Japan’s Best Bars: Fukuoka

1. The Happy Cock

Resist the temptation of having your photo taken in front of the sign - you’ll embarrass yourself. This place is so cool it hurts. Here the local funky youngsters come to eye up the talent over a drink that won’t leave you penniless. Make a space for yourself at the bar and flirt with whoever takes your fancy. If it’s a hit they play it. Simple but effective. And nobody leaves on their own…

Address:
9F Neo Palace ll Building 2-1-51 Daimyo
Fukuoka

 

2. Android

Another sci-fi chic neo-Japanese bar although this below-ground spot in Hakata-ku will not set you back the cost of a space station like others in the area. Cool urban dudes in Face magazine designer gear lounge out on cushioned chairs and soft low sofas listening to ambient, techno and trip-hop while nursing long glass cocktails and the occasional beer.

Shots are the house specialty though and you’ll thankfully find the pretentious posiness of the punters evaporates as the vodkas are vanquished.

Address:
11-1 Shin-kawabata Building B1F Hakata-ku
Fukuoka, 812-0026

 

3.  Blue Bar

A literal blue bar not a metaphorical one, the ceilings, walls and lights in here are all in various ocean shades that gradually wash over you like water in waves. It’s a bit Space Odyssey trippy and the rays of blue ceiling light add to the spacey effect. Or is that the powerful cocktails poured by the luminous blue bar staff.

Music is ambient to trip hop and blue curacoa is a popular mixer.

Address:
40362 Wakamatsu Building BFI Nakasu
Fukuoka, 810 0801

 

4. Misty

Play Misty for you at this sharp, chic, sophisticated little den in bustling Kego that’s a shelter from the human storm on the streets outside. It’s quiet and calming indoors, perfect for serious chat with close friends or illicit liaisons with potential lovers.

There’s a large drinks menu with some classy cocktails and fine wines and whiskey but the gentle ambience and assured service from the outside chaos is the main draw here.

Address:
Oak Building 4F 2-18-15 Kego, Chuo-ku
Fukuoka, 810 0023

 

5. O/D

A tastefully deconstructed place with a minimalist look. Someone’s trying a bit too hard but in Japan it works and there’s a feel to this bar that’s really quite relaxing. DJs move and groove all night long with a happy crowd of Hip Hop and Soul lovers and the low lights mean anyone can find a cosy hideaway.

Address:
Tokyo Troy Building 4F, 1-1-10 Maizuru, Chuo-ku
Fukuoka