How to Travel from Tokyo to Kyushu with STARFLYER (2025 Guide)

Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island, is a region celebrated for its warm climate, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Among its many destinations, Fukuoka stands out as one of the most popular cities for both domestic and international travelers — a lively hub known for its delicious food, easy access, and friendly atmosphere.

When flying to Kyushu, travelers have two convenient airport options: Fukuoka Airport (FUK) and Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ). Both serve as major gateways to the island, connecting Tokyo and the rest of Japan to Kyushu’s rich variety of attractions.

In this guide, we’ll introduce these two airports and what makes each special — and then compare the two main ways to reach Kyushu from Tokyo: by plane or by Shinkansen. Finally, we’ll show you why STARFLYER, operating flights from Haneda to both Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, offers the most innovative and most stylish way to begin your Kyushu journey.

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Two Gateways to Fukuoka and Kitakyushu

Kyushu is served by two major airports that connect directly with Tokyo (Haneda): Fukuoka Airport (FUK) and Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ).
Both offer easy access to various parts of the island, allowing travelers to choose the arrival point that best suits their itinerary.

• Fukuoka Airport (FUK) sits just a few minutes from central Fukuoka, making it ideal for visitors whose plans focus on Hakata, Tenjin, or other urban attractions in the prefectural capital.
• Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ), located on the northeastern tip of Kyushu, offers a calmer gateway for those exploring Kitakyushu, including Kokura, Mojiko, and nearby areas in Yamaguchi Prefecture.

While both airports are convenient, their atmospheres differ: Fukuoka Airport delivers big-city access within minutes of arrival, whereas Kitakyushu Airport provides a quieter, more relaxed start to your journey.

Fukuoka or Kitakyushu — Which Should You Choose?

If you’re planning to explore Fukuoka city and the surrounding area, Fukuoka Airport is the most convenient choice. If your trip includes Kokura, Mojiko, or other Kyushu areas, Kitakyushu Airport offers an easy, relaxed alternative — with a calmer travel experience and quick access to nearby sights.

Quick Answer: Plane vs. Shinkansen Comparison

While both airports make Kyushu remarkably easy to reach from Tokyo, choosing how to get there is just as important as choosing where to land.
Some travelers prefer the speed and comfort of flying, while others enjoy the relaxed, city-center-to-city-center convenience of Japan’s world-famous bullet train.

Let’s take a closer look at how flying and the Shinkansen compare — in terms of time, cost, and overall experience — when traveling from Tokyo to Kyushu.

Plane vs. Shinkansen Comparison

A 2-hour flight versus a 5-hour train ride? The real story is in the details. You must account for travel time to the airport or station, security checks, and the final leg to your hotel. This chart breaks down the realistic total journey for each option.

The choice depends on your priorities — speed and convenience, or comfort and scenery.

Both options deliver an excellent travel experience.

• Flights are ideal for travelers who want to arrive quickly and make the most of their time in Kyushu.
• The Shinkansen suits those who enjoy Japan’s landscapes and appreciate a smooth, predictable journey.

Option 1: Flying — The Fastest Way Across Japan

Flying from Tokyo (Haneda Airport) to Kyushu is the quickest and most efficient way to reach the island, whether you land in Fukuoka or Kitakyushu.

With multiple daily flights connecting Haneda to both Fukuoka Airport (FUK) and Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ), air travel offers excellent flexibility for every kind of trip. The flight itself takes roughly 2 hours, and when combined with short transfer times at both ends, the total door-to-door journey averages around four hours—the fastest option available.

Flying into Fukuoka Airport (FUK)

Located just 5 minutes by subway from Hakata Station, Fukuoka Airport is one of Japan’s most conveniently situated airports.
It’s perfect for travelers planning to explore:

• Hakata — a lively downtown district famous for shopping, nightlife, and Hakata ramen.
• Tenjin — the city’s entertainment and fashion hub.
• Dazaifu Tenmangū Shrine — a peaceful cultural getaway less than an hour from the city center.

Thanks to its proximity, you can land in the morning and be enjoying Fukuoka’s local cuisine or cultural sights before lunchtime.

Flying into Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ)

For travelers heading toward Kyushu, Kitakyushu Airport provides a quieter, equally efficient gateway.
The airport sits about 40 minutes from Kokura Station, offering easy access to:

• Kokura Castle — a beautifully restored landmark surrounded by seasonal gardens.
• Mojiko Retro District — a nostalgic waterfront lined with historic Western-style buildings and cafés.
• Mount Sarakura — famous for one of Japan’s “New Three Great Night Views.”

