Fukuoka’s Finest – Sebek and Kurayoshi
Kyushu, the third largest of Japan’s main islands, is a land of dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As I travelled through its volcanic peaks, misty mountains and sun-warmed coastlines, I found myself drawn to a more intimate side of its culture: its bars. Kyushu is a place of quiet power and subtle beauty, where steaming onsen towns emerge from the hills, ancient castles rise amidst modern skylines, and everyday life flows with a harmony of old and new. From the slopes of Mount Aso to the neon-lit streets of Fukuoka, the island feels both timeless and vividly alive.
Amidst this backdrop, I discovered three exceptional bars that stood out for their creativity, atmosphere, and dedication to the craft: Yakoboku in Kumamoto, and Sebek and Kurayoshi in Fukuoka. Each offered a truly unique experience—places where the artistry of the drink was matched by the character of the setting.
Travelling the world for its bars is an endlessly rewarding journey. The global cocktail community is so wonderfully connected—it’s that shared spirit, that warm welcome, that makes it feel like home wherever you go. I’m always amazed by the generosity and hospitality, especially when familiar names crop up in unexpected places. Yuto Nagasawa, the head bartender behind Düsseldorf’s celebrated Hideaway Bar, once worked at Kurayoshi in Fukuoka and helped shape the local bar scene. His recommendations led me to some real gems.
Bar Sebek – A Cozy Retreat with a Personal Touch
Fukuoka boasts a vibrant and diverse bar scene, with the Nakasu district at its epicentre. From high-end cocktail lounges to atmospheric izakayas, the area offers a wealth of options for the discerning drinker. Yet Bar Sebek, with its intimacy and distinct personality, truly exemplifies the unique charm of the city’s cocktail culture. Whether you’re a local or a visiting enthusiast, Bar Sebek offers a memorable night of expertly crafted cocktails and genuine hospitality. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the soul of Fukuoka’s nightlife.
I began my exploration with Sebek, a bar helmed by a remarkable woman. Sebek immediately stands out with its moody, artful energy. Named after the ancient Egyptian crocodile god, it embraces the enigmatic. Think velvet shadows, antique glassware, and a menu that reads like a riddle waiting to be unravelled. Sebek’s cocktails are bold and unexpected—layered infusions, smoky finishes, and ingredients that spark both curiosity and conversation. The bartender here clearly thinks like an alchemist, conjuring drinks that are as intriguing as they are delicious. It’s a place that rewards open minds and adventurous palates. Tucked away in the narrow alleys of Nakasu—Fukuoka’s buzzing entertainment district—Bar Sebek is a hidden sanctuary for those who appreciate detail, mood, and craft. With only ten seats, it’s an intimate, almost secretive space. The interior merges traditional Japanese aesthetics with eclectic modern touches: warm lighting, curious trinkets, and shelves lined with rare bottles, all creating a cosy, engaging environment.
At the heart of Bar Sebek is the immensely talented and award-winning bartender, Makiko Otsu. With over 19 years of experience, she’s built a reputation for crafting cocktails that are deeply personal and creatively inspired.
I only had two drinks, modest in number, but impressive impact. First up was the Ri-Kyu—a beautifully balanced mix of Iichiko Saiten (a bold, full-flavoured shochu), matcha, white cacao, amazake almond (fermented organic almond and rice drink), and cucumber. A sweet, bitter, and grassy concoction, served in nice pottery that added a tactile element to the experience. One drink on the menu particularly caught my eye: her signature Tourbillon—a mesmerising blend of cognac, black tea, rose syrup, and yuzu powder. This cocktail won her first prize at the Hennessy X.O Cocktail Competition in 2017, and for good reason—it’s a sensory journey in a glass.
Otsu’s approach is highly personalised. While there is a small fixed menu, most of her creations are bespoke—crafted on the spot according to your mood, taste and curiosity. Whether you favour timeless classics or offbeat inventions, her expertise ensures a drink that’s truly your own.
