Things To Do
in Tosu

Tosu is a city located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and vibrant local culture. It is strategically positioned between the larger cities of Fukuoka and Kurume, making it a convenient stop for travelers. The city is famous for its shopping outlets, traditional festivals, and delicious local cuisine.

With a blend of urban and natural attractions, Tosu offers visitors a unique glimpse into Japanese life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Tosu
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tosu Premium Outlets for shopping and breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Tosu City Museum to learn about the local history and culture followed by a stroll in the nearby parks.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya and take a relaxing walk along the river.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Mt. Koma for stunning views of the area.

afternoon
:

Visit the local hot springs for a rejuvenating experience and then explore the shops in central Tosu.

evening
:

Savor a traditional kaiseki meal at a recommended restaurant to end your trip.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Ramen meal$8
🍣Sushi plate$15
🍻Draft beer$5
Coffee$3
🚌Bus ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local festivals.
  • Delicious local cuisine and shopping options.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent at night.
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Tosu

Visit one of these nice places.

Tosu Park

A beautiful park with a pond and seasonal flowers, perfect for nature photography.

Tosu Premium Outlets

Capture the modern architecture and vibrant shopping atmosphere of this popular outlet mall.

Koma Shrine

An ancient shrine surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene backdrop for photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tosu

Tosu offers a variety of delicious local dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Fukuoka Prefecture.

Tosu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tonkotsu Ramen

A rich, creamy pork bone broth ramen that is a specialty of the region.

Must-Try!

Mentaiko

Spicy cod roe that is often served with rice or as a side dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tosu City Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional sweets.

Street Food Stalls

Enjoy various street foods like yakitori and takoyaki at local festivals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tosu experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with high temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are mild and relatively dry, with temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F). The spring and autumn seasons are pleasant, featuring mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making these times ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Greetings

Bowing is a customary greeting; a slight bow shows respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Behavior

Keep noise levels down in public places, especially on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tosu is a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard travel precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings. In case of emergencies, the local police and hospitals are readily available.

Tipping in Tosu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude; good service is expected without extra gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted at many restaurants and stores; consider carrying yen for smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid weather with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F); stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during the afternoon.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage; ideal for hiking and photography.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall; enjoy hot springs to warm up after outdoor excursions.

Nightlife Guide

Tosu at Night

Tosu has a modest nightlife scene featuring izakayas, bars, and karaoke establishments. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, with locals enjoying good food and drinks. The city also hosts occasional festivals and events that extend into the evening, providing a lively cultural experience for visitors.

Hiking in Tosu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Koma Trail

This trail offers a moderate hike with scenic views and is accessible year-round.

Tosu Valley Trail

A beautiful trail that winds through lush forests and streams, suitable for all hiking levels.

Airports

How to reach Tosu by plane.

Fukuoka Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from Tosu, Fukuoka Airport is the nearest major airport with domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tosu is a walkable city with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a reasonable distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available in busy areas. However, having a map or navigation app can help navigate unfamiliar streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Tosu is home to many young families attracted by the city's amenities and proximity to larger urban areas.

Working Professionals

A significant demographic, consisting of individuals commuting to jobs in Fukuoka and Kurume.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Japan, with local teams often playing in nearby stadiums.

Soccer

Soccer also has a strong following, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tosu is generally manageable, with a mix of cars, bicycles, and pedestrians. Public transport includes buses and trains, with services connecting Tosu to nearby cities. Rush hours may see increased congestion, but the overall public transport system is efficient and reliable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tosu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While Japanese cuisine heavily features fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, particularly in kaiseki meals.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice and certain noodle dishes can be available without gluten.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan has a high standard of healthcare, and Tosu is no exception. There are several clinics and hospitals equipped to handle various health issues. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare can be costly for non-residents.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide