Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Bonenkai-Year End Parties】

The end of the year is approaching and we are right in the middle of the Bonenkai, or "year-end party" season. How is it for you? I'm sure you've heard that word, Bonenkai kicking around quite a lot!  In Japan, December is the time for people at work, in the community, and among friends to shake off everything that was hard or felt like it was dragging them down in the past year, and instead welcome the New Year with a fresh outlook! In Japan, we have the bonenkai or  "Year-End Party," an event to help us do that. It is also a chance to get together to appreciate each other's efforts, so it is common for whole work teams or groups of friends to go out to dinner, and have a drink all together." Everyone toasts to "good work done for the year~" and usually enjoys a nice meal and a good time. 

The Japanese phrase that is often said at these gatherings is "Kyou ha bureikou” and it basically means to enjoy the time without worrying about your position or title. In sum, relax, kick back and have fun. This phrase does seem to express a very Japanese cultural situation as people do often hesitate in situations because of what they think their position or title in a situation is, especially among seniors at a company  It's important to relax every now and then and you should, but don't get too carried away. I wonder if it's difficult to find that balance sometimes. Also, don't drink too much and forget everything about that evening when you are out enjoying a Bonenkai party!

It's a little early, but I'll say thank you for all of your hard work this year! 

【Fukuoka City Information】

Ward office consultation and putting out the garbage over the New Year Holidays

Now, I have some information from Fukuoka City. Over the New Year's holidays, there are a few changes to ward office consultation hours and the days on which you can put out the garbage. For ward offices, please be aware that these places will be closed from Friday the 29^thof December to Wednesday the 3^rd of January.  In the days before and after the new year holidays, the ward office consultation counters will be busy so make sure you give yourself plenty of time when you go there.

Also, from Sunday the 31^st of December to Wednesday the 3^rd of January, please do not put your garbage out for pick up. The last day to put out burnable garbage for scheduled pick up is Saturday the 30^th of December. Scheduled garbarge pick-up will resume on Thursday the 4^th of January. If the regularly scheduled garbage days in your area are Wednesday and Sunday, you may put your garbage out on Saturday, the 30^th of December for pick up. For nonburnable garbage and glass and pet bottles, if Monday January 1^st  is your regular day to put them out, instead they can be put out beforehand on Friday, December 22^nd. If Tuesday January 2^nd is the regular day, put the nonburnables out on Friday, December 29^th. For areas where Wednesday, January 3^rd is a regular pickup day, nonburnables will be picked up instead on Friday, January 5^th.

Also, applications and pickup for oversized garbage will be stopped between Friday, December 29^th to Wednesday, January 3rd, so please be aware of that.

Spend the New Year's Holiday safely

Fukuoka City wants you to enjoy your winter holidays safely and enjoyably and has a few tips to share.

From the end of the year to the start of the new year, there are a lot of opportunities to drink alcohol. So, make sure, 100%, that you don't drink and drive, don't make others drink and drive, never allow someone to drink and drive and don't ignore someone who would drink and drive. Even cycling after drinking is against the law.

And it's important to remember that even the next day you might have some alcohol in your system or will be hungover. In that case, even if you think you only have a little bit of alcohol left in your system, it doesn't mean you should drive, because you shouldn't.

Also, every year, the end of the year sees more and more traffic accidents. If you are out late at night, make sure you are wearing bright or reflective clothes that are easy for drivers to notice. And if you are driving, make sure you turn your headlights on earlier in the evening.

Next, we have a warning for you about bag snatching incidents. There have been a number of these crimes from the evening to midnight in places where there are few people around. A lot of these incidents have occurred with the criminals riding motorbikes and snatching bags as they pass by. To avoid being involved in such an incident, make you carry your bag on the side opposite to the road and pay attention to your surroundings, making sure you look back behind you if you sense signs of people or hear a motorbike.

Protect yourself and the things that are important to you and have a safe and enjoyable winter holiday.

【The End of Year Big Cleanup】

There's only just a bit of 2023 left, how time flies. And at the end of the year just before the new year, in Japan, many people typically do a big, thorough house cleaning. It's called “O-souji” in Japanese. 

