Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Blueberries】

Blueberries, which come into season from early summer and stay in season through the summer, are a popular fruit known for their sweet-tart flavor and rich nutritional value. From June through September, blueberry-picking farms begin opening across Fukuoka Prefecture, offering a fun seasonal activity.

In the nature-rich Wakiyama area of Sawara Ward, Fukuoka City, you’ll find Country Farm Kiichigoya, a blueberry farm where the berries are carefully grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides. The farm now has around 400 blueberry bushes, all full of fruit. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of original products made with freshly harvested blueberries, including blueberry jam, blueberry vinegar, and ice pops. In addition, blackberry picking is available until around mid-July. Part of the farm is covered with rain shelters, so you can enjoy berry picking even on rainy days without getting wet.

There’s something special about walking among the trees and picking perfectly ripe blueberries with your own hands, so why not refresh yourself in nature with family and friends while enjoying the flavors of the season?

【Fukuoka City Information】

Information about the National Health Insuranc

In Japan, to ensure that everyone can receive medical care at a low cost and with peace of mind when they are sick or injured, it is mandatory for all residents to join a public health insurance system. People who are allowed to stay in Japan for more than three months and are not covered by their company's health insurance must join the National Health Insurance. This requires procedures at the ward office of the district where you live.

Those enrolled in the Fukuoka City National Health Insurance must pay insurance premiums. These premiums are an important source of funding used for medical expenses. The insurance premiums for the period from April 2026 to March 2027 were determined in June based on the previous year's income and other factors.

For those enrolled in the National Health Insurance, payment notices have been sent out today June 15th  in a blue envelope. When you receive your envelope, please check the amount of the insurance premium listed in the documents inside the envelope and pay the premium within the payment deadline. Failure to pay the insurance premium may result in an investigation of your assets and the seizure of your savings or salary, so please be aware.

If you have any questions, you can receive consultations over the phone in 24 different languages. The phone number is (092-753-6113). That phone number is for a interpretation center, so after speaking to a representative you will be connected to your local ward office. Make sure you tell them which ward you live in and that you want help with the National Health Insurance. 

【Food Education Day】

In Fukuoka Prefecture, efforts are being made to promote food education and local production for local consumption as a prefecture-wide movement. As part of this initiative, on the 19th of every month, known as “Food Education Day,” a special farmers market corner is set up at the Fukuoka Prefectural Government Office in Hakata Ward, where fresh seasonal agricultural, forestry, and marine products, as well as processed goods, are sold.

The market is held every month on the 19th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and ends once items are sold out. If the 19th falls on a government office closing day, it is held on the nearest preceding business day instead. This month, it will be held over two days, Thursday the 18th and Friday the 19th. The location is the first-floor lobby of the Fukuoka Prefectural Government Office.

Why not support Fukuoka-produced agricultural, forestry, and marine products by buying them—and by enjoying them too?

【Fukuoka City Information】

Rainy Season and Heavy Rain

In Japan, the period from June to July is known as the “rainy season,” when there is a lot of rainfall.
Please be careful, as this is a time when disasters caused by heavy rain are more likely to occur.

In recent years, record-breaking rainfall during the rainy season has caused major damage in Fukuoka Prefecture as well.
When there is heavy rain, do not go near dangerous places such as rivers, coastlines, or steep slopes near mountains. Please take action to protect your life.

On the Fukuoka City website, you can check hazard maps and disaster prevention information.
Please check in advance what kinds of dangers exist in the area where you live and how to evacuate if necessary.
For details, search for “Fukuoka City Multilingual Portal” and visit the “Disaster” page.

Important information from Fukuoka City is also shared in multiple languages through the official Fukuoka City Facebook page “Global Community Fukuoka” and the Fukuoka City International Foundation Facebook page “Fukuoka City International Center / Attaka Fukuoka.”
Please follow these pages to receive important information regularly.

Taxes

People who were living in Fukuoka City on January 1 and whose income from the previous year exceeded 1.1 million yen may need to pay municipal and prefectural resident taxes.

A tax payment notice will arrive around June 15, so please make sure to check it carefully.
It will show the payment amount and payment deadline.
You can pay at convenience stores, banks, or post offices.
Payment by smartphone apps and credit card is also available.

If you work for a company, the tax may be deducted directly from your salary.
If you do not pay your municipal taxes, your property may be seized, and it could negatively affect future residency status renewal procedures.

