Life in Fukuoka "English"

【HAKATA FISH PROJECT】

Fukuoka is known as a city where you can enjoy excellent seafood. Fresh catches from all over Kyushu are brought into the Nagahama Fish Market every day, and the city is home to countless restaurants serving delicious seafood.

To encourage more people to enjoy local seafood, Fukuoka City is currently holding a seafood promotion campaign called the HAKATA FISH PROJECT. The campaign showcases the freshest seasonal seafood from the Genkai Sea and the Nagahama Fish Market, giving visitors the chance to experience outstanding freshness and the best flavors of the season.

The current theme is "Enjoy the Best Fish in Hakata Right Now," and the first event is the Squid Fair. Squid is one of Fukuoka's signature early summer delicacies, prized for its firm texture, which is so smooth that soy sauce won't stick, and its rich, natural sweetness.

This first round with the Squid Fair runs until July 19.

You can find information about participating restaurants throughout Fukuoka City on the HAKATA FISH PROJECT Instagram page.

Later in the year, the project will also feature fairs celebrating sea bream, yellowtail, and Spanish mackerel.

Why not take this opportunity to discover the clean, delicate flavors of Fukuoka's fresh seafood and enjoy some of the finest fish the season has to offer?

🔎https://www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/nosui/suisanshinko/charm/documents/ikafair.pdf

🔎https://www.instagram.com/hakata_fish_project/

【Information from the Fukuoka City International Foundation】

School Enrollment and Educational Path Consultation Session For Children with Foreign Backgrounds

The Fukuoka City International Foundation, together with the Fukuoka Tomoni Ikiru Machi Association (NPO), Fukuoka YWCA, and the Fukuoka International Citizens Association, will hold an educational and career guidance session for children with foreign backgrounds. 

At this consultation session, parents and children can receive advice on education and future schooling options for children with foreign backgrounds, from preschool age through high school.

Immigration and residency consultations will also be available with representatives from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan and certified administrative scriveners (gyoseishoshi).

Consultations are available in Japanese, English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Nepali and are completely free of charge. 

The event will be held on Saturday, July 11, starting at 1:00 p.m and will be held at the Fukuoka City International Center in Tenyamachi, Hakata Ward.

For reservations and inquiries, please visit the website of the Fukuoka Tomoni Ikiru Machi Association (NPO).

🔎https://www.fcif.or.jp/latestnews/consultation/schoolguidance/

Consultations on Immigration, Residency, and Nationality for Foreign Residents

To continue, is there anything you don't understand about residency status, term of stay regulations or other immigration-related matters? If there is, the Fukuoka City International Foundation provides free consultation on these matters to the international residents of Fukuoka City.

Consultations are held every second Sunday of the month. They are offered from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, but you must register by 3:30 PM. A gyousei-shoshi, or administrative lawyer will answer your questions and offer consultation.

There are English and Chinese interpreters present, and so, consultation in English, Chinese and Japanese does not require a reservation. For other languages, please consult with the foundation at least two weeks in advance. 

Your confidentiality is guaranteed, so please feel at ease to use this service. 

For more information, please call the toll free number (0120-66-1799). Phone calls will be accepted between 9am and 5:30pm on weekdays.

🔎https://www.fcif.or.jp/consultation/immigration/

【Cool Share Fukuoka】

This summer, Fukuoka City has launched “Cool Share Fukuoka,” a program that provides places around the city where people can take a break and cool down, to help people stay cool during the hot summer months, . The initiative aims to prevent heatstroke and promote energy conservation by offering designated cooling spots throughout the city. A total of 890 locations, including public facilities such as community centers and gymnasiums, as well as local pharmacies and commercial facilities, are participating. These locations display stickers or banners that say ”気軽に休憩を” or “Feel Free to Take a Break,” welcoming visitors to rest and cool off.

Participating locations include commercial facilities such as Fukuoka City Hall, the Tenjin Underground Shopping Mall, department stores, and all Seven-Eleven convenience stores within Fukuoka City. Participating facilities can be identified by stickers or banners marked “Cool Share Fukuoka.”

In addition, 44 locations throughout the city, including ward offices, gymnasiums, and parks, offer free water refill stations where residents can fill their own bottles with Fukuoka’s safe and delicious chilled tap water at any time.