Originally stemming from ancient Shinto rituals in Japan, many people still practice this custom with the intention of cleaning away the dirt of the past year from their homes, workplaces, and places they are grateful for, to welcome the new year in a clean and refreshed state.

As December begins, it is common for people to plan and gradually complete the cleaning by the end of the year, taking into consideration how much time they have and where they need to clean. Though, in reality, it often becomes a bit hectic, especially after Christmas. It seems it is considered unlucky to do your cleaning on the 29th, 31st of December, and the 1st of January. So, you shouldn't do any major cleaning or New Year's preparations on those specific days, and make sure you plan to clean before then. We don't want to be superstitious, but maybe knowing and respecting these customs is a good idea just in case.

Doing household chores, especially ones that require a lot of water or washing, can become a bit of a pain during this period. I'm sure all of us are pretty busy this time of the year with plans, work and other events all overlapping on our calendars as we wrap up this year, but we've still got a few weeks before the year ends. Just doing a bit every day will get your house clean before the year ends and will let you enjoy a leisurely and pleasant start to the New Year. So make that effort now and spend the year-end and New Year's feeling relaxed and positive!

【Fukuoka City Information】

official LINE account

The Fukuoka City International Foundation does have an official LINE account.

If you connect with the Foundation's official LINE account, you can make an appointment for consultations on daily life or free professional consultation using the LINE call feature. Telephone consultations are available in 22 languages, so please feel free to contact them. In addition, the Voom function of LINE is used to send out information on the Foundation's events and announcements from Fukuoka City. Please add the Foundation's official LINE account to your friends' list from the Fukuoka City International Foundation website. The foundation will not accept consultations via LINE talk, but you can use the inquiry form on the foundation's website. So if you want advice via text rather than calling, use that form on the homepage.

 End of year information

Also, the Fukuoka City International Foundation will be closed for a period of 6 days, from Friday, December 29th  to Wednesday, January 3rd . It will reopen on Thursday, January 4th 2024 at 9 am.

The first session in 2024 for the free legal advice service for foreigners will be on Saturday, January 6th.  You do need an appointment before you go, so please call to make an appointment as soon as you can. 

For consultations with a gyousei-shoshi, or administrative lawyer, reservations are not necessary. The first day available in 2024 for that is Sunday, January 14th. 

For more information please call 092-262-1799. The call is free to make. You can also check the Fukuoka City International Foundation's website for information.

The Fukuoka City International Foundation will continue being an

antenna to gather and provide a wealth of information and support to you, the foreign

residents of Fukuoka, in order to make life here in the city even more comfortable, so feel free to use their services!

【mochi-pounding】

A question for those of you listening this morning. "Do you all like 'mochi'? We call it rice cake in English,
which isn't the best translation but I think people are beginning to know the word mochi itself as it becomes
more popular around the world. Freshly made mochi is soft and delicious, if you've had it, you know. In Japan,
in December, there are 'mochitsuki' events at schools and in communities and of course , a lot of mochi is
consumed during the New Year, so it is prepared and stored during this season.
To make mochi, a big group of people will get together and using special tools, knead and pound steamed
glutinous rice nonstop. The process of making mochi, with everyone shouting and taking turns pounding and
shaping, is lively and enjoyable to participate in or even simply to watch.
Once the mochi is pounded, you can eat freshly made mochi on the spot, seasoned with your favorite flavors.
There are various seasoning options, from sweet flavors like roasted soybean flour, sweet bean paste, sugar
and soy sauce to savory options like grated radish, soy sauce and seaweed. You can even try it with with
fermented soybeans or (natto) for a meal-like variation.
If you have the chance, definitely participate in this very fun and delicious, and traditional Japanese event.

【Fukuoka City Information】

World Human Rights Day and Human Rights Week

Now, I have some information from Fukuoka City about World Human Rights Day and Human Rights Week. Human rights" refers to the right to "live like a human being" that each individual has from birth.

December 10 is World Human Rights Day, a day to think about "human rights" not only in Japan but also in other parts of the world.
December 4 to 10 is Human Rights Week, and Fukuoka City also observes "Respect for Human Rights Week," which aims to make Fukuoka City a better place to live, where human rights are respected, and there is no discrimination.

