Fukuoka Adventures & Magical Tea at Umaya — Celebrity Cruise Day 10

👜 Tea Time at Umaya — and a Purse Holder Worth Admiring

We stopped for lunch at Umaya Restaurant, and the first thing that caught my eye wasn’t the food — it was the purse holder! Between the seats was a box with rolling wheels for you to safely store your personal items off the floor while you ate. Only in Japan would they think of such thoughtful details.

Our meal started with a soothing pot of tea, but the real magic began when my daughter ordered the Butterfly Pea Flower Tea. At first, it looks like a normal soda drink, but when you stir it, the color changes to pink or purple. 🌸

It’s not magic (though it feels like it) — it’s science! The color change occurs because the tea’s natural pH level reacts with the acid in the lemon juice. A drink that’s equal parts beautiful and educational.

🍺 From Fish Eggs to Beef Tongue — and a Meal to Remember

Next up: appetizers! My family dove into some fish egg dishes, while I politely passed and opted for a cold Japanese beer instead.

But the real highlight? We all agreed on the main course (a rare family miracle!) — the Beef Tongue and Barley Grated Yam Meal, all for just $13. And let me tell you, it was incredible.

If you’ve never tried beef tongue before, don’t let the name scare you. When cooked properly — like it was here — it’s tender, flavorful, and melts in your mouth.

🚶‍♀️ Wandering Fukuoka — Mini Red-Light District & Hello Kitty Everywhere

After our meal, we strolled through the narrow streets of Fukuoka, soaking up local life. At one point, we accidentally wandered into a mini red-light district (oops 😅) — but hey, travel is about exploration, right?

And can we talk about Hello Kitty for a second? She’s everywhere. From construction barricades shaped like Hello Kitty to a bright pink bus covered in bows, Japan’s obsession with this iconic character is real — and honestly, adorable.

🌞 Beating the Heat — Japan Style

It turned into a hot afternoon, but Japan always seems one step ahead. Scattered along the streets were free paper fans, available for anyone to grab. How genius is that? A small touch of hospitality that made a big difference.

And because Japan can’t resist a touch of whimsy — we even spotted a giant squid sculpture clinging to a building. Because why not? 🦑

⛽ Wait… Japan’s Gas Stations Have Ceiling Pumps?!

As our day wound down and we headed back to the Celebrity Cruise shuttle bus, one last surprise made us laugh out loud — gas pumps hanging from the ceiling!

Yes, you read that right. In Japan, the hoses come down from above instead of being attached to the ground. It saves space and keeps everything super organized — a classic example of Japanese innovation and efficiency.

🌸 Final Thoughts

Fukuoka was the perfect mix of quirky, cultural, and unforgettable. From magical tea to tender beef tongue and street-side surprises, every moment reminded me why Japan is one of the most fascinating places on earth.

If you’re ever on a Celebrity Cruise through Japan, make sure Fukuoka — and a stop at Umaya Restaurant — is on your list. You’ll leave with a full belly, a happy heart, and maybe a new appreciation for ceiling gas pumps.

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