Where Have I Been? Snapshots of Fukuoka

Long time no see, friends! I’m baaaack!

How the devil are you guys? It’s been a few weeks since my last post, and if you follow me on Instagram, you’d know it was because I was in Japan! I spent a week in Fukuoka and a week in Osaka doing a fair for Vendula London, so it’s only right that I show you some Snapshots of Fukuoka to start, right?

So for those of you that don’t know, I work for Vendula London (I mean, it’s in the Disclaimer so you should know). I manage their London stores, and also act as a Brand Ambassador for them in Asia. Usually my trips to Japan are to feature on the Shop Channel in Tokyo, co-hosting a live TV show. This time, however, I was representing the brand at a prestigious department store called Hankyu, where there was a British Fair. But there will be more on that in another post!

Fukuoka is on the island of Kyushu, which is the southern-most island in Japan. We were in Hakata, the main area of Fukuoka, since the JR station had a Hankyu store situated inside. Comparing straight to Tokyo, it’s a much calmer area — still metropolitan, but quieter and with a hell of a lot less people. I actually really loved it there, the people were so kind!

Our stay in Fukuoka was mainly filled with working at the British Fair, honestly. But I managed to steal a few hours in the mornings and evenings to see the area. I adore shrines and ancient Japanese architecture, which Hakata had a lot of. The shrines were even lumped together so you can see about 10 within an hour!

Fukuoka Shrines

Spending a morning wandering around the shrines was one of my favourite parts of the trip. The fair was busy and slightly surreal, and evenings were spend checking out local bars and food spots until early hours. So the peace of the temples were so welcome. I also made friends with a lot of old ladies that wanted to touch my hair. It was a good time!

I also managed to do something I’ve always wanted to do — get a decent photo of me at an extending Torii gate. Because I’m a goddamn tourist and I’m not ashamed! It’s really difficult when you’re a lone traveller to get good photos of yourself at things. I rely on my tripod and remote, or if I’m lucky, a kind fellow tourist. The former is anxiety-inducing, because people stare at you a lot more than usual.

Snapshots of Fukuoka

It was a banging photo, though! Welcome to my new profile photo. I was even lucky enough that no one stared at me or used me as a tourist opportunity. Fukuoka, I love you.

There was also a shrine with cats. That let you pet them. I may or may not have cried when the little black kitty sat on my lap. He nearly came home with me, no lie.

There was so much personality in Hakata. People were friendly wherever you went, and there was pockets of charm and joy all over. I really enjoyed my time there, and would love to go back and experience more of the area. I didn’t get to head to the beach and see the Ohori Park, so that’s on the list for next time!

Have you guys ever been to Fukuoka?

If not, just let me know how you’ve been doing in the comments! I’ve missed you guys!