Global GatewaysDuring Your Stay/ Daily Life
Daily Life in Fukuoka
On this page, you can checnk useful information and important things for international students of Kyushu University living in Fukuoka. We also feature guidance videos created by Q-Mate, a student support team composed of Kyushu University students, so feel free to check them out.
Firstly, we introduce guidebooks and websites that provide a wide range of information about daily life in Japan.
Guide map for the “Kyudai Gakkentoshi Area”
Starting your student life in Fukuoka will require you to first acquire the essentials for daily living. “Kyudai Gakkentoshi Area” located near the Ito Campus, providing access to various shopping spots and public facilities. Moreover, from Kyudai Gakkentoshi Station, you can directly access key areas of Fukuoka such as “Tenjin” and “Hakata Station”.
Guide Map of Kyudai Gakkentoshi
Useful Information
“Useful Infromation” is a booklet created by the International Student Exchange Division that lists useful websites for daily life in Fukuoka.
Useful Contents
“Useful Contents” is a compilation of guidance videos, handbooks, and other resources that are invaluable for international students living and studying in Fukuoka. We encourage you to make the most of these contents.
Please click on the image to access all the content.
Guidebook on Living and Working
This guidebook is produced by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan and contains information necessary for foreigners living in Japan to live safely and comfortably. It features illustrations and diagrams for easy understanding, so be sure to take a look.
Guidebook on Living and Working
Life in Fukuoka
‘Life in Fukuoka’ is a website run by the Fukuoka City Goverment. It provides information on consultation services for when you are in trouble, local information, lifestyle rules & manners, and more to help everyone living in Fukuoka City to live peacefully.
Life in Fukuoka
Fukuoka is Open
‘Fukuoka is Open’ is a website run by the Fukuoka Prefecture Government. It provides various essential information on education, healthcare, job opportunities, housing, as well as food and tourism information for enjoying your days off in Fukuoka.
Fukuoka is Open
Procedures at the ward office
Guidance Video
This is a guidance video about city ward procedures for new comers which is created by Q-Mate, a student support team run by Kyushu University students.Please check it out!
Notification of your address
Newly arrived residents in Japan must register their address at the city ward office of their residence within 14 days after entering Japan and deciding on your residence. If your current address is not registered on your Residence Card, you may be subject to penalties, including fines or revocation of your residence status. The notification must be submitted using the form designated by the local city ward office.
This includes those in possession of a passport starting “Residence card will be issued at a later date”. In such a case, please be sure to bring your passport to the office.
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Notification of move-in (Obtainable from each city ward office)
Fukuoka City Itoshima City Onojo City - Passport
- Residence card ※The card is not required for those whose Residence Card was not issued upon entry into Japan and whose passport contains the notation “Residence Card to be Issued at a Later Date.”
Change of place of residence within Japan
You are required to notify your residenctial address to local city ward office of your new ewsidence within 14days of moving into the new residence. In addition to the documents indicated above, you are also required to submit the moving-out certificate(tenshutsu shomeisho) issued by local city ward office of your former residence(this certificate it not required in the case of relocation within the same city) and your My Number Card(if you have one).National Health Insurance
All foreign nationals who granted permission to stay for 3 months or more may enroll in the National Health Insurance Plan. By paying monthly insurance premiums, you only pay 30% of medical costs when you are injured or ill. Also, if the amount of the charge to be paid for one hospital in one month (30% of the total medical charge) exceeds determined sum of money the exceeded is borne by the city.
Please complete the procedure at the ward office where you live. If you have not completed the notification of your place of residence, please do so first.
※Insurance premiums vary depending on each person’s previous year’s income, so please contact the ward office where you live for details.
※It is convenient to pay insurance premiums automatically from your bank account. Please ask the ward (city) office for the procedure of automatic transfer.
Click here for details
- National Health Insurance Enrollment form(Obtainable from each city ward office)
Fukuoka City Onojo City Itoshima City - Residence card
※If your residence card is not issued at the time of entry and your passport says “Issue your residence card at a later date”, please bring your passport.
National Pension System
The National Pension is a public pension system participated by all persons aged 20 to 59 years who have an address in Japan, which provides benefits called the “Basic Pension” due to old age, disability, or death. For details, please refer to the link below
National Pension System Website
Higashi-Fukuoka Pension Office Nishi- Fukuoka Pension Office Minami- Fukuoka Pension Office
If you are a student and your income is less than a certain amount, you may be allowed to postpone/exempt contribution payment if your application is approved.
