
This article is part of theCh3: Life in a Research Laboratory"Part 5 of the series
Academics and Socialization
- ①Welcome to the New Student Training and Research Laboratory
- ②Classroom, Zoom, and Club Presentation
Leisure & Entertainment
- ③Fuji-Q Highland Day Trip
- ④Tamagawa Hanabi Dai
- ⑤ Fukuoka Driving Tour ← Current location
Social Culture
Highlights of this article
- Renting a car in Japan
- Comprehensive comparison of online car rental platforms in Japan: Renovi, Eiatori, Jaran, Skyticket, Tabirai, klook, Budget, Uqey
- Fukuoka Itoshima Day Trip Full Itinerary
- Itoshima Must-see Attractions: Palm Beach Restaurant, Itoshima Sympathy Program, Paragliding School
- Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Fukuoka:Fukuoka Tawar, Seaside Momochi-Kaihama Park
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Guided Reading and Reading Suggestions
- Driver's License Required for Renting a Car in Japan
- Comparison of Online Car Rental Platforms in Japan
- Fukuoka Itoshima Day Trip Full Itinerary
- 🚗 Opportunity to decide to rent a car
- 🏢 Car Rental Process
- 🗓️ Tour Overview
- 📍 Scenery Details
- Scenic Spot 1: 🌊 Itoshima Coast (Itoshima Beach)
- SPOT 2: 🍽️ Palm Beach Restaurant (パームビーチ ザ・ガーデンズ)
- SPOT 3: 🎨 Itoshima Support Plaza (糸島応援プラザ / Itoshima Support Plaza)
- SPOT 4: 🪂 アクションパラグライダースクール (Action Paraglider School / Action Paraglider School)
- SPOT 5: 💧Shiraito No Fall (Shiraito Waterfall)
- SPOT 6: 🗼 Fukuoka Tower
- SPOT 7: 🌅シーサイド Momochi Seaside Park
- Return the car.
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Readers
- Related Resources
- Read Next
Guided Reading and Reading Suggestions
This post is about my day trip to Fukuoka Itoshima with my fellow lab students. After the presentation at the Architectural Association, we went on a journey of coast, food and nature exploration. If you are planning to travel to Fukuoka, this article will help you:
✅ Learn about Japan's online car rental platform(Full comparison of the four platforms)
✅ Mastering Itoshima Day Trip Planning(Attractions, hours, parking information)
✅ Must-visit Itoshima Attractions(Coast, restaurants, paragliding, waterfalls)
✅ Explore Fukuoka City(Fukuoka Tower, Seaside Park)
✅ Avoiding Common Mistakes(Notes on car rental, trip planning tips)
It is recommended to read the Quick Check List first, then read the car rental platforms for comparison, and finally plan your trip by referring to the detailed information of the attractions.
Quick Checklist (must see before traveling by car)
- 📋 Prepare for departure (1-2 weeks in advance is recommended)
- Confirmation of Driver's License Qualifications (International Driver's License or Japanese Translation Driver's License)
- Online car rental reservation (Renovation, Eiatori, Juran, Skyticket, Tabirai, Klook, Budget, Uqey)
- Confirm insurance options (full coverage recommended)
- Prepare credit card (credit card guarantee is required for car rental)
- Confirmation of itinerary and time
- 📋 Must-have items on the day of pickup
- Passport or Resident Card
- International Driver's License / Japanese Translation Driver's License + Original Taiwan Driver's License / Japanese Driver's License
- Credit card (required by rental car company)
- Rental Car Reservation Confirmation Form (electronic or paper)
- Change (may be required for parking lot)
- 📋 Itoshima Day Trip Itinerary Checking
- Itoshima Coast (Sightseeing and Photo Taking)
- Palm Beach Restaurant (lunch)
- Itoshima Sympathy Program (Souvenir Purchase)
- アクションパラグライダースクール (hiking or paragliding experience)
- Shiraito no Takigi (Hiking, waterfall viewing)
- Fukuoka Tower (City View)
- Seaside Momochi Seaside Park (Sunset viewing)
- Fill up the tank before you return the car.