It’s also an excellent entry point for those continuing to Beppu (Oita) or Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Comfort and Convenience

Domestic flights in Japan are known for their reliability and smooth service.
Passengers can expect efficient check-in, comfortable cabins, and quick boarding—making flying ideal for travelers who value speed, comfort, and minimal stress.

If you’re looking for a flight that combines convenience with refined design and exceptional service, there’s one airline that stands out on this route.
(We’ll introduce it later in this guide.)

Option 2: The Shinkansen — A Classic and Scenic Journey

The Shinkansen offers a stress-free, reliable, and scenic way to travel from Tokyo to Kyushu, taking you directly into the heart of major cities like Fukuoka and Kitakyushu.

Japan’s world-famous bullet train connects Tokyo with Kyushu via the Tōkaidō–Sanyō Shinkansen lines.
The fastest service, the Nozomi, takes about 5 hours to reach Hakata Station in Fukuoka, while Hikari and Sakura services (included with the Japan Rail Pass) take about 6 hours.
It’s a longer trip than flying, but it rewards travelers with smooth comfort and iconic views of Japan’s countryside.

Arriving at Hakata Station (Fukuoka)

If your destination is Fukuoka city, the Shinkansen’s final stop, Hakata Station, places you right in the city center.
From here, you can easily explore:

• Hakata and Tenjin — Fukuoka’s twin downtown districts, famous for shopping, dining, and yatai food stalls.
• Canal City Hakata — a uniquely designed shopping and entertainment complex.
• Dazaifu Tenmangū Shrine — a short train ride away, offering a serene contrast to the city’s energy.

Hakata Station itself is well-equipped with restaurants, souvenir shops, and hotels — making arrival simple and stress-free.

Arriving at Kokura Station (Kitakyushu)

For travelers heading to Kyushu, Kokura Station is the first major stop in the region.
It’s just a short walk from several of Kitakyushu’s best-known attractions, including:

• Kokura Castle — surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful walking paths.
• Mojiko Retro District — a scenic port area filled with historical buildings, museums, and cafés.
• Kitakyushu Literary Museum and Riverwalk Shopping Complex — great stops for culture and local cuisine.

With frequent train connections across Kyushu, Kokura makes an excellent base for day trips to Shimonoseki, Beppu, or Yamaguchi.

Cost Breakdown & How to Book

A one-way reserved seat on the Nozomi between Tokyo and Hakata or Kokura costs about ¥23,000-¥24,000 (reserved seat). Japan Rail Pass holders can use Hikari or Sakura trains at no additional cost, or purchase a separate add-on (around ¥8,000) for the faster Nozomi service.

Tickets can be booked in English via the official JR SmartEX app, allowing easy seat selection and payment with international credit cards.

Total Time: A Reliable 6-Hour Trip

While the train journey itself is about 5 hours, your total door-to-door time will usually be around 6 hours. That includes local travel to Tokyo Station, the ride itself, and the short transfer from Hakata Station to your hotel.

The Shinkansen’s punctuality ensures you can plan your day confidently, knowing you’ll arrive precisely on schedule — a hallmark of Japanese rail travel.

Using the Japan Rail Pass

While the Japan Rail Pass covers the vast majority of JR services, the fastest Nozomi bullet-trains between Tokyo and Fukuoka (Hakata/Kitakyushu) are not included under standard use.

To board a Nozomi, a pass-holder must purchase a separate “Nozomi/Mizuho” add-on ticket; for the Tokyo → Hakata route, that extra ticket currently runs around ¥8,000.

Alternatively, travelers may use the “Hikari” or “Sakura” trains at no extra cost — these take roughly one hour longer, offering a slightly slower but still comfortable journey.

The Verdict: Plane or Shinkansen?

Both the plane and the Shinkansen offer excellent ways to travel from Tokyo to Kyushu — but if your priority is getting there quickly and comfortably, flying is the clear winner.

With a total door-to-door time of about four hours, flights from Haneda to Kyushu are the most efficient option for travelers who want to maximize their time at their destination. The convenience of Haneda’s central location and the smooth access from both Fukuoka and Kitakyushu airports make air travel an easy, stress-free choice for business and leisure alike.

While the Shinkansen remains a relaxing and scenic option for those who prefer a slower pace and direct city-center travel, flying offers the best overall balance of speed, comfort, and convenience.

