While you hear the time period Fukuoka meals, what dish involves thoughts? Should you answered ramen, I’m positive you’re not alone. In spite of everything, Fukuoka is the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen, the broth of which is produced from pork bones. It could be its most iconic meals export, however there’s undoubtedly extra to Fukuoka’s meals scene than noodle soup.
On this article, we’ll share ramen suggestions, and we’ll additionally provide you with a style of a number of the different native favorites not simply in Fukuoka Metropolis however the remainder of the prefecture, too. Observe that this record is in NO specific order.
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! In case your are touring quickly and nonetheless on the strategy planning stage, you can even go to our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Right here, we compiled journey necessities, together with immigration necessities and all our beneficial accommodations and excursions. Simply go to this web page: TPT Masterlist. Now we have a compilation for locations around the globe.
Kenzo – Yatai (Fukuoka Metropolis)
For a rustic that has such an internationally revered delicacies, Japan’s avenue meals tradition could be very quiet. However not in Fukuoka. Right here, avenue meals takes middle stage and might be the most important attraction, as evident within the variety of yatai within the metropolis.
However wait, what precisely is a yatai?
A yatai (屋台) is a cellular meals cart or stand stationed on the sidewalk. It normally opens within the early night, serving patrons who’ve simply gotten off work, and closes within the early morning. Greater than half of all of the yatai in Japan could be present in Fukuoka. Right here, the night time is ushered in by the lights, aroma, and conversations seeping from dozens of yatai.
Most of them serve mouthwatering bowls of Hakata ramen! However different stalls supply a wide range of different dishes like oden, yakitori, tempura, and seafood. You’ll discover excessive concentrations in two areas: close to Tenjin Station and in Nakasu, the small island between Hakata and Tenjin. Over time, we’ve tried a number of yatai in these areas, hopping from one to a different.
On our most up-to-date go to, we landed at Kenzo, a yatai recognized for serving an impressively large number of Japanese dishes. Our prime picks? The mentaiko (spicy cod roe) that completely captures Fukuoka’s native taste, the horumonyaki (grilled offal) that’s chewy, smoky, and surprisingly addictive, and the ever-reliable yakitori skewers, crisped superbly over charcoal. We additionally obtained to attempt two of their fried ramen dishes, and each have been actually good! We additionally had Hakata ramen, however we didn’t actually get pleasure from it as a lot as the opposite dishes.
The perfect half? These are sometimes inexpensive, not less than in comparison with correct eating places. Fukuoka’s yatai scene is proof that you’ll find world-class flavors in small, unassuming areas at affordable costs. It will probably get cramped, sure, however that’s the place the wonder lies. A yatai is all the time intimate. Every can accommodate barely a dozen clients, and also you sit and eat shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers subsequent to you. Most not too long ago, we have been seated subsequent to a shop-owner who shared that he had a Shopee web page and that almost all of his clients have been from the Philippines. Moments like these make a meal at a yatai each a eating expertise and a social affair.
Tenjin Yatai Mune (Fukuoka Metropolis)
That is one other yatai that I’ve fond reminiscences of. My pal Irene, who resided in Fukuoka on the time, introduced me to this humble meals stall on the south finish of Tenjin Station. It’s situated proper right here.
This unassuming stall gave me the perfect low-cost ramen I had within the metropolis. The dish was quite simple. It was only a bowl of Hakata ramen topped with skinny slices of pork, pink pickled ginger, and sesame seeds. However it was dynamite. Lots of the ones I had tried earlier than this was a bit bland for my style, however this broth was wealthy and flavorful, and the sesame seeds added a pleasant end. And it was solely ¥700.
Fukuoka can be fashionable for mentaiko (salted or spiced pollock roe), which originated in Korea and was delivered to Japanese shores in 1949 by Busan-born Toshio Kawahara. So simply to have a style of it, I ordered mentai tamagoyaki (¥900), which is mainly a number of layers of rolled omelette with pollock roe at its core, served with greens and mayonnaise. The mixture seems bizarre at first, however all of them work collectively to create a lightweight, well-rounded appetizer. (This was served earlier than the ramen.) The roe added a briny burst to each chew of the comfortable and creamy tamago.
