A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Fukuoka
Pronounce Fukuoka like 'foo-KOO-oh-kuh' to say the name of this major Japanese city correctly.
fukuoka
foo-KOO-oh-kuh
/fuˈku.oʊ.kə/ · fu · koo · o · ka
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's a major port city and the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture on the island of Kyushu.
Where the word comes from
The name Fukuoka is derived from the historical clan name 'Fuku' (meaning 'fortune' or 'luck') and 'oka' (meaning 'hill').
Common ways people get it wrong
- fuh-KOO-uh-kuh Some English speakers might try to pronounce the first 'u' like 'uh', but it's a clear 'oo' sound like in 'food'.
- fyoo-KOO-oh-kuh The 'F' sound is not followed by a 'y' glide; it's a straightforward 'foo' sound.
Frequently asked
Is Fukuoka a city or a prefecture?
Fukuoka is both. It's the capital city of Fukuoka Prefecture, located on the island of Kyushu in Japan.
What is Fukuoka known for?
Fukuoka is known for its delicious ramen (Hakata ramen), its vibrant nightlife, and its historical significance as a gateway to Asia.