Driver's License Required for Renting a Car in Japan
Compare Driver's License Types
To rent a car in Japan, foreigners are required to have one of the following driver's licenses:
| Driver's License Type | Applicable Countries/Regions | Application Difficulty | sell-by date | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Driving Permit (IDP) | Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, etc. | Simple | 1 year | NT$250 |
| Japanese Translation of Driver's License | Taiwan | Simple | Open-ended | NT$100 |
| Japanese Driver's License | Long-term residents | difficulties | Long-term validity | Approx. 5,000 yen |
Driver's License Application Process
International Driver's License Application Process (Taiwan)
- Application Venue
- Local Supervisory Offices
- Documentation requirements
- Original Identity Card
- Taiwan Driver's License
- Copy of passport or identity card
- 2 inches photo 2 sheets
- Application Fee $250
- Validity Period: An international driver's license must be issued within one year and be valid for one year from the date of entry into Japan.
💡 important reminder: If you have an international driver's license, it is recommended that you carry your home country's original driver's license at all times.
Japanese Translation of Driver's License Application Process (Taiwan)
- Application Venue::
- Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan
- Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association
- Local Supervisory Offices (partially serviced)
- Documentation requirements::
- Taiwan Driver's License
- Application Fee $100
- Validity Period
- The Japanese translation will continue to be considered valid as long as the contents of the driver's license remain unchanged.
- Driving period:Within one year after entering Japanand TaiwanWithin the validity period of the driver's license
💡 important reminder: A Japanese translation of your driver's license is required to be used in conjunction with your original Taiwan driver's license! If you have an international driver's license, it is also recommended to carry the original license of each country with you.
Application Process for Japanese Driver's License (Japan)
- Application Venue(Japan only)
- Driver's License Examination Center or Driver's License Center of the prefectural police in the prefecture where the applicant resides.
- Documentation requirements::
- Application Form: A separate questionnaire asking about fixed symptoms of the disease must be submitted with the application.
- 1 photo for application: Size is 3.0cm x 2.4cm. Photo taken within the last six months, hat off, front view, no background, chest up.
- Photocopies of Resident's Stamps of the Place of Home Registration: Those who do not comply with the Basic Resident Registration Law may present passports or other documents.
- Japan Health Insurance Card, Personal Number Card, Resident Card, etc. (on presentation)
- Taiwan Driver's License
- Taiwan Driver's License Japanese Translation
- Proof that you have stayed in Taiwan for at least 3 months after obtaining your driver's license.For example, use the Taiwan exit stamp and Japan entry stamp on your passport as confirmation. (Get your license in your own country sooner!)
- Handling Fee
- Validity Period: Irrelevant to the length of the intended stay in Japan.Maximum 3 years and 1 month
💡 important reminder: A Japanese translation of your driver's license is required to be used in conjunction with your original Taiwan driver's license! If you have an international driver's license, it is also recommended to carry the original license of each country with you.
Comparison of Online Car Rental Platforms in Japan
🚗 Why choose an online car rental platform?
Compared to renting a car directly from a store, online car rental platforms have the following advantages:
- ✅ Price transparencyCompare prices of car rental companies in real time
- ✅ make an advance reservation: To avoid having no rental car on site
- ✅ Preferential Program: Early bird discounts are usually available for online bookings
- ✅ Chinese Interface: Chinese language services are available on some platforms
- ✅ Package Offer: Combination of airfare and hotel booking available
🏆 Online Car Rental Platform Comparison List
Based on our practical experience and research, here is a detailed comparison of the top 6 online car rental comparison platforms:
📋 Top 6 online car rental comparison sites
Rennavi
- Key Features:
- ✅ Significant Price Advantage: Specializes in offering the lowest price plans, and is the blockbuster for over 100 Cheyenne car rental companies!
- ✅ Okinawa is the strongestNo.1 in the number of car rental bulletin in Okinawa Prefecture with more than 50 bulletins.
- ✅ Feature-rich searchSearch by distance, type of vehicle, ride service and more.
- ✅ Reservation Flexibility: You can choose between in-store or pick-up service when you make a reservation.
- ✅ Price transparency: All costs at a glance
- Partner car rental brands:
- Oryx, Taimus, Nippon, Station Renata, Baji, etc.
