Situated in Kyushu, Fukuoka City is known as Japan’s gateway to Asia. It’s famous as a base for travel within Kyushu, and as a great place for shopping, but within Japan it’s probably best known for all its delicious food! Particularly unique is its tradition of food stalls—it’s said that 40% of Japan’s food stalls are based in Fukuoka. As evening falls, they appear as if from nowhere, setting up shop all around the central parts of the city. The photo shows the department store-lined streets of Tenjin, which is also famous for its high concentration of food stalls.
These are the food stalls in Nakasu, Fukuoka’s red-light district. The sight of all the stalls set up by the riverside is one you’re unlikely to see anywhere else in Japan.
Covered by hanging curtains, the stalls can seem a little daunting, but pluck up your courage and step inside!
Inside is a table with benches around it. You’re sat pretty close to the person next to you. These food stalls are thought of as being popular with tourists, but the local people love them, too. You’ll find a host of different people all sat around a table together: tourists from overseas, local people, people on business trips, office workers stopping by on their way home... The atmosphere is friendly, and the conversation lively!
Fukuoka is famous for pork ramen, but I’m sure there are a lot of people out there who don’t eat pork. Don’t worry, though—Fukuoka’s food stalls serve a lot more than just ramen. Another specialty, yakitori, is also a regular feature at food stalls. However, although it’s called “yakitori” (grilled chicken,) this being Fukuoka there is also a buta-bara (pork rib) version, so watch out!
Tempura is often thought of as a luxury food, but it can also be enjoyed at food stalls. Be sure to dig in to some piping hot, freshly-fried tempura while you’re here!
Food stalls are a great place to come into contact with Japanese people. Going inside them might seem a little daunting at first, but it’s really worth doing, so please make sure to give it a try!
*Credit needed for photos (all six) Supplied by: Fukuoka City
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