Recommended Airline: Experience the Difference with STARFLYER

When it comes to flying between Tokyo and Kyushu, STARFLYER offers a uniquely premium experience at a surprisingly reasonable price.

Fares You’ll Find

STARFLYER’s fare calendar for the Haneda ⇔ Fukuoka route offers standout value. For example, their advanced-booking discount fare “SORATABI 75” starts from ¥9,600 one-way when booked up to 75 days in advance. Other fare types range up through standard adult fares of around ¥52,200.

These flexible tiers let you choose a price with confidence — the earlier you book, the better your value.

What’s Included in Your Fare

On-board the flight, you’ll find a genuine step-up in comfort and service:

• Leather seats designed to evoke a lounge or private office, with reduced capacity (150 seats) to enhance space and ease.
• Features like adjustable headrests and footrests, a coat-hook, cup-holder, and a power outlet + USB port at your seat for phones/laptops.
• Complimentary beverages: for example, the airline’s original blend coffee developed with Tully’s, plus seasonal teas, apple juice and other refreshments.
• Amenities beyond the seat: in-flight blankets, mobile chargers, a diaper-changing table and picture-book rental for families, plus all aircraft are equipped with Wi-Fi (on A320neo).

Together, these inclusions mean no hidden extras — your fare provides a consistent, high-quality experience from flight time to arrival.

The Haneda and Kyushu Advantage

STARFLYER operates exclusively from Haneda Airport (HND) — Tokyo’s most convenient gateway. Located only about 30 minutes from central Tokyo, Haneda allows travelers to start their journey with minimal stress and short transfer times. Check-in is efficient, boarding is smooth, and before you know it, you’ll be heading south toward Kyushu.

The flight itself takes around 2 hours, connecting you to two major airports in the region:

• Fukuoka Airport (FUK) — Just 5 minutes by subway from Hakata Station, it’s one of Japan’s most centrally located airports and perfect for exploring downtown Fukuoka or nearby Dazaifu.
• Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ) — About 40 minutes from Kokura Station, it offers a relaxed arrival experience and easy access to the cultural and historical attractions of Kyushu.

Thanks to Haneda’s proximity to Tokyo’s center and STARFLYER’s efficient operations, your total door-to-door travel time averages about 4 hours — making it the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Kyushu from the capital.

How to Book

Booking is straightforward. For the best fares and to see their latest schedules, head directly to the Japan Flights Website.

Here you can:

• Check the latest flight schedules
• View fare types and promotional offers
• Manage reservations and check-in online

For the best fares, book early — advance tickets often unlock the lowest prices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take to get from Tokyo to Kyushu by STARFLYER?

A: Including check-in and transfers, the total door-to-door journey takes around 4 hours on average — the fastest and most efficient way to reach Kyushu from Tokyo.

Q: Which airports does STARFLYER fly to in Kyushu?

A: STARFLYER operates flights from Haneda Airport (HND) to both Fukuoka Airport (FUK) and Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ).

• Fukuoka Airport is just 5 minutes by subway from Hakata Station.
• Kitakyushu Airport is about 40 minutes by airport bus to Kokura Station, the gateway to Kyushu.

Q: Is STARFLYER a budget airline?

A: No. STARFLYER is a premium Japanese airline known for its refined design and exceptional comfort at an affordable price.
Passengers can enjoy spacious black-leather seats, complimentary drinks, and attentive service without hidden fees or extra charges.

Q: Can I book STARFLYER flights in English?

A: Yes! You can easily check schedules, find fares, and reserve tickets on the official English website: Reserve Tickets

Planning Your Kyushu Adventure

Once you arrive in Kyushu, Japan’s southern island known for its rich culture, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere, you’ll find endless opportunities to explore.

In Fukuoka, Japan’s gateway to Kyushu, you’re just minutes away from Hakata’s lively streets, canal-side shopping areas, and the city’s famous Hakata ramen stalls. If your journey takes you toward Kokura or Mojiko, you’ll discover a different side of Kyushu — one filled with historic architecture, charming port towns, and relaxing coastal views.

No matter where you land, this trip from Tokyo to Kyushu offers one of Japan’s most rewarding domestic travel experiences. And for travelers who value speed, comfort, and refined style, STARFLYER is the ideal choice — transforming a simple flight into the perfect beginning to your Kyushu adventure.

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For more information about Kyushu, check out the following links!