Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Koinobori – Carp Streamers】

A familiar sight during this season, Koinobori (carp streamers) are traditionally displayed to celebrate Children’s Day on May 5th, also known as Tango no Sekku. The streamers are put up to pray for the healthy growth of children, especially boys, wishing for them to grow up strong and resilient.

The carp is considered a lucky fish that symbolizes success in life, as it is believed to overcome adversity and swim upstream. Because of its ability to live in a variety of environments like ponds and marshes, it also represents vitality and strong life force—making it a fitting symbol for children's health and strength.

Typically, Koinobori are displayed on rooftops, balconies, in gardens, or by the entrance of homes, with several carp streamers of different sizes swimming in the wind. The largest black carp represents the father, the red one the mother, and the smaller blue one the son. These days, carp in green, orange, purple, and pink have also become common, and many families display one for each family member.

In Sawara Ward, Fukuoka City, about 150 colorful and impressive Koinobori fly over the Aburayama River every year. The sight of them fluttering along the riverside is breathtaking—it’s a great spot for a spring stroll.  

Also, at the Tsubame no Mori Hiroba on the rooftop of JR Hakata City, large Koinobori will be on display again this year from Friday, April 25 to Monday, May 6. Admission is free, so it’s a nice stop to add to your outing plans.

【Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

Legal Consultation and Personal Counseling 

The Fukuoka City International Center offers free legal consultation and personal counseling for the international residents of Fukuoka City.   

Legal consultations are available from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM on the first Saturday of every month, and from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on the third Wednesday of the month. Each session lasts 45 minutes and is by appointment only. Consultations are provided by a lawyer from the Fukuoka Bar Association.

 Free English interpretation services are also available so if you will need an interpreter, please mention that when you make your reservation.

Personal counseling services are available every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday with a Japanese clinical psychologist in English or Japanese. Reservations are necessary, so please make one if you are interested.

Both types of consultations ensure strict confidentiality, so you can feel at ease when you come to these consultations. Reservations will be taken from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on weekdays. For detailed inquiries, please contact （0120-66-1799）.