On Air: Fukuoka City Information/2012.5.25(Fri)/11:00～

                       News About Child Allowance Subsidies

The Japanese name for Child Allowance Subsidies changed from “Kodomo-Te-ate” to “Jidou-Te-ate” in April of this year. However, the basic content of the subsidy itself has not changed, and it is still aimed at providing assistance to parents with children who, as of March 31st, are 15 years old or younger.

There have been two clerical changes made to the system. The first is that all those requesting the subsidy must submit a status form every year in June. Status forms are mailed out to qualifying households in the beginning of June. The second change is that subsidies after June are subject to restrictions based on income. The restrictions vary based upon the composition of each household applying. Detailed information regarding the restrictions is printed on the status form itself. Those qualifying for the child allowance subsidy but who have not claimed it prior to March’s allotment, or those who have had births or moved into Fukuoka City thereby becoming eligible for the subsidy, should file to receive it at the service counter of the Child Rearing Support Section of their local ward office. For further information, please call the Fukuoka City Children’s Allowance Call Center at 092-711-5029.

And, there is also news about Hakata’s Chuo Wharf and the attention it is getting as a cruise port.

For some time, the Chuo Wharf, located at Hakata Port International Terminal, has had regular routes to and from Busan, Korea. However, a number of international passenger cruise ships have begun using the port as well. And, this June, the largest cruise ship in Asia, the 3,838 passenger “Voyager of the Seas,” will make its first stop in Japan at the Port of Hakata! In 2010, the port saw the most international cruise ship stops in all of Japan, totaling 63. This year already expects to see over 80 ships dock!

Along with the coming of these ships are large numbers of foreign tourists, visiting Fukuoka and other areas of Kyushu. Fukuoka City is working with the people and businesses of Fukuoka to accommodate these tourists. After ships dock at the port, volunteers able to speak the primary language of the ship’s passengers provide them assistance with tourist information. Likewise, upon departure, the visitors get a Wadaiko performance, and people dressed as geisha in classic Japanese kimono see them off. It’s a one-of-a-kind Fukuoka send off! Also, along the main street of Chuo Wharf, banners using artwork created by physically and/or mentally challenged individuals line the streets, together with guide signs. It’s a lively seen and makes quite an impression! Even those who live in Fukuoka will find a good time there. Come and check out the atmosphere at the Chuo Wharf area!