How to Get to Nakatsu from Beppu or Fukuoka International Airport
1. From Fukuoka International Airport
There is no direct train station inside the International Terminal. You must first move to Hakata Station.
Step 1: Airport to Hakata Station (approx. 15–20 min)
Take the free shuttle bus from the International Terminal to the Domestic Terminal.
From the Domestic Terminal, take the Fukuoka City Subway Kuko Line to Hakata Station (2 stops, 5 mins).
Step 2: Hakata Station to Nakatsu Station (approx. 1h 15m – 1h 30m)
Train: Limited Express Sonic (Bound for Oita or Saiki).
Frequency: Usually runs every 30 minutes.
Total Travel Time: Roughly 1 hour 45 minutes (including transfers).
Pro Tip: If you specifically want to use the Shinkansen, you can take it from Hakata to Kokura Station (15 mins) and then transfer to the Sonic (30 mins). This doesn't save much time due to transfer waiting, but it lets you ride the Bullet Train.
2. From Beppu Station
This is a very straightforward, direct journey.
Train: Limited Express Sonic (Bound for Hakata).
Travel Time: Approximately 35 to 45 minutes.
Frequency: Usually runs every 30 minutes.
How to get there: Simply board the Sonic at Beppu Station; Nakatsu is a major stop on the way to Kokura/Hakata.
Recommended Places to Stay in Nakatsu & Beppu
Nakatsu city
“Glocally Hotel TATEYA” is just a 5-minute walk from Nakatsu Station. The hotel also offers helpful guidance on local attractions, making it a great choice if you’re unsure how to plan your trip. The rooms are modern, clean, and comfortable.
The hotel offers a family room with a kitchen for around ¥32,000 per night for two adults, as well as double rooms with one queen-size bed and twin rooms for around ¥18,000 per night. All rates include breakfast.
Click here for booking.Kisha Poppo
Kisha Poppo is a unique and charming accommodation in Nakatsu that offers a nostalgic experience by allowing guests to stay in repurposed train carriages. It provides a distinctive alternative to standard hotels, perfect for those seeking a memorable stay while working on the new project in the area.
Rooms are typically priced around ¥10,000 per night for two adults,, and the facility features an on-site restaurant and public bath for guests. Click here for booking.
すえひろや Sue-Hiro-Ya
Suehiroya is a unique and vibrant community hub and guesthouse located in a renovated miso storehouse with over 100 years of history. It offers a "Japanese-Western fusion" atmosphere, having been redesigned by an American architect to combine traditional Japanese beauty with modern comforts. This would be a fantastic base if you are looking for a place that fosters connection with local residents and other travelers. Contact them to book your stay.
Kyuuka
kyuuka is a private, boutique inn located in the historic castle town area of Nakatsu City, Oita. It is a fully renovated former ryokan with over 150 years of history, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury. Rates typically start around ¥50,000 to ¥60,000 per night for base occupancy (4 guests), with additional fees for extra guests. Click here for booking.
Beppu city
Guest House Sunline Beppu “Guest House Sunline Beppu” is a friendly, budget-friendly inn that blends a social hostel atmosphere with the tradition of a natural hot spring bath. Located just a 7–10 minute walk from Beppu Station, it offers a simple and authentic stay for those wanting to experience the local onsen culture without the high price tag. Rooms start from approximately ¥7,800 to ¥9,000 per night. Click here for booking.
Morinoyu Resort “Morinoyu Resort” is a relaxed, forest-themed retreat that offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle with beautiful mountain views. This informal resort features multiple bathhouses and understated, modern rooms designed for quiet relaxation. Rooms start from approximately ¥22,000 per night. Click here for booking.
BEPPU HOTEL NEGURA “BEPPU HOTEL NEGURA” is a stylish boutique hotel known for its sleek, modern design and exceptional service. Situated about 10 minutes from the station near the famous "Hells" district, it provides a sophisticated and quiet atmosphere for travelers who appreciate contemporary aesthetics. Rooms start from approximately ¥23,000 to ¥28,000 per night. Click here for booking.
ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa “ANA InterContinental Beppu” is an ultra-luxury 5-star destination featuring a world-class infinity pool with breathtaking views of Beppu Bay. It seamlessly combines international luxury with local bamboo craftsmanship, offering a high-end experience complete with a professional spa and gourmet dining. Rooms start from approximately ¥110,000 to ¥140,000 per night. Click here for booking.