While you ARE irreplaceable, OTHERS are also irreplaceable. This is an important week to know that each and every one of us is important.

In order to realize a society where "no one is left behind" as stated in the SDGs, it is important to eliminate discrimination and prejudice against women, children, the elderly, foreigners, and people with disabilities, and to respect each other's human rights.

It's a good time to reflect upon what compassion and irreplaceable life means. 

【Itoshima Oyster Huts】

The season of "oyster huts," a winter tradition in Fukuoka, has arrived, and I'm sure, if you have been before, many of you are probably looking forward to it again this year!

Every year at this time of year, a row of huts and green house style buildings, directly operated by the local fishermen, open at six fishing ports in Itoshima for a limited time only.
The oyster huts in Itoshima have actually become so popular over the past few years that one could almost call it a boom! They are popular not only among locals, but also among travelers from Japan and abroad, with many repeat customers, and the number of visitors is increasing every year.
Oysters are so rich in nutrients that they are called the "milk of the sea." Oysters are in season during the cold winter season, and the oysters from Itoshima are fresh, safe, large, and delicious, while being reasonably priced.

Oysters, fresh in their shells are ordered by the kilogram, and are  simply grilled over a charcoal or gas fire. Open the shells with a special knife and eat them with lemon or ponzu sauce. 
Some restaurants will lend you a jacket or smock to keep your clothes clean, and some allow you to bring your own drinks and seasonings. So, go to Itoshima this winter to get your fill of their delicious oysters!

【Fukuoka City Information】

World AIDS Day

Next, I have information from Fukuoka City.

First is about World Aids Day on December 1st. Every year around the 1st of December, around the world, various events and activities take place, to deepen awareness and understanding of AIDS.

Even after being infected by HIV, definitive symptoms may not appear for a period of time and so it is believed that there are a number of people who have been infected but will not be diagnosed until the onset of AIDS. By detecting HIV infection early and receiving the appropriate health care and treatment, the onset of AIDS can be delayed. 

At the health and welfare centers of each ward, HIV screening is offered. This screening is free of charge and anonymous. So, if you think you may be at risk, get checked as soon as possible. Screening is only on certain days so make sure you check which days before you go.

And, I don't know if you know this but the red ribbon is a symbol that shows awareness and solidarity with those affected by AIDS. The red ribbon announces to others that you have no prejudice against people affected by AIDS and gives that message that we will not discriminate against those living with AIDS. The red ribbon days are from the 1st to 7th of December and over this period, the Hakata Port Tower and the Fukuoka Red Brick Culture Museum will be lit up in red in support. So for World AIDS Day, let's all take the time to learn the correct information about AIDS and how to prevent it.

Illegal dumping of garbage or Fly-tipping

I hope this doesn't really need to be said, but dumping oversized garbage and household waste in the mountains, forests, by the seaside, by rivers, on the road, or in parks is illegal.

In Fukuoka City, at the end of the year, many people do a big house clean and a lot of garbage is produced. As such, December has been designated as “Illegal Dumping Prevention Reinforcement Month”. Activities will be undertaken to strengthen measures to prevent the illegal dumping of waste.

Fukuoka City has, in cooperation with the police, installed surveillance cameras and warning signs in places where illegal dumping is common and will carry out patrols of those areas. Home appliances like TV's, refrigerators and freezers, washing machines and dryers, air conditioners and the like, are all subject to the Home Appliance Recycling Law and there is a set way to dispose of them. If you are buying replacement appliances, the shop will pick up your old appliance. If the shop will not take the old appliance, ask your local Yamada Denki to pick them up, or request collection from Renet Japan Recycle or SG Moving, disposal companies which have an agreement with the city. Please keep in mind that you will have to cover recycling fees and collection and transportation fees with these companies.
Also, when getting rid of your pc, please ask the manufacturer or contact Renet Japan Recycle to collect your PCs.

Traders who advertise “Free pick-up for items you don't need” through flyers and the internet, are illegal collectors who have not received permission from Fukuoka City. Please do not use these unauthorized collectors as problems such as illegal dumping, high fees and improper processing of waste may occur.