As the summer heat continues, make use of these cooling spots and water refill stations when you are out and about, and take steps to prevent heatstroke while staying comfortable.

【Information from the Fukuoka City International Foundation】

School Enrollment and Educational Path Consultation Session For Children with Foreign Backgrounds

The Fukuoka City International Foundation, together with the Fukuoka Tomoni Ikiru Machi Association (NPO), Fukuoka YWCA, and the Fukuoka International Citizens Association, will hold a School Enrollment and Educational Path Consultation Session for children with foreign backgrounds.

At this consultation session, parents and children can receive advice on education and future schooling options for children with foreign backgrounds, from preschool age through high school.

Immigration and residency consultations will also be available with representatives from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan and certified administrative scriveners.

The service is free of charge.

Consultations are available in Japanese, English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Nepali.

The event will be held on Saturday, July 11, starting at 1:00 p.m and will be held at the Fukuoka City International Center in Tenyamachi, Hakata Ward.

For reservations and inquiries, please visit the website of the Fukuoka Tomoni Ikiru Machi Association (NPO).

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).

【Taiwan Festival in Fukuoka】

Currently, the Taiwan Festival in Fukuoka is being held at the Fureai Plaza on the west side of Fukuoka City Hall.

In Taiwan, the Lunar New Year—its biggest annual celebration—begins this year on Saturday, February 14 and continues through Sunday, February 22, with a 9-day holiday period. To coincide with this festive season, Taiwan’s Lunar New Year is coming to Fukuoka!

The Taiwan Festival is an exchange event held under the theme “Taiwan Night Market 365 Days a Year in Japan,” allowing visitors to experience Taiwan through various regional night market foods and more. This year, the festival is being held in collaboration with Tainan City, an ancient city in southern Taiwan, showcasing its unique food, culture, and charm.

At the Taiwan Festival in Fukuoka 2026, the event titled Spring Festival Tainan Lantern Festival lets you enjoy the lively atmosphere of Taiwan’s Lunar New Year and the dazzling world of Tainan’s Lantern Festival—right here in Fukuoka, like a special journey through Tainan.

At the venue, alongside classic Taiwanese street foods such as juicy xiao long bao and the massive fried chicken da ji pai, visitors can enjoy local Tainan dishes like Tainan danzai noodles topped with minced meat. Local chefs prepare these dishes on-site, offering an authentic taste of Taiwan—perfect for those who’ve been to Taiwan and those who haven’t!

The space itself also evokes the feel of Taiwan. As night falls, the venue transforms into a festive celebration filled with the vibrant lights of Lunar New Year. Uniquely designed Tainan lanterns, some painted and others shaped like dragons, light up the area, creating a surreal experience that feels like traveling through Taiwan without leaving Japan—a truly photogenic moment!

So, once again the Taiwan Festival in Fukuoka 2026 – Spring Festival Tainan Lantern Festival is currently underway. It is being held at the Fureai Plaza on the west side of Fukuoka City Hall, right in the heart of Tenjin, and runs through Monday, February 23. On weekdays, the event is open from 12:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and on weekends and holidays from 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

This is a rare opportunity to experience authentic Taiwanese culture. Don’t miss it!

【Information from the Fukuoka City International Foundation】

Children's Workshop

The Fukuoka City International Foundation will host a workshop for children on Sunday March 1st from 10am to 12pm. The target participants are elementary school students from 1st to 6th grade. 

This workshop will be held at the Fukuoka City International Center, on the 4th floor, in Conference Room 1 and will be conducted in simple Japanese.

During this workshop, children will make three cute handmade items while learning how people from different countries experience the arrival of spring.
The event is free, but advance registration is required.
For details and to apply, please visit the Fukuoka City International Foundation website [www.fcif.or.jp] and check the “Latest News” section.

You Can Now Use LINE Call for Consultations!

To continue, did you know that through the Fukuoka City International Foundation’s official LINE account, you can now make inquiries via LINE Call about general daily life consultations or reservations for free expert consultations?
Telephone interpreting is also available, allowing support in multiple languages.

