Nishitetsu bus
Routes 21A, 25A, 21 and others are listed from Tenjin; routes 25A and 1 connect from Saitozaki.
Open official timetable ACCESS GUIDE
Travel to Shikanoshima from across Fukuoka.
Reach Shikanoshima by car, municipal ferry, JR plus Nishitetsu bus, or bus from Tenjin. A car is best for touring the whole island; the ferry is convenient for the terminal and Shikaumi Shrine area. Select your origin and preferred time to compare routes, fares and return services.
Information baseline: July 26, 2026
Today’s transport information
Page information checked: July 26, 2026
Municipal ferry Check official status Nishitetsu Bus Check official status JR Kashii Line Check official status Road traffic Check official status
Where live status cannot be retrieved, this page does not assume normal operation and directs you to official information.
01
How can I get to Shikanoshima now?
Choose an origin and priority to see up to three practical options. Reconfirm current train and bus times officially.
Route options
Times vary with traffic and connections. Always confirm current bus and JR schedules officially.
02
Choose the right transport
The best option depends on how widely you plan to explore the island.
Car or rental car
Best for the whole island, families, luggage and multiple stops.
View route →Municipal ferry
Best from Hakata/Tenjin, for a boat trip and the south of the island.
View route →JR + Nishitetsu bus
Useful from east Fukuoka, with Uminonakamichi or without a car.
View route →Bus from Tenjin
For fewer transfers and direct travel toward Shikanoshima.
View route →03
Find by origin
Compare realistic options from major parts of Fukuoka Prefecture.
04
Today’s municipal ferry
Upcoming Hakata and Shikanoshima departures are calculated from Japan time and the selected service calendar. Official special schedules and cancellations take priority.
05
Nishitetsu bus and JR Kashii Line
Schedules vary by date and revision. This page explains the route and transfer, while the latest times must be checked with each operator.
JR Kashii Line
Take the JR Kashii Line from Kashii to Saitozaki and transfer to a Nishitetsu bus.
Open official timetableConnections are not guaranteed. Allow enough transfer time.
Access concept map06
By municipal ferry
The usual trip from Hakata Wharf to Shikanoshima takes about 30 minutes. The first weekday Hakata departure runs direct and takes about 20 minutes.
Access concept map07
By car or rental car
Use the Island City exit, Uminonakamichi Bridge and Prefectural Route 59. Driving is best for multiple sights and the north of the island.
- Fukuoka Urban Expressway
- Island City Ramp
- Uminonakamichi Bridge
- Prefectural Route 59
- Shikanoshima
Access concept map08
By JR and Nishitetsu bus
Travel via Kashii on the JR Kashii Line to Saitozaki, then transfer to a bus for Shikanoshima, Hiro, Kyukamura or Katsuma.
Access concept map09
What to check on arrival
The ferry terminal area has bus stops, toilets and walking access toward Shikaumi Shrine. Check your return ferry and bus before moving on.
Access concept map10
Getting around after arrival
Walking, bus, bicycle and car cover different areas. Choose after fixing your destination and return time.
11
Families, older travelers and luggage
Choose based on transfer distance and luggage to reduce the burden.
Use a car or municipal ferry as your main option, and check transfers and return times before leaving.
A car usually minimizes the physical burden. For ferries, confirm conditions for bicycles and large luggage.
The municipal ferry is straightforward, and the southern area can also be explored on foot from the terminal.
Use a car, or check the connection between the JR Kashii Line and Nishitetsu Bus.
12
Crowds, seasons and bad weather
Weekends, summer, holidays and strong wind may change normal conditions.
Weekends, holidays and beach seasonAllow extra time for road congestion, full parking lots and bus delays.
Strong winds or approaching typhoonsFerry times may change or services may be cancelled. Prioritize official operating information.
New Year periodSpecial timetables may apply. Do not assume the regular timetable is in effect.
FAQ
Access FAQ
How do I get from Hakata Station to Shikanoshima?
A clear option is to travel to Hakata Wharf and take the municipal ferry to Shikanoshima terminal. The usual crossing is about 30 minutes.
Can I take a bus from Tenjin?
Fukuoka City lists routes including 21A, 25A and 21 from Tenjin Central Post Office. Confirm the operating day and time in Nishitetsu’s official search.
How late does the ferry run?
The last departure differs by day. Check today’s ferry section and prioritize official information for special schedules or cancellations.
Can I reach Shikanoshima only by train?
JR reaches Saitozaki, but you must transfer to a bus or another mode for Shikanoshima.
What is best for a full island loop?
A car or rental car is convenient for multiple sights. For cycling, check wind, hills, traffic and return time.
Could I miss the last way home?
Yes. Ferry and bus services have final departures. Check your return before leaving, especially in bad weather.
Is parking available?
Parking is available at individual sights and facilities, with free, restricted and seasonal conditions. See the parking guide.
Official sources and updates
Schedules, fares and operating status change. Confirm official information before departure.