There are two types of pension payment exemptions. Students in the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs at Kyushu University may apply for “Special Payment system for Students”.The exemption amount is the full amount and must be renewed once each year.
Applications for payment exemptions take approximately 2 to 3 months to be reviewed, and the results will be sent by mail. Due to the time required for the review process, you may receive a payment slips even if you have already applied for an exemption.If you wish to apply for the payment exemption of Pension contribution, please contact the city ward office or the nearest Pension Office.
General Exemption Special Payment system for Students
My Number System
“The Social Security and Tax Number System” has been enforced in Japan since October 2015. In this new system, one number (12 digits) will be issued individually to every person possessing a resident record, including international students and researchers residing in Japan. This number, so called “My Number”, will be used for administrative procedures related to Social Security or Taxation etc.
Since “My Number” is closely conneced with personal information, do not tell it to others unless it is necessary. Otherwise, it may lead to troubles, including leakage of your personal information.
My Number System
My Number Card
The My Number Card is an identification card that displays My Number(your Individual Number) and includes a photo of the cardholder. The card is a plastic IC chip card that displays the holder’s name, address, date of birth, sex, My Number(your Individual Number) , and photograph on its face. You can apply for the My Number Card by post, by online, or by a town ID photo booth.My Number Card
Use the My Number card as National Health Insurance card
You can use your My Number Card as “National Health Insurance card” if you apply for it. If you wish to use the My number card as an insurance card, please apply for it after receiving your My Number Card.For details, please refer to the following link.Japanese English Korean Simplified Chinese Traditional Chinese
Speicified Residence card
A “Specified Residence Card” refers to a card that integrates the “My Number Card” and the “Residence Card” into a single card. It is possible to apply for it by paying a fee(※) when completing residence procedures or administrative procedures. For details, please refer to the following link※Depending on the timing of your application, there may be cases where no fee is required.
Speicified Residence card
Health
Hospital
Kyushu University Hospital
Counseling and health Center provides medical care and advice in the case of disease and injuries and refers patients to Kyushu University Hospital if more specialized examinations and treatments are deemed necessary. If you are referred to Kyushu University Hospital in this manner, be sure to bring the letter of introduction issued by the Counseling and Health Center.
Kyushu University Hospital Website
Medicalfacilities with a foreign language-speaking staff
Fukuoka City International Foundation provides on its website a list of medical facilities in Fukuoka that are staffed with a foreign language-speaking staff.
Fukuoka Medical Information Guide
Also, please refer to the list compiled for each campus area based on information from the “Fukuoka Medical Information Net” as of May, 2026.
Before you go to a medical institution, be sure to check each institution’s website for the latest information and whether or not an appointment is required.
Health Insurance
National Health Insurance
All foreign nationals with a residence permit for a period exceeding 3 months who are students or who are not covered by an employer’s social security plan (mutual aid, health insurance) are required to join National Health Insurance. By paying the monthly insurance premiums, approximately 70% of medical expenses are covered by the insurance. In addition, the NHI system includes the High-Cost Medical Expense Benefit, under which medical expenses exceeding a certain amount at the same medical institution within a single month can be reimbursed upon application. This system is particularly beneficial in cases of serious illness or hospitalization.
Enrollment procedures can be completed at the National Health Insurance office of the city ward office where you reside. Several days after completing the procedure, a Eligibility Varification Certificate will be mailed to your registered address.Insurance premiums vary depending on each individual’s income from the previous year. For more detailed information, please refer to the link below.
Japanese English Korean Simplified Chinese Traditional Chinese
Personal Accident Insurance
Personal Accident Insurance for Students Pursuing Education and Research (“Gakkensai”) covers expenses arisen by accidents during university activities (lectures, experiments, practical exercises, field activities, etc.), travels between university facilities, and commuting. For more details, please contact the Kyushu University Co-op.
Kyushu University Website
Comprehensive Insurance for Students Lives Couples with “Gakkensai” for International Students (Inbound futai-gakuso)
This insurance coverage includes liability compensation for injuries to others or damage to others’ property, compensation for permanent disability in the event of an accident, and compensation for hospitalization or outpatient expenses due to injury or illness in daily life. The coverage varies depending on the enrollment type. To enroll in this insurance, you are required to enroll in GAKKENSAI first.