We ended the night time with yaki-ramen or fried ramen (¥900), one other native creation, normally cooked with greens and pink pickled ginger. I’ve a factor for stir-fried noodles in thick soy-based sauce, so this one is true up my alley. The style is a mix of candy, salty and tangy. My solely criticism was that as a result of it was our final cease that night time, I couldn’t discover sufficient area in my tummy for it, however I nonetheless managed to complete it. As a result of expertise. LOL.
Working hours: Mondays-Saturdays, 7pm – 2am
Nearest Stations: Tenjin Station
Chez Remy – Yatai (Fukuoka Metropolis)
Sure, a yatai serving French meals! Who would have thought?
It’s situated near Tenjin Yatai Mune, simply two stalls aside. Including a French twist to the Japanese yatai idea, Chez Remy seems similar to your bizarre meals cart stationed by the aspect of the highway, nevertheless it whips out plate after plate of French delicacies like garlic butter escargot (¥850) and mussels in wine (¥750), and French-Japanese fusion items.
My pal Irene and I cut up the 6 items of escargot. The butter didn’t overpower the snail meat, which was tender. I additionally ordered pork knuckles with mustard as a result of I advised you I like unhealthy meals! The whole lot from the pores and skin to the bone was so comfortable. They soften in your mouth, besides the bones, which required a bit chewing. Sure, I did. The whole lot that went into my mouth from that plate went down. And oh, you may have a glass of glowing wine too (¥600 on the time)!
Working hours: Mondays-Saturdays, 7pm – 2am
Nearest Stations: Tenjin Station
Shin Shin (Fukuoka Metropolis)
We are able to’t speak about ramen in Fukuoka with out mentioning Shin Shin, beloved by locals and guests alike. This ramen store has a number of branches scattered across the prefecture, and we obtained to attempt two, in Tenjin and at Hakata Station.
Their pork bone ramen or tonkotsu ramen (JPY 930-1110) is wealthy however not heavy, the sort that feels silky in your tongue. The broth has that excellent depth, very hearty, umami-packed, and simply salty sufficient to make you slurp continuous.
After all, we couldn’t cease at ramen. Each go to, we additionally ordered their yakisoba and gyoza, each of which completely complemented the primary bowl. The yakisoba (JPY 890) got here out smoky with simply the proper chew, whereas the gyoza (JPY 520-590) are Fukuoka-style, bite-sized, and had that crisp, golden backside that’s each dumpling lover’s dream. And since curiosity all the time wins, we even tried their champon (JPY 940) on one other go to, a seafood noodle dish that’s extra creamy and vegetable-y, displaying Shin Shin’s vary.
It’s not simply the meals that makes Shin Shin memorable; it’s the vitality. You’ll see suited workplace staff grabbing a late-night repair, vacationers photographing their steaming bowls, and employees shouting cheerful greetings in true Fukuoka trend.
SHIN SHIN HAKATA STATION
Tackle: 1-1 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Saturday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
How you can Get There: From Hakata Station, you may simply stroll to the second flooring of Hakata DEITOS.
Ichiran (Fukuoka Metropolis & Itoshima)
If Shin Shin is an area favourite, vacationers appear to not get sufficient of Ichiran. You might say that it’s the international ambassador of Fukuoka ramen, with a number of branches not simply all through Japan however overseas, too. They’ve shops in Hong Kong, Taipei, and even New York, and sure, we’ve tried them in all these cities, too.
Not like Shin Shin’s vigorous, communal vibe, Ichiran’s idea is famously introversive (or introspective, if you’ll). You sit in a small sales space, separated by partitions, centered fully in your ramen. There’s no small discuss, no distractions: simply you, your chopsticks, and a tempting bowl of pork bone broth and skinny noodles. The broth is savory and flavorful, the noodles skinny and agency, and the spicy pink sauce within the middle provides simply the proper kick. And whereas locals want smaller and extra inexpensive ramen’ya, for first-timers and vacationers, it’s a ceremony of passage.