【Christmas Advent】

The whole city of Tenjin and Hakata is sparkling with Christmas lights and festively decorated Christmas trees at shopping centers around town. Have you been to Christmas Advent yet, a Christmas event in Fukuoka, the city of lights?
What is it? Some of you may wonder what it is, but it's actually the annual "Christmas Market" event. It has has been renamed "Christmas Advent" and scaled up for its 11th year!

You probably noticed illuminations and Christmas markets getting set up from around November 6 at various venues.  And you'll see even more as the streets of Hakata, Tenjin, and Nakasu  continue to be decorated every day until Christmas. Visitors can enjoy glittering illuminations, Christmas trees, many Santa Clauses, and stage events such as live music performances.

This year, three new venues have been added and more than 100 stores will be open, selling delicious gourmet foods, authentic and cute Christmas goods, and classic hot wine and hot chocolate.

The original event mugs are so popular that they change in design every year and people have really gotten into collecting them. This year, six different mugs are available for each venue. There's even a rainy day-only mug to collect as well.

The "Christmas Advent" has been newly reborn this year, with a townscape that looks like something out of a picture book, and is sure to put you in a joyful mood! Well, I hope you will have a memorable holiday time, this year!

https://christmas-advent.jp/

【DJ's Holiday Season】

Well, the Christmas Advent sounds like it will be pretty fun to go to this year. I've gone to the the Christmas Market every year it's been held so far, so I'll be sure to go this year as well. I'll probably also keep an eye out for other events in town as I have some time off during the month of December. I want to visit a couple of onsen, as the cold weather is perfect for long soaks in a hot spring, and I want to see a couple of movies in the theaters, like the Spy Family movie which is coming out next month.

For me though, Christmas is a pretty special time. When I was in the US, the whole family, my aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins and sometimes friends all got together for present exchanges and a big potluck party. There was always so much conversation and laughter and a big poker game at the end of the night. Now that I'm in Japan, it's harder to meet family, but I have friends here who are like my family and I usually hold a Christmas party at home with them. We exchange presents, have a potluck lunch or dinner and usually end up playing board games.

That's my plan again this year, so I have to figure out what presents to get people and also plan out my menu! In the weeks leading up to Christmas, I like to check out the Shintencho, the Chikagai and a few other stores in Tenjin for ideas for Christmas presents. We also get the house ready for Christmas with decorations and we put up a tree in the living room and put ornaments and lights on it in preparation for presents from Santa! As for food, well on Christmas, I like to have ham, and Costco is handy for that and for lots of other foods as well! I'm looking forward to Christmas this year!

What do you like to do for fun over the holidays?

【November Grand Sumo Tournament】

Have you recently spotted any sumo wrestlers in traditional chonmage topknot hairstyles while strolling around town? If you have, it's because the 'November Grand Sumo Tournament,' a traditional Japanese sumo event, is taking place. While there are six Grand Sumo Tournaments held annually, the one in November is known as the Kyushu Basho, and Fukuoka serves as the host city.

This year, it's being held at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center , or Fukuoka International Center, from November 12th to the 26th. During this period, colorful banners and flags line the area around the venue, and sumo fans from all over Kyushu gather in Fukuoka, creating a lively atmosphere every day. Additionally, during this time, sumo stables are set up around Fukuoka city and its suburbs, where you can visit and interact with sumo wrestlers.

While you can watch sumo on television, there's a unique intensity to witnessing sumo bouts live! In the venue, you'll not only witness the sumo matches but also get a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes activities of the people who support sumo. It's a fascinating and entertaining opportunity to see these backstage efforts.

Why not take advantage of these two weeks and watch sumo in Fukuoka during this special event?

【Fukuoka City Information】

The Fukuoka City Consultation Support Center for Foreign Residents has made some changes!

This time I have some information from the Fukuoka City International Foundation about some changes that have been made to the The Fukuoka City Consultation Support Center for Foreign Residents. The support center, which is operated by the Fukuoka City International Foundation has been renovated to make it even more accessible for consultations. This includes the addition of consultation counters and increased privacy in the consultation space.

The Consultation Support Center aims to address the questions and concerns of foreign residents. They provide consultations on various aspects of daily life, such as residence procedures, employment, healthcare, welfare, childbirth, childcare, and children's education, offering face-to-face, telephone, and email consultations. They also provide information and guidance to relevant agencies.