- Suitable for the target:
- Travelers who want to save money
- Travelers to Okinawa
- Users who value price comparisons
- Friendliness of foreigners: High
- Chinese, Japanese, English and Korean
🎯 One sentence summary: "The best and cheapest car rental in Okinawa
Airtrip
- Key Features:
- ✅ The best for emergencies: Reservations can be made up to 2 hours prior to departure on the same day, suitable for temporary needs.
- ✅ Convenient Search: Searchable from airports, prefectures, and Shinkansen stations.
- ✅ Automatic Sorting: Search results are automatically displayed at the lowest price.
- ✅ bonus point system: 1 point = 1 yen, can be used cumulatively.
- ✅ Enrichment Activities: Geographical or Seasonal Offer Programs galore
- Partner car rental brands:
- Taimizi, Toyota, Nippon, Nissan, Orix, etc.
- Suitable for the target:
- Those who need to rent a car temporarily
- Business Traveler
- Travelers requiring flexible arrangements
- Friendliness of foreigners: High
- Chinese, Japanese, English and Korean
🎯 One sentence summary"Emergency device that can be booked up to 2 hours in advance on the same day."
Jalan (jalan)
- Key Features:
- ✅ Large Platform Reliance: Ricoult operation, high brand reliability
- ✅ Great feedback: Accumulation/Use of dPort, PontaPort
- ✅ Coupons are plentiful: Members can use a variety of exclusive coupons.
- ✅ A wide range of vehicles: Vehicles can be easily booked during peak periods
- ✅ High integration: Integration with Juran Tourism Services
- Partner car rental brands:
- Toyota, Nippon, Orix, Taimus, Nissan, 100 yen lease, Nico Nico lease, etc.
- Suitable for the target:
- Juran is an existing user.
- Travelers who want to accumulate points
- Those who value brand trustworthiness
🎯 One sentence summary"Choose it if you want to accumulate d-points and ponta-points."
Skaichi Keitai (Skyticket)
- Key Features:
- ✅ Most Publications: More than 240 companies and 4,000 stores nationwide.
- ✅ Possible to save beforehand: Credit card prepayment is available for some programs, with no payment at the door.
- ✅ Vehicle type photo details: all vehicles have photos, visualization options
- ✅ Well-established rating system: High user satisfaction and good repurchase rate.
- ✅ Abundant special vehicles: Specialized vehicles such as Camping Cars are available.
- Partner car rental brands:
- Newspapers, Toyotas, Oryx, Taimus, etc.
- Suitable for the target:
- For those who want to see the actual vehicle photos
- Travelers who need special vehicles
- Users who value diversity of choice
🎯 One sentence summary: "The most publicized visualization platform with photos of all cars".
Tabirai (tabirai)
- Key Features:
- ✅ Make Iyasuza No.1: First place in "easy-to-read website" and "clear booking screen" in the Internet survey.
- ✅ Strict quality control: Only quality car rental companies that meet the unique criteria are listed in the bulletin.
- ✅ New Vehicle Guarantee: New or newer vehicles from partner stores
- ✅ LINE Reservation: First in the industry, members can make reservations via LINE.
- ✅ Rich in travel information: Provide local sightseeing advice and travel planning
- Partner car rental brands:
- Orix, Taimus, Nippon, Nissan, Toyota, Baji, etc.
- Suitable for the target:
- Travelers who value quality
- First-time Renters
- Foreign tourists who don't know Japanese but need support.
- Friendliness of foreigners: High
- Chinese, Japanese, English and Korean
🎯 One sentence summary: "The easiest interface and the most comfortable choice for beginners".
Klook (klook)
- Key Features:
- ✅ Multilingual Support: Chinese language interface is perfect for foreign tourists.
- ✅ Price Competitiveness: Frequent promotions may be cheaper than other platforms.
- ✅ High integration: Reservations for events, transportation, and accommodations can be made at the same time.
- ✅ APP is easy to use: Interface design is friendly to young users
- ✅ Flexible Payment: Supports multiple payment methods (credit card, PayPay, etc.)
