Guide for Outdoor Activities in Kitakyushu City, Let's Enjoy Urban Outdoor Activities Right Near the City!

Guide for Outdoor Activities in Kitakyushu City, Let's Enjoy Urban Outdoor Activities Right Near the City!

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Written by GOOD LUCK TRIP

Kitakyushu City is blessed with both the sea and mountains. Just a short distance from the city, you can quickly immerse yourself and play in the grandeur of nature. We will introduce spots and activities to enjoy the outdoors, such as trekking, fishing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), camping, and interactions with animals. When the urge strikes, don't hesitate! Let's venture into the great outdoors.

Table of Contents

How to get to Kitakyushu City

From Kitakyushu Airport, there's a convenient airport bus that connects to JR Kokura Station or The Outlets Kitakyushu. Additionally, from Fukuoka City's Hakata Station to Kitakyushu City's Kokura Station, it takes approximately 15 minutes by JR Sanyo Shinkansen and about 40 minutes by JR Express.

Play at Hiraodai, one of Japan's three major karst landscapes

What is Hiraodai?

Hiraodai is one of Japan's three major karst landscapes alongside Akiyoshidai in Yamaguchi Prefecture and the Shikoku Karst spanning Ehime and Kochi Prefectures. Karst refers to a geological formation where limestone, shaped by rainwater and underground water, undergoes dissolution and erosion. The limestone of Hiraodai dates back 340 million years, originating from the calcified remains of marine organisms deposited near the equator. Over time, geological shifts brought it to its current location. Stretching approximately 6 km north to south, 2 km east to west, and situated at an elevation ranging from 350 to over 600 meters, 320 hectares of the land are designated as a Natural Monument and 1,144 hectares are designated as the Kitakyushu Quasi-National Park. Begin your exploration by visiting the Hiraodai Nature Observation Center, where you can learn more about the area. The center offers advice on walking trails and other useful information.

Hiraodai is characterized by sheep-like, white, round limestone formations. With seasonal flowers blooming throughout the year, it's an ideal spot for trekking.
Hiraodai is characterized by sheep-like, white, round limestone formations. With seasonal flowers blooming throughout the year, it's an ideal spot for trekking.
"Hiraodai Athletics" features bouldering utilizing the natural limestone formations of Hiraodai.
"Hiraodai Athletics" features bouldering utilizing the natural limestone formations of Hiraodai.

For families, Sola Land Hiraodai is a highly recommended destination. Covering an expansive area of 266,000 square meters, this nature-experience park offers a grassy plaza, fruit orchard, playground, athletics area, hands-on workshops, campsite, restaurant, and more. The “Hiraodai Athletics” utilizing the limestone-dotted slopes, allows you to feel the karst plateau beneath your feet, providing unforgettable experiences.

Explore the three limestone caves

Hiraodai is home to three distinctive limestone caves. "Senbutsu Shonyudo" is designated as a Natural Monument, and lighting extends up to 900 meters from the entrance, making it accessible for visitors. Enjoy a delightful walk through the cave, where a stream flows over a single limestone surface beyond the 480-meter mark. At the entrance, you can rent shoes that can get wet, and after your exploration, take a break at the tea house near the entrance.

The Senbutsu Shonyudo cave allows you to progress through the water.
The Senbutsu Shonyudo cave allows you to progress through the water.

The Mejiro Shonyudo cave is characterized by its multi-layered structure and is the longest of the three caves. The main attraction is the approximately 20-meter-long stalactite, one of Japan's largest single-rock formations. If you make a reservation, you can also experience guided caving.

The Mejiro Shonyudo cave, with its awe-inspiring single-rock stalactite, is truly breathtaking.
The Mejiro Shonyudo cave, with its awe-inspiring single-rock stalactite, is truly breathtaking.

Details

Name in Japanese
目白鍾乳洞
Postal Code
803-0180
Address
3-1-1 Hiraodai, Kokuraminami-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
Telephone
093-451-6315
Closed
Irregular holidays
Business Hours
10:00am - 5:00pm
Admission
500yen
Parking
Available
Access
(1) From JR Hitahikosan Line Ishiharamachi Station, take a shared taxi bound for Hiraodai district Odekake-kotsu Hiraodai Observation Center. Get off at the Hiraodai Nature Observation Center stop, and it's a 5-minute walk from there.
(2) By car, it takes approximately 20 minutes from JR Hitahikosan Line Ishiharamachi Station.
(3) By car, it takes about 20 minutes from Kyushu Expressway Kokuraminami Interchange (IC).
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

The Ojika Shonyudo cave is a unique, vertically structured limestone cave where exploration begins after descending a 25-meter staircase from the entrance to the cave floor. As there are elevation changes, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. All the caves maintain a cool temperature in summer and a warm one in winter, providing enjoyment throughout the year.

The unique Ojika Shonyudo cave features a rare vertical structure.
The unique Ojika Shonyudo cave features a rare vertical structure.