General consultations are available from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, from Monday to Friday. Interpretation services are available in 22 languages, including English. Telephone interpretation services and tablet device translation functions are also used when necessary.

For more details, please visit their website. For inquiries, please contact them by phone at  0120-66-1799. 

Consultations for Immigration, Residency, and Nationality Matters

To continue, is there anything you don't understand about residency status and term of stay regulations? If there is, the Fukuoka City International Foundation provides free consultation on these matters to the international residents of Fukuoka City.

Consultations are held every second Sunday of the month. They are offered from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, but you must register by 3:30 PM.  A gyousei-shoshi, or administrative lawyer will answer your questions and offer consultation.

There are English and Chinese interpreters present, and so, consultation in English, Chinese and Japanese does not require a reservation. For other languages, please consult with the center at least one week in advance.

Your confidentiality is guaranteed, so please feel at ease to use these services.

For more information, please call  0120-66-1799.  Phone calls will be accepted between 9am and 6pm on weekdays.

Again, that was information from the Fukuoka City International Foundation.

https://www.fcif.or.jp/

【Fukuoka Marathon 2023】

This Sunday, November 12th, the 'Fukuoka Marathon 2023' will take place. It is a marathon that citizens can participate in, covering a distance of 42.195km between Fukuoka City and Itoshima City, with 12,000 participants expected to run over 7 hours. Starting right in the heart of Fukuoka's city center, Tenjin, runners will head towards the goal in Itoshima, enjoying beautiful seaside and mountain scenery along the way. The course offers a pleasant run transitioning from the urban to natural landscapes.

This event is filled with the unique charm of Fukuoka as participants will be treated to local Fukuoka delicacies, famous sweets, and dishes made from regional ingredients. The medals for the winners will feature traditional Fukuoka crafts, such as Hakataori ribbons.

In addition to the 42.195km marathon, there will also be a 5.2km wheelchair race and a fan run. Professional athletes and Olympic competitors will join as guest runners. The Fukuoka Marathon is a major event that attracts many people to come and support the runners along the course.

Please note that there will be road closures and restrictions on pedestrian and bicycle traffic on the roads around the course on the event day.

So, Let's all send warm cheers on November 12th and support the runners as they strive for the finish line together!

https://www.f-marathon.jp/about/charm_1.php

【Fukuoka City Information】

Autumn's National Fire Prevention Campaign Week

Now I have some information from Fukuoka City. This year, November 9th to 15th is the Autumn National Fire Prevention Campaign week. As we move from Autumn to Winter, the air becomes drier and incidents involving fires increase. In Fukuoka City last year, there were 266 incidents! The main causes of incidents involving fires include cigarettes, gas burners and home heaters.

You've got to be extra careful with those little gas stoves.  When it gets cold, and you want to make a nabe or hot pot at the table, the gas stove often comes out. And when you do use it, make sure you never leave the stove unattended while it is on.

Also, be careful of starting fires with cigarettes. They are a known fire hazard and this should go without saying but do not smoke while in bed and don't let your cigarette butts just pile up. Make sure you put your cigarette out completely with water when you are done smoking.

Some other examples of fire incidents that might occur are when clothes hanging to dry or curtains are near a heater catch fire, or when your futon or blanket is too close to the  heater and, while you are sleeping, catches fire. It's really dangerous to put things that might be flammable near a heater. Also, don't forget to double check that you've switched off the heater when it's not in use.

Also, make sure to regularly check that the smoke alarm in your house is working and that your fire extinguisher is up to date. It's important to practice fire safety every day.

This message was brought to you by Fukuoka City.

【Momiji-gari, Autumn Leaves Viewing】

The temperature is dropping, and the weather is feeling a bit
more autumn-like. The trees are turning vivid shades of red, orange, green, and yellow, and in Japan, just
as people enjoy cherry blossom viewing in the spring, there's a cultural tradition of appreciating the
colorful foliage in the autumn.
It's called "紅葉狩り" (Momijigari), and it involves activities such as walking, hiking, taking a drive, or
traveling to hot springs in order to see the autumn foliage. People also take photos of the colorful leaves,
paint them, or enjoy meals or a soak in the hot spring while surrounded by the vibrant scenery. There are
so many ways to appreciate this natural beauty, you just need to find the one that suits you.
In the next topic, the information from Fukuoka City, I'll introduce some recommended spots within
Fukuoka city for enjoying Momijigari!

【Fukuoka City Information】

Japanese Gardens and Autumn Foliage
First, one great spot to see Autumn colors is at a Japanese garden and fortunately, Fukuoka City boasts
several Japanese gardens. Here in the city, we have:
1. Yusentei Park
2. Shofuen Garden
3. Rakusuien Garden
4. Ohori Park Japanese Garden
These Japanese gardens are conveniently located within the city, which means they're easy to get to for a
visit. And they're a great place for even a short visit because Japanese gardens provide the opportunity to
appreciate seasonal beauty within a limited space.
They often offer matcha tea for a small fee, allowing you to relax while enjoying the garden's view. You
can take leisurely strolls around the ponds and savor the tranquil, crisp air.
This season is a recommended time to visit these gardens, as you can also enjoy the beautiful autumn
foliage. But, if a Japanese garden isn't your cup of tea, Fukuoka City has many other popular spots for
viewing autumn leaves, such as the Fukuoka City Museum area, Aburayama Citizen's Forest, and
Momijihachimangu Shrine. From November to December, these places reach their peak for autumn
foliage. So, get out and enjoy these places this autumn.

Bicycle Parking Manners
One more topic to share and for those of you who commute by bicycle, this is important information for
you. There are a lot of us who get around the city by bicycle and it's important to make sure that we are
parking in designated bicycle parking areas.

Bicycles parked in areas other than bicycle parking lots, like on the street or in public parks are
considered an obstruction to pedestrians or even a nuisance, and are therefore subject to removal under
the assumption that they are abandoned bicycles.
Fukuoka City charges a fee of 2,500 yen to return a bicycle that has been removed, and if the bicycles are
not picked up within a certain period of time, they will be discarded.
There are bicycle parking lots near shopping centers and stations that offer free parking for set periods of
time, so even though it might seem like a hassle, make use of them because it's a lot better than paying
money to get your bicycle back from bike jail!

【Student Recruitment for the Public Nighttime Junior High School-Informational Session on November 5】

Have you heard of "Fukuoka Kibou Junior High School," the only public night time junior high school in Kyushu, here in Fukuoka City? It's located on the 4th floor of the "Fukuoka City Education Center" in Momochi in Sawara Ward of Fukuoka City. Since it's a public junior high school operated by Fukuoka City, there are no tuition fees, and textbooks are provided for free. 

The school opened in April of last year, and it currently has students ranging in age from their teens to their eighties, with diverse nationalities. Regardless of nationality, anyone can enroll, so there are students whose mother tongue is not Japanese. They study all nine subjects just like daytime junior high schools while also learning Japanese. 

Classes are held from 5:50 PM to 9:20 PM, Monday through Friday, with each class lasting 40 minutes. There are four classes per day. Upon completing the required curriculum, students can obtain a junior high school graduation certificate. 

The admission criteria include being a registered resident of Fukuoka City and being born on or before April 1, 2009. This school is open to individuals who, for various reasons, did not graduate from junior high school or were unable to receive sufficient junior high school education. Foreign nationals are also welcome. While you can't study only Japanese, if you have concerns about the language, specialized Japanese instructors provide instruction during Japanese language classes, among others. 

 The "Fukuoka Kibou Junior High School" will hold a school information session on Sunday, November 5th, starting at 2 PM. If you're interested, please consider attending the information session. Pre-registration is required, and you can apply by phone or online. The phone number is 092-400-0751. They accept calls from 2 PM to 9:30 PM on weekdays. For online registration, you can search for "Fukuoka Kibou Junior High School Student Recruitment." 

In addition, flyers and recruitment information are available on the school's website and at various ward offices. They also offer consultation and trial admissions, so feel free to inquire if you have any questions! 

If you type fukuoka kibou admissions into a search engine, the website should come up, it'll be in Japanese, but there is translation available on that website for multiple languages, so it should be easy to check out.

https://sites.google.com/fuku-c.ed.jp/fukuokakibou/