Fukuoka's Vibrant Street Food Culture Spotlighted Through Its Iconic Yatai Stalls
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Fukuoka, Japan's 6th largest city, has the most open-air food stalls in the country called yatais. They operate at night and disappear by morning.
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In 2010, Fukuoka elected its youngest mayor ever, Sōichirō Takashima, who helped overhaul and regulate the yatais.
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Yatais encourage socializing with strangers in tight spaces. Buying drinks for others is common courtesy.
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Fukuoka attracts young people with affordable housing and small business loans. New yatai chefs make creative, modern dishes.
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Yatais can be unpredictable but are part of Fukuoka's lively food culture. The city made an English website to guide tourists.