Set your trip up for success with a three-hour crash course in Fukuoka, from navigating the transport systems to learning the distinct character of each district. You’ll be guided between crowded hubs and laid-back local haunts (with a quick pitstop for a flannel drip coffee at one of the many hipster cafes). See the ultra-modern, LED-lit stomping grounds of the city’s trendy twenty-something crowd, and get a taste of traditional Japan while jostling through Nagahamasengyo Market. Learn the inner workings of the subway system as you head to historical shopping district, Nishijin – and, if the time is right, grab a bite from one of Fukuoka’s famous yatai street food carts, or slurp down tonkotsu ramen in the city that invented it.

Get to grips with Fukuoka at its buzzing central hub: Naka River and the diverse surrounding districts. On the east bank of the river there’s Canal City Hakata and the 1200-year old Kushida Shrine to explore; on the west, see salarymen celebrating at the upmarket bars of the neon-lit Tenjin neighborhood, then watch the locals get cooler and quirkier as you get closer to neighboring Daimyo. In Nishijin - a quick subway hop away - admire the scenery from Fukuoka Tower. You could end your introduction to the city exactly where you started it – back at Naka River! Feast on street food from the yatai (mobile stalls) along Nakasu Island, or learn more insider tips from your sensei – er, host – over a draft beer at an intimate izakaya.