- Partner car rental brands:
- Collaboration with international chains (Hertz, Avis, etc.) and some Japanese domestic companies, but the number of publications is relatively small.
- Suitable for the target:
- Foreigners, especially in the Chinese community
- Travelers with limited budget
- Travelers whose itineraries will not be changed
- Friendliness of foreigners: Highest
- Available in more than 24 languages
🎯 One sentence summary: "Competitively priced and foreigner friendly."
💰 Compare prices and offers
| flat-roofed building | Price Competitiveness | Major Benefits | Discount Code/Coupon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renovation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lowest Price Guarantee | - Gean Rent-A-Car specializes in - Okinawa Special Offer - Early Cut Offer | ✅ Seasonal Coupons |
| エアトリ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Automatic Value Sorting | - Geographical Concessions - Seasonal Kits - Same Day Booking Offer | ✅ Regular Coupons |
| JARAN | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Medium to high price point | - Limited Membership Offer - Juranpak Discounts | ✅✅ Coupons are the most plentiful Login to use |
| skyticket | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ mid-priced | - Pre-tax Discounts - First Time Reservation Offer - Long Term Rental Offer | ✅ Occasional Promotions |
| Tabirai | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quality first, not lowest price | - New Vehicle Guarantee - Waiver of Liability Compensation Fee - Free 24-hour support | ✅ Regional Offers |
| Klook | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cheapest on the surface | - 9/19/29 Day Offer - First appointment discount | ✅✅ Most Discounted Codes ⚠️ but with strict cancellation conditions |
🚗 Convenience Comparison (Reservation & Return)
| flat-roofed building | Reservation Method | Returning a car from another location | APP Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renovation | - WEB | ✅ Correspondence Depends on the store | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Basic Functions |
| エアトリ | - WEB & APP | ✅ Correspondence Filter by search | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Convenient Search |
| JARAN | - WEB & APP | ✅ Correspondence Detailed Condition Indication | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Integration with tourism |
| skyticket | - WEB & APP | ✅ Correspondence Detailed Condition Indication | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Photo Enrichment |
| Tabirai | - Telephone & WEB & APP -LINE Reservation(First in the industry) | ✅ Correspondence Detailed Description | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ LINE Integration |
| Klook | - WEB & APP - QR Code Pickup | ✅ Correspondence But there are fewer choices | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Foreigner Friendly |
🚗 Directly operated rental car company: バジェットレンタカー (Budget)
↓↓↓[Budget Rent-A-Car] New member can get 1000 yen discount when applying! ↓↓
Company Background:
- Internationally recognized car rental brands
- We have collaborated with many of the above comparison sites (Rainbow, Airtree, Jaran, Skyticket, Tabirai, LUXEON Travail).
Featured:
- ✅ Usually competitively priced
- ✅ Highly trusted international brand
- ✅ Multiple platforms available for booking with great flexibility of choice
🎯 Summarize the platform in one sentence::
- Bajillionaire (Budget):"International brand, multi-platform, foreigner-friendly."
💡 Technologically Innovative Car Rental Company: ユーキー (Uqey)
- 🎯 Core Benefit: "No waiting at all"
- ✅ No counter formalities: no face-to-face reception, no paperwork required
- ✅ The cell phone is the key.Smartphone is the key to your car, no need to hand over the key!
- ✅ 24 Hours: Can be borrowed or returned at any time regardless of the store's opening hours.
- ✅ No monthly fee and no membership fee for APP(math.) genusPayment for use only
- 🗾 Range of services:
- National Uqey Styles continues to expand.
- Cooperating rental car companies: Nissin Rent-A-Car, Tanaka Rent-A-Car, Ryukyu Rentals, etc.
- 📊 Differences from traditional car rentals:
| Project | Traditional car rental | Uqey |
|---|---|---|
| Counter Procedures | need | unnecessary |
| Business Hours | there are | 24 hours |
| Key handover | need | Cell phone is the key |
| Waiting Time | You may have to wait in line. | zero wait |
| Flexibility. | Depending on business hours | ready to repay |
🎯 Summarize the platform in one sentence::
- Uqey (ユーキー):"Mobile phone is the key, no waiting, no counter, 24-hour pick-up and return". 🚀
Fukuoka Itoshima Day Trip Full Itinerary
🚗 Opportunity to decide to rent a car
This trip to Fukuoka was originally for the purpose of attending a national architectural conference. Most of the presentation work was done on the second day, so the students decided to rent a car on the third day and started a free trip to the suburbs of Itoshima.
