Local Life-long Learning Centers (生涯学習センター shōgai gakushū sentā) often hold culture classes that include ikebana, tea ceremony, and seasonal activities. Visit your local Center and inquire about a schedule. Locals will be happy to help you, so don’t be shy!
Taiko (太鼓)
The Wai Wai Taiko Group in Kitakyushu is foreigner-friendly and has a large number of JETs. If you want to get involved, e-mail Kayo (simple English is OK) at mouri@bronze.ocn.ne.jp and ask for directions. The group usually practices Mon. and Wed. from 7 to 9 p.m.
Kimono (着物)
Kimono classes are run by Nihonwasou to promote the kimono industry. You can find classes in your city on the map on their website. Each session is 15 classes and meets once a week. Classes are free, but you need to purchase your own kimono and accessories. http://www.wasou.com/course/
Tea Ceremony (茶道 sadō or chadō)
Most junior and senior high schools will have a tea ceremony group, known as a sadōbu (茶道部), as an after-school activity. Your students will no doubt be thrilled to have you participate!
Ikebana (生け花)
Ikebana, or kadō (華道, “the way of flowers”), is a traditional style of flower arranging. There are many different styles and schools within ikebana. Like tea ceremony, there may be opportunities to practice this art through your school or a local community center.
Mochi Pounding (餅つき mochi tsuki)
Mochi pounding, which involves striking a ball of glutinous rice with a massive mortar, most often takes place around the beginning of the new year.
Hanami (花見)
Ohanami (cherry blossom viewing) parties take place everywhere from late March to early April. Kokura Castle in Kitakyushu, Maizuru Park in Fukuoka, Gozu-Tenno Park in Koge-machi and Habu Park in Nakama are all prime locations. The idea is to appreciate the transience of life embodied by the fragile blossom. The traditional way to do this is to get drunk on sake.
Fruit Picking (フルーツ狩り furūtsu gari)
The regions around Kurume, Asakura and Ukiha in Fukuoka Prefecture are known for their delicious fruits. Top picks include strawberries, from January to May; grapes, from August to October, and apples from September to November. Fukuoka is especially known for “Hakata Amaou,” which is literally the sweetest “king” of strawberries.
The news group Fukuoka Now publishes fruit-picking guides every year.
Nihon Buyō (日本舞踊)
Learn a traditional Japanese dance, found often in kabuki and noh plays! This group dance is a powerful visual storytelling artform, and it’s great fun to get involved with a troupe, wear the extravagent performance costumes, and bring joy by performing at festivals. There are studios all over the prefecture, so search around for an opportunity near you.