Traveling around Fukuoka with children is significantly easier when you master the local payment systems. For parents juggling strollers, diaper bags, and excited toddlers, the last thing you want to do is fumble for coins at a ticket machine while a line forms behind you.
Fukuoka is one of the most family-friendly cities in Japan, and its transportation network is designed to be low-stress. From “tap-and-go” IC cards to the city’s cutting-edge credit card payment system on the subway, this guide covers everything you need to know to keep your family moving smoothly.
Why You Need an IC Card (or Digital Alternative)
If you are visiting Kyushu for the first time, you might be confused by the different card names. In Fukuoka, the local IC cards are Hayakaken (Subway), Nimoca (Nishitetsu Buses/Trains), and Sugoca (JR Kyushu).
Here is the good news: They are all compatible. You can use any of these cards on almost all trains, subways, and buses in Fukuoka. If you are visiting from Tokyo or Osaka and already have a Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA, those work perfectly in Fukuoka too.
For families, these cards are essential because:
- Speed: You can breeze through ticket gates without stopping.
- Vending Machines: You can use them to buy drinks or snacks at station kiosks—a lifesaver when a child gets thirsty/hungry suddenly.
- No Math: You don’t need to calculate fares on a map before buying a ticket.
The “Big Three” Local Cards: Which One Should You Buy?
If you don’t have a card yet, it doesn’t matter much which one you buy, but where you buy it depends on your arrival point:
- Hayakaken: Buy this at Fukuoka City Subway ticket machines. (Best if you arrive at Fukuoka Airport Domestic or International terminals and take the subway).
- Sugoca: Buy this at JR Hakata Station or JR ticket machines.
- Nimoca: Buy this at Nishitetsu bus centers (like Tenjin or Hakata Bus Terminal).
Cost: A new card usually costs ¥2,000, which includes a ¥500 deposit (refundable if you return the card) and ¥1,500 of travel credit.
A Game Changer: Credit Card “Touch” Payments (Subway Only)
Fukuoka City Subway has introduced a system that is incredibly convenient for international families: Credit Card Touch Payment.
You do not need to buy an IC card or a ticket. You can simply tap your contactless credit card (Visa, JCB, Amex, etc.) directly on the reader at the ticket gate.
Why this is great for families:
- Daily Cap: The system automatically caps your fare at ¥640 per day. No matter how many times you ride the subway that day, you will never pay more than ¥640. This is cheaper than the standard One-Day Pass (¥640) because you don’t have to decide in advance to buy it.
- No Deposit: You don’t tie up ¥500 in a card deposit.
Important Note: This only works on the Fukuoka City Subway. It does not work on Nishitetsu buses or JR trains. For those, you still need an IC card or cash.
Child Cards: The Rules for Ages 6–11
One of the most common questions we get at Little Kyushu Adventures is: “Does my child need a ticket?”
The Age Rules
- Under 6 (Toddlers/Preschool): Generally Free.
- Rule: Up to two toddlers fly free with one paying adult. If you have three toddlers for one adult, the third child needs a child ticket.
- Ages 6–11 (Elementary School):Half Price.
- They need a “Child IC Card” or a child ticket.
- Ages 12+: Adult Fare.
How to Get a “Child IC Card”
You cannot buy a child’s IC card at a regular vending machine without registration because the card needs to verify the child’s age to prevent adults from using half-price fares.
- Go to a Ticket Counter: Visit the station office (Subway, JR, or Bus Terminal).
- Bring Passports: You must show the child’s passport to prove they are under 12.
- Registration: The staff will issue a card with the child’s name printed on it.
Pro Tip for Parents: If you are only in Fukuoka for 1–2 days, it might not be worth the time to line up and register for a child card. Instead, you can buy paper child tickets at the machines, or use the Fami-Chika Ticket (see below).
The “Fami-Chika” Ticket: Fukuoka’s Best Kept Secret
If you plan to use the subway heavily on a weekend or holiday, forget IC cards for a moment and buy the Fami-Chika Ticket (Family Subway Ticket).
- Cost: ¥1,000
- Who it covers: 2 Adults + Unlimited Children (under 12).
- Validity: One day of unlimited subway rides.
If you have two parents and one elementary school child, a normal round trip to the zoo or airport might cost close to ¥1,000 anyway. This pass saves money and lets you use the “staff lane” at gates, which is wider and easier for strollers.
Practical Tips for Using Transport with Kids
1. On the Subway
The subway is the easiest way to navigate the city. For detailed routes, check our guide on Fukuoka Public Transportation with Kids: A Family Guide to Subways and Buses.
- Gates: Tap your card on the right side. The “beep” confirms payment.
- Strollers: Look for the wide gates near the station office.
2. On the Bus
Buses in Fukuoka (mostly Nishitetsu) are different from Tokyo.
- Enter at the Back: You hop on through the rear door.
- Tap ON: Tap your IC card on the reader next to the door as you enter.
- Tap OFF: Tap your card again at the front of the bus next to the driver when you exit.
- Strollers on Buses: Non-foldable strollers can be tricky on crowded buses. See our guide How to Get Around Fukuoka with a Stroller for tips on which buses are “Non-Step” (low floor).
3. On JR Trains
If you are taking a day trip, perhaps to Marine World Uminonakamichi or Dazaifu (via Nishitetsu), the IC cards work seamlessly.
- Transfers: If you transfer between a JR line and a Subway line (like at Hakata Station), you need to exit one set of gates and enter another. There is no direct “platform-to-platform” transfer without tapping out first.
- For longer trips, read our guide to JR Trains in Fukuoka with Children: Seats, Tickets, and Family Travel Tips.
Troubleshooting
- “Ping-Pong” Error Sound: If the gate closes on you, it usually means your balance is too low. Go to the “Fare Adjustment” machine inside the gate to top up.
- Lost Card: If you registered your card (like a Child Card), it can be reissued for a fee. Unregistered adult cards are like cash—if lost, they are gone.
- Refunds: You can return your IC card at the ticket office before you leave Japan to get your ¥500 deposit back (minus a small handling fee). However, many families keep them as souvenirs or for their next trip to Japan!
Summary: What Should Your Family Do?
- Short Trip (1-2 Days): Parents use Credit Card Touch Payment on the subway. Buy paper tickets for kids (or use the Fami-Chika pass).
- Longer Trip or multiple cities: Buy Hayakaken/Nimoca/Sugoca IC cards for everyone. Register for a Child Card at the airport station immediately upon arrival.
- Digital Savvy: Parents can add a Suica to their Apple Wallet (iPhone) before arriving and use their phone to tap. (Note: Digital Child Suicas are not currently available for tourists).
Navigating Fukuoka is simple once you have the right card in your pocket. With less time spent at ticket machines, you’ll have more time to enjoy the parks, museums, and delicious food that make Kyushu so special.