Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Fukuoka Museum Week】

In celebration of International Museum Day on May 18, the City of Fukuoka will once again host Fukuoka Museum Week this year as part of its effort to create a vibrant city full of colorful art.

Now in its 16th year, Fukuoka Museum Week features the participation of 16 museums and art institutions across the city. Each venue will offer a wide variety of special programs, including discounted admission, giveaways, and unique events designed for everyone to enjoy.

For those who regularly visit museums, this is a chance to experience your favorite spots in a new way. And for those who rarely go, this is a perfect opportunity to casually step inside and experience art and history for yourself. In addition to regular exhibitions, many museums will host special events like lectures, workshops, behind-the-scenes tours, and gallery talks.

The event will be held over nine days, from Saturday, May 17 to Sunday, May 25. During this period, visitors can enjoy free or discounted admission at participating facilities, along with special gifts and bonuses. There is also a stamp rally: collect stamps from three of the 16 participating locations and enter for a chance to win great prizes, such as tickets to special exhibitions or performances at Hakataza Theater.

For details, check out the official leaflet available at participating museums and tourist information centers, something handy to have before you go!

We encourage you to take this opportunity to visit as many museums as you can, and fully enjoy the charm of these places of discovery, learning, and inspiration.

【Fukuoka City information】

Light vehicle tax

Anyone who is in possession of a motorized bike or a light vehicle, as of April 1st, must pay a light vehicle tax.

If you own a motorized bike or light vehicle, you will receive a tax payment notification in the post, so make sure you take a look inside. Payment is due by the 2nd of June and you can make your payment at a convenience store, bank or post office.  You can even pay via smartphone apps or credit card.

If you do not pay your taxes, like the light vehicle taxes, you may run into difficulties when it comes time to renew your residency visa  and you may face having your assets seized.

If there is anything you don't understand or if you are finding it difficult to pay your tax, please contact your ward office for consultation. If you contact them by phone for consultation, 23 different languages are supported. That phone number is (092-753-6113). This phone number will connect to the Multilingual Interpretation Center. After registering with them, you will be connected to your ward office. When you call, make sure that you tell them which language you need to use, the ward in which you live and that you are calling in regards to paying your taxes.