🔗 Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Bar Kurayoshi – A Hidden Gem with a Düsseldorf Connection
My next stop was Bar Kurayoshi, the establishment where Yuto Nagasawa once honed his craft before moving on to shape Düsseldorf’s Hideaway Bar. Tucked discreetly into one of the livelier parts of Nakasu, finding it proved something of an adventure. In a district dotted with various nightlife establishments, it’s advisable to double-check the address to avoid unintended detours. Look closely—the signage is minimal and in Japanese script. But once you do find Kurayoshi, it’s absolutely worth it.
Inside, the space is sleek yet inviting—refined wood finishes, soft lighting, and a hushed tranquillity that stands in striking contrast to the buzz outside. It’s the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret, known only to those in the know. The bar was founded by Koji Kurayoshi, a seasoned bartender with 25 years of experience at the Hotel New Otani in Fukuoka. His dedication to the craft is evident in every detail, from the meticulous preparation of cocktails to the elegant presentation.
Notably, Kurayoshi is the youngest winner of the HBA cocktail competition, a record that remains unbroken, and he has mentored many of Fukuoka’s leading bartenders through his cocktail school, ‘Kurayoshi Juku’.
The bartending team (no longer Yuto, but still top-tier) clearly upholds this legacy. The focus here is on clean, elegant, precisely balanced classics—this is a bar that excels in restraint and refinement.
I started with a Between the Sheets—a cocktail I hadn’t ordered in years. Perfectly executed, with just the right balance. Next, I asked for something floral to celebrate the Sakura blooming season, which was at its peak during my visit. The team delivered beautifully with a combination of Roku Gin, Kanade Sakura, and Mancino Vermouth Sakura Edition—a delicate, aromatic blend that truly captured spring in a glass.
My final drink of the evening was a Japanese take on the Brandy Alexander, featuring a sweet Koshu wine from Yamanashi—a region I had visited earlier in my trip, known for its delicate, aromatic white wines made from Japan’s native Koshu grape. The drink had all the rich, creamy comfort of a dessert cocktail, with a uniquely Japanese twist.
The conversation was as enjoyable as the drinks. What stood out most, though, was the hospitality. There’s a quiet confidence here—a focus on quality and genuine connection over flashy showmanship. The team takes their time, gets to know your preferences, and makes thoughtful recommendations with understated charm. It’s easy to imagine becoming a regular if you lived in Fukuoka.
About the Ingredients
Kanade Sakura is part of a line of craft liqueurs produced by Suntory, designed to harmonise with Japanese spirits like shōchū and whisky. The Sakura expression uses real cherry blossom petals and leaves, imparting a subtle floral aroma with a gentle sweetness and slight bitterness reminiscent of traditional Japanese sakura mochi. It’s elegant, restrained, and perfect for seasonal cocktails.
Mancino Vermouth Sakura Edition is a collaboration between Italian vermouth master Giancarlo Mancino and Japan’s cherry blossom culture. Using a base of Mancino’s classic Bianco Ambrato, this version is infused with Japanese cherry blossoms, creating a delicate, slightly fruity and floral vermouth with gentle herbal notes. It’s limited-edition and sought-after among bartenders who appreciate subtle, aromatic accents.
🔗 Website: bar-kurayoshi.com
🔗 Social Media: @kurayoshi_bar
Fukuoka may not shout about its bar scene, but that’s precisely its charm. Beneath the city’s vibrant surface lies a world of quiet excellence—places like Sebek and Kurayoshi that offer far more than just a drink. They offer a story, a connection, and a moment of stillness in the midst of a bustling city.
Looking to Discover More?
If you’re eager to explore beyond the two bars I visited, I highly recommend diving into the vibrant cocktail culture of Fukuoka. If you’re wandering through the Daimyo area, don’t miss:
- Bar Oscar – Fukuoka’s most iconic bar, popular with both locals and international guests. Expect a crowd and impeccable service. The owner, Mr. Nagatomo, is a well-known figure in the bar industry.
- Bar RIDLEY – A quieter gem opened by a former Bar Oscar bartender. It’s arguably Daimyo’s best-kept secret.
- Bar CITADEL – A newer addition to the scene, but already making waves. Stylish and full of promise.
Whether you’re into timeless classics or inventive mixes, Fukuoka’s bar scene has something exceptional waiting for you. Cheers!