If you do not understand something or have difficulty making payments, please consult your local ward office.
Consultations are available by phone in 23 languages.

The phone number is (092-753-6113).
After contacting the interpretation center, you will be connected to your ward office.
Please tell them the language you speak, the ward where you live, and that your inquiry is about taxes.

【Fireflies】

Fireflies drifting through the air with their soft, magical glow are a beautiful sight to see. Although many people associate fireflies with summer, they actually only appear for a short period from late May to mid-June.

It is said that fireflies are most active on warm, humid nights with temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius, especially on cloudy and windless evenings. Nights after rain or just before rainfall, when the air feels muggy, are considered the best time to see them. Their activity usually peaks about two hours after sunset, so visiting around that time is recommended.

Fireflies prefer areas with rich nature and clean water. In Fukuoka City, there are many famous viewing spots where you can see fireflies, including the rooftop of JR Hakata City at Hakata Station, Myohoji Temple in Chuo Ward, and the upper stream area of the Muromi River in Sawara Ward. Firefly viewing is a wonderful outing for an early summer evening.

However, fireflies are very delicate creatures. Touching them can quickly weaken them, so please do not catch them, and simply enjoy watching them quietly. Strong lights such as car headlights, flashlights, and camera flashes are also strictly prohibited. Please follow proper manners while enjoying the fireflies.

【Fukuoka City Information】

Easy Japanese Radio Course

Have you ever listened to the “Easy Japanese Radio Course”?
This program speaks slowly in “easy Japanese” for foreign residents who may not yet fully understand Japanese.
It shares useful information that foreign residents should know while living in Japan.

The program airs every Friday from 9:54 a.m.
Even if there is something you don’t understand or you miss the broadcast, don’t worry!
You can listen again anytime on the podcast while following along with the script posted on the Love FM website.
Please give it a listen.

HIV Testing Awareness Week

The week from June 1 to June 7 is HIV Testing Awareness Week.
In 2025, medical institutions in Fukuoka City newly reported 10 HIV cases and 11 AIDS patients.

Prevention, early detection, and early treatment are very important for HIV infection.
Since HIV infection usually causes very few symptoms at first, testing is necessary to know whether or not you have been infected.

Each ward Health and Welfare Center distributes free HIV self-testing kits that can be used at home.
You can also take tests for syphilis and genital chlamydia, which have been increasing in recent years, at the same time.

Testing is simple. You collect blood and urine samples at home and mail them to a testing center. The results can then be checked online.
Distribution dates for the testing kits are scheduled in advance, so please check the Fukuoka City website beforehand.

By detecting HIV early and receiving proper health management and treatment, it is possible to delay the onset of AIDS.
If you are concerned, please get tested for early detection.

【AMAZING THAILAND FEST】

This weekend, on Saturday the 30th and Sunday the 31st, Amazing Thailand Fest 2026, an event where you can fully enjoy Thailand while staying right here in Fukuoka, will be held.

Over the two days, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of content including popular Thai food and drinks, sales of Thai products and goods, tourism information, and stage performances.
At the food booths, you’ll find popular dishes such as gapao rice and pad thai, along with trendy gourmet foods and sweets. The product booths will feature Thai pants, accessories, and many Thai food products for you to buy. There will also be photo booths, workshops where you can make desserts and flower garlands, and even Thai massage booths. On the stage, there will be performances throughout the day including T-POP, jazz, and traditional Thai “Mor Lam” music. Don’t miss the prize drawing where you could win airline tickets and other luxurious prizes.

Once again, the Amazing Thailand Fest 2026 will be held this weekend, Saturday the 30th and Sunday the 31st, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The venue is the area in front of the Kihinkan Hall at Tenjin Central Park in Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City.

For anyone that loves Thailand and its culture, this is an event not to be missed. Be sure to stop by!

【Love Earth Cleanup】

To continue, have you heard of Love Earth Cleanup?
It is a community environmental beautification activity in which citizens, companies, and local government work together to clean beaches, rivers, parks, and other public spaces all at the same time. The activity also contributes to achieving the SDGs and tackling marine plastic waste.

This year, it will be held on Sunday, June 14, at six locations within the city:
the beach near the Fukuoka City Uminonakamichi Seaside Youth House in Higashi Ward, the area around Fujita Park in Hakata Ward, Fukuhama Beach in Chuo Ward, Matsuyama Central Park in Jonan Ward, the area around Momochihama at Seaside Momochi Beach Park in Sawara Ward, and Imazu Nagahama Beach in Nishi Ward.