Should you’re an Ichiran fan, don’t miss the prospect to dine on the Ichiran Unique Store. You possibly can name it the HQ of all Ichiran. Apart from the personal cubicles, additionally they have the extra standard desk setup. Additionally they serve ramen in bowls of different unorthodox shapes.
ICHIRAN ORIGINAL SHOP
Tackle: 5 Chome-3-2 Nakasu, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0801, Japan
Working Hours: 24/7
Nearest Station: Nakasukawabata Station (Airport Line)
However for those who’re an Ichiran SUPER-fan, make the pilgrimage to Ichiran no Mori in Itoshima. It’s greater than a ramen restaurant. It’s half museum, half manufacturing unit, half culinary journey. You possibly can see how the noodles are made, study the model’s historical past, and naturally, get pleasure from a recent bowl proper on the supply. Surrounded by timber and serenity, it’s the final word Ichiran expertise.
ICHIRAN NO MORI
Tackle: 256-10 Shimamatsuguma, Itoshima, Fukuoka 819-1306, Japan
Working Hours: Day by day, 10:00 AM – 04:00 PM
How you can Get There: From Hakata Station, take the Airport Line to Kyūdai-Gakkentoshi Station. Then switch to Kyushu College Line 2A Bus (九州大学線2A) to Ichiran Forest Itoshima Cease (一蘭の森 糸島)
Sushiyatai Uminoiro (Fukutsu)
Sushi locations take satisfaction of their recent fish, as they need to. However right here at Sushiyatai Uminoiro, it’s additionally in regards to the environment. It grew to become evident as quickly as we sat dealing with the chef making ready our sushi, and behind him, a window that completely frames the seaside. I don’t assume I might ever get used to watching the light waves roll by as a plate of glistening nigiri is about earlier than you.
We had their omakase set, which consists of 10 items of sushi, miso soup, a small bowl of greens, and a cup of chawanmushi, a clean, savory steamed Japanese egg custard with dashi.
However in fact, the primary star right here is the sushi. Every bit is lower with care and precision, then positioned over a clump of wasabi-flavored rice. (You possibly can decide with out wasabi for those who want.) The tuna was so tender, the ocean bream (tai) had that clear, briny brightness, the ika or squid had that pure sweetness, and the abalone was nonetheless shifting! The tenth piece was served in a bowl, topped with a beneficiant portion of ikura or salmon roe. They even requested if we wished extra, and naturally, I stated YES! And so they added extra ikura, which was great.
What I cherished most about Uminoiro is the calm. That is what sushi was meant to be — no conveyor belts, no gimmiks — simply sushi, sea, and stillness. And oh, I purchased bottles of yuzu and kabosu sauces, too!
SUSHIYATAI UMINOIRO
Tackle: 4 Chome-10-10 Nishifukuma, Fukutsu, Fukuoka 811-3219, Japan
Working Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM; Saturday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM-9:00 PM; Tuesdays, CLOSED
How you can Get There: From Hakata Station, take the Sonic-Nichirin-Hyuga Line to Fukuma Station. Then stroll for 28 minutes or take a cab to Sushiyatai Uminoiro.
Tanga Market (Kitakyushu)
Sure, you learn it proper, however you’re most likely announcing it fallacious. It’s referred to as Tanga Market! [Context: Tanga means “stupid” in Filipino, but it’s pronounced differently.]
And visiting Kitakyushu is certainly a “clever” transfer! There’s loads to see and do right here. If Kitakyushu is a part of your itinerary, think about a cease right here.
Tanga Market in Kitakyushu’s Kokura district is a time capsule of native life. It’s the place grandmas, workplace staff, and cooks all cross paths. It’s typically referred to as the “kitchen of Kitakyushu,” and when you stroll via its slender lanes, you’ll perceive why. The air is thick with the scent of grilled fish and soy sauce, and each few steps, there’s one thing scrumptious to catch your consideration.
One of the crucial intriguing native specialties right here is nukadaki, a conventional dish of fish marinated and simmered in nuka (fermented rice bran). It sounds rustic, nevertheless it’s additionally an ideal instance of Japan’s genius for turning simplicity into depth. The fish is tender and infused with a savory, miso aroma. However it’s not a novelty. It’s a taste profile that has stood the take a look at of time.