Murata-senpai: "I'm not doing anything tomorrow, so let's go for a drive in Itoshima! The sea is beautiful there."
Kida-san: "Sure! We're going to Palm Beach. I heard it's really good."
Me: "Where is Itoshima? Is it far?"
Nakata: "It's not far, it's only a half hour's drive. Let's rent a car!"
That was how I decided to take a day trip to Itoshima Island on a whim.
🏢 Car Rental Process
After some discussion, the seniors decided that the Tenjin neighborhood of Nippon Rent-A-Car (Tenjin Daimyo Office) Rent a car as it is the closest to our hotel, 10 minutes walk. The following arePickup process::
- Arrive at the car rental counter
- Mr. Murata showed his identification (driver's license, credit card).
- Confirmation of reservation and insurance plan
- Signing of car rental agreement
- Staff led inspection of the car (very detailed)
- Explains vehicle operation (navigation settings, ETC use)
- Pick up car keys and documents
- Outgoing!
My Observations::
"The service from Nippon Rent-A-Car is really attentive! The staff will check every little scratch on the car and take a picture of it with a tablet. The navigation is also explained in detail, so you don't have to worry about not knowing how to use it."
🗓️ Tour Overview
Here is our actual itinerary:
| Time | Location | Events | Length of Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | deity | Rental Car Departure | – |
| 09:30 | Itoshima Coast | Enjoy the sea view and take photos | 1 hour |
| 11:00 | Palm Beach Restaurant | Lunch, ocean view | 1.5 hours |
| 13:00 | Itoshima 応援ラザ | Visit crafts and buy souvenirs | 30 minutes |
| 14:00 | Paragliding School | Hiking, overlooking the coast | 1.5 hours |
| 16:00 | Shiroito no Takigi | Hiking and waterfall viewing | 1 hour |
| 17:30 | Fukuoka Tower | City view and photo taking | 45 minutes |
| 18:30 | Seaside Momochi Seaside Park | Enjoy the sunset and get close to the sea | 1 hour |
| 20:00 | deity | Return the car. | – |
📍 Scenery Details
Scenic Spot 1: 🌊 Itoshima Coast (Itoshima Beach)
- Introduction
- Itoshima Coast is located in the western part of Fukuoka City and is a weekend vacation spot for Fukuoka people. The blue sea lapping at the golden sandy beach and the long stretch of coastline make for a breathtaking view.
- distinctiveness
- ✅ Blue Sea, Blue Sky: Crystal clear water and clean beaches, suitable for walking and taking photos.
- ✅ Netscape Point: There are a lot of netbook photo spots along the coastline (e.g., white swings, heart installation art).
- ✅ Surfing Resorts: Summer is a surfer's paradise
- ✅ Convenient transportation: About 30 minutes by car from the center of Fukuoka City
- Must-Shoot Scenery
- Futamigaura Coast: There are two rocks in the sea, the "Couple's Rock", which are connected by a rope to symbolize the harmony between husband and wife.
- White Swing: The white swings along the shoreline are superb for photos
- Seaview Cafe: There are many sea view cafes along the coastline where you can enjoy the sea view while having a cup of coffee.
My Experience::
"The coast of Itoshima Island is really beautiful! The blue sea, blue sky and golden sandy beaches are postcard-quality scenery. We took a lot of photos along the coast, and every single one of them was beautiful."
SPOT 2: 🍽️ Palm Beach Restaurant (パームビーチ ザ・ガーデンズ)
- Introduction
- Palm Beach is one of the most famous sea view restaurants in Itoshima Coast, famous for its boundless sea view and delicious cuisine. The restaurant is decorated in white with a blue sea view, making it feel like a Mediterranean resort.
- distinctiveness
- ✅ Infinity Sea ViewFloor-to-ceiling windows for unrivaled sea views during meals
- ✅ Mediterranean StyleWhite decor with blue sea view, romantic atmosphere.
