Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Kagami Biraki】

Happy New Year 2026!
We hope that Life in Fukuoka continues to be a helpful source of inspiration for you this year as well. Thank you for your continued support! 

As the New Year holidays come to an end, many of you are likely returning to work and getting back into your daily routines this week.
So I want to wish you all a healthy and smooth start to 2026!

One traditional New Year decoration in Japan is the kagami mochi—a pair of round rice cakes stacked together and offered to the gods or spirits. You’ll often see them displayed in homes as well as in various places around town.
This Sunday, January 11th, marks the event known as Kagami Biraki—literally, “opening the mirror.” It is the day to take down the kagami mochi and eat it, wishing for good health and safety in the new year.

When performing Kagami Biraki, it is considered bad luck to use a knife to cut the rice cakes, as it would imply severing ties or bringing misfortune. Instead, the mochi is broken using a wooden mallet or similar tool. Even the word “to break” (waru) is avoided due to its negative connotation, so the more auspicious word “to open” (hiraku) is used instead.

The mochi is called a “mirror” (kagami) because of its round shape, which resembles the ancient bronze mirrors once used in Japan. The two layers of mochi symbolize layers of good fortune and the wish for a harmonious, well-rounded year. Every part of the decoration carries a lucky meaning. The kagami mochi is believed to contain divine power, so eating it rather than discarding it is an important part of the ritual.

Because the mochi has dried and hardened, it’s difficult to eat as is. That’s why it’s typically prepared in dishes like ozoni (New Year soup), oshiruko (sweet red bean soup), or kaki mochi (toasted or fried rice crackers), while offering prayers for good health and household safety.

By understanding the meaning behind the kagami mochi, and enjoying it in a delicious dish, may we all draw strength from this tradition and spend the new year in good health and happiness.

【Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

nfant and Toddler Playgroup (“Yarana Hiroba”)

Would you like to come to a place where you can have fun together with your child?

At the Naraya Community Center in Hakata Ward, an infant and toddler playgroup, commonly called “Yarana Hiroba,” is held every month. It’s a space where parents and children can spend enjoyable time together.

The next session will be held on Tuesday, January 13^th from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

January's theme is “Sannō Kodomo Plaza: About Kindergartens and Nursery Schools.”
The lecture will be given by the Childrearing Support Concierge from the Hakata Ward Plaza.

The session will last about 15 minutes, followed by free space time for participants to mingle and play.

The talk will cover topics such as the differences between kindergartens and nursery schools, how to apply, and the general process leading up to enrollment.

After the lecture, participants will also have the opportunity to receive individual consultations from the Plaza Concierge.

For details and to sign up, please check the Fukuoka City International Foundation’s Facebook page.
They are looking forward to seeing you there!

Consultations on 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 two weeks in advance.  

Your confidentiality is guaranteed, so please feel at ease to use this service.

For more information, please call the toll free number (0120-66-1799). Phone calls will be accepted between 9am and 5:30pm on weekdays.

【Hatsumode】

This is the final broadcast of 2025.
So, for our last broadcast of the year, I’d like to talk about visiting shrines and temples at the end and beginning of the year.

Visiting shrines and temples between mid-December and New Year’s Eve is known as nenmatsumōde, or “year-end visit,” and it’s a tradition where people express their gratitude for the past year and share their hopes for the coming one with the gods or buddhas. The main idea is to give thanks before the year ends, and it’s sometimes called orei-mairi, or “gratitude visit.” In Japan’s old calendar, the winter solstice (December 22nd) was considered the start of the new year, an ideal time to begin new things. It’s also believed that the power of deities increases around this time. As the New Year approaches, temples and shrines clean their grounds and buildings, a process known as susuharai, so they’re freshly tidied and full of positive energy. Because these visits happen before the holiday crowds, nenmatsumōde is said to bring good luck and even greater blessings.

If you have charms or talismans, this is also the time to return them to the shrine or temple where you received them, with gratitude for their protection over the past year. These items are then respectfully burned in a ceremony known as otakiage (purification). It's customary to return them after a year, ideally to the place where you got them, but if that’s difficult, it's generally acceptable to bring them to another shrine or temple.