After wandering via Tanga, we ended up in Uomachi Gintengai, considered the oldest buying arcade in Japan, or not less than the primary to ever use the time period ginten-gai (銀天街), which suggests “silver-covered avenue.” Should you want a correct sit-down expertise to a market stall, you’ll find a very good place to eat right here, as it’s lined with eating places, cafés, and izakayas. Actually, it’s right here that we discovered the following merchandise on our record.
TANGA MARKET
Tackle: 4-2-18 Uomachi (魚町) / 4-2-8 Uomachi, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu Metropolis, Fukuoka 802-0006, Japan
Working Hours: They fluctuate by retailer, however typical opening is 10:00 AM to five:00/6:00 PM. Closed or various retailer hours on some days.
Nearest Station: Kokura Station
Kokura Tetsunabe Sohonten (Kitakyushu)
If there’s one factor that completely captures Fukuoka prefecture’s knack for hearty but unpretentious meals, it’s the tetsunabe gyoza. These pan-fried dumplings are served scorching on a small iron plate.
We tried it at Kokura Tetsunabe Sohonten, and actually, it was love at third chew. At first, I believed, “Okay, these are good, a bit extra dough than filling.” However then the second piece got here, and the third, and I started to understand it extra. Immediately, the plate was empty. That’s how sneaky this dish is. It hooks you quietly and fully.
Their signature gyoza are smaller than the sizes we’re extra acquainted with. They arrive out piping sizzling on the pan, greatest loved with a glass of beer or highball in hand. The distinction of textures is what makes it addictive: the crisp pores and skin, the juicy filling, the slight smokiness from the iron plate. A serving is eight (8) items at JPY 680, however a minimal of two servings is required per order. This plate within the photograph is 4 (4) servings, with 32 items of gyoza.
We additionally had a small bowl of sliced uncooked mackerel, domestically referred to as saba (JPY 700), and served with soy sauce and vinegar sauce. We additionally tried their salted pork tongue (JPY 660) with shallots and nukadaki (JPY 600), which on this case was mackerel in miso marinade. The saba and nukadaki have been my favorites. They have been savory, wealthy, and deeply satisfying.
KOKURA TETSUNABE SOHONTEN
Tackle: 2 Chome-3-12 Uomachi, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0006, Japan
Working Hours: Day by day, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
How you can Get There: From Kokura Station, you may stroll for seven minutes to the restaurant. Alternatively, you may take the Kitakyushu Monorail to Heiwadōri Station. Then stroll for 3 minutes.
Nogata Ganda Bikkuriichi (Nogata)
Nogata Ganda Bikkuriichi is an sudden gem! The title says all of it. Bikkuri means “shock,” and that’s precisely what this place delivers. Stunning due to the style AND the worth.
Inside this advanced, you’ll discover a meals corridor, the place a lot of the sushi are priced at JPY 100 and up apiece, and so they really style nice! They’re clear and shiny, and actually recent. The yakitori is JPY 130 per stick, and the servings are massive, not the three-piece staples at izakayas. They’re out there in shoyu and shio choices, however each are smoky, juicy, and freshly grilled proper in entrance of you.
As if that wasn’t sufficient, as we explored extra of the place, we discovered a stall promoting ramen (JPY 400; JPY 500 if with chashu). And I swear, it tastes nearly like Ichiran (very comparable profile) however for lower than half the worth. Discuss price range journey bliss.
There’s nothing fancy about this place: fluorescent lights, informal counters, and plastic trays. However that’s all a part of the allure. It’s the place locals go, and everybody appears to be smiling. You possibly can order piece by piece, or simply give in to temptation and go full-on feast mode as we did!
Locations like Bikkuriichi remind you that good meals doesn’t should be costly or difficult. Typically, it’s the informal joints that depart the strongest impression.
It’s extremely native. It’s not alongside the standard vacationer path, a bit removed from Fukuoka Metropolis, Kitakyushu, or another main vacationer attraction. Should you’re taking public transportation, it might probably take quite a lot of effort and time, and it’s arduous to place it in an itinerary. However for those who’re on a highway journey and it’s alongside the best way, it’s undoubtedly price a cease.
