Life in Fukuoka "English"

【The Rainy Season and the Seasonal Flower "Hydrangea (Ajisai)"】

In Japan, there is a seasonal phenomenon called the rainy season or tsuyu in Japanese, that occurs as the season moves from spring to summer. This season is characterized by many rainy and cloudy days, and in Fukuoka, the rainy season typically starts in early June and ends in mid-July.
One of the joys of this rainy season is the seasonal flower, the hydrangea, which is called ajisai in Japanese.
The hydrangea is native to Japan but there are a few different varieties. The flowers start off pale and gradually become darker as they bloom and the color of the flowers also changes depending on the acidity of the soil, allowing you to enjoy hydrangeas of various colors in different locations.
In Fukuoka City there are several recommended spots to enjoy these flowers. One is "Hakozaki Shrine" in Higashi Ward and another is "Tōka Ebisu Shrine" in Hakata Ward. You'll see beautiful hydrangeas blooming on the shrine grounds, but don't miss the hydrangeas used for decoration, adorning the water basin "chōzu" used for cleansing the hands and mouth before praying. This type of arrangement is called "hanachōzu," where brightly colored hydrangeas float on the water's surface, creating a lovely sight that complements the solemn atmosphere of the shrine.
Even though the rainy season can be gloomy, take the opportunity to go outside and enjoy the bright color of the hydrangeas.

【Fireflies】

Next, let’s talk about another seasonal tradition of this time of year. It's the season for "fireflies" to dance. These insects, which glow with a soft light as they fly, are both enchanting and beautiful. In Fukuoka, the best time to see fireflies is from late May to early June each year and you'll find them in areas with rich natural environments and clean waterways.
Fukuoka Prefecture has quite a few spots that fireflies call home, but there are also places within Fukuoka City where you can enjoy watching them. One such place is "Myōhōji Temple" in Tōjinmachi, Chūō Ward, Fukuoka City. It is affectionately known as the "Temple Where Fireflies Live." Over 3,000 people visit each year during this season to enjoy the fireflies in the city and this Saturday, June 1st, the "Firefly Festival" will be held there. Be sure to come and see the gentle, warm light of the fireflies fluttering over the small stream on the temple grounds illuminating the nature and people that are there to see them.