Hatsumōde is the first shrine or temple visit of the new year, when people pray for safety, peace, and express thanks for the past year. As always, these places are crowded with worshippers starting from New Year's Day. After making their prayers, people often draw omikuji (fortune slips), buy new charms, or write their goals or wishes on ema (wooden votive plaques) to greet the new year with a fresh mindset. Hatsumōde is also a time when people return their old charms and talismans for otakiage.

In Fukuoka and the rest of western Japan, there’s a tradition called Sansha-mairi—visiting three different shrines between January 1st and 3rd. It’s believed that visiting three shrines brings greater blessings. In Fukuoka, the three most commonly visited shrines are Dazaifu Tenmangū, which enshrines the god of learning; Hakozakigū, known for protection from misfortune and granting victory; and Miyajidake Shrine, believed to bring good luck and prosperity in business. However, you're free to choose other shrines depending on your personal wishes—for example, for traffic safety, household harmony, or good relationships. There’s no fixed order or method for visiting, so you can go at your own pace and in whatever order you like.

When visiting, it’s said that during daylight hours, impure spirits cannot enter the shrine grounds, so it's recommended to visit while it's still light out.

At the start of a new year, we naturally want to celebrate and pray for happiness in the coming days. May 2026 bring much joy and good fortune to you.

Once again, this is the final broadcast of 2025. What kind of year has it been for you?
Thank you for listening to Life in Fukuoka this year.
We hope Life in Fukuoka continues to be a helpful companion in your life next year as well.
Wishing you a joyful and blessed 2026. Have a safe and happy New Year!

【Fukuoka Silvester Concert】

There are now fewer than 10 days left in the year. How about welcoming the end of the year and the moment of the New Year with music? On New Year's Eve, December 31, the Fukuoka Silvester Concert 2025 will be held at Fukuoka Sunpalace in Hakata Ward.

The Fukuoka Silvester Concert is a New Year’s Eve musical event where general participants from the public join in chorus and orchestra to welcome the New Year on a grand stage together with soloists and professional musicians. Since its first event in 2014, it has been held with the goals of promoting musical culture, contributing to the local community, and building human connections, with the involvement of many Fukuoka citizens. Beginners are welcome! People unfamiliar with classical music are especially encouraged to attend. Some people who came as audience members have even made their stage debut in the chorus the following year.

Even before the concert begins, the lobby events offer a fun experience, with food stalls, miscellaneous goods, and performances by street entertainers, making it easy for anyone to enjoy, even if they're not familiar with classical music. The concert program itself includes many well-known pieces such as Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” making it a great introduction to classical music.

The highlight of the concert is, without a doubt, the moment of the New Year countdown! Will the countdown performance—where the year changes right as the music ends—succeed again this year?

The countdown piece for 2025 has been decided: “The Blue Danube.” This piece by Johann Strauss II, who celebrates his 200th birth anniversary, will be performed with chorus. It promises to be a tense and emotional moment, a special experience where everyone can celebrate a glamorous New Year's together.

The concert will take place on New Year's Eve, December 31, at Fukuoka Sunpalace in Hakata Ward, starting shortly after 10 p.m. Why not spend the final night of the year with music and encounters with many people? Experience a uniquely Fukuoka New Year’s celebration that goes beyond the boundaries of classical music!

【Fukuoka City Information】

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 or even cycling, make sure you turn your headlights on earlier in the evening.

Next, we have a warning about investment scams and romance scams via social media.
There has been a sharp increase in fraud cases where people are tricked into investing money by individuals they meet through social media or dating apps, or by scammers pretending to be celebrities. To protect yourself:

1. Be cautious of investment solicitations on social media or the internet.

2. If someone you’ve never met in person discusses money, assume it might be a scam.

3. Any investment pitch that includes phrases like "guaranteed profits" or "guaranteed principal" is a scam.

Keep these three points in mind to avoid falling victim.

Finally, please don't smoke while walking outdoors or riding a bicycle and try to refrain from smoking outdoors when people are around. Your cooperation is appreciated.

Let’s protect ourselves and our loved ones and enjoy a safe and enjoyable winter holiday.

