A fuel vapor processing apparatus includes an adsorption passage has a first end connected to a fuel tank and a second end open to the atmosphere. The adsorption passage includes a first hollow chamber, a second hollow chamber, and a third hollow chamber. In addition, the adsorption passage includes a first adsorption chamber and a second adsorption chamber. The first adsorption chamber is positioned between the first hollow chamber and the second hollow chamber, and the second adsorption chamber is positioned between the second hollow chamber and the third hollow chamber. The adsorption chambers are configured to adsorb and desorb fuel vapor. A purge passage extends from the second hollow chamber toward an internal combustion engine. A bypass passage extends from the first hollow chamber to the third hollow chamber and bypasses the second hollow chamber. The bypass passage is provided with a shutoff valve that is open during a purge operation and is closed at other times.