Anyone is welcome to participate, so if you are interested, please check the details and apply through the Fukuoka City website. The event will proceed in light rain but will be canceled in the event of severe weather. Participants should bring their own drinks, hats, towels, and work gloves.

In addition, cleanup activities organized by local communities, companies, and groups will also be held in various locations both inside and outside Fukuoka City. If your schedule allows, please consider joining cleanup events in other municipalities as well.
Let’s all work together to protect Fukuoka City’s rich natural environment.

【The Hakataza Funanorikomi Boat Procession】

This year, the Hakataza “Funanorikomi” boat procession, loved as an early summer tradition of Hakata, will be held again!

“Funanorikomi” is a traditional event dating back to the Edo period, in which kabuki actors announce their arrival in the city where they will perform.

Kabuki is one of Japan’s most famous traditional stage performing arts. Every June, the “June Hakataza Grand Kabuki” is held at the Hakataza Theater in Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City. It is one of the largest kabuki performances in Kyushu, featuring popular productions and a star-studded cast of actors. The performers, who will be appearing in the production. board boats and travel along the Hakata River, presenting their arrival in Hakata and praying for the success of the performances in a tradition that has continued since the Edo period.

On the day of the event, the boats depart from near Seiryu Park and slowly travel along the Hakata River. Kabuki actors and Hakata geisha ride aboard the boats, creating a lively and elegant parade atmosphere. Visitors can watch the procession up close from along the riverside while enjoying a walk through the city.

As an event where people can experience the atmosphere of kabuki before the performances officially begin, “Funanorikomi” is a lively Hakata tradition that attracts many spectators every year. If you see the procession, be sure to cheer them on from along the route.

【Fukuoka City International Foundation Information】

Consultations on Immigration, Residency and Nationality Matters.

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.  All consultations are confidential, so please feel at ease to use the service. For more information, the phone number to call is 0120-66-1799. Calls will be taken from 9am to 5:30pm on weekdays.

 Get Consultations through LINE CALL

If you are connected to the Fukuoka City International Foundation's official Line Account, you can use Line Call to contact the center for advice on life here as well as to make reservations for the free professional consultation services that the Foundation provides.  Interpretation over the phone for a number of different languages is available. 

You can also sign up to get information on events or useful information for foreign residents of the city, so if you aren't already connected on Line, just go to the Fukuoka City International Foundation's homepage and click on Add Friend to get connected. 

However, be aware that you cannot send messages through the chat function. If you want to send a message regarding getting advice, then please look up the Fukuoka City International Foundation's homepage on the internet and fill out the help request form on their website. 

【FUKUOKA MUSEUM WEEK】

In Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Museum Week will begin this Saturday, May 16, in conjunction with International Museum Day on May 18. This event aims to promote Fukuoka as a city rich in art and culture, and this year marks its 17th edition.

A total of 18 museums and art galleries across the city will participate, offering a variety of special benefits such as discounts, gifts, and exclusive events. Some venues will even offer free admission. In addition to regular exhibitions, there will also be many special programs, including lectures, workshops, behind-the-scenes tours, and gallery talks, each creatively organized by the participating facilities.

For those who already enjoy visiting museums, this is a chance to experience something a little different. For those who have rarely visited museums before, it’s a great opportunity to step inside for the first time. There are many ways to enjoy it—why not start by casually exploring art and history?

The event runs for nine days, from this Saturday, May 16, to next Sunday, May 24.
For more details, please check the Fukuoka City website.

【Fukuoka City Information】

Light vehicle tax

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

If you do have 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 June 1st 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.

【The Flea Market at Gokoku Shrine】

At Gokoku Shrine located in Ropponmatsu in Fukuoka's Chuo Ward, a flea market is held on a regular basis on the grounds and pathway leading up to the shrine. 

This time it will take place on Saturday and Sunday, May 16th and 17th. It starts at 9am and ends at 4pm, and will be held rain or shine. 

Around 250 shops from across Kyushu will gather over the two days, offering a wide range of items including antiques, vintage goods, tableware, accessories, and clothing. One of the attractions is the variety, from everyday usable items to one-of-a-kind pieces. It’s a popular event where you can enjoy chatting with vendors while finding your favorite items.

Food and drink vendors will also be there, bringing together popular shops from different areas, each with their own unique style and flavors to enjoy.

In the calm atmosphere of the shrine grounds, you can enjoy a relaxed space where people and objects naturally come together. It’s a great place to stop by for a stroll or lunch. You might just come across something special and make a memorable discovery.

People from Fukuoka and all over Kyushu head to this lively market, so why not join them for a wonderful, treasure seeking weekend?

【Fukuoka City Information】

The Bicycle “Blue Ticket” System

In Japan, bicycles are treated as vehicles, and riders are required to follow traffic rules.
From April 2026, a penalty system known as the “blue ticket” has been applied to traffic violations committed by cyclists aged 16 and over.

A total of 113 types of violations are subject to penalties. In particular, please be careful of the following:

• Ignoring traffic signals 

• Riding while using a smartphone 

• Riding without lights at night 

• Riding against traffic 

• Riding on sidewalks 

• Riding side by side 

• Using earphones or headphones while riding 

• Riding with an umbrella 

• Riding on the right side of the road 

• Entering restricted areas 

• Failing to stop at stop signs 

Also, never ride a bicycle under the influence of alcohol.
Violations can lead to accidents and injuries.
To use bicycles safely and comfortably, please follow traffic rules and avoid violations.

【"Live@Museum" Fukuoka Asian Art Museum】

What are you doing on Friday night? Why not enjoy live music at the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum this  season?

This year's  Live@Museum has started again. Every Friday night from 6:30 p.m. through March 2027, mini live performances will be held at the Art Café on the 7th floor of the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, featuring a variety of genres including Asian and Japanese music, dance, and traditional performing arts.

At the museum café inside the venue, you can enjoy original blend coffee as well as alcoholic drinks such as craft beer, so you can watch the performances with a drink in hand. Set in an open space with high ceilings and surrounded by art, you can enjoy a truly unique live music experience. 

In addition, on Friday nights the museum is open until 8:00 p.m., so after enjoying the live performance, it’s also recommended to spend time in the gallery and immerse yourself in art.

Once again, Live@Museum takes place every Friday from 6:30 p.m. at the Art Café on the 7th floor of the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, with free live music performances, so be sure  to stop by and enjoy a wonderful night out.

【"The Great Dinosaur Exhibition" Fukuoka City Museum】

To continue, I'd like to introduce the special exhibition currently being held at the Fukuoka City Museum, “The Great Dinosaur Exhibition – Exploring the Evolution of Theropods from Fukui.”

This special exhibition is organized with the full cooperation of the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, known as one of the world’s three major dinosaur museums and a popular destination for dinosaur fans from across Japan.

The theme focuses on theropods, some of the most popular dinosaurs, including Fukuiraptor and Fukui Venator, as well as the Spinosauridae family, which still holds many mysteries. The exhibition traces their evolutionary lineages based on the latest research findings.

In addition, a life-size Spinosaurus robot, approximately 15 meters in length, is on display, recreating a dynamic swimming pose. Its realistic movements—eyes, mouth, and neck—make it seem as if the dinosaur is alive.

During the exhibition period, there are also talk events, painting workshops, figure scooping activities, and dinosaur merchandise available.

The special exhibition “The Great Dinosaur Exhibition – Exploring the Evolution of Theropods from Fukui” is currently being held at the Fukuoka City Museum until June 28.
This is a rare opportunity to see dinosaur exhibits that are usually only available in Fukui, right here in Fukuoka. If you love dinosaurs, be sure to check it out!

【Hakata Dontaku Port Festival】

And finally, let me introduce the Hakata Dontaku Port Festival. When it comes to Golden Week in Fukuoka, this is the festival for Fukuoka residents. As one of the city’s largest events, where you can feel Hakata’s history, culture, and vibrant energy, it attracts not only locals but also many visitors from across Japan and overseas, drawing more than two million people each year.

With a history of over 840 years, this festival features lively parades where participants dressed in colorful costumes dance through the streets while carrying “shamoji” rice paddles. Another highlight is the “hana-jidosha,” large vehicles decorated with characters and elaborate designs. In the finale, spectators can even join in, dancing and clapping their shamoji together, as the entire city comes alive in a festive atmosphere.

The festival will be held over two days, on Sunday, May 3, and Monday, May 4.
This Golden Week, be sure to experience the culture and energy of Fukuoka at the Hakata Dontaku Port Festival

【Ramen Stadium】

Ramen Stadium has returned to Canal City Hakata, a large commercial complex in Fukuoka City.
Originally opened in 2001 as a collection of popular ramen shops from across Japan, Ramen Stadium was temporarily closed last year. With this renewal reopening, eight shops from Fukuoka, Hokkaido, Akita, and Osaka have joined, including some making their Kyushu debut and some returning brands. A wide variety of ramen is available, including tonkotsu, soy sauce, and miso.