【New Areas and Services at Fukuoka International Airport】

This week, I’d like to tell you about the new areas and services at Fukuoka International Airport.

The commercial area inside the international terminal’s third-floor boarding lounge has been newly expanded and opened this month. Thirteen unique shops, including six making their first appearance in Kyushu, have opened as a retail zone to meet the needs of travelers just before boarding and the growing demand from inbound tourists. The lineup includes food and traditional crafts that allow you to rediscover the charm of Japan and Fukuoka before departure, as well as character merchandise, convenience stores, clothing shops, and electronics retailers—offering a wide range of options to meet diverse needs. The area is also stocked with travel goods useful for your journey and perfect souvenirs, making it a comfortable and convenient space.

In addition, the arrival lobby on the first floor now features a specialty capsule toy store, representing a piece of Japanese culture that has gained global popularity. With over 500 capsule toy machines lined up, it offers a diverse selection of items. You’re sure to find something you’ll want—whether for yourself or as a small gift.

Furthermore, a convenient new service has also been introduced. Starting in November, Fukuoka International Airport launched the AI-based lost and found support system called “Lost and Found Cloud – find.” This service allows you to easily inquire about lost items at the airport via chat. It supports not only Japanese but also English, Simplified Chinese, and Korean.

Please note that it covers only lost items kept within Fukuoka Airport; items lost in customs areas, onboard aircraft, at airline counters, or in airline lounges are not included. No app installation is required. Simply access it from the official website of Fukuoka International Airport, go through a simple email authentication, and you can start chatting immediately from your browser.

With the upcoming year-end and New Year holidays, I guess many of my listeners may be using the international terminal at Fukuoka Airport. I hope this information is helpful!

【Fukuoka City Information】

Ward Office Consultation and Garbage Collection over the New Year Holidays

 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, so please make note.

Ward offices will be closed from Saturday, December 27th, to Sunday, January 4th.   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 Wednesday, December 31st, to Saturday, January 3rd, there will be no garbage collection, so please do not put your garbage out for pick up. The last day to put out burnable garbage for scheduled pick up is Tuesday, December 30th.  Scheduled garbarge pick-up will resume on Sunday, January 4th.  For nonburnable garbage and glass and pet bottles, in areas where collection is scheduled for Thursday, January 1st, dispose of garbage on Tuesday, December 30th.

Also, applications and pickup for oversized garbage will be stopped between Sunday, December 28th, to Sunday, January 4th, so please be aware of that.

If you have questions about garbage disposal, you can call the Interpretation Center to connect with your local ward office.
The phone number is (092-753-6113).
Let them know your ward and that your inquiry is about garbage disposal.
The service is available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and from December 29th to January 3rd.

【Japan Mobility Show Fukuoka】

From Thursday, December 18 to Sunday, December 21, the Japan Mobility Show Fukuoka 2025 will be held for four days at Marine Messe Fukuoka Halls A and B in Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City. In addition to exhibits of concept cars, the latest production cars, and motorcycles by domestic and international manufacturers, various types of mobility will be introduced, and visitors can experience test rides.

One of the main topics of interest is that 34 four-wheeled and two-wheeled brands will be exhibiting. In addition to displays of vehicles equipped with the latest technology and test ride events, there will also be rare classic car exhibits and demonstrations where visitors can experience the legendary engine sounds.

Other attractions include displays of transforming robots and future mobility devices shaped like Pokémon characters, as well as test rides of next-generation mobility devices.

Furthermore, this year’s mobility show has been enhanced as an event the whole family can enjoy. There will be displays of working vehicles like fire trucks and police cars, as well as exhibits and sales of the popular mini-car brand Tomica. There will also be opportunities to experience jobs related to vehicles, such as automobile mechanics and engineers.

In addition, the event will feature an impressive selection of gourmet foods gathered from all over Japan, making it a fun-filled day from start to finish. For details about ticket prices and other information, please search for “Japan Mobility Show Fukuoka 2025.”

Why not go out and experience the exciting new possibilities of mobility?

