Finding Balance in Fukuoka: A Smooth Start to My Japanese Adventure
From packing dilemmas to an unexpected luxury upgrade—my first night in Japan sets the tone for a month-long journey.
Originally, this trip was supposed to start two days earlier, giving me three nights in Fukuoka. But since I’m going to be traveling around Japan for about 30–35 days, I wanted to make sure everything at home was set up nicely for Jamie and our dog, Waffles. I didn’t want to just jet off and leave them in chaos. So, we shifted the trip a couple of days later, leaving me with only one night in Fukuoka—no worries though, since the adventure ahead is plenty long.
Packing Decisions: Backpacks vs. Suitcase
Packing was an ordeal. I ended up taking two backpacks, and honestly, I’m already second-guessing that choice. The thinking was I didn’t want to drag a wheeled suitcase around on concrete and gravel, especially since I’ll be hitting a lot of rural areas. Not totally sure it was the right call, but so far it’s manageable.
My packing approach was like prepping for a mini camping trip—I don’t know exactly what the bedding or utensil situations will be like in hostels or shared guesthouses, so I’ve got a sleeping pad and even enough gear to set up a makeshift tent if needed. Still, I’ve mixed in some regular clothes, plus my laptop, Apple Vision Pro, and a bunch of electronics, creating this strange hybrid situation of camping-meets-tech.
Zero-Effort First Night
When traveling internationally, my rule for night one is always zero-effort. After hauling myself across the world, I just want to check into a Hilton, take a taxi, and pass out. After saying goodbye to Jamie and Waffles, I boarded my direct flight from Honolulu to Fukuoka. It was an uneventful 11 or 12 hours—honestly, pretty comfortable, since no one was seated next to me. I even managed a little sleep.
A Taxi Adventure
Once landed, I had to quickly figure out the Go app (Japan’s Uber-like taxi app). Of course, I got the one taxi driver who couldn’t figure out how to enter the airport’s taxi area. After some confused back-and-forth calls—my Japanese definitely not up to the task—a helpful security guard eventually sorted us out. The taxi driver then proceeded to drive faster than I’ve ever seen anyone drive, getting me to the Hilton Fukuoka Seahawk in record time, maybe seven or eight minutes tops.
Hilton Surprise Upgrade
Checking in, I looked like a crazy person lugging around my backpacks, exhausted from travel. But here’s the cool part: since I’m a Hilton Diamond member, they upgraded me straight away to this massive executive suite. Usually, you have to politely push for something like that, but this time it was effortless. The room itself was absurdly spacious, especially for Japan—no minimalism here. Huge living room, separate work area, a massive bedroom with two beds and a lounge, plus separate powder and bathrooms. Basically, it felt like getting upgraded to an apartment.
Sushi with a View
Dinner was needed after settling in. Up at the top of the hotel, I found a fantastic sushi restaurant and had an incredible spread of sashimi, sushi, soups, and salads, paired with some great sake. With the yen at about 150 per dollar right now, meals feel ridiculously affordable—this feast was just around $41.
After dinner, I crashed immediately. Day one was smooth, almost surreal—especially given how little it cost me in miles and effort. This trip is different: it’s about mental health, resetting after months of overworking, and reconnecting with adventure and balance. If there’s any place suited for rediscovering that balance, it’s Japan.
Day one down, and the real adventure begins tomorrow, heading off to Itoshima.