ACCOMMODATION

Conference Venue
Invitation & Visa
Visit Japan Arrival Card
Accommodation
Transportation


Welcome to Fukuoka!

Fukuoka — the gateway to Kyushu, Japan’s third largest island — connects the world to a region rich in ancient culture and stunning natural beauty. As a crossroads between cultures, Fukuoka embraces diversity and cosmopolitan living, where warm hospitality is part of everyday life.

Once two distinct cities—Hakata, a thriving merchant port, and Fukuoka, a castle town—they merged to form the vibrant and welcoming city we know today. Here, tradition coexists with the contemporary, and modern urban spaces blend seamlessly with nature.

Though modest in size, Fukuoka’s charm is undeniable. From its scenic seaside views and historic temples to its lively food stalls and shopping districts, every corner tells a story of harmony between old and new.

Smaller than many of Japan’s major cities, Fukuoka captivates with its relaxed pace, rich flavors, and open-hearted people. Whether you’re exploring its cultural landmarks, savoring a bowl of Hakata ramen, or simply taking in the coastal breeze, you’ll feel the city’s warmth from the moment you arrive.

So, prepare to experience Fukuoka — a city where tradition meets innovation, and every encounter is a reminder of Japan’s timeless beauty and modern spirit.

Click on the icons below to explore Fukuoka, Japan!

Credit: https://www.crossroadfukuoka.jp/en

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Travel Guide
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See & Do
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Experience
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Events
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Eat & Drink

Invitation & Visa

Quick Links

  1. Registrants and authors whose abstract submissions have been accepted can obtain
    Invitation Letter under “Attendee Options” after signing into MARS
    https://meetmatt-svr.net/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2F
  2. Ministry of Foreign Affairs Visa Information (Japan) – full visa types, procedures & country-lists
    https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/
  3. JAPAN eVISA Portal – online visa application system (where available) for eligible countries.
    https://www.evisa.mofa.go.jp/index

Visa Requirements & Application – International Attendees
All international participants travelling to attend the AOGS2026 Annual Meeting in Fukuoka should review the following key guidelines to ensure a smooth entry process.

1. Do I need a visa?
  • Some nationalities are granted visa-exemption for short-term visits (typically up to 90 days) for tourism business and conference participation.
  • Some nationalities are granted visa-exemption for short-term visits (typically up to 90 days) for tourism business and conference participation.
  • The official Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) website provides the definitive visa-requirement list for each nationality.
2. Which visa type for conference attendance?
  • Attending the meeting falls under “short-term stay for business/meeting/conference”. There is no distinct “conference visa” category.
  • If you are only attending sessions (not engaging in paid work or long-term activities), a standard short-term stay visa or visa-exempt entry is appropriate.
3. Application procedure and documents
  • Visit the MOFA visa page for full application procedures
  • Prepare the required documents: valid passport (with blank pages), completed visa application form, recent photo, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, bank statement or proof of funds, and the conference invitation letter if required.
  • For conference attendance, additional documents may include an official invitation letter from the organizer and a detailed description of the event.
  • Where applicable, you may apply online via the JAPAN eVISA system for eligible single-entry short stay visa.
4. Invitation letter from the conference
  • If you require a visa, the conference organizer can issue an invitation letter or support letter upon successful registration and payment.
  • Ensure you request your invitation letter in good time to include it in your visa application.
5. Timeline & processing tips
  • Submit your visa application well in advance of travel dates; processing may take approximately one week or longer depending on the country.
  • Carefully check your documents – common reasons for rejection include incomplete itinerary, low-resolution uploads, missing proof of funds.
  • Keep copies of all submitted requirements and your registration/invitation information
6. Entry upon arrival
  • Holding a visa (or being visa-exempt) does not guarantee landing permission. Final entry is determined by an immigration officer at the port of entry.

Visit Japan Arrival Card

All foreign visitor arrivals to Japan must complete an arrival card covering immigration and customs. This is now integrated into the Visit Japan Web system, where you can fill out your details online and receive a QR code to present at the airport.

Quick Link: https://japan.arrival.edocsllc.online/

  • It is not mandatory to use the online system, but doing so helps speed up entry and reduces need to fill out paper forms on arrival.
  • The online form covers: personal passport information, travel itinerary, accommodation and customs declaration (items you are bringing in).
  • On arrival: present your passport and the QR code from visit Japan Web (or the paper form if not used) at immigration and then at customs.
  • If you prefer or cannot use the online system, the traditional “Disembarkation Card” & Declaration of Accompanied/Unaccompanied Articles” remain valid.

Accommodation for Attendees

To ensure you have a comfortable stay during the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society’s upcoming 2026 annual meeting (AOGS2026) in Fukuoka, we encourage all attendees to make their accommodation arrangements well in advance. The conference venue is a popular tourist destination, and early booking is recommended to secure your preferred hotel and rate.

Please note that AOGS does not handle hotel reservations directly. We are, however pleased to provide the following resources to assist you in your planning.

Important Notice: No Official Housing Bureau or Agent
Please be aware that the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society has not appointed any official travel agents or housing bureaus for this annual meeting. Any company or individual claiming to be an official agent for our event is not authorized by us.

