15 Places That Don't Mean What You Think: Explained
Discover 15 places that don't mean what you think—from Paris, Texas to Greenland—and the surprising stories behind their misleading names.

Fukuoka is the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture and the largest city on the island of Kyushu. It is famous for Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen and the yatai street food stalls that line riverside streets in the evening. Fukuoka is closer to Busan, South Korea, than to Tokyo, which has made it a major port and gateway for trade and travel with East Asia. The city offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, with waterfront areas, historic shrines, and modern shopping districts. Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, lively nightlife, and easy access to nearby natural attractions. As a dynamic regional center, Fukuoka combines local food culture with an international outlook. Its Hakata ramen and yatai food stalls are famous throughout Japan. Its Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle ruins offer green spaces in the heart of the city.
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From Japanese 'fuku' (good fortune) and 'oka' (hill), named after the castle town. The demonym is 'Fukuokan'.
Other places in the region and their demonyms
Discover 15 places that don't mean what you think—from Paris, Texas to Greenland—and the surprising stories behind their misleading names.
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Want to explore where Fukuokans live? Here's the atlas that does it best:
Highly detailed, stunning visuals
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