- ✅ Delicious CuisineItalian, seafood, and desserts are available.
- Business Hours
- 11:00~19:00 (O.S 18:00) (Advance reservation is recommended, holidays are easy to fill up)
- Reservation Information
- have no other choicePhone Appointment: 092-809-1660
- (Reference)Food (tabelog)
My Experience::
"Dining at Palm Beach is a real treat! I had a great view of the infinity ocean while enjoying the delicious Italian cuisine, the seafood pasta was fresh and the grilled pizza was delicious. The atmosphere is so relaxing that you lose track of time".
SPOT 3: 🎨 Itoshima Support Plaza (糸島応援プラザ / Itoshima Support Plaza)
- Introduction::
- The Itoshima Apply Plaza is a comprehensive facility for displaying local crafts, agricultural products and specialty items, where you can appreciate the exquisite crafts, feel the rich artistic atmosphere, and buy souvenirs.
- distinctiveness
- ✅ Craft Show: pottery, woodworking, dyeing and weaving, and other local crafts
- ✅ Agricultural Products Vending: Fresh fruits, vegetables and seafood from Itoshima Island
- ✅ Featured Products: Itoshima's limited edition souvenirs and snacks
- Business Hours
- 10:00-18:00 (Closed on Mondays)
My Experience::
Itoshima 応援ザ" The crafts of Itoshima 応援ザ are really exquisite! We bought sea salt and handmade pottery as souvenirs. The prices are reasonable and the quality is good, so we recommend you to visit."
SPOT 4: 🪂 アクションパラグライダースクール (Action Paraglider School / Action Paraglider School)
- Introduction
- The paragliding school in Itoshima offers paragliding activities. Even if you don't want to go paragliding, you can hike on the hilltop overlooking the blue sea and sky along the coast of Itoshima Island, and feel the breeze on your face, which makes the view breathtaking.
- distinctiveness
- ✅ Great View: The view of Itoshima coast from the top of the hill is vast, and the hilltop is the best place to take pictures of the panoramic view of Itoshima coast.
- ✅ walking track: Gently sloping trail for all ages.
- ✅ Paragliding Experience: Tandem paragliding experience available (with instructor)
- Hiking Information
- Hiking Difficulty: Simple (about 30 minutes to the top)
- Trail Condition: Dirt and gravel road, sports shoes recommended
- Best Time: 3-5 p.m. (soft light, good for photos)
- Other Information
- Official Website::https://www.action777.com/
- Telephone:: 090-5082-2202 (Kobayashi)
My Experience::
"The view of Itoshima's coastline from the top of the mountain is really superb! The blue sea, blue skies, and long coastline make for a breathtaking view. Although we didn't experience paragliding this time, it was worth it just to hike up to the peak and enjoy the view. If we come back next time, we will definitely try paragliding!
SPOT 5: 💧Shiraito No Fall (Shiraito Waterfall)
- Introduction
- Shiraito no Falls is a well-known energy gathering place (Pawasputo) in Japan, located halfway up Hagane Mountain at an elevation of about 900 meters. The waterfall is about 24 meters high and the crystal clear water flowing down the rock face, glistening under the sunlight, is a breathtaking sight. The seasonal changes in vegetation add a touch of serenity to the trip.
- distinctiveness
- ✅ energy center: It is considered a sacred place to absorb the energy of nature.
- ✅ Four Seasons: Enjoy the fresh greenery in spring, hydrangeas and greenery in summer while enjoying the summer heat, the red leaves in fall, and the woodstove will be lit in winter.
- ✅ Experiential ActivitiesFishing, Somen noodle streaming, soba making (reservation required)
- Hiking Information
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy to moderate (about 20 minutes to the waterfall)
- Trail Condition: Fully furnished and suitable for all ages.
- Suggested Wear: Sneakers, lightweight clothing
My Experience::
"Shiraito no Takita is really beautiful! The water flowing down the rock wall and glittering under the sunlight is so beautiful that it looks like a picture. The area around the waterfall is very cool, so it's a great place to come in summer. We took a lot of photos in front of the waterfall and felt the quiet beauty of nature. If you have time, we recommend you to try Ryu Somen, it's very interesting!
