Korean Job Discussion Forums

[MrMr]

I just got back from my visa run to Fukuoka. Most of this has been posted previously but perhaps some things have changed and this information is current. I took the KTX from Seoul and the jetfoil to Japan. I reserved the ferry through Kangsan travel. Cost 190,000 won return. Add to this a little over 20,000 won departure taxes between both ferry terminals and it's not such a cheap fare, but the travel was relaxing and enjoyable.

I stayed at the SB hotel in Kita Tenjin (4725 yen), a convenient location within walking distance of the restaurants bars and shopping malls of Tenjin and Nakasu. As well, from my room facing the harbor I could see the Fukuoka Dome, which is very close to the consulate. The room was quite small but very clean and more than adaquate for my purposes.

It's also easy to find. As you approach the ferry terminal scan the downtown skyline for a large red and white communication tower. This tower is part of the KBC complex and is about a block and a half from The SB Hotel. If you take a bus from the terminal to Kita Tenjin, Get off at Daiei department store. Check at the information booth on the first floor of the ferry terminal for a free map, a guide book and the bus numbers to Kita Tenjin. At Kita Tenjin turn in opposite direction of the bus you just exited and you should be able to see the tower about three blocks away. To get to the hotel walk towards the tower. As soon as you pass the KBC building turn left. You should pass the base of the tower in a few meters. The hotel is on the corner at the next traffic light.

To get to the Korean Consulate from the hotel walk back towards Kita Tenjin. There's a bus stop about a block or two from the KBC. The friendly hotel staff will provide directions and bus numbers, although their English is very limited. When on the bus look out the right hand side for the Fukuoka Dome. Shortly after you pass it you will come to a shopping mall. Get off the bus here, cross the street to the mall side, turn left and walk to the nearest intersection. You are now at the consulate.

I arrived there at about 9.30 am and my visa was ready at 10am next morning. The staff person was pleasant and helpful. On that day there was noone else waiting and the process was quick. I don't know if this is typical but on two trips to Osaka there were lots of people looking for a visa, the payment method was complicated and the visa could not be picked up untill the following afternoon. From now on it'll be Fukuoka for me.