Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Cat Day!】
Finally, a day for my feline friends. Did you know that in Japan, February 22nd is Neko no Hi, or Cat day? It was established in 1987 as a day to appreciate the happiness that comes from living together with cats and the joy they bring to our lives. And every year on Cat Day, there are actually a number of different cat-themed events and campaigns that take place, as well as activities to raise awareness about cats. So, are you wondering why February 22nd was chosen as Cat Day? Well, it comes from the sound that cats are said to make in Japanese which is nyan, nyan, nyan which sounds like ni ni ni or two two two in Japanese. Actually, there are other Cat Days around the world, in many countries in Europe, World Cat Day is on February 17th, in Russia it's March 1st and in the US it's on October 29th. I've got two cats at home, so I guess I'll have to celebrate Cat Day with them on the 22nd. They're pretty full of themselves though, I think they expect to be celebrated everyday!

【information for you from the Fukuoka City International Foundation】

Consultations on Immigration, Residency and Nationality Matters.

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 us at least one week in advance. Confidentiality is guaranteed. Please feel at ease to make use of this service, no matter how simple a question you may have.

For more information, please call 092-262-1799. Again that number is 092-262-1799. Phone calls will be accepted between 9am and 6pm on weekdays.

And to prevent the spread of Covid-19, measures are being taken so please wear a mask and disinfect your hands when you come for a consultation.

Call for Applications for International Student Housing: Family Rooms and Single Rooms and Resident Assistant (RA)

Currently, there are some student housing family rooms, single rooms and the Resident Assistant or RA position open to applications from international students enrolled at Universities and Graduate Programs in the Fukuoka Metropolitan area.

To be considered, applicants must be enrolled in a University and also be willing to participate enthusiastically in projects conducted by the Fukuoka City International Foundation. Single applicants can apply at this time as well for the family rooms.

For more information about the application and other requirements, please visit the Fukuoka City International Foundation's homepage or send an email to dorm@fcif.or.jp with any questions you may have.