Fukuoka Christmas Market 2026: Dates, Times & Tips

If you're planning a quick trip to Fukuoka this December, make sure to align your dates with the city's enchanting Christmas Markets.

The moment the station square lights up, and you find yourself strolling with a warm mug of mulled wine, you'll realize this is the highlight of your journey.

When trying to plan a weekend trip in December, you might get confused by the multiple venues and varying opening dates. To simplify things, we've focused on the two most popular locations: Hakata and Tenjin.

2026 Fukuoka Christmas Market Schedule

This year marks the 14th edition of the official 'Christmas Advent' event. Markets will open sequentially across the city, starting with the Nakasu venue on 11/02/2026.

Entry to both markets is free, and you can enjoy the stage performances without any additional cost. The markets close at 11 PM, with the last orders for food and drinks taken at 10:45 PM.

Please note that the Tenjin market will be closed on 11/28/2026 and 11/29/2026. If you're visiting during that weekend, the Hakata venue is your best bet.

Hakata or Tenjin: Which Market to Choose?

Hakata is incredibly convenient for travelers, located right in front of the station. It's directly connected to Hakata Subway Station and operates for a longer period, starting in early November. Being just two subway stops from the airport, it's perfect for an evening visit on your arrival day.

Tenjin is all about the dazzling lights. You'll walk through a magnificent arch of light, inspired by the traditions of Germany's Seiffen village, with lights covering the entire overhead space. Many visitors also come specifically to collect the pink-hued, Tenjin-exclusive souvenir mugs.

Warm beverages are served in these special limited-edition mugs, which you can keep after you've finished your drink. In Tenjin, these mugs are not sold separately, so you'll need to purchase a drink to get one.

The Market Truly Shines After Sunset

While the markets open at 12 PM on weekends, the atmosphere becomes truly magical and beautiful once the lights come on in the evening.

In Fukuoka, it gets dark quickly after 5 PM in December. We recommend arriving around sunset and getting a warm glass of mulled wine first. Many visitors have noted that their mug serves as a comforting hand warmer against the chilly night air.

At the Tenjin market, outside food or drinks are not permitted, and you cannot take food or drinks out of the venue.

Stay Near Hakata Station for Late-Night Market Fun

The markets stay open until 11 PM, and if you really immerse yourself, 9 or 10 PM can pass in a flash. After a glass or two of wine on a cold night, transferring subways back to your accommodation can be surprisingly tiring.

Staying near Hakata Station means you can simply walk back to your hotel from the station square market. The Comfort Hotel Hakata, known for its value and included breakfast, often comes to mind first for budget-friendly options near Hakata Station.

I checked that hotel first, but for Saturday, 12/19/2026 (just before Christmas), Trip.com was already sold out. Agoda had only one room left, and it was priced at approximately ~$477 per night.

As an alternative, consider the JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Hakata Central. It's located just about 100 meters from Hakata Station, meaning you can walk back from the market in just a few minutes. It boasts over 16,000 reviews on Agoda with an impressive 8.9 rating.

I compared three options for the same date (Saturday, 12/19/2026, 1 night, 2 adults, tax inclusive).

Just one thing to be careful about when comparing prices: Agoda often displays the pre-tax amount in large font, while Trip.com usually includes taxes in its displayed price. To get an accurate comparison, always check the total price including taxes on the payment screen.

After comparing tax-inclusive prices, Agoda offered a slightly lower rate for the same free-cancellation double room. The free cancellation option is great if your itinerary isn't fully set in stone yet.

Check Agoda for available rooms with free cancellation

If you prefer separate beds, look for a twin room. On the day I checked, Superior Twin rooms were still available on Trip.com.

Check Trip.com for available twin rooms​

Things to Know Before You Go:

• ​The Tenjin market is closed on 11/28/2026 and 11/29/2026.

• On weekdays, Hakata opens at 4 PM, and Tenjin opens at 5 PM.

• On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (12/24/2026, 12/25/2026), both markets open at 12 PM.

• No outside food or drinks are allowed into the Tenjin market, and you cannot take food or drinks out.

※ Schedules and operating hours are based on the 2026 official Christmas Advent guide and may change due to local circumstances. Accommodation rates and room availability are based on each vendor's screen as of 10/29/2026 and are subject to change based on dates and booking status.