Details, Enrollment/Payment Procedures, etc.(JPN, ENG, CHN, KOR)
Student Mutual Aid “KYOSAI”
This insurance, handled by the Co-op, covers expenses arisen by accidents and injuries during university lectures, experiments and practical exercises. You must be a Co-op member to join this insurance. Please contact Kyudai Seikyo for more details.
Emergency Secure Plan (ESP)
Emergency Secure Plan, which international students enrolled at Kyushu University are required to join, will provide assistance with various medical services. Please note, however, that ESP is not a health insurance, and does not substitute for or replace the National Health Insurance which international students enrolled with a residence card are also required to join. If international students need medical attention for the illness or accident etc., ESP can provide
- Referral to an appropriate, nearby medical facility
- Three-way telephone interpretation service etc.,
When the international students reach the emergency, it will arrange the contact to their family, and also transportation from home country to medical institutions in coverage.
To join ESP, international students are required to pay membership fee 1,650 yen/year. Please follow the instruction in the following website. *Bank transfer fee will be charged additionally per payment.
24 hour Trilingual Medical Assistance
03-6371-0063
Emergency-Security-Plan(ESP) Registration・Payment (ESP)
How to use
(ESP)
Bank
Having a bank account enables you to deposit money, send money to designated recipients, pay utlity bills by automatic transfer, obtain a credit card, and peform other operations.Scholarship recipients and faculty members are required to open a bank account since scholarship or salary payment is made by bank transfer. Please note that some scholarships must open your account(for example MEXT scholarship recipients are required to open their account at Japan Post Bank).
Additionally, some banks may requre you to be accompanied by someone who can speak Japanese.
Guidance Video
This is a guidance video about opening bank account in Japan created by Q-Mate, a student support team run by Kyushu University students.Please check it out!
Electricity, gas and Water
Tenants in private rental apartments are required to newly subscribe to utility services by telephone.
Electricity
Gas
Water
a. Fukuoka Municipal Water Bureau Itoshima City Water and Sewer Service Center Kasuga-Nakagawa Waterworks Authority
Telephone and Internet
Public telephone
Public telephones accept 10-yen and 100-yen coins, as well as telephone cards which you can buy at stores, such as convenience stores. International calls can be made from public telephones bearing indication to that effect. On the University campuses, there are several public telephones of this type.
Mobile Phone
There are several mobile phone companies in Japan. To buy a mobile phone and begin a new mobile phone service subscription, you must have a bank account in Japan. In general, you are required to present your bankbook, registered seal, Residence card or a copy of your jumin-hyo (certificate of residence record), passport, and a statement of parental approval (for those below age 20.)
There is a wide range of mobile phone models and service packages with different tariffs. Subscription details can even differ from one shop to another. Please make sure to fully understand the contract details before signing up, since misunderstanding can lead to unexpectedly high telephone bills. For more details, please check the websites of the respective service providers.
In recent years, use of a mobile phone terminal brought from abroad by installing SIM Card purchased at electronics retail shops in Japan is becoming common as well.
au（KDDI） SoftBank docomo（NTT）
Internet
Internet access conditions and providers differ from one accommodation to another. If you are renting a private apartment, please confirm the details with your real estate agent. In central Fukuoka City, there are several internet hotspots.
Post and Home Delivery (examples)
Notice from the Animal Quarantine Service
Animal quarantine information for travelers to Japan and International Mail, etc.
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There have been cases are arrests on the charge of bringing meat or animal products illegally.
If you failed to declare meat or animal products and found them in your luggage, you will be found punishable.
Postal service
Home delivery
Domestic
International
Public Transportation
Bus, Subway, Train
Bus
Subway
Train
IC Cards as bus/ train tickets
Fukuoka bus, subway and train systems adopt rechargeable IC cards as a method of fare payment. There cards also function as a commuter’s pass and a debit card accepted in many shops. Any one of the cards listed below can be used in the service areas of all the other cards.
Accepting masstransit system
Nishitetsu Railway, Nishitestu Bus, Showa Bus, JR Kyushu train, Fukuoka City Subway
nimoca (Nishitetu) SUGOCA (JR Kyushu) Hayakaken(Fukuoka City Subway)
Discounts (example)
One-day subway ticket
With this card, 1-day unlimited rides on all subway lines (Kuko, Hakozaki, Nanakuma Lines) are allowed.