NOGATA GANDA BIKKURIICHI
Tackle: 611 Ganda, Nogata, Fukuoka 822-0001, Japan
Working Hours: Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
How you can Get There: From Hakata Station or Kokura Station, take the Kagoshima Line to Kurosaki Station. Then change to Chikuho Denkitetsudo to Ganda Station. Then stroll for 18 minutes.
Juhachi Yoshii (Ukiha)
Yoshii is a captivating little city recognized for its white-walled storehouses and well-preserved Edo-period streets. And right here, you’ll discover Juhachi Yoshii, a countryside restaurant, lauded for its duck and pork dishes. Vins doesn’t eat duck, so we caught with its pork specialties.
Actually, even their sukiyaki (which is historically beef) is pork! Skinny slices of pork simmered in a sweet-savory broth with tofu, greens, mushrooms, and noodles. It’s our first pork sukiyaki ever, and it was wonderful. Every chew was tender and comforting.
Then got here the tonkatsu. Tremendous thick, extremely juicy pork cutlet, fried to golden perfection. The crust had that best crunch, whereas the meat inside stayed moist and flavorful. You possibly can inform they use high quality elements, particularly their meat. The chef even met us after the meal, and he takes satisfaction in each dish.
It’s situated in Yoshii in Ukiha, so it’s greatest to go to this as a lunch or dinner cease whereas exploring Yoshii City or if Yoshii is already part of your itinerary.
JUHACHI YOSHII
Tackle: 102-5 Yoshiimachi Fukumasu, Ukiha, Fukuoka 839-1332, Japan
Working Hours: Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday, 11:30 AM – 09:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 09:00 PM; Sundays, CLOSED
Nearest Station: Chikugo-Yoshii Station. Then stroll for 10 minutes.
Ringo To Budō No Ki (Asakura)
We spent a morning selecting apples, persimmons, and grapes right here at Ringo To Budō No Ki. I normally don’t anticipate a lot from cafés at vacationer spots, however whoa! This cozy café blew me away.
After we entered, I used to be already mesmerized by their show case filled with pies. However when our order arrived, I child you not — it was the perfect apple pie of my life!
Granted, I haven’t tried that many apple pies, however this one set the bar ridiculously excessive. The crust was flaky, the filling had simply the proper stability of candy and tart, and the apples have been so clean and silky. However once more, I haven’t tried that many apple pies, so don’t belief my phrase for it. Go attempt it your self subsequent time you’re in Fukuoka!
Anyway, there was one thing poetic about consuming an apple pie after selecting apples ourselves.
You will discover this café in Asakura, not inside Fukuoka Metropolis or Kitakyushu, however nonetheless a part of Fukuoka Prefecture. You’ll discover quite a lot of locations to see right here in Asakura and close by Ukiha, largely agricultural and cultural points of interest. And for those who resolve to discover this a part of the prefecture, think about stopping by this website.
RINGO TO BUDOU NO KI
Tackle: Yamada, Asakura, Fukuoka 838-1306, Japan
Working Hours: Day by day, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
How you can Get There: From Hakata Station, take the Kagoshima Line to Futsukaichi Station. Swap to Bus 40 certain for Haki and get off at Sanrensuisha-no-sato cease. Stroll for 14 minutes to the orchard.
Tokinose (Umi)
Our subsequent cease is situated simply subsequent to Umi Hachimangu Shrine. That is Tokinose, a store promoting wagashi (conventional Japanese sweets). Wagashi is available in all shapes and colours, using numerous strategies. Usually, they will get fairly creative too, reflecting the altering seasons.
Because it was autumn, we determined to go for seasonal treats that showcased the perfect of the season’s elements.
The one we obtained was so kawaii! It seemed like a cute persimmon as a result of persimmon is a essential ingredient. It’s referred to as Aki Kitashi, a jyouyo manjyu or yam-based candy bun, full of bean paste and dried persimmon from Ichida, wrapped in a layer of persimmon yokan (bean jelly).
