A Short Trip to Fukuoka and the Christmas Market

On my way back from Kurume after my niece's wedding, I stopped by the Christmas market held in front of Hakata Station while waiting for the Shinkansen.

A stage was set up in the station square, and it was great that there were plenty of tables and chairs around it where you could sit and relax.

Speaking of Christmas markets, there's Glühwein. And they had it!
This is one of my favorites. Warm, spiced wine enjoyed outdoors in the cold.

A cup of Glühwein was 1,200 yen!
It's a bit pricey, but they pour it into a winter-exclusive ceramic mug that you can take home with you. Apparently, mugs with different designs are prepared for each of the various venues around Fukuoka.

This approach is just like in Germany, the home of these markets!
It makes me feel a bit nostalgic.

Christmas markets.
In Milan, Italy, I couldn't find any Glühwein stalls at the venue, and in Amsterdam, Netherlands, I did have some, but it was a shame it was served in a paper cup. It really doesn't feel right without the special mug.
Fukuoka's Christmas market is really nice.

The end of the trip

Under a clear autumn sky, my niece, whom I've known since she was little, became a beautiful bride, and my grandson did a great job as a ring bearer; the ceremony ended successfully. I was also able to meet up with my son who lives in Niigata and have a long talk. My son and I went out to Nakasu at night and enjoyed authentic Hakata ramen.

As the conclusion to a very memorable short trip, the Christmas market was the perfect ending.

Thank you for reading this far 😊