【Fukuoka City Information】

Year-End and New Year Closure Notice

This is an announcement from the Fukuoka City Consultation and Support Center for Foreign Residents. The Fukuoka City Consultation and Support Center for Foreign Residents will be closed for nine days from Saturday, December 27 to Sunday, January 4. In 2026, the center will reopen on Monday, January 5, at 9:00 a.m.

The first “Free Legal Consultation for Foreign Residents” of 2026 will be held on Wednesday, January 21. Reservations are required for legal consultations, so if you wish to consult, please contact the center as soon as possible. The “Consultation for Foreign Residents” on immigration, residency, and nationality matters, which does not require a reservation, will be held on Sunday, January 11.

For more details, please call or visit the website of the Fukuoka City Consultation and Support Center for Foreign Residents. The phone number is (0120-66-1799). Calls are toll-free.

The Fukuoka City Consultation and Support Center for Foreign Residents offers one-stop support for resident foreigners regarding residency procedures, employment, medical care, welfare, childbirth and child-rearing, education for children, and other daily life matters, through in-person, phone, or email consultations. Multilingual support is available. Free specialist consultations with psychological counselors, administrative scriveners, and lawyers are also provided. Please feel free to consult with the center if you need help with any of these things.

【Fukuoka International Marathon】

Fukuoka’s winter tradition, the Fukuoka International Marathon, will be held this Sunday, December 7.

This is a full marathon for men officially recognized by World Athletics, and has been held since 1947. It is also one of the qualifying events to select male athletes to represent Japan in the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Elite runners from both Japan and abroad gather in Fukuoka for this race.

The runners will start at 12:10 p.m. from Heiwadai Track and Field Stadium and Ohori Park, located in Fukuoka’s Chūō Ward. They will loop around the southwestern part of the city, turn back at Kashi in the Higashi Ward, and return to Heiwadai Track and Field Stadium. The course runs through central parts of the city such as Kego, Yakuin, and in front of Hakata Station, allowing spectators to see world-class runners up close.

At the Hakata Entrance Plaza in front of Hakata Station, there is also a display of plaques featuring the footprints and autographs of past winners.

On the day of the event, traffic regulations will be in effect on roads along the course, including around JR Hakata Station, so please be aware of that.

Let’s cheer the runners on from the roadside!

【Fukuoka City / Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

 World Human Rights Day and Human Rights Week

First is about Human rights, which 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.

So take a moment with this information and consider once again what compassion and irreplaceable life means.

 Parent-Infant Play Group “Yarana Hiroba”

Are you a parent with a baby or toddler looking for a fun outing?

At the Naraya Community Center in Hakata Ward, a parent-infant play group called the “Parent-Infant Play Group” is held every month!

The theme for December is the exciting “Christmas Party.”

It will be held on Tuesday, December 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Let’s enjoy a lively time together with picture books, songs, and sticker play!

For details on how to sign up, please check the Facebook page of the Fukuoka City International Foundation. They are looking forward to your participation!

【Momiji Hachimangu Shrine's Momiji Festival】

Did you know that there is a shrine in Fukuoka City’s Sawara Ward called Momiji Hachimangu? As its name suggests, the shrine grounds are filled with many Japanese maple trees (momiji), and it is revered as a place for safe childbirth, protection of children, and warding off misfortune.

This weekend, on Saturday the 29th and Sunday the 30th, the shrine will host its annual Momiji Festival. The vivid red and yellow gradient created by around 100 maple trees, combined with the magical lighting displays, offer a breathtaking blend of traditional and natural beauty. Don’t miss this opportunity to visit and enjoy the stunning scenery.

【Fukuoka City Information】

World Aids Day

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 several years sometimes 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. 

Since there can be a period of several years without any noticeable symptoms even after infection, it’s important to get tested early, if you think you are at risk. At the health and welfare centers of each ward, HIV screening is offered. This screening is free of charge and anonymous. Screening is only on certain days so make sure you check the schedule on the Fukuoka City official website 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.

When making a request for the collection of unwanted items from your home, be sure to contact a licensed waste collection and transportation company. Using unlicensed companies can lead to issues such as illegal dumping or unexpectedly high fees, so please avoid using their services. 

