Several organizations in Fukuoka assist international students who are looking to make friends.

1. Fukuoka International Exchange Foundation

The Fukuoka International Exchange Foundation makes the most of Fukuoka’s geographical and historical advantages to promote citizen-led international exchange in collaboration with various exchange associations in Fukuoka Prefecture. At the same time, it provides support for foreigners living in Fukuoka. The support programs include scholarships for international students, Japanese language classes and free consultations on human rights and resident status procedures.

*The Fukuoka International Student Support Center’s Administrative Council Head Office is run by the staff of the International Student Department of the Fukuoka International Exchange Foundation.

Students studying at the Fukuoka International Exchange Center. 2 to 3 students are studying at each table.

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2. Fukuoka City International Foundation

Established to commemorate the success of the Asian-Pacific Exposition - Fukuoka ’89, the Fukuoka City International Foundation is engaged in activities that promote international exchange, taking advantage of the historical and cultural advantages of Fukuoka as a key Asian city. The Foundation aims to contribute to the realization of a multicultural society where every citizen will acknowledge diversity in others, to deepen mutual understanding, and to assist in regional development and world peace.

Students playing ball on a grass field.
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3. Kitakyushu International Association

With “multicultural” as its keyword, the Association offers assistance to foreign nationals living in the Kitakyushu area, to help integrate them with the local Japanese community. By collaborating and partnering with Japanese citizens, foreign nationals, international exchange associations and citizen volunteers, the Association promotes international friendship activities led by citizens and aims to realize regional internationalization.

Participants listening attentively to a presenter in a meeting room.

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4. Kurume Bureau of Tourism and International Exchange

Utilizing Kurume's history, culture, industry and other unique characteristics, our bureau aims to contribute to the stimulation of the local economy and community by promoting tourism and conventions in the city, as well as driving international exchange and understanding amongst its citizens.In particular, our international exchange projects include promotion of exchange with friendship/sister cities and support for foreign residents.

People interacting with someone dressed up as a mascot character.

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Tel
+81-942-31-1717
FAX
+81-942-31-3210
Email
ktie@ktarn.or.jp
URL
http://www.kurume-hotomeki.jp/en/

5. The Nishi-Nippon Foundation

The Nishi-Nippon Foundation was established to deepen international understanding and develop global human resources, and to contribute to international goodwill and world peace by promoting exchanges with Asian nations. It presents the Asia Contribution Award and the Asia Kids Award to recognize local exchange organizations, promotes friendship between local residents and international students, and provides grants to international exchange bodies.

Group photo taken in front of a castle.

Contact Us

Tel
092-476-2154
FAX
092-476-2634
Email
nckokusaizaidan@gmail.com
URL
http://www.nnk-foundation.jp/

6. Dazaifu City International Exchange Association

The Association hosts international exchange events in Dazaifu City, and provides assistance to international students. After paying an annual membership fee of 500 yen and becoming a member, you can participate in all events (except the Japanese language classes) for free. The Association hosts exchange events, making the best use of the characteristics of Dazaifu. Your active participation is welcomed.

A foreign teacher is teaching students how to prepare a dish in a class.

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Tel
092-918-5391
FAX
092-918-5391
Email
f-bell-club@city.dazaifu.lg.jp
URL
http://www.dciea.or.jp/

7. Onojo International Exchange Association

With a motto of “Think Globally, Act Regionally,” the International Exchange Association was inaugurated as a citizen volunteer organization aimed at contributing to the internationalization of Onojo City, and at developing international awareness among citizens. Calling its programs “Kokusai-Juku,” the Association engages in international exchange activities in various areas, such as support for foreign nationals, culture classes to help people understand different cultures, and training to teach young people to be future leaders.

Two women studying.

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Tel
092-580-1996
FAX
092-501-2270
Email
begin@city.onojo.fukuoka.jp
URL
http://www.city.onojo.fukuoka.jp

8. Foreign Students Support Network “FORSNET”

With its office located in the Kitakyushu Science and Research Park, FORSNET hosts exchange events based on food and culture, for international students and local residents who are interested in international friendship activities. It also provides life support programs for international students and their Japanese counterparts, including language classes, workshops on job searches, and the introduction of part-time jobs in system construction, which will enable cooperation and growth through friendly competition.

A group of people wearing traditional Japanese costumes.

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9. Gakken Volunteer Association

There are currently about 500 international students studying at the Kitakyushu Science and Research Park. This Association was established in order to deepen international students’ understanding of Japan, and to support international students who face anxieties and difficulties in daily life because of differences in language, culture and customs.

Former international students, separated into groups, are gathering around tables.

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10. Iizuka Friendship Network

Established in 1994, the Network offers a place for friendly exchange between international students and citizens, as well as medical consultations, subsidies for activity expenses and Japanese language classes conducted by Ryugakusei Front (using members’ funds). Also, in collaboration with Futamatase Community Center, the Network runs a bike rental program. The Iizuka Friendship Network belongs to the Iizuka International Exchange Promotion Council and cooperates with them in conducting various activities, such as speech contests, cooking classes and home visits. The Network has been involved in the friendship city agreement between Iizuka City and Sunnyvale City (in Silicon Valley in California), playing a leading role in a youth education project.

Group photo of former international students with locals from Iizuka.

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