After the 11 hour flight we jumped on to a Shinkansen (Bullet) train for the six hour trip to Fukuoka to meet up Ben's friends, John and Carley. They had kindly agreed to put us up for a few days and introduce us to the Japanese way of life.

Temperatures were in the low 30's so things off to a good start. Tourist attractions are on the low side, however, in one afternoon we managed to squeeze in the Fukuoka Dome, Sea Hawk Hotel and Viewing Tower. Somehow we managed to miss the world's largest coin!

John took us round one of the local shrines where we saw Japan's largest wooden Buddha. More of the 'world's biggest, tallest etc' to follow - it seems to be an obsession in Japan. We also tried one of the local food specialties, namely Ramen, a broth meal with noodles and meat. Too much garlic for my liking!

We also went surfing. Great fun but not too sure about the tight fitting surf top! Will try again in Oz.

A trip to Japan wouldn't be complete with the obligatory 'karaoke'. Best fun I've had for ages!

Armed with the Japanese words for 'draft beer' we set off on our own. Next stop Nagasaki.