There was one other deal with that seemed like a tiny candy potato, referred to as Hokkori. It’s full of candy potato and wrapped in a purple candy potato batter with a whisper of cinnamon. Each these items weren’t too candy, which I all the time respect.
However the standout for us was the Mont-Blanc Daifuku, a limited-time-only masterpiece. It’s a comfortable habutae mochi full of café au lait–flavored bean paste, topped with Japanese chestnut cream and a candied chestnut. The flavors have been delicate and completely balanced — not too candy, not too daring, simply superbly composed. It was immaculate.
TOKINOSE
Tackle: 1 Chome-1-24 Umi, Kasuya District, Fukuoka 811-2101, Japan
Working Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM; Tuesdays, CLOSED
How you can Get There: From Hakata Bus Terminal, take Bus 32 certain for Kami Umi. Get off at Umi Hachiman-mae Bus Cease. It’s simply in entrance of the shrine. Journey time is 38 minutes.
Fukuoka Craft Brewing (Okagaki)
After all, this record received’t be full with out not less than one drink to clean all of it down with! Should you assume Japan’s all about sake, wait till you go to Fukuoka Craft Brewing in Okagaki. The corporate has been round for about eight years, however the brewery website right here has been working for 3 years. We have been fortunate sufficient to be toured across the facility by the brewer himself, David Victor, whose enthusiasm might convert even non-beer drinkers into followers.
After getting acquainted with the entire brewing course of, it was time for beer tasting, beginning with a sampler of 4 beers (JPY 1500).
The Session IPA was gentle (at solely 3% alcohol), nearly juice-like till that nice bitterness kicked in. The Hazy IPA, cloudy and golden, had a tropical aroma and a barely stronger punch at 6% alcohol. The Triple IPA was richer, hoppier, and boasted a daring 9%. And the Imperial Stout, with its roasted malt, was darkish, full-bodied, and harking back to espresso and chocolate however smoky and punchy at 10% alcohol.
However what impressed us most was their willingness to experiment. The Rice Flower Ale, brewed with koji mildew, had a sake-like sweetness and was very refreshing. Then there was the wild card, the Sea and Tomato Mexican Ale, impressed by micheladas, a Mexican beer cocktail with lime, tomato juice, and spices. It began with a briny, clam taste, then the tomato kicked in, and at last a spicy warmth crept up your throat. It’s unusual, courageous, and sensible — like beer and salsa in a single glass. It’s an acquired style, to be trustworthy, and I believe I acquired it instantly.
The brewery is only a bit indifferent from different points of interest, so that you would possibly discover it out of the best way if it’s the one place you’re visiting within the space. Should you’re a beer lover keen to go the additional mile for it, taking public transportation is feasible. However it’s greatest visited for those who’re on the best way from Fukutsu or Fukuoka Metropolis to Kitakyushu, otherwise you’re on a highway journey.
FUKUOKA CRAFT BREWING
Tackle: 544 Utsura, Okagaki, Onga District, Fukuoka 811-4203, Japan
Working Hours: Friday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Monday to Thursday, CLOSED
How you can Get There: From Hakata Station, take the Kagoshima Line to Ebitsu Station. Then switch to Bus 6 波津線 and alight at Uchiura. Then stroll for 12 minutes to the brewery.
However you can even get a style of their merchandise in Fukuoka Metropolis, particularly at FUKUOKA CRAFT BREWING with COMATSU at Hakata DEITOS Annex, very near Hakata Station. It’s additionally served at Fukuoka Craft by El Borracho within the metropolis’s Daimyo District.
FUKUOKA CRAFT BREWING with COMATSU
Tackle: 1−1 デイトスアネックス 1F, Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka 812-0012, Japan
Working Hours: Day by day, 11:00 AM – 2:00 AMFUKUOKA CRAFT by EL BORRACHO
Tackle: 1 Chome−11−4 どんぱビル, Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka 810-0041, Japan
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Saturday to Sunday, 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Hakata Issou (Fukuoka Metropolis)
Hakata Issou is likely one of the most well-known hakata ramen locations within the metropolis. It has two branches: one close to Hakata Station and the opposite in Nakasu, the island in between Hakata and Tenjin. It’s typically included in lists of the perfect ramen retailers by numerous publications. Their hakata ramen makes use of premium native pork and agency noodles topped with seaweed, pork stomach, and inexperienced onions.
