These four food truck miniatures are some of my favourite series.
They’re actually inspired by Japanese Yatai (屋台), the traditional street food stalls that are especially famous in Fukuoka, Japan. I visited Fukuoka a few years ago and even had the chance to eat at some of the Yatai stalls, so when I saw this series, it immediately brought back those memories and I knew I wanted them in my collection.
Although they belong to the same series, each stall has its own unique details, from the colours and signs to the wheels, lights, and tiny decorations. My favourite detail is the little charcoal stove — it’s made from only a few simple pieces, but somehow looks just like the real thing!
Have you ever been to Fukuoka and visited a Yatai?
Or out of these four stalls, which one would you choose?
I am actually a pretty basic eater. The only Japanese food that I enjoy is pepper steak with noodles, egg rolls and dumplings. I did enjoy seeing a lot of different things when I was in Portland, though.
@Kycso this whole Yatai set feels like a tiny travel memory. The little charcoal stove detail is such a good catch, it gives the scene so much life. I love how you connected it back to Fukuoka too. Which stall feels the closest to the real Yatai you visited?
Haha, that’s okay! I think that’s why I loved the Yatai stalls in Fukuoka so much. Even if you don’t try everything, it’s fun just walking around, seeing all the different foods, and enjoying the atmosphere.
Portland sounds a bit like that too — sometimes the experience is just as memorable as the food itself.
Haha, I know what you mean! I’d probably hesitate with some of them too. Sometimes it’s just fun to look around and enjoy the atmosphere, even if you don’t try everything.
Yakitori definitely feels the closest to the real yatai experience I had in Fukuoka
Most of the stalls I visited were doing skewers over a small charcoal grill, quick to serve and super easy to eat while sitting close to everyone else. That smoky, slightly busy setup really captures the vibe of the streets at night.
Ramen was amazing too, but it felt more like a “sit down and warm up” moment, while the yakitori stalls were more lively and casual—just grabbing a few skewers and moving through the night.
I’m glad the charcoal stove detail stood out—it’s such a small thing, but it really brings the whole scene to life.
This is so cute! I haven’t visited Fukuoka yet but I would love to try eating in one of those Yatai stalls. The one with the grill is the cutest for me
I’d probably hesitate with some of them too. Sometimes it’s just fun to look around and enjoy the atmosphere, even if you don’t try everything.