You can also receive updates about the foundation’s events and information for foreign residents.
Please add the Fukuoka City International Foundation as a friend via their website! However, please note that chat messages are not supported.
If you prefer to consult via text, please use the contact form on the foundation’s website.

【Kagami Biraki】

Happy New Year 2026!
We hope that Life in Fukuoka continues to be a helpful source of inspiration for you this year as well. Thank you for your continued support! 

As the New Year holidays come to an end, many of you are likely returning to work and getting back into your daily routines this week.
So I want to wish you all a healthy and smooth start to 2026!

One traditional New Year decoration in Japan is the kagami mochi—a pair of round rice cakes stacked together and offered to the gods or spirits. You’ll often see them displayed in homes as well as in various places around town.
This Sunday, January 11th, marks the event known as Kagami Biraki—literally, “opening the mirror.” It is the day to take down the kagami mochi and eat it, wishing for good health and safety in the new year.

When performing Kagami Biraki, it is considered bad luck to use a knife to cut the rice cakes, as it would imply severing ties or bringing misfortune. Instead, the mochi is broken using a wooden mallet or similar tool. Even the word “to break” (waru) is avoided due to its negative connotation, so the more auspicious word “to open” (hiraku) is used instead.

The mochi is called a “mirror” (kagami) because of its round shape, which resembles the ancient bronze mirrors once used in Japan. The two layers of mochi symbolize layers of good fortune and the wish for a harmonious, well-rounded year. Every part of the decoration carries a lucky meaning. The kagami mochi is believed to contain divine power, so eating it rather than discarding it is an important part of the ritual.

Because the mochi has dried and hardened, it’s difficult to eat as is. That’s why it’s typically prepared in dishes like ozoni (New Year soup), oshiruko (sweet red bean soup), or kaki mochi (toasted or fried rice crackers), while offering prayers for good health and household safety.

By understanding the meaning behind the kagami mochi, and enjoying it in a delicious dish, may we all draw strength from this tradition and spend the new year in good health and happiness.

【Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

nfant and Toddler Playgroup (“Yarana Hiroba”)

Would you like to come to a place where you can have fun together with your child?

At the Naraya Community Center in Hakata Ward, an infant and toddler playgroup, commonly called “Yarana Hiroba,” is held every month. It’s a space where parents and children can spend enjoyable time together.

The next session will be held on Tuesday, January 13^th from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

January's theme is “Sannō Kodomo Plaza: About Kindergartens and Nursery Schools.”
The lecture will be given by the Childrearing Support Concierge from the Hakata Ward Plaza.

The session will last about 15 minutes, followed by free space time for participants to mingle and play.

The talk will cover topics such as the differences between kindergartens and nursery schools, how to apply, and the general process leading up to enrollment.

After the lecture, participants will also have the opportunity to receive individual consultations from the Plaza Concierge.

For details and to sign up, please check the Fukuoka City International Foundation’s Facebook page.
They are looking forward to seeing you there!

Consultations on Immigration, Residency and Nationality Matters.

To continue, is there anything you don't understand about residency status and term of stay regulations? If there is, the Fukuoka City International Foundation provides free consultation on these matters to the international residents of Fukuoka City.

Consultations are held every second Sunday of the month. They are offered from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, but you must register by 3:30 PM. A gyousei-shoshi, or administrative lawyer will answer your questions and offer consultation.  

There are English and Chinese interpreters present, and so, consultation in English, Chinese and Japanese does not require a reservation. For other languages, please consult with the center at least two weeks in advance.  

Your confidentiality is guaranteed, so please feel at ease to use this service.

For more information, please call the toll free number (0120-66-1799). Phone calls will be accepted between 9am and 5:30pm on weekdays.

【Fukuoka International Marathon】

Fukuoka’s winter tradition, the Fukuoka International Marathon, will be held this Sunday, December 7.

This is a full marathon for men officially recognized by World Athletics, and has been held since 1947. It is also one of the qualifying events to select male athletes to represent Japan in the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Elite runners from both Japan and abroad gather in Fukuoka for this race.

The runners will start at 12:10 p.m. from Heiwadai Track and Field Stadium and Ohori Park, located in Fukuoka’s Chūō Ward. They will loop around the southwestern part of the city, turn back at Kashi in the Higashi Ward, and return to Heiwadai Track and Field Stadium. The course runs through central parts of the city such as Kego, Yakuin, and in front of Hakata Station, allowing spectators to see world-class runners up close.

At the Hakata Entrance Plaza in front of Hakata Station, there is also a display of plaques featuring the footprints and autographs of past winners.

On the day of the event, traffic regulations will be in effect on roads along the course, including around JR Hakata Station, so please be aware of that.

Let’s cheer the runners on from the roadside!

【Fukuoka City / Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

 World Human Rights Day and Human Rights Week

First is about Human rights, which refers to the right to "live like a human being" that each individual has from birth.
December 10 is World Human Rights Day, a day to think about "human rights" not only in Japan but also in other parts of the world.
December 4 to 10 is Human Rights Week, and Fukuoka City also observes "Respect for Human Rights Week," which aims to make Fukuoka City a better place to live, where human rights are respected, and there is no discrimination.

While you ARE irreplaceable, OTHERS are also irreplaceable. This is an important week to know that each and every one of us is important.

In order to realize a society where "no one is left behind" as stated in the SDGs, it is important to eliminate discrimination and prejudice against women, children, the elderly, foreigners, and people with disabilities, and to respect each other's human rights.

So take a moment with this information and consider once again what compassion and irreplaceable life means.

 Parent-Infant Play Group “Yarana Hiroba”

Are you a parent with a baby or toddler looking for a fun outing?

At the Naraya Community Center in Hakata Ward, a parent-infant play group called the “Parent-Infant Play Group” is held every month!

The theme for December is the exciting “Christmas Party.”

It will be held on Tuesday, December 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Let’s enjoy a lively time together with picture books, songs, and sticker play!

For details on how to sign up, please check the Facebook page of the Fukuoka City International Foundation. They are looking forward to your participation!

【Fukuoka Marathon】

This Sunday, November 9, the Fukuoka Marathon 2025 will be held.
This citizen-participation marathon has been held every November since 2014. The course covers 42.195 kilometers, connecting Fukuoka City and Itoshima City. The starting point is Tenjin, the heart of Fukuoka! From there, 15,000 runners will start all at once. It’s not every day that you get the chance to run through the center of a major city.

Runners make their way toward the goal in Itoshima while taking in beautiful views of the sea and mountains. It's an enjoyable course offering  a refreshing transition from cityscape to nature.

Along the way, runners are treated to local specialties, sweets, and dishes made with regional ingredients from Fukuoka. The medals awarded to top finishers feature ribbons made of Hakata-ori, a traditional Fukuoka craft. It’s truly a marathon packed with the unique charm of Fukuoka, don't you think?

In addition to the full marathon (42.195 km), a 5.2 km fun run for those who want to enjoy running at a relaxed pace and a wheelchair race will also be held.

Please note that on the day of the event, traffic restrictions will be enforced on roads along the course, and crossing the course on foot or by bicycle will be limited during the race.

The Fukuoka Marathon 2025 is a major local event with many spectators lining the course to cheer on the runners, so on Sunday, November 9, let’s all send warm support to help the runners reach the finish line!

【Fukuoka City International Foundation】

Infant and Toddler Playgroup (“Yarana Hiroba”)

Would you like to come to a place where you can have fun together with your child?

At the Naraya Community Center in Hakata Ward, an infant and toddler playgroup, commonly called “Yarana Hiroba,” is held every month. It’s a space where parents and children can spend enjoyable time together.

In November, it will be held on Tuesday, November 11.
The time is from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
The theme will be “Outreach Children's Center”.
The Chuo Children’s Hall “Aikuru” will come to the Naraya Community Center.

Through various activities and reading picture books, parents and children can enjoy quality time together. It’s also a great opportunity for parents to interact and connect with one another.

They are looking forward to seeing your there!

For more details on how to apply, please check the Fukuoka City International Foundation’s Facebook page.

Call for Participants: Children’s Workshop “Beyond Language – Let’s Create One World Together!”

To continue, the Fukuoka City International Foundation, in collaboration with JICA Kyushu, will hold a hands-on workshop for children.

The target group is 1st to 6th grade elementary school students.
It will be held on Sunday, November 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m and the venue is Meeting Room 1 on the 4th floor of the Fukuoka City International Center.