One factor I observed instantly about their model of Hakata ramen is that it’s frothy. Generally, Hakata ramen’s inventory is the kotteri kind, which is creamy, cloudy and wealthy. However this one has a skinny layer of froth on prime. It additionally has a delicate bitter aftertaste, which prevents the umami style from overpowering or lingering within the palate, but in addition makes it a bit of bit bizarre. I’m not completely bought on it. It tastes good, however I believe I want Shin Shin.
Open: Day by day, 7pm-4:30am
Nearest Stations: Nakasukawabata Station, Hakata Station
Motsunabe Rakutenchi (Fukuoka Airport)
We’d seen motsunabe throughout Fukuoka: on indicators, in guidebooks, in each native advice record. However someway, after a number of journeys, we by no means obtained round to making an attempt it. That’s, till our final day, on the airport of all locations.
Inside Fukuoka Airport’s Hakata Meals Corridor, whereas searching for a dinner place earlier than our flight, we noticed a department of Motsunabe Rakutenchi, one of many metropolis’s most beloved hotpot chains, and determined to make it our farewell meal. And what a goodbye it was.
Motsunabe (JPY 1790) is a Fukuoka specialty hotpot made with beef or pork offal, simmered in a flavorful broth with cabbage, garlic chives, and chili peppers. The offal would possibly sound intimidating, nevertheless it’s tender and deeply flavorful, absorbing all of the goodness of the broth with out the stink or funky aftertaste. It jogged my memory a lot of our very personal nilaga, however richer and fuller, and with innards and extra chives.
I really like entrails, so I can’t consider I waited this lengthy to lastly attempt it. You possibly can really discover it in different places in Japan, nevertheless it originated proper right here in Fukuoka. It’s a real native specialty. I’m positive there are higher bowls of motsunabe within the metropolis middle, nevertheless it’s a heat, tasty introduction to the dish.
To me, motsunabe additionally type of represents Fukuoka as an entire. From the ramen stalls of Nakasu to the countryside cafés of Yoshii, the dishes right here aren’t making an attempt to impress or intimidate. Quite, they’re making an attempt to attach with you and rejoice meals not as a luxurious however as a part of every day life. It’s a vacation spot for consuming your coronary heart out in a means that’s unapologetic and genuine, however nonetheless very welcoming and really Fukuoka.
MOTSUNABE RAKUTENCHI FUKUOKA AIRPORT
Tackle: ゲートラウンジエリア, 739 国際線旅客ターミナルビル 3階 Fukuoka Airport, Aoki, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka 812-0851, Japan
Working Hours: Day by day, 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
How you can Get There: After passing via Fukuoka Airport Immigration and Safety checks, stroll straight till you see Hakata Meals Corridor. Enter it and also you’ll discover it within the nook to your left, near the Udon store.
Which of the dishes we featured have you ever tried? And that are you most excited to attempt for the primary time? Let’s discuss within the feedback part beneath!
The place to Keep in Fukuoka
Town has two main wards — Hakata and Tenjin. These two are dotted with eating places, buying institutions, and lodging. Many of the points of interest are discovered on Hakata aspect, whereas quite a lot of price range accommodations are situated in Tenjin. Listed here are a number of the accommodations that we tried not too long ago:
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Seek for extra Fukuoka Inns!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is elective, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey could be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, think about PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You possibly can GET IT HERE. Don’t overlook to make use of WORTHIT for a particular inexpensive charge.
Be a part of The Poor Traveler Assist Group
✅ When you have any questions or want journey ideas, be happy to put up them to the TPT Assist Group. The members are very useful. This Fb help group has been round for a very long time, and lots of members have discovered journey buddies via it. You possibly can be a part of too! Simply go to The Poor Traveler Assist Group. Observe that that is totally different from The Poor Traveler Fb web page.
Updates Log
2025 12 4 – First uploaded
Edited by: Asta Alvarez
Images by: Yosh Dimen and Vins Carlos