  • Beware of Fraudulent Communications: Be vigilant against unsolicited emails, phone calls, or websites offering special hotel deals on behalf of AOGS2026. These may be scams.
  • Book Directly: For your security, we recommend booking your accommodation only through well-known, reputable websites or the major booking portals listed below.

Conference Information & Recommended Areas:
For maximum convenience, we recommend looking for accommodation with good access to the Hakata and Tenjin districts. These areas are major transportation hubs, offering excellent subway and bus links to the conference venue, a wide variety of dinning options, and plenty to see and do in the evening.

  • Hakata Station Area: Ideal for its Shinkansen (bullet train) access and proximity to the international airport express line.
  • Tenjin Area: Fukuoka’s central business and shopping district, known for its vibrant nightlife and department stores.

Online Reservation Portals:
To help begin your search, you can use the following major online booking platforms. These sites allow you to compare prices, locations, and guest reviews for a wider range of hotels.

Simply enter “Fukuoka, Japan” as your destination and your travel dates to view available options.

Hotel Alternatives
Hotel alternatives in Fukuoka include hostels, ryokan, minshuku, and capsule hotels, offering different experiences from budget-friendly to traditional. Hostels are great for budget travelers, ryokan offer a traditional Japanese inn experience, minshuku are similar Japanese-style bed and breakfasts, and capsule hotels provide private, pod-like sleeping spaces.

Traditional and Cultural

Budget-Friendly

  • Hostels: A great option for budget travelers.
  • Capsule Hotels: Offer a unique, budget-friendly stay in private pods.

Other option

  • Airbnb: A good alternative if you prefer to stay in a more local setting and have a full apartment or house to yourself.
  • Klook: Book your stay and activities in one platform.

List of online-booking sites to make staying in Japan easier than ever
Research the many accommodation options for staying in Japan and make quick and easy online reservations. Choose from luxury to budget, traditional to modern, and urban to rural. Websites are listed in alphabetical order.

Transportation

Getting Here:
Airports
Train
Bus
Car/Taxi

Travelling Information

Fukuoka airport has direct flight from east Asia, and connected to other areas via Tokyo (Narita or Haneda airport). The access of Fukuoka airport to the city is convenient by subway. The conference venue is Fukuoka International Congress Center.

Getting to Fukuoka

If you are coming by airplane, please take the subway to Hakata Station and catch a bus from there.

1. Main Airport: Fukuoka Airport (FUK)
Fukuoka Airport is the primary gateway to Fukuoka City and the most convenient option for participants who are staying near at the Fukuoka International Congress Center (FICC).
  • Location: Just about 5 km (a 15–20 minute drive) from central Fukuoka and Hakata Station.
  • Access: The airport is directly connected to the city via the Fukuoka City Subway Kūkō Line, with a short 5–10 minute ride to Hakata Station.
  • Terminals: It has separate International and Domestic terminals. A free shuttle bus runs every 5–10 minutes between them.
  • International Flights: Direct connections from major Asian cities such as Seoul, Taipei, Bangkok, Manila, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, as well as several domestic routes across Japan.
  • Domestic Flights: Frequent connections to Tokyo (Haneda & Narita), Osaka (Itami & Kansai), Nagoya, Sapporo, and other regional airports.
Tip: Fukuoka Airport is one of Japan’s most centrally located airports, making it quick and easy to reach your hotel or the Congress Center right after arrival.
2. Alternative Airport: Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ)
Kitakyushu Airport is another option located in Fukuoka Prefecture, about 70 km northeast of Fukuoka City.
  • Travel Time to Fukuoka City: Approximately 1.5 hours by airport bus and train via JR Kokura Station.
  • Best For: Travelers who find better international or domestic flight options to Kitakyushu, or those planning to explore the northern Kyushu region before or after the conference.
  • Access: The airport operates 24 hours and connects to major cities such as Tokyo, Okinawa, and select international destinations.
While Kitakyushu Airport is a good alternative, Fukuoka Airport (FUK) remains the most convenient for reaching the Fukuoka International Congress Center quickly and easily.

  • 12-minute walk from Subway Gofukumachi Station
  • 15-minute walk from Subway Nakasu-Kawabata Station　
  • 22-minute walk from Nishitetsu Tenjin Station　
  • 22-minute walk from Subway Tenjin Station　
  • 27-minute walk from JR Hakata Station

Other Info:
Nishitetsu Bus Timetable
Inquiries regarding transportation


Hakata Station Area Map


Tenjin Area Map


Fukuoka International Congress Center Area Map

Nishitetsu Bus Timetable

  1. Timetable (Tenjin/Hakata 🡒 International Congress Center/Kokusai Center/Marine Messe)
  2. Timetable (International Congress Center/Kokusai Center/Marine Messe 🡒 Tenjin/Hakata)

Inquiries regarding transportation

Fukuoka City Subway
Subway Call Center
TEL: 092-734-7800
Fukuoka City Transportation Bureau Website

Nishitetsu Bus/Train
Nishitetsu Customer Center
TEL: 0570-00-1010
(6 am – 12 midnight, Open 365 days)
*From PHS/IP phones,
please call at 092-303-3333
Nishi-Nippon Railroad Co., Ltd. Website

JR Kyushu Railway Company
JR Kyushu Reservation & Information Center
TEL: 050-3786-1717
JR Kyushu Railway Company Website