Just an hour from central Fukuoka, Nokonoshima Island (能古島, "Island of Old Talent") welcomes you with its stunning landscapes and renowned flower park.
This floral paradise, famous throughout Kyushu, offers the opportunity to admire fields of flowers year-round. But the island isn’t just about its flowers—it also features various leisure activities, restaurants, and even chalets for overnight stays.
What to Do at Nokonoshima Island Park
An interactive map of the park is available on the website, but it’s only in Japanese.
Enjoy the Flower Fields with a View of the Sea
Nokonoshima Park is best known for its vast flower fields, offering spectacular views of the Sea of Japan. Each season brings a new palette of colors and floral varieties, creating an unforgettable visual experience for visitors.
Mini-Zoo: Fun for All Ages
The park hosts a mini-zoo where goats and rabbits delight both children and adults. This free activity is perfect for a fun break amid the flowers.
Play Golf Among the Flowers
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a 9-hole course amidst the flower fields. The fee is 500 yen, and for groups of more than 10 people, a trophy is awarded to the winner.
Try Grass Sledding
Even without snow, you can enjoy grass sledding for 200 yen per 15 minutes. This fun and unique activity is sure to please the whole family.
Become an Artist in a Pottery Workshop
The pottery workshop allows you to create your own artwork with the help of an instructor. This 15-minute activity is available starting at 2,300 yen. Note that your creation will be mailed to you approximately two months later, within Japan only, with postage costs at your expense.
Paint on Raku Pottery
Try painting on Raku pottery to customize a plate or other object. Prices start at 2,500 yen. Depending on the season, it may be possible to pick up your piece the same day, or it will be mailed to you within Japan.
Enjoy Play Areas and the Adventure Park
For children, the park offers monkey bridges, ropes, and swings. Adults can enjoy soccer and volleyball courts, with equipment available for rent on-site.
How to Get to Nokonoshima Island Park
From Fukuoka
To reach Nokonoshima Island from Fukuoka, you have two options:
- Take the Fukuoka City Subway, Kūkō Line (Airport Line), to Meinohama Station. From there, take the "Nishitetsu" bus from the "Meinohama-eki Kitaguchi" stop to the "Noko Tosenba" ferry terminal.
- Take the "Nishitetsu" bus from the "Hakataeki-mae A" stop in the Hakata area to the "Noko Tosenba" ferry terminal.
The Ferry Ride
The ferry ride to Nokonoshima Island takes 10 minutes and costs 460 yen round-trip. Once on the island, take the "Nishitetsu" bus to the park in 15 minutes for 520 yen round-trip. You can also choose to explore the island on foot for a more intimate experience.
You can check ferry and bus schedules on the Nokonoshima Park website.
Dining and Accommodation at Nokonoshima Island Park
Dining
The park offers several dining options for all tastes. Restaurants cater to large groups and offer a variety of dishes, from traditional Japanese meals to outdoor barbecues. For a quick break, you’ll find cafes and souvenir shops.
Accommodation
If you want to extend your stay, the park has 10 comfortable chalets that can accommodate up to 6 people. The cost is 7,200 yen per person per night. Reservations are required, and more information is available on the park's website.
What Flowers to See Each Season
Spring
- Late February to mid-April: Fields of rapeseed flowers
- Late March to early April: Cherry blossoms for hanami
- Late March to early May: Multicolored daisies
- Late March to late May: Poppies
- April: Rhododendrons
- Late April to late July: Yellow and orange marigolds
Summer
- June: Hydrangeas from blue to mauve
- Mid-June to early July: Bucare (Ceibo)
- June to September: Dahlias
- Early July to late August: Red plumed cockscomb
- Late July to late August: Sunflowers
- Mid-July to late November: Mauve bougainvillea
- August to late December: Scarlet sage
Autumn
- Early October to early November: Cosmos
- Mid-September to late October: Dahlias
- Early November: Autumn foliage
- September: Bucare (Ceibo)
- August to late December: Scarlet sage
- Late November to late February: White oxalis
Winter
- January to mid-February: Japanese daffodils
- December to early February: Camellia sasanqua
- Early January to late February: Japanese camellias
- Early February to early March: Plum blossoms
- Late November to late February: White oxalis