Itoshima: A Destination Worth Going Out Of Your Way For
Itoshima is much more than a mere stopover or side trip; it is a destination worth experiencing in its own right. While the heart of Itoshima City boasts excellent connectivity via the JR Chikuhi railway line and a convenient bypass, the true beauty of this region lies in its scenic northern coastline and enchanting southern countryside. To fully appreciate these areas, it is highly recommended to explore them by car.
In this guide, Itoshima Now presents a day trip driving itinerary that encompasses both the mountains and the sea, along with visits to the workshops of local artisans thriving in Itoshima.
Enjoy an early lunch in a refreshing location
During weekends, Itoshima tends to attract a significant number of visitors around lunchtime. To avoid the crowds, consider having an early lunch as soon as dining establishments open.
This way, you’ll not only secure the best seat but also enjoy the most stunning views! Located near the picturesque Shiraito Falls is an udon restaurant on the tourist farm “Shiraito no Mori.” This unassuming eatery offers delicious dishes prepared with pesticide-free, fertilizer-free vegetables grown on-site. The combination of handmade, chewy udon and fresh vegetable tempura is simply delightful.
While indoor seating is available, we highly recommend choosing the tree-height decks situated in a forest overlooking a valley for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Maeda-san shows off some of the many food products and take-out dishes available. Not only homemade, but all homegrown!
Shiraito Udon Yasuji
561 Shiraito, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
11:00~15:00
Closed: Monday
092-324-3883
https://shiraitonomori.com/
Seaside interior and frame shop
Following lunch, descend to sea level to take in the captivating coastal scenery.
Stop by hanatolife, a bespoke picture frame store nestled by the ocean.
This tranquil shop, situated on a peaceful bay, offers a harmonious ambiance. With a staggering 900 custom frame combinations, as well as a diverse assortment of small interior decorations and artistic pieces, you’re sure to find something captivating. Be warned! You might just discover a hidden treasure you never knew you needed.
hanatolife
390-2 Nijo-hamakubo, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
11:00~17:00
Closed: Monday, 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 2nd & 4th Sunday
092-325-1915
https://www.instagram.com/hanatolife/
Hakoshima – Bonsai in the Sea
Traveling eastward along the coast from hanatolife, you’ll pass by Hakoshima, a minuscule island tenuously linked to the mainland by a slender path. From afar, it resembles a bonsai plant floating in the sea. Hakoshima Shrine, located on the island, is dedicated to the God of Ears and the God of Love—an unusual combination, but it makes for an entertaining spot to stretch your legs and take in the view. Refrain from parking along the road; instead, utilize a coin-operated lot situated approximately 600 meters beyond Hakoshima.
As you leave the area of Kafuri you’ll cross the Benten Bridge and in the background is Mt. Kaya.
Experience creativity, too!
Exploring art and crafts can be engaging, but for a more hands-on experience, visit the Itoshima Pottery Experience Shima Studio. This pottery workshop offers immersive activities for beginners, such as a 1.5-hour electric potter’s wheel session (¥2,800 + tax) and a 1-hour pottery painting experience using decorative techniques on pre-made vessels. The amicable couple running the studio may not be fluent in English, but they effectively communicate and ensure an enjoyable time. Remember to reserve your spot in advance.
Itoshima Pottery Experience Shima Studio
25 Shima Shinmachi, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
9:30~16:30
Closed: Thursday
092-328-2225
https://itoshima–kobo.jp/
Woodworking is also a part of Itoshima!
Wataru Sakai, a prominent woodworker in Itoshima, is celebrated for his scrupulous handcrafted creations.
His expertise encompasses everyday utensils and cutlery, culinary instruments, and bespoke furniture. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Sakai produces eco-friendly items like lunch boxes crafted from locally-sourced Kyushu cedar.
Renowned professional chefs hold his exquisite wooden cutlery in high esteem.
DOUBLE = DOUBLE FURNITURE
Keya Flower Center 1-1 Shima-keya, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
Open: Friday, Saturday, and holidays only
11:00~17:00
092-328-2010
https://www.instagram.com/doubledoublefurniture/
Time for a break?
Nestled between Keya and Nogita lies Nigonohama, a stunning 6-kilometer stretch of natural beach. At its heart, you’ll find BBB Haus, a charming cafe, curated shop, and upscale boutique lodging. The intimate and serene cafe welcomes walk-ins, though meal reservations are necessary. From the cafe, guests can enjoy a tranquil view of the unpretentious garden, which seamlessly blends into the vast, calming seascape.
BBB Haus
1897 Shima Kogane-maru, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
Cafe: 11:00~16:00 (L.O.)
Shop: 11:00~18:00
092-327-8020
https://www.instagram.com/bbbhaus1897/
One more stop before sunset
Taking in a beach sunset would be an ideal way to unwind, but since many shops and workshops in Itoshima close around 5 pm, we recommend exploring one more location beforehand.
Nestled in a residential neighborhood close to the A-Cop Supermarket, you’ll discover the gallery shop “Utsuwa to Teshigoto no Mise Ken” by potter Kenji Tsuruga, who also operates his workshop on the premises. Having honed his pottery skills in Koishiwara, Tsuruga’s creations are characterized by their rich, matte textures and color gradations found in powder-pulled pottery, as well as the Itoshima sea-inspired celadon polka-dot series. Additionally, the gallery showcases and sells artwork from a variety of artists across Japan.
Utsuwa to Teshigoto no Mise Ken
232 Shima Hatsu, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
Closed: Tuesday, Wednesday
11:00~17:00
092-327-2932
https://www.kengama.com/
This is just one path among countless alternatives for you! Excuse the play on words, but we trust it will steer you on the right path as you enjoy exploring various areas of Itoshima. Finally, for your reference, here is a link to a map (Japanese language only PDF) to many more craft studios and shops. The Itoshima Craft Studio Map (October 2022 Edition) can be found at the following here.
Other day trip by Itoshima Now
• Itoshima on Foot: Enjoy the ocean, mountains, farmland and beaches at a leisurely pace
• Itoshima by Ebike: Country Roads, Seaside Roads, and Amazing Views
• Itoshima by Car: Itoshima Revealed: Exploring Local Artisans And Stunning Landscapes By Car (this page)
