Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Shinmai-New Rice】

Now that we're in October, the heat is finally starting to settle down, isn't it. It's a nice season and not just because of the weather. During this season in Japan, we have Minori no Aki, the Autumn harvest, expressing the abundance of grains, rice and fruits that get harvested this season. We've also got Shokuyoku no Aki, or the Autumn appetite. Have you heard of either of these expressions before?

Anyway, today, in line with the harvest, I'd like to introduce you to 'shinmai' (新米) the rice that is currently in season. Shinmai refers to rice that is harvested in the autumn and milled and packaged by December 31st of the same year. Shinmai has a plump texture and a strong sweetness and umami flavor.

Fukuoka boasts many delicious locally produced rice varieties. In Fukuoka City, rice cultivation is thriving in the nature-rich areas of Nishi Ward, Sawara Ward, and Higashi Ward and these areas are committed to safe, environmentally friendly cultivation practices.

One of the main varieties is 'Hinohikari,' representing Kyushu. It pairs excellently with any dish and is known for its firm, sticky texture. There are also varieties like 'Yumetsukushi,' which has a slightly sweet and tender texture, 'Minoritsukushi,' with a chewy and and easy texture, and Fukuoka's original variety 'Genkitsukushi,' which is delicious even when cold.

One rice dish to try this season is  'takikomi gohan,' a dish made with autumn flavors like sweet potatoes, chestnuts, and mushrooms mixed with rice. Savor the taste of autumn by enjoying Fukuoka's delicious rice.

【Fukuoka City Information】

Information about Autumn Covid Vaccinations

Now, I have some information for you from Fukuoka City about Covid-19 vaccinations.

Fukuoka City has been working toward making sure everyone who hopes to be vaccinated can do so with peace of mind.

This year as well, the COVID-19 vaccine continues to be available free of charge. Inoculation with a vaccine that is effective against the Omicron variant XBB.1.5, the current prevalent strain, is being carried out for all those who wish to receive it, aged six months and older.

When the inoculation coupon arrives, please visit the reservation site or call the vaccine call center to make a reservation. Unused vaccination tickets received earlier can also be used. If you have lost your vaccination ticket or have not received it, please contact the call center.

People who have recently relocated to Fukuoka City from overseas and who hope to get vaccinated need to fill out an application to receive the inoculation tickets.

For inquiries about vaccine consultation, reservations, and vaccination ticket issuance in Fukuoka City, you can contact the call center at 092-260-8405. Calls will be taken every day from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM and support is provided in  in seven foreign languages, including English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Nepali.

The Asia Pacific City Summit PR Event (Asia Pacific with SDGs)

Finally, I'd like to share some information on an event being held this coming weekend. On Saturday, October 7th, the 'Kankyo Festival Fukuoka 2023', roughly translated to the Fukuoka Environmental Festival will be held. This marks the 20th edition of the festival, and it will take place at three locations: the first floor of Solaria Plaza, Fukuoka Mitsukoshi Lion Hiroba, and Maizuru Park.

At the Fukuoka Mitsukoshi Lion Hiroba, the theme will be 'Let's Enjoy Learning about SDGs and the Asia-Pacific Region.' The event will feature an exhibition of drawings by children from the Asia-Pacific region, quizzes with English elements, touch games utilizing digital technology, and other activities to make learning about SDGs fun.

No advance registration is required to participate in this event.

For more details, please visit the website by searching for 'Kankyo Festival Fukuoka' or 'Asia-Pacific City Summit'.