Fukuoka (福岗）Kyushu (九州)

Kyushu is the southern most, and western most part of Japan. Because of its proximity to the Asian continent, it has been at the forefront of the external influence often. Such an influence is not always benign.

More than seven hundred years ago, Mongol empire was at its apex of power. After conquering China and Korea, it naturally demanded submission from Japan. Japan rejected. Twice (1274 and 1281), Mongols mobilized large fleets to invade Japan. They landed at the beautiful Hakata Bay, where we stay now. Twice, fierce Japanese samurais, with the help of fierce storms, deterred the all powerful Mongols. If Mongols succeeded in the invasion, given the fierce resistance Japanese had put up, Mongols would definitely exterminate all Japanese. From time to time, we have to make a choice, submission, or possibility of extermination.

Japanese people are the politest people. They were also one of the heaviest armed people before. Today, we can still see ruins of many massive castles in various parts of the country. 

Fukuoka, being the largest city in Kyushu, is the high tech capital in Japan. It is one of the few booming cities in a country with declining population.