【Natural Hot Springs in Fukuoka】

Do you like hot springs? At this time of year especially, many people want to soak in a spacious hot spring bath, warm up their bodies, and relax. Actually, there are several natural hot spring facilities within Fukuoka City that are easy to access. This week, I’ll introduce some recommended hot spring spots that are conveniently located in the city.

First is Minato Onsen Namiha no Yu, a day-use hot spring located in Bayside Place Hakata at Hakata Pier. The facility boasts a plentiful supply of hot spring water, gushing at 400 liters per minute from 800 meters underground. The open-air baths have multiple tubs with different water temperatures, from hot to warm, so you can choose the one that suits you best. There are also five private baths, making it a great choice for families or couples. For an extra fee, there is a full-fledged jjimjilbang (Korean-style sauna), where you can lie on heated medicinal stones and sweat out toxins—ideal for detoxing. The facility is open from morning until late at night and can be enjoyed by both men and women together. You can also enjoy a beautiful night view at Bayside Place. 

Next is the natural hot spring at the popular business hotel Yaoji Hakata Hotel, conveniently located near Hakata Station. The facility also includes a sauna, and the rooms are relatively spacious for a business hotel. It’s a perfect option for those who may not be able to travel far but still want to relax in a hot spring.

The next recommendation is Fujinoen, a ryokan located in a quiet residential area of Minami Ward, Fukuoka City. It’s known for its 100% natural hot spring water, directly flowing from the source. For hot spring enthusiasts, the “first bath” of the day is highly recommended, as the water is poured straight from the spring into the tub for a luxurious experience. While overnight stays are possible, many local residents use it like a public bath for day visits.

Also recommended is the hot spring at Miharu-sou, a traditional inn located in Sawara Ward, Fukuoka City. The inn is known for its cuisine that makes full use of natural ingredients, and the hot spring water naturally flows from the source at 100% capacity. You can enjoy a special moment soaking in the open-air bath while listening to the murmuring of the stream.

Finally, we have the hot spring at the beach resort hotel Kyukamura Shikanoshima, located in Shikanoshima, a resort area of Fukuoka City where you can enjoy a vacation-like atmosphere. The open-air bath faces the Genkai Sea, offering panoramic views of the vast ocean and sunsets sinking into the sea. All guest rooms feature ocean views, and at night you can even gaze at the stars from the open-air bath. An overnight stay is highly recommended. Surrounded by the sea, Shikanoshima is also known for its delicious seafood, so your appetite will be satisfied too.

Kyushu is home to many regions famous for hot springs, but surprisingly few people know that you can also enjoy natural hot springs within Fukuoka City. As we head into the heart of winter, why not warm yourself up with a visit to one of the easily accessible natural hot springs right here in the city?

【Christmas Advent】

Once again this year, Christmas Advent has begun, bringing color and cheer to Fukuoka’s winter!

Now in its 12th year, the event has welcomed approximately 12 million visitors in total so far. Boasting the highest number of visitors of any Christmas event in Japan, it is loved by many as a "Christmas to enjoy with all five senses," combining light, music, and art. Until Christmas Day, various venues will be filled with dazzling illuminations, festive food, seasonal music, and stage performances; a full lineup of holiday experiences again this year for everyone to enjoy.

The main venues include the JR Hakata Station Plaza, Kihinkan-mae Plaza, Tenjin Central Park, Fukuoka City Hall West Side Fureai Plaza, and Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City. From Hakata through Nakasu to Tenjin, the city is transformed into a glowing ribbon of lights, featuring a variety of illuminations and Christmas markets.

At each venue, you’ll find hütte (wooden stalls) selling hot wine, hot chocolate, and authentic European Christmas goods. The limited-edition mugs, unique to each location and popular enough to sell out every year, are cherished collectibles for many fans. If you’re hoping to get one, don’t wait too long! In addition, there are live music stages and hands-on workshops that people of all ages can enjoy, perfect for the whole family to go out for a great evening. 

Also happening during this season is the Fukuoka Classical Music Festival, running from November 20 to December 21. This event will be held at Christmas Advent venues as well as concert halls throughout the city. It offers rare opportunities to hear live performances and vocals by world-renowned musicians and top artists. Don’t miss it!