SPOT 6: 🗼 Fukuoka Tower
- Introduction
- Fukuoka Tower is a representative building of Fukuoka City. The three white columns are intertwined to form an elegant and modern shape, giving you a sense of the unique and futuristic design.
- distinctiveness
- ✅ Japan's tallest waterfront towerTotal height: 234 meters
- ✅ 360 Degree Observation Deck: Located at 123 meters with a wide view of Fukuoka city, Hakata Bay and Nokonoshima Island.
- ✅ Day and night view: City and coastal views during the day and night views at night.
- ✅ Light Show: Light projections on the tower at night (seasonal only)
- ✅ Couple's Sanctuary: A monument to the "Lovers' Sanctuary" is located at the observation deck.
- Business Hours
- 9:30-22:00 (last admission 21:30)
My Experience::
"The design of Fukuoka Tower is really special! The three white columns are intertwined and futuristic. We arrived at the tower in the evening, and we could see the change from day view to night view. It was a pity that we didn't stay long enough to visit the observation deck, so we will definitely go up there next time!
SPOT 7: 🌅シーサイド Momochi Seaside Park
- Introduction
- Located across from Fukuoka Tower, Simsaid Momochi Seaside Park is a famous seaside park consisting of a white man-made beach divided into two areas, "Momochi Seaside Area" and "Jigyohama Seaside Area". The park stretches 1.4km from east to west, facing the calm Hakata Bay, and is close to the city center, making it an ideal seaside resort.
- distinctiveness
- ✅ White Artificial Beach: Fine sand, clean and tidy.
- ✅ Hakata Bay Seaview: Sea level is calm and suitable for water sports
- ✅ Sunset View: In the evening, the setting sun colored the sky, super beautiful!
- Zoning
- Pak To Bin District: Major sea bathing area with excellent facilities
- Jigyohama Area: Quieter, good for walking
My Experience::
"シーサイドももち海浜公園 is really a great place! We arrived in the evening and watched the sunset coloring the sky and the sea breeze blowing gently, it was super relaxing. The white sandy beach is clean and the water is calm, so you can take off your shoes and walk on the beach and feel the coolness of the water on your ankles. It's very close to the city center, but it feels like a vacation. I highly recommend coming here in the evening to enjoy the sunset!
Return the car.
After enjoying the sunset, we went back to Tenjin to return the car. Below is the list ofProcedure for Returning a Vehicle::
- Go to the gas station and fill up before you return the car.
- Arrival Car Rental
- Staff checking the condition of the vehicle
- Confirm fuel level is full.
- Settlement of ETC charges
- Returning Car Keys and Documents
- Finish returning the car.
My feelings::
"The process of returning the car was very smooth. The staff checked the condition of the car to make sure it was fine, and then settled the payment. Overall, the rental experience was very good, and I will definitely rent a car again next time I have the chance!
Conclusion
This one-day self-drive trip to Itoshima in Fukuoka was one of the most unforgettable experiences I had in Japan. In addition to the beautiful scenery and delicious food, the most important thing was to feel the warmth of the laboratory. Not only did the students guide me in my studies, but they also brought me to experience the Japanese culture, which enriched my life in Japan.
I learned from this experience:
- ✅ Cherish the time you spend with your seniors.They are the most important partners in the life of a student.
- ✅ Be willing to try new things: I saw a different Japan on a self-drive tour.
- ✅ Plan your tripTime is of the essence when you have to go to so many places in one day!
If you are going to study in Japan, it is highly recommended that you talk to the Japanese students in the laboratory. They will teach you the specialty, bring you to experience life, help you practice Japanese, and become long-term friends. I passed the N2 Japanese test three months after I came to Japan without any special preparation.
These unique experiences will become the most precious memories of your study abroad life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Readers
- QWhat should I be aware of when driving in Japan?
- A
The following are important points to note:
- Transportation Rules
- ✅ keep to the left: Contrary to Taiwan, needs to be adapted
- ✅ give way to pedestriansPedestrian Priority: Always yield to pedestrians
- ✅ Speed limit compliance: Usually 40-60 km/h in urban areas, 80-100 km/h on highways
- ✅ Don't turn right at the red light.: Unless otherwise indicated
- ✅ Zero tolerance for drunk drivingJapan is very strict about drinking and driving, so don't drink and drive.
