Fukuoka Open Top Bus (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Fukuoka Open Top Bus?
What makes it 78% Solo-Friendly: A one-hour open-top ride plus free same-day city buses let a solo traveler see key sights efficiently, but the bus lacks restrooms and has only occasional English audio guidance.
Positives:
- Flexible Schedule: Free city buses let you extend your tour and visit local cafes without extra cost.
- Great Photo Angles: Upper deck seating offers unobstructed views for solo photography.
Challenges:
- Limited English Commentary: Live announcements are mostly in Japanese; rely on a translator app for key sites.
- Weather Exposure: No roof on the upper deck means sun, wind, or light rain can affect comfort.
What is Fukuoka Open Top Bus?
- A double-decker sightseeing bus featuring an open-top upper deck for panoramic views of Fukuoka’s skyline and waterfront
- A guided transit service operated by Nishitetsu covering routes such as Seaside Momochi and Downtown Hakata
- A hop-on, hop-off network integrated with local city buses and offering discounted admission to select attractions
What is so special about Fukuoka Open Top Bus for solo trip?
- 60-minute open-top bus shows key Hakata landmarks
- Includes free hop-on/hop-off city bus rides
- Discounted entry to Fukuoka Asian Art Museum
- Open deck seating ideal for solo photographers
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: A 60-minute ride plus optional stops fits solo schedules and keeps the experience concise.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Fukuoka Open Top Bus
Downtown Hakata Course:
Ride the 60-minute open-top bus through Kushida Shrine, old Hakata streets, and Fukuoka Castle Ruins.
Tip: Bring a phone translator; some live commentary is only in Japanese.
City Bus Hop-On/Hop-Off:
Use your ticket for free Nishitetsu city buses to explore Tenjin shops and cafes at your own pace.
Tip: Plan stops in advance to match bus schedules and avoid long waits.
Fukuoka Asian Art Museum:
Show your bus ticket to get ¥50 off adult admission and browse modern Asian artworks.
Tip: Spend about 1 hour; check museum hours before arrival.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Fukuoka Open Top Bus
- Download Route Map: Get the course map from the official site to track landmarks on your phone.
- Charge Your Devices: Carry a power bank to keep your translator or map apps running.
Reviews of Fukuoka Open Top Bus
That Global Nomad
Only take this bus if you are a Japanese speaker. They are supposed to have a headset system that uses GPS markers to play commentary in English when the bus passes key landmarks. I should’ve backed out of this tour when I bought the ticket. They said they are having issues with the GPS system and that there are no refunds if it doesn’t work. They should’ve been honest and just said it doesn’t wo...
CS K
Took the 7.30pm tour for around 90-100mins around the city. It was definitely a comfortable and easy way to explore the city. Paid 2000yen and advance reservation is a must. Either do it online or physically. Took the tour in April so the weather can be a bit cold so bring along warmer clothes or jacket. Or a bottle of warm drinks. No food allowed. The only down side is the commentary is in Jap...
Penny Rusty Sophie
Booked the twilight tour in late September 2024. Thankfully, the rain stayed away for the most part. Since it's an open top bus, you're exposed to the elements. This is something important to keep in mind as the bus hurls down the highway at a fairly fast speed. It can be a bit white-knuckle trying to hold onto your phone as the wind is blowing so hard on the highway. You can buy tickets at City ...
Judita Ko
I’ve chosen a night ride as it was recommended to me when buying a ticket. I was told that tour guide only speaks in Japanese, nonetheless on a bus we had tour guide speaking in Japanese and also audio through speakers translated in Korean and English as it was requested by the people on the bus. Sadly while audio played in English it would cut off half sentence and it was just not all the informa...
Andrei
Really enjoyed the open top bus tour.. Chose the Seaside momochi route. They have 3 schedules 10am, 12:30pm and 4:30pm.. Not many tourist rode during my saturday visit. Another perk of this is that you get to ride Nishetsu buses around Fukuoka for the whole day! Not bad for 1570 yen
When is the best time to visit Fukuoka Open Top Bus (Fukuoka, Japan)?
In spring, spot cherry blossoms around Fukuoka Castle from the bus. In summer, ride early or late to avoid peak sun. In winter, wear a windproof jacket on the open deck.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Open-Top Bus Fare | JPY 2,000 |
| Asian Art Museum Entry | JPY 150 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,150 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Fukuoka Open Top Bus
Address: 1-chōme-8-1 Tenjin, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0001, Japan
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Fukuoka Open Top Bus (Fukuoka)?
About Fukuoka Open Top Bus
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 120-489-93910 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, solo trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities