Life in Fukuoka "English"

【The Island of Fukuoka City"Nokonoshima""Shikanoshima"】

When it comes to summer, it's all about the sea! Have you already been to the beach and gone swimming? This week, let me introduce two islands that you can easily visit as day trips from Fukuoka: "Nokonoshima" and "Shikanoshima."

"Nokonoshima" is approximately 10 minutes away by ferry from Noko Ferry Terminal in Meinohama here in Fukuoka City. This island has a circumference of about 12 kilometers and boasts beautiful seasonal flowers and stunning seascapes. There are many spots that exude a sense of history, and you'll see so many breathtaking views on the island. At the beach, you can enjoy activities such as motor boating, banana boating, water skiing, a floating trampoline on the sea, diving platforms, and swings. One of the island's famous spots is the "Nokonoshima Island Park," popular for its sunflower fields in full bloom. The island is also equipped with restaurants offering fantastic views, barbecue houses, camping facilities, and lodging options to fully immerse yourself in nature.

Next up is "Shikanoshima," an island connected to mainland Fukuoka by both land and sea routes. You can easily access it from the city using either method of transportation. The island's greatest attractions lies in its beautiful sea. Diving spots offer encounters with tropical fish and seahorses. You can also enjoy activities like yachting, windsurfing, scuba diving, and fishing. Additionally, there are dining establishments where you can savor fresh seafood, and "Kin'in Dock" and "Kin'in Curry" are famous local dishes, so be sure to try them out.

Have a fun and active summer here in the city!

【Fukuoka City Information】

ducation and Career Consultation Fair 2023 for Children with Foreign Heritage

Now, I have an announcement from the Fukuoka City International Foundation. Together with "Tomoiki Fukuoka" and Fukuoka YWCA, the foundation will be co-hosting the " Education and Career Consultation Fair 2023 for Children with Foreign Heritage."

At this fair, education consultations will be provided for children from preschool to high school who have roots in foreign countries. The consultations are free of charge and available in Japanese, English, and Chinese. The event will take place on Sunday, August 27th, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Fukuoka City International Center in Tenyamachi, Hakata-ku.

For inquiries, please contact the Fukuoka City International Foundation. You can reach them via phone or the inquiry form on their website. The phone number is 092-262-1744.

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.

【IRIE MUSIC FES with JIM BEAM SUMMER FES 2023 in FUKUOKA】

This weekend, a music event organized by LOVE FM's reggae program "IRIE MUSIC" will be held. It is a collaborative project between the weekly "reggae 100%" program "IRIE MUSIC," which airs every Saturday morning from 8 AM, and Suntory's "JIM BEAM SUMMER FES." Following the huge success of last year's event, it is being held again this year, with a focus on "reggae/Hip-Hop/Okinawa" as the theme, promising three days of exciting music.

The festival will take place from August 4th to 6th,  this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The venue is "Tenjin Chuo Park," and admission is free. Come and enjoy the summer with awesome artist performances, delicious drinks, and gourmet food! For more details, please check LOVE FM's official website.

【Fukuoka City Information】

 Fukuoka City Tourism Global Site-Fukuoka City Official Tourist Guide

Now, I have some information from Fukuoka City. Today I'll introduce you to the Fukuoka City Official Tourist Guide, the global tourism site for Fukuoka City.

Until now, Fukuoka City has been providing tourism information in Japanese and other languages on the "Yokanavi" tourism information site. To make the information more attractive and accessible to foreign visitors, the city has launched the "Fukuoka City Official Tourist Guide," a tourism information site specifically tailored to meet the needs of international travelers.

On this website, you can find information about tourist attractions, events, area sightseeing, and gourmet experiences in four languages: English, Korean, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese. The focus is on using videos and photos to make the information easily understandable.

This site is not only for tourists but also for Fukuoka residents who want to deepen their knowledge and enjoyment of the city. It is packed with useful information to help everyone make the most of their time in Fukuoka.

Search for "Fukuoka City Official Tourist Guide" and check it out!

【GUEST INTERVIEW】

ーZiv Nakajima-Magenー

introduction...

In Japan for 12 years, mostly in Fukuoka.

From Israel but spent a decade in Australia.

Attractions of Fukuoka...

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Nippon Bridge-Relocation Services Japan

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Nippon Tradings International NTI

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【Summer Retreats in Fukuoka City】

It's the peak of summer, and many students will be getting ready for their summer vacations this weekend, so let me introduce you to some  "summer retreats" in Fukuoka City.

First, if you're thinking that you want to get out and be active, how about visiting a valley or waterfall? In Sawara Ward, Fukuoka City, there is the "Nogouchi Keikoku," a 700-meter-long lush walking trail along the river. Not only can you walk along the river, but you can also enjoy playing in the shallow water and explore the nature around the area.  Sawara Ward is also home to the "Karan no Taki" and "Bouzuga Taki" waterfalls, which are recommended attractions and places to take a break from the summer heat.

If you prefer to spend time in a cool indoor environment, how about visiting a museum or science center? In Ropponmatsu, Chuo Ward, there is the "Fukuoka City Science Museum," which offers science workshops perfect for children to practice researching things on their own and a planetarium that always has something on! Also, in Momochi Beach, Sawara Ward, you can find the "Fukuoka City Museum," where an anime and Ghibli exhibition is being held until August 31st.

Going to a library is also a great option! Fukuoka City has libraries in each ward, but among them, the "Fukuoka City Public Library," located next to the Fukuoka City Museum, is the largest library in the city, with over 1.2 million books. You can enjoy programs such as kamishibai (paper theater) and mini theaters where movies are screened. It also has restaurants, self-study rooms, and discussion rooms, so you can spend the whole day comfortably.

On Fukuoka City's website, you can find information on museums in Fukuoka City. Search for "Fukuoka City Museum" and use it as one reference for your outings.

【Fukuoka City Information】

Legal Consultation and Personal Counseling

Now, I have some information from the Fukuoka City International Foundation.

The Fukuoka City Consultation Support Center for Foreign Residents at the Fukuoka City Internation Center offers free legal consultation and personal counseling for the international residents of Fukuoka City.

Legal consultations are available from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM on the first Saturday of every month, and from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on the third Wednesday of the month. Each session runs for 45 minutes and is completely free. However, you do need to make a reservation to consult with the lawyer. Free English interpretation services are also available so if you will need an interpreter, please mention that when you make your reservation.

Personal counseling services are available every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday with a Japanese clinical psychologist in English or Japanese.

Both types of consultations ensure strict confidentiality, so please feel free to consult with us. Reservation hours are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays. For detailed inquiries, please contact 092-262-1799. The Fukuoka City International Foundation is looking forward to hearing from you.

【Yukata】

With summer festivals and other events happening, you're sure to see people out in Yukata. Have you seen Yukata, or know what they are?

A yukata is a casual kimono made of cotton, traditionally worn in Japan during the summer. It originated as a garment to be worn after bathing and has been simplified over time. It is often provided as sleepwear in hotels and other accommodation facilities. While it is not commonly worn in everyday life nowadays, many people wear yukata for special events, so you can often see them at festivals and fireworks displays.

Compared to a formal kimono, the yukata is relatively inexpensive and easier to purchase. However, I recommend trying a yukata rental for a more accessible experience. Yukata rentals offer a complete set including the yukata itself, accessories, and decorative items, and they come in a wide range of designs. You can enjoy the process of choosing your yukata and accessories.

Why not try wearing a yukata and going out this summer? It can be a fun and memorable experience!

【Fukuoka City Information】

The Opening of the World Aquatics Championships

The long-awaited 2023 World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka is finally beginning! On July 14th, after a 22-year wait, Fukuoka will host the world swimming championships. It is a celebration of aquatic sports that rivals the Olympics, featuring six disciplines and 75 events: swimming, artistic swimming, diving, high diving, water polo, and open water swimming. Approximately 2,400 athletes from over 200 countries are expected to participate. You will have the opportunity to witness the excitement and inspiration of top athletes from around the world competing in Fukuoka. You won't want to miss this historic moment!

After the World Aquatics Championships, the World Masters Swimming Championships will take place from August 2nd. Swimming enthusiasts from all over the world will participate in races and then explore our city, enjoying meals, shopping, and sightseeing. During the tournament, various events will be held to coincide with the World Aquatics Championships. One of these events is "Fukuoka Ichi-ba," featuring booth exhibitions and stage events held near the main venue, Marine Messe Fukuoka. Additionally, there will be illuminations around the venue to create a festive atmosphere.

In addition to these events, there will be activities and events held at Hakata Station and in the historic district of Hakata. Fukuoka Tower and Port Tower will also be illuminated to welcome the World Aquatics Championships.

Real-time updates can be found on the web, including event information and recommended tourist spots during the tournament. You can experience the excitement and inspiration of the World Aquatics Championships and feel the entire city of Fukuoka becoming even more exciting. It's something to really look forward to!

【Tanabata】

This coming Friday, the 7th of July is when Tanabata is celebrated in Japan.

Tanabata is a tradition where colorful strips of paper called "tanzaku" (made of paper) are hung on bamboo branches. It's a tradition that is familiar to most people in Japan from childhood.

According to the legend, two stars representing a married couple were separated by the Milky Way and allowed to meet only once a year on this day. However, if it rains on that day, they cannot meet. It is believed that writing wishes on tanzaku and hanging them up will make those wishes come true. In the US, I learned the story as the Chinese legend about the Weaver and the Cowherd  and it seems that it refers to the stars, Vega and Altair. Of course, forbidden love or faraway love is a common theme in stories throughout history which is no doubt why the tale has endured and exists in Japan as well.

Various events are held in different regions, and in Fukuoka City, you can experience Tanabata events at Fukuoka Tower. Until July 7th, the tower will be illuminated with a special Tanabata-themed display. You can also write your wishes on tanzaku and hang them up. There will also be a festival from July 5th to 7th. So go out and enjoy these festivities!

【Fukuoka City Information】

Warnings about Heatstroke

Now I have some information from Fukuoka City about preventing heatstroke as we get into the hot days of summer.

Heatstroke occurs when the body fails to regulate its temperature properly due to heat and intense physical activity, leading to an imbalance of body fluids and electrolytes. Symptoms of heatstroke include headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, and nausea.

If you are feeling these symptoms, and unable to drink water on your own, or if cooling your body and replenishing fluids and electrolytes does not lead to recovery, please call emergency services at 119 and request an ambulance. Particularly from July onwards, as the temperatures start to rise after the end of the rainy season, there is a rapid increase in heatstroke-related emergency transport cases. During this period, be cautious as the humidity is high and your body may not be acclimated to the heat.

Heatstroke can happen not only outdoors but also indoors. Additionally, wearing masks during summer increases the risk of heatstroke, so caution is necessary. Here are some tips for preventing heatstroke:

Stay hydrated by drinking fluids regularly. You should drink things like barley tea or water during normal daily activities, and  rehydration drinks or sports drinks when engaging in physical exercise. Replenish both fluids and electrolytes when you sweat.

Wear a hat and use a parasol to avoid direct sunlight.

Use air conditioning and fans effectively to keep the room temperature below 28 degrees Celsius.

Use cooling items such as cooling sheets or ice pillows.

Maintain a balanced diet, get sufficient sleep, and manage your overall health.

Remember to take necessary precautions and prioritize your well-being during the hot summer months to prevent heatstroke.

【Hydrangea Season】

From June to July, during Japan's rainy season, you can enjoy the sight of one of Japan's native plants, Ajisai, or Hydrangea in English.

These blooms, which look like flowers are not considered true flowers. Sepals, or modified leaves, make up most of the bloom and can be seen in colors from white to shades of blue. 

In Fukuoka city, you can easily enjoy hydrangeas in various places such as the Fukuoka City Botanical Garden and Maizuru Park located in the ruins of Fukuoka Castle. You can also see approximately 10,000 hydrangea plants of about 70 varieties blooming at Uminonakamichi Seaside Park and at Nokonoshima Island Park along the Hydrangea Path that they have there.

Another must-see location is Hakozaki Shrine, known as one of the three great Hachimangu shrines in Japan, which features 100 species and 3,500 hydrangea plants in its Hydrangea Garden.

Although the rainy season can be a bit gloomy, going to see these vibrant hydrangea blooms is sure to bring some cheer to your day!

【Fukuoka City Information】

The World Aquatics Championships

Now, I have some information from Fukuoka City.

The upcoming Fukuoka 2023 FINA World Championships is just a month away. On July 14th, Fukuoka will host the World Aquatics Championships for the first time in 22 years.

This event, which includes swimming, artistic swimming, diving, high diving, water polo, and open water swimming, features 6 disciplines and 75 events, comparable to the Olympics. Approximately 2,400 athletes from over 200 countries are expected to participate. You will be able to experience the excitement and inspiration of top athletes from around the world competing in Fukuoka.

The Japanese national team will include notable athletes such as Tomoru Honda, silver medalist in the butterfly event at TOKYO 2020, Yui Ohashi, double champion in individual medley, Rikako Ikee, who achieved four titles in butterfly and freestyle at Japan Swim 2023, and Yukiko Inui, gold medalist in artistic swimming at the Budapest 2022 World Championships.

For the schedule of events and ticket information, please search for "Fukuoka 2023 FINA World Championships Tickets" .

Let's enjoy the festive atmosphere of the event together at the venue and on television, where the citizens of Fukuoka and spectators from around the world come together in excitement for this event.

To continue, I'd like to share a little bit of information from the Fukuoka City International Foundation.

Through the Foundation's official LINE account, you can can get advice on daily life in Japan or make an appointment for free professional consultation using the LINE call feature. Telephone interpretation is available in 22 languages, so please feel free to contact them. In addition, you can get information on the Foundation's events and announcements for international residents. 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 the LINE talk chat function, but you can use the inquiry form on the foundation's website if you want to send a message about anything.

【The Summer Solstice】

Next week, the 21st of June, marks the summer solstice or “Geshi” in Japanese.

The summer solstice is the day with the longest period of daylight from sunrise to sunset. It is also the day of the year when daytime is the longest, about 4 hours and 50 minutes longer than the winter solstice "toji", which is the shortest day of the year.

After this day, summer officially begins, and the temperatures start to rise. As it gets hotter, it's common for our appetite to decrease, and there is a tendency to consume lighter, refreshing meals, which can actually lead to nutritional deficiencies. It's important to maintain a balanced diet and ensure that you're getting enough nutrients, such as vitamin C and potassium, to help you get through the summer.

Additionally, engaging in moderate exercise and getting sufficient sleep are also crucial for getting through the summer season.

So, let's all get ready for the summer by focusing on nutrition and building our physical stamina.

【Fukuoka City Information】

Taxes

Now, I have some information from Fukuoka City. If you live in Fukuoka City, and have earned more than 1 million yen the previous year, from January 1st to December 31st, you may need to pay taxes. You will receive a tax payment notification around the 15th of June. Please make sure you open that envelope, it has information on when you need to pay and how much will be due. You can pay at convenience stores, the bank or even the post office. If you are a regular company employee, these taxes may be taken out from your salary by your company.

If you do not pay your taxes, you may risk facing difficulty when it comes time to renew your residence status or risk being subject to seizure of property.

If there is anything you don't understand, or if you may have difficulty making payments, please consult with your local ward office. You can also consult by phone in 18 different languages. The phone number for this is 092-753-6113. This phone number will connect you to the ward office after you speak with an interpreter. Please tell the interpreter which ward you live in and that you are calling about taxes.

Foreign Student Taught Language Classes-Recruiting for Classes

I also have some information from the Fukuoka International Foundation to share with you about the language classes being taught this year by international exchange students.  The classes offer the opportunity to learn languages from various countries, such as Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Vietnamese, German, and Arabic. Through interactions with international student instructors, you will not only learn the language but also gain insights into their native cuisines and cultures. The classes will be conducted in Japanese.

The venue for the classes is Fukuoka City International Hall, which is just a 5-minute walk from Nakasu-Kawabata Station on the Fukuoka City Subway.

The courses run from July 2023 to February 2024, totaling 8 months with a total of 28 lessons. The total tuition fee for each course is 33,000 yen.

For more detailed information regarding the languages offered, schedule, and other information, please visit the Fukuoka City International Foundation. You can search for "Foreign Language Classes Taught by International Students" on a search engine to access the page you need.

The application deadline is June 20th. They're looking forward to getting your applications!

【Firefly Watching】

This season is firefly watching season. It's the time of year, in which you can watch these adorable, glowing bugs dance along streams and rivers. Fireflies are one of those symbols of summer in Japan, and definitely tells us summer is nearly here. With their faintly glowing lights, flickering in and out, people can't help but to be captivated by their charm.

The best time to see fireflies is at the end of May and the beginning of June. They can be found around areas with very clean water, and in Fukuoka there are quite a few places to see them.

Motogigawa Shizenkoen in Fukutsu City is where you'll find a place called Hotaru no Sato, or the village of fireflies, and Tanadashisuikoen Park in Tohomura are quite famous places to see fireflies, but there are also places right here in Fukuoka City. One place is the rooftop garden at Hakata Station. It's called the Tsubame no Mori Hiroba and is a great place to forget the hustle and bustle of the city for a moment and enjoy the beauty of nature. So, if you are in Hakata, definitely check it out.

When you do go to see these rare insects, make sure that you don't try to catch them or surprise them. They too are living creatures and appreciate good manners.

【Fukuoka City Information】

Rainy Season and Heavy Rains

Now, I have some information from Fukuoka City. In Japan, June to July is rainy season and is called "tsuyu" in Japanese. It is a period of frequent rainfall and is also a time to be cautious as it is also a season when heavy rain disasters can occur. 

In recent years, Fukuoka Prefecture has experienced significant damage due to record-breaking heavy rainfalls during the rainy season. When it is raining heavily, please avoid going near places that can become dangerous during these rainstorms, such as rivers, coastlines, and mountainsides. It is also important to take action to protect yourself during this time.

One thing you can do is to check hazard maps and disaster prevention information on the Fukuoka City website. It is advisable to familiarize yourself in advance with the risks and evacuation procedures specific to your residential area. For more details, search for "Fukuoka City Multilingual Portal" and refer to the "Disaster" page.

Important information from Fukuoka City is also shared in multiple languages on the official Facebook page "Global Community Fukuoka" and the Fukuoka City International  Foundation Facebook page "Fukuoka City International Center/ Attaka Fukuoka." Follow these pages to stay updated on important information.

Aikasa

In addition, to help you out during rainy season, the city of Fukuoka provides a shared umbrella service called "AIKASA." There are spots at subway stations and department stores where you can borrow umbrellas, and you can easily rent them using your smartphone. These umbrellas are available 24/7 for 110 yen, cheaper than buying a disposable umbrella and also, environmentally friendly. Consider using this service when you're suddenly caught out in a rain shower!