Places to Explore in Nakatsu
Nakatsu Castle was built in 1588 and rebuilt in 1964. It is famous as one of Japan’s Three Great Water Castles and, more recently, as Japan’s only “Flower Castle,” featuring gardens and floral displays designed by world-renowned garden designer Kazuyuki Ishihara. Even for visitors who are not interested in history, it is a highly photogenic destination that blends the atmosphere of traditional Japan with modern floral art. Admission is 1,000 yen.
You can also purchase a bundle ticket that includes the history museum. Just be aware that there are very few English explanations, so you'll need Google Translate—or, even better, join my husband Harrison's Nakatsu History Walking Tour when it launches! 😉
Kohako is a charming café located right next to Nakatsu Castle. Housed in a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese home, it offers a cozy atmosphere where visitors can enjoy coffee, cakes, and other sweet treats. It's a great place to take a break while exploring the castle area. Please note that the café is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Nakatsugawa Kasenjiki Park is a free riverside park located right next to Nakatsu Castle. It has benches and picnic tables where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal by the river.
Musashiya Sou Honten is a traditional Japanese confectionery shop with a modern twist. In addition to classic Japanese sweets, it serves beautiful seasonal fruit parfaits and matcha-based desserts. Located about 1.2 km from Nakatsu Station, it is within walking distance, or you can take a short taxi ride if you prefer.
Goganji is a historic temple in the The Teramachi District is home to many historic temples and is known for its distinctive red walls and striking traditional architecture.
Yabakei is a breathtaking gorge area located just outside the city center, celebrated as one of Japan’s most scenic spots. The picture I took above is of Yabakei — it was such a beautiful walk, and I absolutely recommend visiting if you’re staying in the area!
Buses leave from the south gate of Nakatsu Station roughly every hour, and the round-trip fare is around 700 yen per person. Be sure to check the latest bus timetable at the station before heading out!
✨ There are so many things to see around downtown Nakatsu, like the spots shown in the picture below. Enjoy exploring Nakatsu before or after our experience!
*I also recommend checking Google Maps before your visit, as operating hours and business days may occasionally change.
Places to Eat in Nakatsu
My go-to tonkotsu ramen shop is Koku, located about 15 minutes from Nakatsu Station. It serves excellent tonkotsu ramen at a very affordable price. I've tried many ramen restaurants in Nakatsu, and this is still my number one favorite. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. Opening hours are 11:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. for lunch and 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. for dinner.
Shuka is a traditional Japanese restaurant specializing in kaiseki-style course meals, offering a carefully prepared multi-course dining experience that showcases seasonal ingredients and local flavors. If you would like to have dinner here, be sure to make your reservation before 2:00 p.m. on the same day. Check their website for the latest menu and seasonal offerings.
Kizash is a kaiseki-style restaurant with a modern twist, set in a beautiful garden environment that creates a peaceful and elegant dining experience. The restaurant offers course meals starting from ¥5,000 per person and is an excellent choice for a special dinner. Dinner reservations are required and should be made at least one day in advance.
Nama Honmaguro Taki Inoue is a great and affordable lunch spot for visitors who want to enjoy fresh seafood. Their lunch sets feature fresh seafood served over rice, as well as delicious wagyu beef rice bowls. The restaurant is surrounded by a beautiful garden and has a traditional Japanese atmosphere, making it a relaxing place to experience local cuisine and culture.
Holistic Café is a vegan-friendly restaurant located right beside the beach. It offers thoughtfully prepared course meals made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, making it a great option for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking for a healthy and relaxing dining experience. With beautiful ocean views just steps away, it's the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful meal by the sea.
Cafe Daisy is a popular Japanese crêpe café where many local young people like to hang out and relax. Known for its sweet and savory crêpes, it offers a casual and friendly atmosphere that gives visitors a glimpse of everyday life in Nakatsu. The café is located about a 10-minute walk from Nakatsu Station, making it a convenient stop while exploring the area.
Did you know Nakatsu is considered the karaage capital of Japan? My go-to karaage spot is Yukichi no Karaage, and I always order their kabosu chicken breast karaage. Kabosu is a local citrus fruit from Oita that adds a refreshing flavor to the chicken.
*I also recommend checking Google Maps before your visit, as operating hours and business days may occasionally change.