Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Itoshima Oyster Huts】

The season of "oyster huts," a winter tradition in Fukuoka, has arrived, and I'm sure, if you have been before, many of you are probably looking forward to it again this year!

Every year at this time of year, a row of huts and green house style buildings, directly operated by the local fishermen, open at six fishing ports in Itoshima for a limited time only.
The oyster huts in Itoshima have actually become so popular over the past few years that one could almost call it a boom! They are popular not only among locals, but also among travelers from Japan and abroad, with many repeat customers, and the number of visitors is increasing every year.
Oysters are so rich in nutrients that they are called the "milk of the sea." Oysters are in season during the cold winter season, and the oysters from Itoshima are fresh, safe, large, and delicious, while being reasonably priced.

Oysters, fresh in their shells are ordered by the kilogram, and are  simply grilled over a charcoal or gas fire. Open the shells with a special knife and eat them with lemon or ponzu sauce. 
Some restaurants will lend you a jacket or smock to keep your clothes clean, and some allow you to bring your own drinks and seasonings. So, go to Itoshima this winter to get your fill of their delicious oysters!

【Fukuoka City Information】

World AIDS Day

Next, I have information from Fukuoka City.

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 time 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. 

At the health and welfare centers of each ward, HIV screening is offered. This screening is free of charge and anonymous. So, if you think you may be at risk, get checked as soon as possible. Screening is only on certain days so make sure you check which days 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.

Traders who advertise “Free pick-up for items you don't need” through flyers and the internet, are illegal collectors who have not received permission from Fukuoka City. Please do not use these unauthorized collectors as problems such as illegal dumping, high fees and improper processing of waste may occur.