Price: 640 yen
Fukuoka City Subway
Ito Campus coupon tickets
Ito Campus coupon tickets, usable between any subway station and Kyudai Gakkentoshi Station on the JR Chikushi Line and between Kyudai Gakkentoshi and Ito Campus bus stops on Showa Bus, offers a saving of about 200 yen per ride as compared to regular single tickets.
Price: 1 strip of 10 tickets for 6,730 yen (adult)
※673 yen per ticket
Valid for 3 months
※Valid until the last day of the month 3 months from the month of purchase
Sold at: JR Kyudai Gakkentoshi Station, Meinohama Station, Nishijin Station, Tenjin Station and Kyushu University Co-op, etc.
Showa Bus
Ecole Card
With this card, unlimited bus rides on any day (weekday, weekend and holiday) during given period are allowed for the prices indicated below.
1 month card: 8,000 yen / 3-month card: 22,800 yen
Ecole Card
※Please not that Ecole Card users are still required to pay fares if they get on or off at Kyudai Kogakubu-mae, Kyudai Big Orange-mae, Sangaku Renkei Koryu Center and other specified bus stops. For this reason, Wide Ecole Card is recommended to students commuting to Ito campus
1 month card: 11,500 yen / 3-month card: 32,800 yen
Student discounts
JR. Nishitetsu and Subway commuter passes (1,3 and 6 month(s) passes)
Commuter passes are available ticket counters at train station. A certificate of commuting is required to purchase a student commuter pass. Students can apply for the certificate at Students Affairs Section of their School / Graduate School. Please not that some categories of student cannot obtain a certificate of commuting.
The longer commuter pass validity, the greater the discount
How to purchase
1. Confirm the route of public transportation
2. Receive a certificate of commuting issued by the Student Support Division or the Student Affairs Section of your School or Graduate School.
3. Bring your certificate of commuting and student ID card to purchase a commuting pass at any of the location below
Where to buy (examples)
Subway: Meinohama, nishijin, tenjin, Hakata, and Kaizuka Stations JR: Any station
Nishitetsu Bus & Railway: Tenjin Commuter pass Counter, Kashiihama Sales Office, Ohashi Station, Ijiri Station, etc.
Showa Bus: Ito Information Center, Showa-bus Kind Information Plaza(SKIP), 3rd floor of Hkata bus Terminal
JR Student Discount (certificate of student discount eligibility)
By presenting a certificate of student discount eligibility, students can receive a 20% discount on regular JR train fares if the on0way distance of their train ride for academic purposes (training, observation, etc.) or returning to their hometown for holidays is 101 km or more. Certificates of student discount eligibility can be obtained from automatic certificate-issuing machines. Research students and other non-degree students are not eligible.
One student can be issued with up to 10 certificates per year. Purchasing train tickets at discount prices with certificates issued to persons other than actual travelers is illegal, and holders of such tickets are charged the full regular fare plus a penalty corresponding to double the regular fare.
20%
How to purchase
1. Check the distance to your destination to see if it exceeds 100km.
2. Obtain a certificate of student discount eligibility from a machine on the Campus.
3. Bring the certificate to any JR station to purchase tickets.
Automobile, Motorcycle and Bicycle
Automobile & Motorcycle
Driver’s license
Driving an automobile or motorcycle in Japan requires either a Japanese driver’s license or an international driver’s license. It is possible to replace your driver’s license obtained in your home country or a third country with a Japanese driver’s license.
Unlicensed driving is heavily punished (imprisonment up to 12 months, fine up to 300,000 yen) and is even more heavily punished if such driving results in an accident. If you intend to drive in Japan, you are strongly advised to subscribe to voluntary insurance (nin-i hoken), in addition to the mandatory liability insurance. For more details, ask your car or motorcycle dealer upon purchase.
In recent years, many cases of being arrested for unlicensed driving are reported. Even if you do not need a driver’s license in your home country when driving a small motor cycle, you must obtain a Japanese diver’s license when driving in Japan. Always carry your driver’s license when driving.