Children can participate in any language.

In this workshop, participants will draw pictures together while using various languages and learn about each other’s cultures. Even if they speak different languages, children will experience the joy of helping and cooperating with one another.

Participation is free, but advance registration is required.

For more details, please visit the foundation’s website: 【www.fcif.or.jp 】and check their Latest News page.

【Hakata Old Town Festival / Hakata Old Town Light-Up Walk】

Today, I'd like to share some information about an autumn event where you can experience the charm of old Hakata.

Starting this Friday, the 17th, the “Hakata Old Town Festival” will begin. It will be held in the “Hakata Old Town” area, where many temples and old streets remain. Various events will take place in this area full of history and culture until Sunday, November 9. Over the 24-day period, visitors can experience this area in a new way with town walks, kimono dressing, hands-on activities, and delicious food and drink.

Among the highlights is the “Hakata Old Town Light-Up Walk,” which will take place for four days from Friday, October 31 to Monday, November 3. Which has become an iconic autumn event in Hakata, will be held. During this period, temples and shrines that are usually closed at night will be specially opened. Their buildings and gardens will be beautifully lit, and visitors can enjoy illuminated approach paths and atmospheric grounds in a completely different ambiance than during the day. This unique event offers a rare opportunity to view temples and shrines in this special nighttime setting. This year’s lighting theme is “Forest of Light.” The night-time “Hakata Old Town Light-Up Walk” will begin on Friday, October 31 and continue through Monday, November 3, with the light-up period from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Additionally, during these four days, there will be music events where visitors can enjoy live classical and jazz performances, along with Japanese sake and other drinks, and gourmet food from kitchen cars. At the night markets and local marches, visitors can also enjoy Hakata’s food culture during both the day and evening. For more details, please search the official website.

Be sure to head out and enjoy this unique opportunity to experience the special history and culture of Hakata available only during this event

【Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

The 23rd Japanese Speech Contest by International Residents

Come and show your support for the International residents giving speeches in Japanese for the 23rd Japanese Speech Contest. This year, on Sunday, October 19th  starting at 1 PM, the Fukuoka City International Foundation will be holding the 23rd Japanese Speech Contest by International Residents. At this contest, international residents and technical interns studying Japanese at schools or classrooms in the Fukuoka area will speak on various topics, such as their experiences living in Fukuoka and their dreams for the future, all in Japanese.

The event will be held at the Science Hall of Fukuoka City Science Museum in Ropponmatsu, Chuo Ward.
Admission is free, and no reservation is required.

Please come and listen to the participants showcase the results of their hard work and language studies!

For inquiries, contact the Japanese Speech Contest Executive Committee at the Fukuoka City International Foundation at （092-262-1744）.

The “Yarana Hiroba” Infant and Toddler Interaction Class

Moms and dads, would you like to come to a place where you and your child can have fun together?

At Naraya Community Center in Hakata Ward, a monthly infant and toddler interaction class,“Yarana Hiroba”, is held for parents and children to enjoy time together.

In October, the session will be held on Tuesday, the 28th, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

This month’s activity is a “Eurhythmics Class” (30 minutes) presented by Sanno Kodomo Plaza.

In this class, parents and children will move their whole bodies in rhythm with the music. It’s a special opportunity to enjoy plenty of physical closeness and bonding. Through eurhythmics, you and your child can experience the joy of music and expressing yourselves together.

For more details and information on how to register, please check the Fukuoka City International Foundation Facebook page.

【Fukuoka-Grown Figs – “Toyomitsuhime”】

Figs are in season around this time of year. Did you know that Fukuoka Prefecture is the second largest producer of figs in Japan? Fukuoka-grown figs soak up plenty of summer sunlight, resulting in a rich sweetness and an elegant flavor.

Among them is a special variety called Toyomitsuhime, which is grown exclusively in Fukuoka. These figs are a vivid ruby color, with large, juicy flesh, a strong sweetness, and a smooth texture. Their average sugar content is over 17 degrees Brix, offering a sweetness similar to melon. They are also known as a fig you can eat with the skin on.

