It is hard to get a proper impression of a city when you are only passing through for one night but Fukuoka seems like a lively fun place with lots going on. One of the main reasons for us to stop off in Fukuoka was for the sumo! I can’t say I knew that much about sumo beforehand but we were there with my father and my aunt who are long time fans so we were able to get a bit of explanation. It was really entertaining, there is lots of build up between each round and then crash! they charge at each other. We had a box which is four cushions in a square with a metal rail around, beforehand I was wondering how my legs would cope as I am not used to sitting on the floor for many hours, but in fact it was fine as you could lean back or alternatively sit forward and have your legs over the side. You can also get seats which are actual chairs up on the higher tiers.
We also visited the 4th Fukuoka Asian Art Triennale which was great! My favourite was seeing the films of the firework art of Cai Guo-Qiang. The Triennale was in the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum and also had another outlying installation space.
Recommended
Fukuoka Asian Art Museum
Great exhibition and also a good shop.
Moomin Bakery
The Moomin Bakery is in the huge Canal City which is a central shopping centre. The Moomin Bakery is partly a cafe, partly a bakery, and partly a Moomin merchandise shop. My sister and I freaked out when we saw how many wonderful Moomin housewares they had, I got myself a very nice mug and some gifts for others.
Sumo
Check the site for when the tournaments are on.
Cafe Xando
Afterwards the Sumo we went out and found a nice drinking & food type place called Cafe Xando. Good cocktails and food.
