Fukuoka
Fukuoka is Japan's most underrated city — ask anyone who's been. The tonkotsu ramen was literally invented here, the yatai (outdoor food stalls) lining the river are a nightly street food festival, and it has the relaxed energy of a beach town that happens to be a proper city. Just two hours from Seoul and Busan by ferry, it's the gateway between Japan and Korea. Everything's cheaper than Tokyo, the people are warmer, and the food might actually be better.
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Fukuoka travel FAQ
How many days do I need in Fukuoka?
2–3 days. Day 1: Ohori Park walk, Fukuoka Castle ruins, and the yatai stalls in Nakasu at night — a bowl of tonkotsu ramen from a yatai is a must. Day 2: Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine (30 minutes by train, famous for the plum blossoms), the Starbucks designed by Kengo Kuma nearby, and Canal City Hakata for shopping. Day 3: Kushida Shrine, Hakata Machiya folk museum, and the Yanagibashi market for fresh fish. Fukuoka is also a good base for day trips to Nagasaki or Beppu hot springs.
What makes Fukuoka ramen special?
Fukuoka is the birthplace of tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen — the milky, rich, creamy style that took over the world. Ichiran and Ippudo started here. But skip the chains and go to a yatai stall or a local shop. Shin Shin, Ganso Nagahamaya, and Hakata Daruma are excellent. Order 'kae-dama' (extra noodles) for ¥100–150 to refill your bowl. The 'kaedama' culture is unique to Fukuoka — noodles are served firm (bari-kata) and the portions are small so you can customize your refills.
How do I get to Fukuoka from Busan?
JR Beetle high-speed ferry runs from Busan to Hakata Port in about 3 hours (from ¥13,000 one way). Camellia Line is cheaper but slower (overnight ferry, from ¥9,000). Flights take 1 hour and can be cheaper than the ferry with budget airlines. The ferry is a unique way to travel between the two countries — depart Busan in the morning, arrive in Fukuoka for lunch. You can also do Fukuoka as a day trip from Busan if you take the early ferry.