps and Tools

  • Fukuoka City Subway App: Provides route maps, fare calculators, and real-time updates.
  • Japan Transit Planner: A comprehensive app for planning train and subway routes across Japan.
  • Google Maps: Reliable for navigating Fukuoka’s public transportation system.
  • Nishitetsu Bus Navi: Useful for checking bus routes and schedules.

7. Cultural and Practical Tips

  • Queueing: Always line up in an orderly fashion when waiting for subways, buses, or trains.
  • Quietness: Public transportation in Japan is generally quiet. Avoid talking loudly or making phone calls.
  • Exact Change: If paying cash on buses, prepare exact change or use the change machine near the driver.
  • Priority Seats: Reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Avoid using these seats unless necessary.
  • Punctuality: Trains and buses run on time, so plan accordingly.

By understanding these details, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Fukuoka’s public transportation system efficiently and enjoy your time in this beautiful city!