When it comes to Japan’s three major cities, the common answers are Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. However, I’ve heard that many people in Fukuoka Prefecture mention Fukuoka City instead of Nagoya. Is this true?
My Fukuoka Adventure: A City That
Stole My Heart
So, picture this: I’m sitting in a cozy little café in Fukuoka, sipping on a matcha latte that’s way too Instagram-worthy to drink, and I overhear a group of locals chatting about Japan’s “big three” cities. Naturally, I’m expecting them to say Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya—because, well, that’s what everyone says, right? But no. One of them casually drops, “Fukuoka,” like it’s the most obvious thing in the world. My brain does a little double-take. Wait, what? Fukuoka instead of Nagoya? I had to know more.
The Fukuoka Pride: Real or Just a Rumor?
Turns out, this isn’t just a one-off thing. Over the next few days, I kept hearing Fukuoka being mentioned in the same breath as Tokyo and Osaka. At first, I thought it was just local pride—you know, like how people from New York think their city is the center of the universe. But the more I explored, the more I started to see why Fukuoka might just deserve that spot.
Yatai Nights and Ramen Dreams
One of the first things that blew me away was the yatai (street food stalls) scene. Imagine this: it’s a cool evening, and I’m wandering along the Nakasu River, when I stumble upon rows of tiny, glowing stalls. The air is filled with the smell of sizzling yakitori and the sound of laughter. I plop myself down at one, order a bowl of Hakata ramen (because, duh), and end up chatting with the chef and a group of locals. They’re all so warm and welcoming, and before I know it, I’m being offered free refills of sake. (Spoiler: I said yes. Too many times.)
Surprising Discoveries and Quirky Moments
Fukuoka has this laid-back vibe that’s hard to describe. It’s not as fast-paced as Tokyo or as flashy as Osaka, but it’s got this charm that sneaks up on you. Like the time I accidentally showed up an hour early to Fukuoka Castle because I misread the train schedule. Instead of being annoyed, I wandered around the nearby Ohori Park, where I stumbled upon a group of elderly ladies practicing tai chi. They waved me over, and before I knew it, I was awkwardly trying to mimic their moves. Let’s just say I’m not a natural, but it was one of those moments that made me feel like I was truly there, you know?
Why Fukuoka Feels Like a Hidden Gem
By the end of my trip, I started to see why Fukuoka might be considered one of Japan’s major cities. It’s got the food, the culture, the history, and the people—oh, the people! Everyone I met was so proud of their city, and it’s contagious. I left with a full belly (thanks to one too many mentaiko rice balls) and a heart full of memories.
What Do You Think?
So, is Fukuoka really one of Japan’s “big three”? I’m not sure, but I do know it’s a city that deserves way more attention than it gets. Have you been to Fukuoka? What did you think? Or do you have another underrated city in Japan that you think deserves the spotlight? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories! And if you’re planning a trip, don’t sleep on Fukuoka. Trust me, it’s worth it.