How to replace your foreign driver’s license with a Japanese driver’s license
You are required to possess a valid driver’s license issued in a country other than Japan and have stayed in that country for 3 consecutive months or longer following the obtainment of your driver’s license.
| Where to apply | Fukuoka Driver’s License Test Center (4-7-1 Hanahata, Minami Ward, Fukuoka City) 電話：092－565-5109 |
|---|---|
| Busincess hours | Monday to Friday (closed on Saturday, Sunday, public holidays and New Year holidays) 13：00～13：30 |
| Test subjects | ●Examination of documents ●Aptitude ●Driving knowledge and skills ≪Countries Exempt from Knowledge and Skills Assessment (26 countries and 3 regions)≫ Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, USA (Maryland and Washington states Only) |
| Required items | ●Application form (available at the Test Center) ●2 ID photos (3cm x 2.4cm) ●1 copy of jumin-hyo (certificate of residence record) with mention of locale of family register or nationality ●Valid foreign driver’s license ●Japanese translation of the above driver’s license ( translated or certified by the Embassy or Consulate) ※Translation service by Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) Japanese translation of foreign driver’S license ●Passport ●Interpreter(If you don’t speak Japanese) |
| Testing fees | ●普通1種：2,550円 ●Ordinary Type 1 : 2,550 yen ●Large Type 1/ Medium Type 1: 4,100 yen ●Others: 2,600 yen |
| Vehicle use fee ※only examinees subject to driving skill test |
Depends on the size of the vehicle |
| License issuance fee | 2,050JPY |
| Fee for mention of additional vehicle type | 200JPY(If you are applying for multiple licenses, the fee applies per license type) |
Traffic rules
In Japan, cars drive on the left. Be particularly careful if you drive on the right in your home country. Japanese traffic rules are very strict, and violations are heavily punished (fined). Be sure to learn the local traffic rules before you drive. Compensation demanded for a traffic accident is extremely expensive in Japan. In the case of a fatal accident (even one caused by a motor cycle), the sum of compensation demanded could exceed 80 million yen. The mandatory automobile liability insurance is usually insufficient to entirely cover such demand and does not cover material damage caused to the victim or the responsible party’s medical expenses. For this reason, if you drive in Japan, you are advised to join a voluntary insurance in addition to the mandatory one.
Driving to University
Undergraduate Kyushu University students are not allowed to commute by car. Graduate students and research students whose commuting distance is 2 km or more and who habitually stay on the campus until late at night for research activities are allowed to commute by car by applying for a permission and paying an annual vehicular entry fee of 12,000 yen. For more details, please contact the Student Affairs Section of your School or Graduate School.
Bicycles
Bicycle Security Registration
Bicycles purchased in Japan must be registered for theft prevention and early detection of stolen bicycles. This procedure requires a registration fee of 600 yen. Change of registered information is mandatory when a bicycle owner has changed. Possessing a bicycle without updating its ownership information is considered as theft and thereby punishable. Please not that, in Japan, riding a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol is punishable in the same way as drunk driving. It is also illegal to ride a bicycle while using an umbrella or carrying another person. The number of bicycle collision accidents has been increasing recently on the Kyushu University campuses. Be prudent if you ride a bicycle since even bicycle accidents can lead to huge compensation claims.
Bicycle insurance
From October 1, 2020, all bicycle users in Fukuoka Prefecture are required to have bicycle insurance. Please check your insurance status, and if you have not yet joined, please make sure to join.
You can purchase insurance at the offices of each non-life insurance company, as well as via the Internet or terminals (multi-copy machines) at convenience stores. Please refer to the links below to find a company that handles bicycle insurance.
Bicycle Insurance
Safety and Security
Emergency Call Numbers in Japan
Throughout your stay in Japan, you should keep in mind the following two phone numbers that you need to call in the event an emergency situation arises. Call the number appropriate to what you need to report or ask for-Each number connects you to a nationwide response center in service nationwide, 24 hours and seven days a week. Wherever in Japan, these calls can be made free of charge from any phone including mobile phones, home phones, and public pay phones.
Police
110
Crime or accident
Fire/Ambulance
119
Fire, ambulance, emergency medical services.
