➕How I got stranded overnight in Manila 🥭
Buckle up ‘cause I'm about to spill all the tea on my FAB solo adventure to Fukuoka, Japan (Kyushu). 6 days 5 Nights during the entire CNY week (Woot!)
Day 1: Free and Easy Around Hakata Station and Tenjin
Kickstarted le Fukuoka winter adventure with a leisurely day around Hakata Station and Tenjin. Shopping, eating, people-watching👀I did it all. There’s something magical about exploring a city with no agenda, just following your whims and getting lost (nearly!)
Day 2: Dazaifu , Nyoirini Temple & Yufuin
The Dazaifu shrine is basically the Beyoncé of Fukuoka⛩️culturally rich and always drawing a crowd. A quick stop at Nyoirini Temple for some 🐸 photo moments. And then, just when I thought the day couldn't get more magical at Yufuin, it started snowing! Picture this: serene temples and beautiful winter scenery, all blanketed in a sudden flurry of snowflakes❄️
Day 3: Takachiho Gorge and Train
Adventure mode: ON! Takachiho Gorge in winter was like stepping into a fairy tale. Between the breathtaking views and watching the boats through the gorge, I was one splash away from living my best zen life. And let's talk about the Takachiho Train🚂charming, relaxing, and the perfect way to soak in those mountain vibes with a wintery touch.
🎩A must-try at the gorge💦spring flow noodles where you literally have to catch your noodles before it swishes down the bamboo pipe
Day 4: Karato Market, Motonosumi Shrine, and Mt Sarakura Ropeway
Karato Market is a seafood lover's dream. Fresh pufferfish sushi, anyone?Then, I headed to Motonosumi Shrine. Picture perfect doesn't even begin to cover it🌁those torii gates by the sea are an Instagrammer's paradise. Wrapped up the day with the Mt Sarakura Ropeway. The views from the top? Epic. Nighttime cityscapes that made my heart do a happy dance, especially with a dusting of snow.
Day 5: Kusasenri, Aso Mountain, and Kurokawa Onsen
Kusasenri was all about those sweeping snowy plains❄️so serene, I might have considered becoming an Aso 🐮! Aso Volcano was cool but I didn’t manage to see the crater due to the high levels of toxic fumes~ Kurokawa Onsen? Heaven. Soaked in those hot springs until I turned into a human prune, all while enjoying the chilly winter air.
🎩Did I mentioned about those to-die-for cream puffs ? Crispy on the outside and custardy yums on the inside✨
Day 6 : Delayed flight-> Missed connection-> Stranded alone at Manila airport overnight
What a way to end my trip with a bang 💥 While I thought it would be a smooth ✈️ back to SG, I was hit with a last minute notification that my first leg flight would be delayed and wham my connecting flight back to SG would be missed! TLDR: I was put on a 550am flight from Manila to SG on the following day since they could not find any earlier replacement for me on the same day 😿
Not very fun to sleep on the cold hard plastic chairs as a female solo traveller in Manila overnight, but that’s my maiden voyage to Fukuoka in all its glory. Solo travel isn't just about seeing new places; it's about discovering parts of yourself you never knew existed. Until next time, wanderlusters! ✈️🌏✨
P.S. If you haven't been to Fukuoka, what are you waiting for? Go make your own memories and don't forget to tell me all about them. 💕#SoloTravel #TravelDiaries #MyPOV #japantravel
While my journey to Fukuoka was filled with magical snowy landscapes and cultural gems, the unexpected overnight stranding in Manila was a challenging but eye-opening experience. Manila doesn’t typically get snow, so seeing the contrast of winter in Fukuoka versus the tropical Manila weather was stark. However, being stuck overnight in the airport as a solo female traveler wasn't just about discomfort — it gave me time to reflect on the resilience and adaptability travel demands. Interestingly, Manila itself has fascinating attractions like the "Three Biggies" at the AirAsia Museum, which showcases aviation history and memorabilia for those interested in airline culture. Although my layover was brief and unplanned, next time I’d love to explore these gems rather than just passing through the terminal. As for winter in Manila – it’s obviously quite different from the snowy scenes of Mt Pulag or Fukuoka. Manila's tropical climate means no snowflakes but a unique warm vibe, which contrasts the chilly Japan winter sceneries beautifully. If you ever find yourself stranded or detained for long hours in Manila airport, I recommend seeking out nearby lounges or quiet corners for rest, staying hydrated, and if possible, planning some light walks to ease the fatigue from sitting on cold airport chairs. Reflecting on the culinary delights I enjoyed, don’t miss the spring flow noodles at Takachiho Gorge or the creamy custard puffs at Kurokawa Onsen — these local tastes make the winter cold so much warmer through flavor. Even with travel glitches, my solo trip taught me that every moment matters, not just the destinations but also the unexpected experiences on the road.
