A Solo 2-Day, 1-Night Getaway: Culinary Delights and Scenic Strolls in Fukuoka
Looking for a quick and easy weekend getaway, I chose Fukuoka. As soon as I stepped off the plane, a clear blue sky and the tidy streets around Hakata Station welcomed me. Walking aimlessly with just a single bag slung over my shoulder, the gentle May sun wrapped around me, neither too cold nor too hot. The realization of being on a solo journey brought a subtle wave of excitement.
Upon arrival, my stomach started rumbling, so I went straight to a nearby diner. It was a classic spot serving Japanese home-style meals. A beautifully grilled fish, a fluffy and tender sweet egg roll, clear miso soup, and salty mentaiko (pollock roe) were served together gracefully on a small tray. Eating a little mentaiko on top of a spoonful of hot, fragrant rice spread a rich savory flavor throughout my mouth. Once my hunger was fully satisfied, I finally felt like my journey had truly begun.
Taking a Pause Under Blue Skies, Cafe Scenes in the Back Alleys
After filling up, I took a leisurely stroll around a shopping mall and a rooftop garden in the city. Near the entrance of a shop, people of all ages gathered to take photos around a giant Pikachu doll. Stepping outside, the warm May weather and a blue sky without a speck of dust stretched out wide before my eyes. Looking out over the open city view beyond the roads and lined-up taxis around Hakata Station instantly refreshed my mind.
After lunch, I headed to a classic kissaten cafe with a vintage charm that still uses the syphon brewing method. The heavy dark-wood interior and handcrafted ornaments brought a soothing peace to my mind. There, I ordered a cool, velvety dessert to go with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. The deep, full-bodied coffee with its pleasant bitterness paired with the sweet berry-sauce dessert, perfectly washing away the midday fatigue.
An Elegant Sushi Counter and the Evening Breeze of Nakasu River
As dinner approached, I headed toward the omakase sushi restaurant I had booked. On my way there, I caught sight of a cute dog peering out intently through a glass window, its round backside making me smile to myself. Soon, I arrived at the restaurant, which had an inviting, sophisticated aura with lush green ivy covering the entrance. Opening the door, I was welcomed by a warm wooden counter.
This was an omakase restaurant where a female chef prepares each piece of sushi with great care. The chef's elegant, calm presence and skilled hands made me feel wonderfully looked after throughout the entire meal. When I placed a plump shrimp sushi, presented gracefully on a leaf-shaped plate, into my mouth, the springy texture burst with a subtle sweetness. It was a delightful experience for both the eyes and the palate.
After an exceptional dinner that left me completely full, I found myself longing for the cool night breeze. To help digest my meal, I walked slowly toward the Nakasu riverbank. The lights of the buildings shimmering on the water and the city nightscape glowing in the dark were remarkably serene. Walking alone along the river with my earphones in was just what I needed to ease the bittersweet feeling of such a short trip.
A full and warm night in Fukuoka, a day made complete with a can of beer.
Back in my hotel room, I cracked open a can of draft beer that foamed up with a thick head. Realizing I had indulged in so much delicious food throughout the day, I also brought along a small carton of milk from the convenience store to help curb any morning puffiness. "No matter what, I can't skip wrapping up the night with a beer!" With sips of cold beer and a savory cheese snack, I brought the first day of my solo Fukuoka trip to a rich, perfect close.