Details

Name in Japanese
牡鹿鍾乳洞
Postal Code
803-0180
Address
2-6-58 Hiraodai, Kokuraminami-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
Telephone
093-451-0165
Closed
Irregular holidays
Business Hours
10:00am - 5:00pm
Admission
500yen
Parking
Available
Access
(1) From JR Hitahikosan Line Ishiharamachi Station, take a shared taxi bound for Hiraodai district Odekake-kotsu Hiraodai Observation Center. Get off at the Hiraodai Nature Observation Center stop, and it's a 5-minute walk from there.
(2) By car, it takes approximately 20 minutes from JR Hitahikosan Line Ishiharamachi Station.
(3) By car, it takes about 20 minutes from Kyushu Expressway Kokuraminami Interchange (IC).
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

The base for your explorations is a privately rented lodging facility

A comfortable lodging facility renovated from a single-story 5DK (5 bedrooms, a dining room and a kitchen) house on Hiraodai, providing a home-like atmosphere. The accommodation offers various experiences such as harvesting highland vegetables and blueberries, enjoying a drum bath, camping, hiking, and more. These activities make for great optional additions to your stay. The facility also houses a cafe renowned for its curry (open only on Saturdays and Sundays).

The entrance is marked by a striking vermilion-colored wall, creating a vibrant impression. The interior features unique designs for each room.
The entrance is marked by a striking vermilion-colored wall, creating a vibrant impression. The interior features unique designs for each room.
The traditional house has been renovated, incorporating elements like a veranda and garden. Twelve pairs of futon are available.
The traditional house has been renovated, incorporating elements like a veranda and garden. Twelve pairs of futon are available.

Details

Name in Japanese
山の家 粋邑 HIRAODAI
Postal Code
803-0180
Address
2-1-20 Hiraodai, Kokuraminami-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
Telephone
093-287-4867
Check-in
3:00pm - 8:00pm
Check-out
7:00am - 10:00am
Accommodation Fee
Starting from 8,200 yen per night (Lodging is available for a minimum of 2 nights)
Parking
Available
Access
(1) From JR Hitahikosan Line Ishiharamachi Station, take a shared taxi bound for Hiraodai district Odekake-kotsu Hiraodai Observation Center. Get off at the Hiraodai Nature Observation Center stop, and it's a 3-minute walk from there.
(2) By car, it takes approximately 20 minutes from JR Hitahikosan Line Ishiharamachi Station.
(3) By car, it takes about 20 minutes from Kyushu Expressway Kokuraminami Interchange (IC).
Credit Cards
Accepted
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

Play and stay in the park

Ride on the world’s longest swing

This is a park boasting the largest area in Kitakyushu City, with an expansive 240-hectare site. Within the park, there is a 4-hectare large lawn, a rose garden where 450 varieties of roses bloom in spring and autumn, spots for interacting with animals, playground equipment such as a long slide and grass sleds, a campsite, and various ways to enjoy. The park has a mix of facilities available for free and others that require payment. The highlight is the "World's Longest Swing," certified by the Guinness World Records, which is free to use. It spans a horizontal distance of 163.35 meters, featuring 100 swings arranged in a circular formation.

Let's experience the enormity!
Let's experience the enormity!

The one and only kangaroo kingdom in Japan

The Hibiki Animal World within the Hibinada Ryokuchi/Green Park is one of the leading facilities in Japan for the natural breeding of 387 marsupials. There is even a space where you can enter the kangaroo enclosure and get up close to observe their ecology. You also have the opportunity to see the rare Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby up close.

The kangaroos are living leisurely.
The kangaroos are living leisurely.

Details

Name in Japanese
ひびき動物ワールド (Hibiki Animal World)
Postal Code
808-0121
Address
286 Takenami, Wakamatsu-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
Telephone
093-741-2700
Closed
Tuesdays, Irregular holidays
Business Hours
9:00am - 5:00pm
Admission
300 yen for adults and 150 yen for elementary and junior high school students (Admission fees for Hibikinaba Rokuchi/Green Park are required separately)
Parking
Available (charged)
Access
(1) Mondays to Saturdays: From JR Chikuho Main Line Futajima Station, take the Kitakyushu City Bus bound for Wakita/Kamenoi, get off at the Hibinada Ryokuchi entrance, and it's a 10-minute walk from there.
(2) Sundays and holidays: Take the direct Kitakyushu City Bus from JR Kagoshima Main Line Orio Station to Green Park (operates from March to November only on holidays), and get off at the last stop.
(3) It's approximately a 20-minute drive from the Kitakyushu Urban Expressway Kurosaki IC or the Wakato-Ohashi IC.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

You're all set with just yourself – camping is allowed in the park with minimal gear.

The campsite within the Hibinada Rokuchi/Green Park offers a flexible experience where you can freely explore the park during opening hours. The campsite provides both auto sites and free sites, and there are plans available such as the "Tebura-de Raku-kyan site (Travel Light and Enjoy Camping Site)," BBQ sets, and day camp options, making it easy for visitors to use. Reservations can be made through the official website.

