Fukuoka | 福冈 I
And by virtue of the work trip bestowed upon me, I arrived in Fukuoka, all full of excitement and anticipation. It was a surreal experience to once again, come onto the land of the rising sun. My last visit to the country was when I was 5 years younger, for a leisurely trip with some friends to Tokyo and Osaka, incidentally also made during the same wintery part of the year.
This time I was all by myself, and would be so till the later part of the following day and the last 2 days of my stay. The 2.5 days in between was to be occupied by work.
Being on the nocturnal flight meant I would arrive at Fukuoka about 8am. Not expecting to be granted check-in at the hotel till noon, I took my time to explore the modest airport, looking out for visitor guides, free maps, anything that could help me navigate around the city. Acutely aware of my inability at the Japanese language, I knew I needed all the help I could find, despite the desktop research done back home.
As I stared out the cab window, I couldn't help marvel at the picturesque beauty in my face, the sweet little houses we drove past, the signature clean lines that the Japanese are so famous for. The weather... it was so cold I felt I was walking amid clouds. Against the likes of Tokyo and Osaka, Fukuoka isn't exactly a well-known city to the average tourist. And this, was what made it all the more intriguing for me.
The hotel was nothing short of impressive. While it didn't boast of a gym and pool, it was perfectly located and every bit the make of a premium, top-of-the-line hotel.
After a much needed nap, I ventured out to explore the neighborhood. Armed against the cold with 3 layers over my torso, I took a leisurely walk in the vicinity. It was quiet for a late Sunday afternoon, but I was enjoying every single bit of my stroll in the unfamiliar city. Seeing passer-bys in warm, winter clothing reminded me how lucky I was to be there. I could not have asked for more.
While gleefully gloating over my good fortune, I felt water on me. It had started to drizzle. Even the rain didn't feel the same! Reluctantly, I quickened my pace. Then it happened. What landed on me, suddenly felt different. I looked down and to my utter amazement, found small bits of ice flakes on my black down jacket! I froze alongside the rain. Standing there momentarily, I could not believe what I was seeing. It was snow.
S-N-O-W.
There I was - experiencing snow for the first time in my way over 30 years. I cannot describe how it felt. It was Magic, Pure Magic. I must have been the happiest man on earth at that point. The only thing that stood between me and my dancing in the snow was the prospect of becoming a dripping duck.
The falling snow was light, feathery, and kind, with the winds carrying it in all directions. An umbrella would have been futile. I stood there for moments, before finally deciding for some cover.
And off I jogged, to the nearest subway station. Under the comfort of the shelter, I peered out to catch more of the ethereal snow. It was truly, breathtakingly beautiful.
As it subsided, I crept out the subway and realized I hadn't eaten. Heading into a cafe nearby, I was instantly greeted by the polite crew and the cosy comfort of the interior. Making out whatever I could from the menu board, I grabbed a sandwich on the counter and ordered coffee.
A minute later, snow fell once again. In the warm ambience of the cafe, accompanied by a cup of hot coffee and sandwich, I stared lovingly at the falling snow outside. Around me were working adults tapping their laptops, mugging students, and others chatting in low tones. What a relaxing day it was.
Evening was spent in the JR Hakata City Mall, browsing, having ramen and desserts. I spent the day all alone, but it was one of the most beautiful days I've ever had; a day I won't forget in a long time to come.
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