Excursion S.a.l.t. hidden gems of fukuoka: discover local food and drink tour at Fukuoka

This soul-food hop offers an immersion into Fukuoka's heart, where traditions continue to evolve, one bite and sip at a time.

The Experience

This 2.5-hour walking tour begins at a modern-classic kakuuchi – a standing bar born from Kyushu's working-class roots. In this laid-back setting, beloved by locals for its unfussy charm, you'll rub elbows with Fukuokans while sipping sake with local seafood specialties. Weaving through the city’s vibrant streets, the enticing aroma of grilled chicken guides you to your next stop. Here, expertly prepared Kyushu fowl pairs perfectly with smooth shochu, reflecting the region's fondness for rich flavors. The tour concludes at Fukuoka Craft's original taproom, unexpectedly housed in a Mexican restaurant. Local beear expert and wife of Brewmeister David Victor, leads an exclusive tasting of local brews, demonstrating how craft beer has joined sake and shochu as a favorite tipple in the city’s dynamic food scene.

The Menu

The tour begins with a snack of mentaiko, Fukuoka's iconic Korean-inspired spicy pollock roe, and small plates of aji-furai, golden-fried horse mackerel fillets. This local specialty owes its popularity to Fukuoka's proximity to Matsuura port, famed for Japan's largest horse mackerel catch. Next, Kyushu's renowned chicken takes center stage. Grilled to perfection and dressed in a “secret” sauce, it's served alongside smooth local shochu. At Fukuoka Craft, local beer expert Yoko Hirano presents a curated beer flight, sharing the story of how a microbrewery in a Mexican restaurant became the birthplace of Fukuoka's leading craft brewery.

The Hosts

This culinary journey is led by two passionate experts. Ryo Ishii, a bilingual Fukuoka native with a love for food, culture, and adventure, guides guests through the city's vibrant food scene. The tour culminates with Yoko Hirano, whose global travels from Canada to Germany sparked a deep appreciation for craft beer. As the wife and drinking partner of Fukuoka Craft co-founder David Victor, Yoko has been instrumental in growing the brewery from its Mexican restaurant origins into a major regional presence. Drawing on her expertise, she'll guide guests through a carefully curated tasting flight while sharing the story of Fukuoka's craft beer evolution. Together, Ryo and Yoko offer an insider's view of Fukuoka's evolving culinary and craft drinks landscape.

After filling your stomachs and hearts, return to the pier by your private coach.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Kakuuchi (standing) style Japanese Bar, Kyushu Local food, Local Drinks and Craft Beer

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking (approximately 3.2km or 2.0miles) with around 200 steps at the sites and a few to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. For dietary restrictions please contact the on-board Shore Concierge Team upon embarkation. Please be advised that special dietary requests or menu substitutions may not be possible to accommodate in this program. Due to the popularity of sights visited, some crowding may be anticipated. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. The tour sequence may vary. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.