Stay overnight at the campsite and make the most of your time exploring the park!
Stay overnight at the campsite and make the most of your time exploring the park!

Details

Name in Japanese
HIBIKINADA CAMP BASE
Postal Code
808-0121
Address
1058-11 Takenami, Wakamatsu-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
Telephone
093-701-5575
Check-in
1:00pm
Check-out
10:45am
Accommodation Fee
Starting from 3,800 yen per night at one site
Parking
Available
Access
About 10 minutes by car from JR Futajima Station.
Credit Cards
Accepted
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

Try a variety of experiences!

Experience SUP with Kokura Castle in the background

Why not enjoy the Murasaki River on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) with Kokura Castle in the background? Once you stand on the water, use the paddle to move freely. The view of Kokura's town from the river is truly unique. There are various courses available, starting from a 60-minute beginner-friendly option to cafe cruises, SUP yoga, night SUP, and more. Feel free to join in casual attire, as it's okay to come empty-handed. To make a reservation, email at kcitysup@yahoo.co.jp or visit their website.

Casually experience stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) right in the city as part of your sightseeing adventure!
Casually experience stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) right in the city as part of your sightseeing adventure!

Details

Name in Japanese
北九州アーバンサップ協会 (Kitakyushu Urban SUP Association)
Postal Code
803-0813
Address
At the water stage next to the large lawn square at Katsuyama Park, 3 Castle Area, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
Telephone
Not available
Closed
Irregular holidays
Business Hours
Held from April to mid-November. The timings vary depending on the course.
Admission
Starting from 3,000 yen
Parking l Not available
Access
About 15 minutes walk from JR Kokura Station.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

Climb Mount Fukuchi with a guide

Let's climb the renowned Mount Fukuchi, which is designated as one of Kyushu's 100 Famous Mountains and also selected as one of Japan's 100 Water Source Forests. Although it stands at a modest elevation of 900 meters, there is plenty to see, including waterfalls, diverse wild plants, and a 360-degree panoramic view. At the summit, enjoy a lunch of miso soup and rice balls made with local ingredients. It's a great opportunity to join fellow hikers from various countries and relish the hiking experience together.

Itinerary:
8:00am Meet at Tanga Table → Get to the trailhead by car → Start the climb → Lunch at the summit → Descend → Return by car to Tanga Table → Dismiss around 6:00pm

Note:
*Participants must be 7 years or older.
*Reservation required at least 7 days in advance.
*In case of rain: Confirmation of the event will be provided 2 days prior.
*Dress comfortably with suitable footwear (sneakers without non-slip soles are not allowed).

join fellow hikers from various countries and relish the hiking!
join fellow hikers from various countries and relish the hiking!

Details

Name in Japanese
タンガテーブル (Tanga Table)
Postal Code
808-0077
Address
Horaya Building 4F, 1-5-25 Bashaku, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
Telephone
093-967-6284 (Telephone hours 10:00am - 10:00pm)
Closed
Irregular holidays
Business Hours
8:00am - 6:00pm
Admission
5,000yen (Ages 7 or older)
Parking
Not available
Access
About 15 minutes walk from JR Kokura Station.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

Fish, clean, and eat – experience sea fishing in the Kanmon Straits

Hop on a local fisherman's boat and enjoy fishing in the Kanmon Straits, one of the top fishing spots in the country with swift currents and a diverse range of fish species. Fishing equipment is available for rent, so you can join without bringing anything. After catching fish, you can bring them back to Tanga Table and cook them in the kitchen.

Itinerary:
8:00 Gather at Tanga Table → Take a train to Mojiko (port) → Board the boat and start fishing → Take a train to Kokura Station → Cook at Tanga Table → Dismiss around 2:00pm

Note:
*Minimum 4 participants required
*Reservation required at least 10 days in advance
*In case of rain: Confirmation of the event will be provided 3 days prior
*Fishing equipment is available for rent. Those prone to seasickness should bring medication.

Kitakyushu City has excellent fishing grounds. Set sail with the goal of a great haul!
Kitakyushu City has excellent fishing grounds. Set sail with the goal of a great haul!

Details

Name in Japanese
タンガテーブル (Tanga Table)
Postal Code
808-0077
Address
Horaya Building 4F, 1-5-25 Bashaku, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
Telephone
093-967-6284 (Telephone hours 10:00am - 10:00pm)
Closed
Irregular holidays
Business Hours
8:00am - 2:00pm
Admission
22,000 yen for one person, 16,500 yen for two, 13,200 yen for three, and 11,000 yen for four
Parking
Not available
Access
About 15 minutes walk from JR Kokura Station.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

Wrap-up

Located close to the city, with the sea and mountains nearby, Kitakyushu City offers immediate access to nature whenever the mood strikes. New outdoor spots and experiential events are continuously emerging, ensuring that even beginners can enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. Experience the changing seasons of Japan in nature and try various activities with the whole family!