Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Marine World Uminonakamichi – "Night Aquarium"】

This summer, why not enjoy a magical aquarium experience at night?

At Marine World Uminonakamichi in Higashi Ward, Fukuoka City, the aquarium is currently holding its special evening event, “Night Aquarium,” with extended hours until 9:00 p.m.

Once the sun goes down, the lighting inside the aquarium changes completely, creating a dreamlike, enchanting atmosphere. One of the highlights is a mesmerizing show where about 20,000 sardines swim in harmony with music and lights. And don’t miss the dolphin show set against the backdrop of the night skyline. It's a totally different and moving experience from the daytime performance.

Marine World features around 30,000 sea creatures from 350 species, with a focus on the seas around Kyushu. Popular exhibits include the Island Stage, where you can observe seals from all angles, and Penguin Beach, where you can get an up-close look at adorable penguins.

Right now, there’s also a special collaboration event taking place! Until September 23, the world of the hit game "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" is making an appearance at Marine World. More than 50 species of sea creatures from the game are on display in real life, offering a fun experience that bridges the game and the real world.

There are also hands-on activities that the whole family can enjoy, such as a creature scavenger hunt using a game card, and a small seashell wreath-making workshop where you can create your own original design.

The nighttime aquarium offers a calmer, more magical atmosphere compared to the lively daytime. It’s open every day until Sunday, August 24, and then weekends and holidays only from Saturday, August 30 to Tuesday, September 23.

You can enjoy the aquarium all day long, from 9:30 a.m. through the evening.

Why not make this your special summer memory and experience the wonder of the night aquarium?

 🔎 夏は「夜のすいぞくかん」開催！｜マリンワールド海の中道

【Fukuoka City Information】

The Fukuoka Prize

Fukuoka City presents the Fukuoka Prize to honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to academic research, arts, and culture in Asia.

This year marks the 35th presentation of the Fukuoka Prize. The 2025 laureates are:

Grand Prize: Mr. Takara Kurayoshi, a historian who actively promotes the identity of Okinawa and the Ryukyu region

Academic Prize: Mr. Baik Young-seo, a historian who reexamines East Asia from the viewpoint of ordinary people

Arts and Culture Prize: Mr. Vo Trong Nghia, a Vietnamese architect known for his sustainable urban designs addressing Vietnam's social challenges.

The award ceremony will be held on Tuesday, September 16, and talk events will take place on Monday, September 15 (national holiday) and Wednesday, September 17. On September 15, architect Vo Trong Nghia, recipient of the Arts and Culture Prize, will give a talk. At noon on September 17, historian Baik Young-soo will speak as the Academic Prize recipient and in the evening on the same day, Grand Prize winner Takara Kurayoshi will give his lecture. 

All events, including the award ceremony and talks, are free and open to the public, but advance registration is required. The registration deadline for the award ceremony is Tuesday, August 26.  For the talk events, the deadline is two days before each event.

For more information and to register, please visit the official Fukuoka Prize website by searching “Fukuoka Prize”.

【Takasai SUMMER BOOST meets Tenjin Natsu Matsuri】

This time of year, summer festivals, an iconic part of Japanese culture, are held in towns all over the country. In the downtown Tenjin area of Fukuoka, the Tenjin Natsu Matsuri (Tenjin Summer Festival) is in full swing. This year, the festival has teamed up with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks’ summer event Takasai SUMMER BOOST, making it bigger and better than ever. Held in the heart of Fukuoka, Tenjin, this summer festival blends nostalgic charm with modern fun, offering something for all generations to enjoy.

At the food stalls, you’ll find a wide variety of treats, from classic festival favorites like kakigori (shaved ice) and yakisoba, to local Hakata specialties, cold beer, and trendy desserts. In the traditional "Ennichi" game area, festival-goers can try their hand at fun activities like yo-yo fishing, super ball scooping, and shooting games, all a ton of fun for both kids and adults! 

The festival stage also features performances by famous artists and local musicians, creating an exciting and lively atmosphere. And of course, no Japanese summer festival would be complete without the Bon Odori dance!  

Do you know about Bon Odori? Participants gather around a large “yagura”, a raised stage in the center of the plaza, dancing in a circle to nostalgic songs, modern pop hits, and powerful live taiko drum performances.

Enjoy a traditional Japanese summer experience where both children and adults can have fun together and rediscover their inner child.

The event takes place at Fureai Hiroba, next to Fukuoka City Hall.
It’s held daily until Sunday, the 17th of this month, from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and admission is free. Even if it’s your first time, you’re sure to enjoy this unique and joyful Japanese festival. Definitely stop by and experience it for yourself!

 🔎鷹祭 SUMMER BOOST meets 天神夏まつり | 福岡

【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 runs for 45 minutes and is completely free.

However, you do need to make a reservation to consult with the lawyer. 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 these consultations. Reservations will be taken from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on weekdays. For detailed inquiries, please contact （0120-66-1799）.