Because figs quickly lose their freshness after harvest, only perfectly ripe fruit is picked. Thanks to this careful approach by farmers, Toyomitsuhime figs are rarely distributed outside of Fukuoka.

When choosing delicious figs, look for ones that are evenly reddish-brown and have smooth, taut skin. The darker the color, the better. Figs are also rich in calcium, potassium, and dietary fiber which are nutrients known for supporting beauty and wellness.

Be sure to look for Toyomitsuhime figs while they’re in season, and give them a try!

【Fukuoka City / Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

Disaster Prevention Day and Stockpiling Encouragement Week

Disaster Prevention Day is an annual awareness day and is on September 1st. And in Fukuoka City, the week of the 1st to the 7th of September is Fukuoka City's Stockpiling Encouragement Week. Stockpiling refers to keeping a good supply of food and other necessities in your home. And through this one week event, the city hopes to raise its citizens' awareness of disaster prevention, including the need to stockpile in both our homes and workplaces.

So why do we need to stockpile? Well, if there is an earthquake or typhoon, even if you aren't in danger, without food or water, we can't survive. If the stores shut down, we can't buy the food and drinks we need. If the water supply is disrupted, there's no water to drink. And, if the electric and gas are out, there's no way we can cook food. So, in order to ensure that the lives that have been saved can actually survive, it's important to have emergency supplies prepared in advance.

Alright, so what should be stockpiled?

Make sure to have a three-day supply of drinking water and food. One person needs roughly three liters of water per day.

Nonperishable emergency foods like freeze-dried rice, canned foods, biscuits, chocolate bars and hardtack are some things that are good to have on hand. Food that doesn't need to be cooked is essential.

If you have a radio and flashlight, make sure they have batteries. And if you take medicine, or need bandages or anything like that, make sure you have extra supplies in with your first aid kit. If there is an infant in your family, make sure you have diapers in your supplies as well.

In addition to the water you'll need for drinking, you'll also need water for flushing the toilet and other daily needs. Keep a polyethylene water tank with tap water and consider keeping your bathtub filled as well.

Buy a little more than you usually do, of the foods you normally eat, and as you use them up, consuming them based on their expiration dates, keep replacing them so that you always have a little more than enough in your house. This is your rolling stock. This is recommended because you always have a certain level of stored food, and it falls within the scope of your usual shopping routine in terms of cost and time.

As typhoons do often occur around this time of year, take this opportunity to prepare for disasters once again.

Parent-Child Interaction Class “Yarana Hiroba”

Would you like to visit a place where you and your child can have fun together?

At Naraya Community Center in Hakata Ward, a monthly parent-child program called “Yarana Hiroba” is held. It’s a fun and welcoming space for infants, toddlers, and their parents to spend time together.

The next session will be held on Tuesday, September 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

This month’s activity is “English Story Time & Free Space.”

You’ll enjoy reading English picture books and moving along to English songs with your child.

For more details, including how to sign up, please check the Fukuoka City International Foundation Facebook page.

【Start Using a Reusable Water Bottle】

July is Heatstroke Prevention Awareness Month.
Heatstroke occurs when your body can no longer regulate its temperature due to intense heat or physical activity, leading to an imbalance of fluids and salts. Infants and toddlers are particularly at risk because their temperature regulation is still developing and symptoms can appear in a short time, so extra care is needed.

To prevent heatstroke, it’s important to avoid extreme heat, stay well-hydrated with both fluids and salts, and monitor your physical condition. A daily intake of about 1.2 liters of fluids (roughly 6 cups) is recommended. It’s important to drink regularly even if you don’t feel thirsty. Don’t forget to replenish salts too—sports drinks or salted candies can help.

To help residents stay hydrated while out and about, Fukuoka City has installed “My Bottle Refill Stations” at ward offices, community centers, gyms, parks, and other public facilities, where you can refill your bottle with chilled Fukuoka tap water.

In addition, around 90 participating businesses in the city are registered as My Bottle Partner Shops and will refill your bottle with water or coffee.
A list of refill locations can be found on Fukuoka City’s website—just search for “Fukuoka City My Bottle” in English. The first result should be the right one!

Let’s all make use of reusable bottles and refill services to stay hydrated during outings this summer!

