Fukuoka: Gateway to Kyushu

• Helloこんにちは
  [Konnichiwa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [Sayonara]
• Yesはい
  [Hai]
• Noいいえ
  [Iie]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [Douzo]
• Thank youありがとうございます
  [Arigatou gozaimasu]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [Sumimasen]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [Ogenki desu ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [Genki desu. Anata wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [Eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [Wakarimasen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [Menyuu o misete kudasai]
• I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [Niku wa tabemasen]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [Kanpai!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [Okaikei o onegaishimasu]

• Help!助けて！
  [Tasukete!]
• Go away!行って！
  [Itte!]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んで！
  [Keisatsu o yonde!]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！
  [Isha o yonde!]
• I'm lost道に迷っています
  [Michi ni mayotte imasu]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [Guai ga warui desu]

• I'd like to buy...買いたいです...
  [Kaitai desu...]
• I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [Miteru dake desu]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [Ikura desu ka?]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [Sore wa takasugimasu]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [Nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [Ima nanji desu ka?]
• It's one o'clock1時です
  [Ichiji desu]
• Half past (10)10時半
  [Juuji han]
• Morning朝
  [Asa]
• Afternoon午後
  [Gogo]
• Evening夕方
  [Yuugata]
• Yesterday昨日
  [Kinou]
• Today今日
  [Kyou]
• Tomorrow明日
  [Ashita]
• 11
  [Ichi]
• 22
  [Ni]
• 33
  [San]
• 44
  [Yon]
• 55
  [Go]
• 66
  [Roku]
• 77
  [Nana]
• 88
  [Hachi]
• 99
  [Kyuu]
• 1010
  [Juu]

• Where's a/the...?...はどこですか？
  [...wa doko desu ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [Juusho wa nan desu ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?(地図で)見せてもらえますか？
  [(Chizu de) misete moraemasu ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次の(バス)はいつですか？
  [Tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)チケット(....行き)をください
  [Chiketto (....yuki) o kudasai]

Fukuoka's history can be traced back to the 7th century when it was known as Dazaifu, an administrative center for the region and a crucial part of Japan's defense against potential invasions from the Asian mainland. Dazaifu housed government offices and was the resident city for many notable officials and scholars. The city's significance is also marked by the Tenman-gu Shrine, dedicated to the God of Learning, Sugawara Michizane, which continues to be a major pilgrimage site.

Fukuoka played a pivotal role during the Mongol invasions of Japan. In 1274 and 1281, Kublai Khan’s forces attempted to invade Japan and landed on the shores of Hakata Bay. The Samurai warriors of Fukuoka fiercely defended their land, and according to legend, a typhoon – known as 'Kamikaze' or Divine Wind – destroyed the invading fleets. The remains of the stone walls built to defend against the Mongols can still be seen today, a testament to Fukuoka's strategic importance.

In the early 1600s, Fukuoka saw the construction of Fukuoka Castle, commissioned by Kuroda Nagamasa, a loyal vassal of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The castle, also known as Maizuru Castle, became the seat of the Kuroda clan. Although much of the castle has been lost to time, the remaining ruins and the scenic Maizuru Park offer a glimpse into the feudal era of Japan. The castle grounds become particularly enchanting during cherry blossom season, attracting numerous visitors.

With the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Fukuoka underwent significant modernization. The merging of Fukuoka and Hakata in 1889 marked a new chapter in the city's urban development. This period saw the introduction of Western technologies and infrastructure, transforming Fukuoka into a vibrant trade and industrial hub. The city's port facilities were expanded, making it a key point of international commerce and cultural exchange.

Fukuoka, like many Japanese cities, was affected by World War II. Though it escaped the extensive bombing that devastated other cities, Fukuoka still faced significant challenges during the war years. Post-war reconstruction efforts transformed Fukuoka into a modern city, balancing its historical heritage with rapid economic growth. The establishment of Kyushu University and various cultural institutions during this period solidified Fukuoka's status as a center of education and culture.

Fukuoka is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, with the Hakata Gion Yamakasa being one of the most famous. Held annually in July, this festival dates back over 700 years and features teams of men racing through the streets carrying elaborately decorated floats. The event is deeply rooted in the local culture and is a spectacular display of community spirit and traditional craftsmanship. The energy and excitement of the festival attract visitors from around the world, offering a unique glimpse into Fukuoka's rich cultural heritage.

Fukuoka is accessible via Fukuoka Airport, which offers both domestic and international flights. The airport is conveniently located just a few kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take the subway (Kuko Line) to Tenjin or Hakata station, a journey that takes approximately 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can use taxi services or airport limousine buses to reach various parts of the city.

Fukuoka has an efficient public transportation system comprising subways, buses, and trains. The Fukuoka City Subway has three lines: Kuko (Airport) Line, Hakozaki Line, and Nanakuma Line, covering major attractions and business areas. Nishitetsu buses run throughout the city and are a convenient way to get around. JR trains connect Fukuoka to other parts of Japan. Taxis are also available and are a reliable, albeit more expensive, option for getting around. Bike rentals are popular among locals and tourists for short distances.

The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is still commonly used, especially in smaller establishments. ATMs that accept international cards can be found in convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and transportation fares.

Fukuoka is generally a safe city for tourists. Violent crime is rare, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Areas like Nakasu are known for nightlife and entertainment but can be overwhelming for some tourists. Exercise standard precautions, avoid walking alone late at night, and keep an eye on your belongings.

In case of emergency, dial 110 for police assistance and 119 for fire or medical emergencies. Fukuoka has several hospitals and clinics that offer emergency services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies (薬局, yakkyoku) are available throughout the city and offer over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing in public spaces. Religion: Do respect religious sites such as temples and shrines. Remove your shoes when entering and be quiet and respectful. Public Transport: Do be mindful of others. Avoid talking loudly and always give up your seat to elderly, disabled, or pregnant passengers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and be open to new culinary experiences. Do not eat or drink while walking, as it is considered impolite. Greetings: Do bow slightly when greeting someone. A handshake is less common but acceptable.

To experience Fukuoka like a local, visit the Yanagibashi Rengo Market for fresh seafood and local produce. Participate in local festivals such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa in July. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Momochi Seaside Park and visit Fukuoka Tower for stunning views of the city. Don’t miss trying the local specialty, Hakata ramen, at one of the many ramen stalls (yatai) scattered throughout the city.