North (FUKUOKA, KURUME)
You can use the entrance of the Highway (31,6240 130,5264) on Ishiki-kaido street. You can get there by bus and there is a place where people can stop before getting on the highway. We succeeded in hitchhiking with 2 other friends!
Alternatively, if you prefer hiking from an SA, take the train to Chōsa station. From there it's a 30 minute walk to Sakurajima Service Area (31.72751097030558, 130.6145156431717). It's a fairly large Service Area with a restaurant, souvenir shop and toilets. In September 2023 we waited about an hour here, but it was a Sunday evening after dark. During the day, you'll probably get a hitch (even) quicker.
SAKURAJIMA