 🔎Fukuoka city Let's start My Bottle! (Water Supply Spot, My Bottle Cooperating Shops)

【Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

Parent-Child Interaction Class “Yarana Hiroba”

Looking for a place to enjoy fun activities with your child?
Narayaya Community Center in Hakata Ward holds a monthly interactive class for infants and toddlers called Yarana Hiroba, where parents and children can enjoy time together. The next session will be held on Tuesday, July 22, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

This month’s session will feature a lecture by Chiho Horii, a school social worker and counselor, titled: “Thank You for Being Born — How Early Childhood and Adolescence Are Connected.”
Ms. Horii has appeared on NHK TV programs.

Everyone is welcome to attend but be aware that the lecture will be conducted in Japanese. 

For details on how to register, please check the Fukuoka City International Foundation’s Facebook page.

 🔎福岡市国際会館／あったか福岡 | Fukuoka-shi Fukuoka | Facebook

You Can Now Call for Help via LINE Call!

You can now make inquiries about general consultations and free expert consultation appointments through LINE Call on the Fukuoka City International Foundation’s official LINE account. Phone interpreting is available, so you can receive support in multiple languages.

You can also receive notifications about upcoming events and useful information for foreign residents.
Please add the Fukuoka City International Foundation as a friend from their official website!
Please be aware that the service does not support chat messages.
If you would like to send a written inquiry, please use the contact form on the foundation’s website.

 🔎FCIF LINE Official Account｜Fukuoka City International Foundation

【Food Education Month】

Every year, the month of June is designated as Shokuiku Month, or Food Education Month, and June 19 is Shokuiku Day. A healthy body is built through a balanced diet. So, let’s take this opportunity to review our daily eating habits and aim for better nutrition.

This season also marks the rainy season (tsuyu), when the risk of natural disasters caused by heavy rain increases. During disasters, it may become difficult to obtain food from supermarkets or convenience stores, and water or gas supplies may be cut off. To prepare for such emergencies, it’s important to stockpile food.

In case transportation and lifeline services are disrupted, it may take more than three days for recovery. Therefore, it’s recommended to store at least "three days’ worth of food per family member.

A good strategy is to buy slightly more of your usual food, use items close to their expiration dates first, and replace them as you go. This method is easy to manage and helps keep your stock fresh.

During emergencies, meals often consist mostly of carbohydrates like rice and bread, which can lead to shortages of protein, vitamins, and dietary fiber. We recommend keeping canned fish, meat, or beans, and long-lasting vegetables like carrots and onions in your stockpile.

When choosing emergency food supplies, opt for items that are nutritionally balanced, shelf-stable, and suitable for long-term storage at room temperature.

Let’s all stay prepared with a mindful approach to disaster readiness, and take simple steps we can manage in our daily lives.

【Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

Parent-Child Interaction Class “Yarana Hiroba

Looking for a fun place to spend time with your child?
The Naraya Community Center in Hakata Ward holds a monthly parent-child interaction class called “Yarana Hiroba”, where parents and children can enjoy time together.

For June, the session will be held on Tuesday, June 24 and goes from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM.

This month’s theme is “Parent-Child Play.”
You’ll sing songs while holding your baby, read picture books, and enjoy playful interaction with your child. It’s a chance to experience fun and engaging activities in a spacious environment that’s different from home.

For registration details and more information, please check the Fukuoka City International Foundation’s Facebook page.

Schooling and Career Guidance Session 2025 for Children with Foreign Roots

The Fukuoka City International Foundation, in cooperation with NPO Tomoniikiru Machi Fukuoka Association, Fukuoka YWCA, and the Fukuoka International Citizens Association, will host the  Education and Career Consultation Fair 2025 for Children with Foreign Roots.

This session is for families with children from preschool age to high school students who have foreign backgrounds. You can receive advice about education and career options. There will also be a booth for residence status consultations with immigration officers and administrative scriveners.

Participation is free, but advance reservation is required.
Consultation is available in Japanese, English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Nepali.

This event will be held on Saturday, July 12, from 1:00 PM at the Fukuoka City International Center in Tenyamachi, Hakata Ward.

For reservations and inquiries, please visit the website of NPO Tomoniikiru Machi Fukuoka no Kai in Japanese.