Local Police Stations and Police Boxes
Police stations (keisatsu-sho) and police boxes (koban) near the Campuses and student dormitories are listed below. Koban, usually found in an urban area, are stationed by police officers 24/7 to ensure local community security. Feel free to seek help at a koban when you need directions, have lost an object, are involved in or troubled by an incident or accident.
| Campus area | Police Station/Police Box Name | Address/Phone number |
|---|---|---|
| Ito | Nishi Police Station | 1-14-10 Imajukunishi, Nishi Ward, Fukuoka City 092-805-6110 |
| Ito | Susenji Police Box | 2-8-13 Susenji, Nishi Ward, Fukuoka City 092-806-1110 |
| Hospital | Fukuoka Prefectural Police Headquarters | 7-7 Higashi Koen, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City 092-641-4141 |
| Ohashi | Minami Police Station | 2-3-1 Shiobaru, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City 092-542-0110 |
| Ohashi | Ohashi Police Box | 1-3-16 Ohashi, Minami Ward, Fukuoka City 092-541-1094 |
| Chikushi | Shirakibaru Pokice Box | 2-4-22 Shirakibaru, Onojo City 092-582-9234 |
| Chikushi | Kasuga Police Box | 3-1-21 Haramachi, Kasuga City 092-580-0110 |
Traffic accidents
In the case of a traffic accident, call 119(ambulance) first if someone is injured; otherwise, call 110 (police). If you are personally involved, you must note down the other party’s name, address, telephone number, age, driver’s license number, vehicle’s license plate number, insurance company, insurance policy number etc. You must also write down witnesses’ names and telephone numbers, if any. If you are injured, even only slightly, you must seek medical attention and have a medical certificate prepared by the medical institution. You are also required to notify your academic advisor/host professor and the office in charge of your department if you are involved in a traffic accident.
Fire
If you detect a fire, shout “kaji-da (fire)!” and alert the people around you; then call 119 for a fire engine. If a fire extinguisher or water is nearby, use it to contain the fire. However, never splash water over a cooking pot containing oil, a kerosene stove or an electric appliance.
Natural disasters
Typhoon
From summer to autumn, typhoons approach and sometimes hit the lands of Japan. When a typhoon approaches, rainfall and wind intensify, often blowing away roof tiles, tree branches, signboards and other objects and they cause a dangerous situation. In such situation, it is beat to stay inside the building as much as possible, and stay away from the windows since window glass can be broken by objects blown by strong winds. Remember that electric power and water supply are sometime disrupted. Be vigilant against a flood if you live in a lowland area or near a river. If you see rainwater overflowing onto the road surface, refrain from using the subway or going to an underground shopping arcade or basement floor.
When a typhoon strikes overland, mass-transit systems often change their operating schedules. In such a case, gather the latest information from TV, radio or the Internet.
Earthquake
Fukuoka has experienced less frequent earthquake compared to the other areas in Japan. However, there was a major earthquake hit the west coast of Fukuoka Prefecture in May 2005 and another powerful earthquake struck Kumamoto prefecture as well as other Kyushu region in 2026. Therefore, we must be vigilant at all times.
If an earthquake hits…
- Hide yourself under a sturdy desk or table, and protect your head with a pillow or cushion if available nearby.
- Once the shaking has stopped and you can move, extinguish all inflammable items.
- Open the door to secure an escape route and not to be shut in.
- When outdoors, stay away from buildings, cliffs and shores.
- Evacuate from a building via a staircase; elevators can stop in the middle of operation due to power failure.
- Safety confirmation e-mail will be sent to you b University through Student Portal System, please be sure to reply to it. (ANPIC) ANPIC
- If you have any damages due to disasters, please report them to a student section of your affiliated department or to Support Center.
Disaster Information
When a disaster occurs, it is important to obtain the latest information to ensure your safety. We recommend using the following smartphone apps and websites, which provide news and updates on disasters and emergency situations in Japan.
NHK World Japan
NHK World Japan is a service provided by Japan’s public broadcaster, NHK. It delivers the latest information on a variety of topics, including Japan’s disaster information, in multiple languages. It’s an ideal service for those who may not feel confident gathering information in Japanese. By downloading the smartphone app, you can receive push notifications with the latest information in the event of a disaster.NHK World Japan
Links for Multilingual News and BOSAI Info.
This is a useful collection of links related to Japanese news and disaster information provided by NHK. You can access multilingual news sites and gain a better understanding of disasters in Japan.Links for Multilingual News and BOSAI Info.
Disaster Prevention Info-mail Service “Mamoru-kun”
“Mamoru-kun” provides disaster information updates.・Stay informed about disaster alerts with push notifications based on your current location.
・Easily locate evacuation centers on the map.
・Illustrated guides on disaster preparedness actions are available.