During this festive season, Fukuoka becomes a city to enjoy on foot—a Christmas city full of delight. Take in the illuminations, enjoy music and gourmet treats, and make the most of Christmas in Fukuoka!

【Fukuoka City Information】

Autumn National Fire Prevention Week

From November 9 to November 15, it is “Autumn Fire Prevention Week.”

From autumn to winter, the air becomes dry and the risk of fire increases.

Last year in Fukuoka City, there were 279 fires and the main causes were cigarettes, gas stoves, and electrical appliances.

Cigarettes are a major fire hazard. So, never smoke in bed, do not let cigarette butts pile up, and always extinguish cigarette fires completely by soaking them in water.

And in this season, extra caution is needed with gas stoves. As the weather gets colder, people tend to cook more hot pot dishes using stoves. Be sure never to leave the stove unattended while in use.

Dust buildup around electrical outlets and damaged cords can also cause fires. So, be sure to clean around outlets regularly. Make sure to get behind televisions, refrigerators, and other places that are usually hidden. And also check that electrical cords are not being crushed under furniture.

Electronic devices that use lithium-ion batteries, such as smartphones or mobile batteries, may catch fire if they are dropped or subjected to a strong impact. If the battery is swollen or becomes unusually hot during charging, do not use it, as there is a risk of fire.
When disposing of such items, take them to collection boxes at public facilities or electronics stores.

Let’s all take care to prevent fires in our daily lives.

【Fukuoka Marathon】

This Sunday, November 9, the Fukuoka Marathon 2025 will be held.
This citizen-participation marathon has been held every November since 2014. The course covers 42.195 kilometers, connecting Fukuoka City and Itoshima City. The starting point is Tenjin, the heart of Fukuoka! From there, 15,000 runners will start all at once. It’s not every day that you get the chance to run through the center of a major city.

Runners make their way toward the goal in Itoshima while taking in beautiful views of the sea and mountains. It's an enjoyable course offering  a refreshing transition from cityscape to nature.

Along the way, runners are treated to local specialties, sweets, and dishes made with regional ingredients from Fukuoka. The medals awarded to top finishers feature ribbons made of Hakata-ori, a traditional Fukuoka craft. It’s truly a marathon packed with the unique charm of Fukuoka, don't you think?

In addition to the full marathon (42.195 km), a 5.2 km fun run for those who want to enjoy running at a relaxed pace and a wheelchair race will also be held.

Please note that on the day of the event, traffic restrictions will be enforced on roads along the course, and crossing the course on foot or by bicycle will be limited during the race.

The Fukuoka Marathon 2025 is a major local event with many spectators lining the course to cheer on the runners, so on Sunday, November 9, let’s all send warm support to help the runners reach the finish line!

【Fukuoka City International Foundation】

Infant and Toddler Playgroup (“Yarana Hiroba”)

Would you like to come to a place where you can have fun together with your child?

At the Naraya Community Center in Hakata Ward, an infant and toddler playgroup, commonly called “Yarana Hiroba,” is held every month. It’s a space where parents and children can spend enjoyable time together.

In November, it will be held on Tuesday, November 11.
The time is from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
The theme will be “Outreach Children's Center”.
The Chuo Children’s Hall “Aikuru” will come to the Naraya Community Center.

Through various activities and reading picture books, parents and children can enjoy quality time together. It’s also a great opportunity for parents to interact and connect with one another.

They are looking forward to seeing your there!

For more details on how to apply, please check the Fukuoka City International Foundation’s Facebook page.

Call for Participants: Children’s Workshop “Beyond Language – Let’s Create One World Together!”

To continue, the Fukuoka City International Foundation, in collaboration with JICA Kyushu, will hold a hands-on workshop for children.

The target group is 1st to 6th grade elementary school students.
It will be held on Sunday, November 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m and the venue is Meeting Room 1 on the 4th floor of the Fukuoka City International Center.

Children can participate in any language.

In this workshop, participants will draw pictures together while using various languages and learn about each other’s cultures. Even if they speak different languages, children will experience the joy of helping and cooperating with one another.

Participation is free, but advance registration is required.

For more details, please visit the foundation’s website: 【www.fcif.or.jp 】and check their Latest News page.