In addition, so that you can enjoy different flavors, each shop offers mini ramen options, smaller than the regular size, making it easy to try and compare dishes from multiple shops.

Ramen Stadium is open from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., seven days a week. It is located on the 5th floor of Center Walk in Canal City Hakata. The newly redesigned storefronts are inspired by ramen bowls, and as you pass through the noren curtains, you can enjoy the steam, the sounds, and the appetizing aromas—engaging all five senses for a truly satisfying bowl.
Be sure to check it out!

【Information from the Fukuoka City International Foundation】

Consultations through Line Call

If you are connected to the Fukuoka City International Foundation's official Line Account, you can use Line Call to contact the center for advice on life here as well as to make reservations for the free professional consultation services that the Foundation provides.  Interpretation over the phone for a number of foreign languages is available. 

You can also sign up to get information on events or useful information for foreign residents of the city, so if you aren't already connected on Line, just go to the Fukuoka City International Foundation's homepage and click on Add Friend to get connected. 

However, be aware that you cannot send messages through the chat function. If you want to send a message regarding getting advice, then please look up the Fukuoka City International Foundation's homepage on the internet and fill out the help request form on their website. 

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 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. Please note that the legal consultation on Saturday, May 2, 2026, will not be held. 

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).

【NEPAL FESTIVAL FUKUOKA】

This weekend, on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, the multicultural exchange festival Nepal Festival Fukuoka 2026 will be held—connecting Fukuoka with the world.

Fukuoka City is one of the regions in Japan with a large Nepalese population. April 14 marks the Nepali New Year according to the Bikram calendar, and this festival is held to celebrate that occasion. It has become a popular annual event in Fukuoka.

There will be a variety of booths, including restaurant booths where you can enjoy authentic Nepalese and South Asian cuisine, stalls selling Nepalese goods and traditional clothing, and experience booths where you can try wearing a sari.
In addition, companies supporting foreign residents will also have PR booths.

On the main stage, there will be performances by famous Nepalese singers, as well as Hawaiian dance performances by a hula studio.

Once again, Nepal Festival Fukuoka 2026 will be held this weekend on April 18 and 19 at Tenjin Central Park. Admission is free. The event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on both days.

Come and enjoy two days of experiencing Nepalese culture right here in Fukuoka, and celebrate the Nepali New Year together! 

【Fukuoka City Information】

Rules about putting out the garbage

There are a lot of people who are starting a new chapter in their lives this month and that does typically mean buying new things or getting rid of old things. Which brings us to garbage and the rules around garbage here. 

In Fukuoka City, garbage is separated into three types. There is burnable, nonburnable and plastic pet bottles and glass garbage. You can buy the bags for each type of garbage at convenience stores and supermarkets, so make sure you use the Fukuoka City garbage bags for throwing things out. 

The red bag is for burnable garbage. This is used for garbage like paper waste, food scraps, clothes and plastics. 

The blue bag is for nonburnable garbage which includes things like empty cans and glass or ceramics. 

And the yellow bag is for plastic pet bottles and glass bottles. 

The day on which garbage is picked up is specific to your neighborhood. Burnable garbage is picked up twice a week and nonburnable and glass bottles and plastic pet bottles are picked up once a month. 

Garbage is picked up late at night so garbage should be put out between sunset and midnight on your collection day in the designated location. 

If you need to find out when garbage is picked up in your neighborhood, you can do so by adding the official Fukuoka City LINE account to your friend's list. Set your location when you add the account and you will get notifications for the pickup day. 

And, if you type in the name of the garbage you want to throw out, the account will tell you which bag you should put it in, so it's a pretty handy service. 

If you can't fit something you want to throw out in one bag because it is too big, it is considered over-sized garbage and needs to be thrown out through a different process. For over-sized garbage, pick-up can be arranged if you contact the Fukuoka City Oversized Garbage center, or Sodai Gomi Uketsuke in Japanese, by phone, on the internet or through LINE. They will tell you how much it will cost to throw away the item, where to put it and on what day and time they will pick it up. 

If you decide to call the Oversized Garbage Center, you can call (092-731-1153). They have support for 23 different languages. There is also a QR code service that provides information on garbage disposal rules in 10 different languages. Just check the Fukuoka City website for that QR code.