・Verify family members’ locations during emergencies.
・Available in Japanese, English, Chinese (Simplified/Traditional), Korean, and Vietnamese.
iPhone Android
Family (educational supports and others)
About the School Education of Japan
Guidebook for Starting School
Available in English, Korean, Vietnamese, Pilipino, Chinese, Portuguese and Spanish.Guide for foreign students to start school
Brief explanation on Japanese Education System
These websites explain enrollment procedures for nursery, kindergarten, elementary and Junior high school, etc. Nursery/ Kindergarten Elementary/ Junior high schoolFukuoka city temporary custody business
Eligibility：The infant who is before elementary school enrollment from 6 months old who live in the Fukuoka city(The sick child and the infant of sick convalescence are non-applicable.)
Fee：It’s different depending on Facilities.
The use number of times：Even 14 times a month
Temporary custody business
*Choose “Foreign language” at the top of the web page.
Procedures for Starting School at Fukuoka City Elementary Schools (Fukuoka city)
Procedures for Changing Schools within Japan to Fukuoka City Elementary/Middle Schools
Procedures for Changing Elementary/Middle
Schools
This website provides explanation on transfer procedure for Japanese Children.
Foreign children can also transfer by taking the same procedure as below.
Procedures at the municipal office
- Foreign parents who have moved into Fukuoka city must take a procedure on their residence registration at Resident registration counter of the municipal oofice.
- At that time, those with a school-aged child(re) inform them the request to have child(re) attend a Japanese school at Resident registration counter of the municipal office.
- If you wish for school education, please complete the necessary forms and ask for an issuance of “Notice of School Transfer (Tennyuugaku tsuuchisho).”
Procedures at the school
- Foreign parents and child(ren) visit the designated school and submit the “Notice of School transfer”. Please make an appointment with the school by phone in advance.
- 2. A fire interview will be held with a staff of the school. Brief explanation on the procedures of transferring, preparation of school items and open a bank account will be given. There will be forms to be filled in, so please accompany with someone who can speak/read Japanese.
Procedures for Cases Where Japanese Language Support is required for child(ren)
Japanese Language Support Project for Child(ren)Health Related Services of Health and Welfare Center (Hokenjyo)
Following service on the mother and child handbook is available.
◇Issuance of the Mother and Child Handbook (Japanese)
Those who have registered as a foreign citizen at Fukuoka city, then the handbook in foreign language can be issued for free if requested.
Children’s Medical Subsidy System
The subsidy is provided for medical expenses so that children can receive medical care at hospitals and other facilities with peace of mind in the hope of their healthy growth.【Target Age】
Until 2023 December 31, even Medium3rd grader of*… school (until March 31 of beginning after the birthday previous day of 15 years old)
From 2024 January 1 to the*…… high school student generation, (the person who isn’t a※ student until March 31 of beginning after the birthday previous day of 18 years old, target)
To be certified for child medical expense subsidies, an application must be submitted. You can apply at the city office or online.
For detailed application procedures and grant details, please refer to the links below.
Children’s Medical Subsidy System *Choose “Foreign language” at the top of the web page.
Fukuoka City Consultation Support Center for Foreign Residents
Consultation on various matters related to daily life such as residence procedures, employment, medical care, welfare, childbirth/childrearing, and education of children is available in person or by phone or e-mail.Leaving Japan
- For those who leave Japan
- Guidance Video
- Moving-out of a university dormitory or a private apartment
- Disposal of bulk trash and recycled home electronics
- Cancellation of Co-op membership
- Procedures at a city(ward) office
- Payment of utility fee, internet fee and cellphone charge
- Closure of a bank account
- Termination of credit card contract
- Cancellation of Bicycle Security Registration
- Return of Residence Card
For those who leave Japan
There are many procedures to carry out including those mentioned above. Especially you are obliged to settle up all required payments. If you leave Japan without having them complete, it will not only cause a lot of trouble to your guarantor or a supervisor but also to discredit the reputation of your home country A checklist of procedures required before leaving Japan can be downloaded belowChecklist of necessary procedures before leaving Japan
Guidance Video
This is a guidance video about necessary procedures before leaving Japan which is created by Q-Mate, a student support team run by Kyushu University students.Please check it out!