- Parking
- ✅ Recognizing Parking Signs: Sign P for Parking Lot
- ✅ Paid Parking: Most parking lots require a fee (300-500 yen/hour).
- ✅ Don't stop.: Japan has heavy fines for parking violations (about 10,000-18,000 yen).
- Transportation Rules
- QWhich is the best online car rental platform?
- A
Depends on demand:
demand (economics) Recommended platforms/companies One sentence reason cheapest Renavi / Gates King of Prices+Guyan Overlord fastest Uqey Zero waiting time for unlocking your phone most secure Tabirai New cars are guaranteed to be of the highest quality Accumulated Points JARAN dPortfolio Temporary demand エアトリ Reservations can be made up to 2 hours in advance Okinawa Tourism Renovation Okinawa Bulletin No.1 Look at the actual photos. skyticket All cars have photos foreigner interface Klook Chinese Convenience Personal Travel Uqey Minimize the time required for automation Family Travel Tabirai Reliable quality and a wide range of vehicles
- QDo I have to fill up the gas tank before I return the car?
- A
Yes, it must be filled with gas! Reason:
- The rental company requires the same amount of gas when returning the car as when picking it up (usually a full tank).
- The rental company will charge a higher refill fee (usually 1.5-2 times more than at the gas station) if the tank is not filled.
- I suggest you find a gas station to fill up before returning the car.
How to find a gas station::
- Search for "Gasoline Stations" with Google Maps
- Choose a gas station that is 5-10 minutes away from where you returned the car.
- QDo I need to rent a car for a day trip to Itoshima?
- A
Renting a car is highly recommended! Reason:
- Itoshima Island is scattered, so it's inconvenient to take public transportation.
- Rental car can be freely arranged, time flexibility
- High CP value by splitting the rental fee among many people.
- Access to more rural attractions (e.g. Shiraito Falls, paragliding school)
- QDo I need a reservation for Palm Beach?
- A
Reservations are highly recommended! Reason:
- It's easy to fill up on holidays (especially at lunchtime)
- Window seat available for reservation (better sea view)
- Reservations are recommended 1-2 days in advance (earlier on holidays)
Reservation Method: Appointments can only be made by phone: 092-809-1660
- QDo I need to make a reservation in advance for the paragliding experience?
- A
Yes, definitely make an appointment! Reason:
- Limited number of participants per day
- Weather conditions (wind speed, rainfall) need to be confirmed
- Reservations are recommended 3-7 days in advance
Reservation Method::Official online reservation (no telephone reservation)
- QIs this trip suitable for parents and children?
- A
Suitable! But be warned:
- Paragliding School Hike: The trail is gentle and suitable for parents and children.
- Shiraito Falls: Well-established trails, suitable for parents and children
- Fukuoka TowerElevator, suitable for parents and children
- Waterfront Park: Suitable for parent-child water and sand play.
Proposed Adjustments::
- Reduce the number of attractions (to avoid rushing)
- Increase rest time
- Choose kid-friendly experiential activities (e.g., ryusu noodles)
- QBesides Itoshima, what are the other recommended sightseeing spots in Fukuoka?
- A
Recommended sightseeing spots in and around Fukuoka:
- Fukuoka City:Canal City Hakata, Tenjin Underground Street,Melbourne Park,Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
- The outskirts of Fukuoka:Yanagawa Cruise,Munji Harbor,Yufuin (Islam),Beppu Onsen
Related Resources
- Fukuoka Prefecture Renta Card Information
- International Transportation Exemption Permit obtained from a foreign country for domestic transportation in Japan.
- Driving in Japan by Taiwan Driver's License Holders
- Etoshima応援プラザ
- アクションパラグライダースクール(Paragliding registration site, Japanese site only)
- Formula】Shiraito no Takita | Itoshima-shi,Fukuoka
- Fukuoka Tawa Formula Site
- Fukuoka City Uminohama Park "Uminoぴビーチ
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