Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Changing Out The Wardrobe & Drying Out The Bugs!】

So, with cooler weather coming, we've go to think about pulling out all of those winter clothes that have been in storage all this time. In Japan, this is called “koromogae” which I'd guess I'd call “changing out the wardrobe”.  And as Japan is a pretty humid country, there's a kind of technique or folk's wisdom that has been passed on through the years called “mushiboshi”, which will help you take care of your clothes. Have you ever heard of this “mushiboshi” or have any idea of what this means?

Well, if you don't, the English means “drying insects” , which might give you a hint. Basically, in order to protect your clothes from being nibbled on by clothes moths larvae, you should hang your clothes out in the fresh air for a nice drying. Choose a day when the weather is good and the air is dry. Not only will this help prevent bugs, but it will also remove moisture and prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Not only should you do this in October and November, this is when the summer insects tend to remain, but you should also think about doing this in July and August after the rainy season as well as in January and February when the air is dry. Three times a year is ideal for mushiboshi! I actually do a lot of this as a matter of course, I think I picked up the habit from some older students that I used to teach. I usually change out my clothes closer to November, as well as put away the summer blankets to pull out the winter blankets and kotatsu cover. I find that hanging everything out before storage does work and helps keep my clothes and blankets in pretty good condition, free of little wormy holes! I definitely recommend an Autumn airing and drying when you have time!

【Information from Fukuoka City】

Free Early Childhood Education & Childcare

Important information from Fukuoka City for those of you who have young children in your home. Did you know that fees for kindergarten, nursery school or other certified childcare centers, for children from the ages of three to five, have been free since October 2019?

However, you do still have to pay for things like transportation, school lunch and school events. Depending on the kindergarten or nursery school, use of the facilities may not be completely free.

If there is anything you don't understand about this, please consult with your local ward office. At the ward office, you can receive phone assistance in 18 different languages. This phone number is 092-753-6113. Again, for assistance in 18 different languages, the phone number is 092-753-6113. After connecting to an interpretation center, you'll be connected to the ward office. Just tell them which ward you live in and what you need help with.

Smoking Manners

Do you know the rules to smoking in public?

While you're walking or on a bicycle, you shouldn't be smoking. In Fukuoka City, especially where there are a lot of people in Tenjin, Daimyo and around Hakata Station, smoking while on the paths is actually prohibited. And actually, it's dangerous if you are walking and smoking where there are a lot of people.

Why is this? Well, if you bump into someone you could burn their skin or their clothes. And there are a lot of people who are bothered by the smell of tobacco smoke. Not to mention, those cigarette butts that just get tossed to the pavement can cause fires! Make sure you throw out your garbage where it is supposed to be thrown out.  And if you do smoke while out and about, get yourself a little portable ashtray to carry around with you and be sure to smoke in designated smoking areas. By following the rules and minding your manners, everyone around can feel comfortable and safe. Thank you in advance for your cooperation!