Moving-out of a university dormitory or a private apartment
You are required to notify dormitory managers or a real estate agency of your moving-out date beforehand (usually 1 to 2 months in advance) in accordance with the contract. If the notification is not carried out appropriately or late, additional room charges may be deducted from the deposit. It is also required to clean up the room and have the room checked by dormitory managers or a real estate agancy on the moving-out date. If you are using a rented parking space or a storage room, you are also required to notify and terminate the contract.Disposal of bulk trash and recycled home electronics
Disposing bulk trash such as home furniture, home electronics or bicycle is charged and is required to follow community rule of your residence. Please find community rule of each residence in the following links.Fukuoka city Itoshima city Kasuga city Onojo city
Recycled home electronics such as air-conditioner, TV, refrigerator or washing machine are not taken care of by a city office. Please contact a retail shop where you purchased these items or the nearest “Best Denki”.
Cancellation of Co-op membership
Membership fee of Co-op will be refunded to you after cancellation. In case of Spring graduation, special counter by Co-op for cancellation of membership will be held in every March at the cafeteria of each campus. Please check the location and visit there with the following required items. In case of fall graduation, please visit a service counter of the nearest Co-op store.Information on the return of investment due to legal withdrawal and switching procedures due to higher education, etc.
- Residence Card
- Student ID Card
- Personal Seal (if you have)
- Application form
Procedures at a city ward office
Please visit, with required documents, a city office to go through following procedures within 14 days prior to your departure.- Moving-out notification form (※You can obtain at each city ward office)
- Residence Card
- Eligibility Varification Certificate
- National Pension Number Notice(Subscriber only)
- My Number Card(If you have one)
A notification of moving out
Please submit a notification of moving out to a resident registration section. If this is not carried out appropriately, you might be charged additional National Health Insurance fee even after your departure.Return your My Number card(If you have one)
You are required to return a My Number Card to a resident registration section.Cancellation of National Health Insurance
Please cancel National Health Insurance by returning National Health Insurance Card at a section-in-charge and settle any outstanding payments.Cancellation of National Pension Registration
Please cancel National Pension Registration at a section-in-charge. If you have Japanese National Pension coverage period under certain conditions, you can apply for Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment.Japan Pension Service Lump-sum withdrawal payment system
Payment of utility fee, internet fee and cellphone charge
You are required to notify all suppliers of public utilities before a moving-out date to cancel the contract and settle any outstanding payments. It goes similarly to a cellphone and internet service.Electricity
Kyushu Electric Power Co.【Internet application】
Internet application
【Telephone application】
Fukuoka city East ward：0120-986-204
Fukuoka city Central ward, Fukuoka city Hakata ward：0120-986-205
Kasuga city, Onojo city：0120-986-207
Ito area：0120-986-206
Gas
Saibu Gas Co.【Internet application】
Internet application
【Telephone application】
092-633-2345
Water
Fukuoka City Waterworks Bureau【Internet application】
Online Cancellation
【Telephone application】
092-532-1010
Cellphone company
Please bring your mobile phone handset, Residence Card or passport, and personal seal (inkan) to your mobile service provider and complete the cancellation procedure in person. Be sure to check the cancellation process in advance, preferably at least one month before your intended cancellation date.Internet
You are required to notify internet provider and ensure to return Modem/Router if rented. First of all please make sure of cancellation procedure more than 1 month in advance.Closure of a bank account
Please visit a bank with Bankbook, Cash Card, Personal Seal and Residence Card, and go through closing procedure. Please make sure of the following points before closing a bank account.- If scholarship payment in the last month into your bank account is successfully carried out
- If payment of utility fee or mobile phone charge in the last month by bank transfer is successfully carried out
Termination of credit card contract
You are required to call credit card company and make sure of the amount of outstanding payments as well as a method of payment.It goes similarly to Tuo Card obtained through Co-op; please visit Co-op store to confirm cancellation procedure.
Cancellation of Bicycle Security Registration
Please visit the nearest police station to cancel registration.- Registration Card
- Residence Card or Passport
- Bicycle
Return of Residence Card
Please return Residence Card to a departure counter or Immigration office at the airport. In case you forgot to return it for some reason, please send it to the following address by mail. *If you fail to return it, you may be punished with a fine.Odaiba Branch Office, the Tokyo Immigration Bureau Tokyo Port Joint Government Building 9F,
2-7-11 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0064
(Please write “The residence card to be returned” on the face of the envelope)