Fukuoka is the largest city on Kyushu Island, located in the southwestern part of the Japanese archipelago. The city has been playing an important role as a gateway to Asia since ancient times. It has flexibly absorbed diverse cultures from various foreign visitors and developed through over 2,000 years of exchange with other countries.
Fukuoka is also famous as a city of gourmet cuisine, where you can enjoy various food such as Tonkotsu ramen and “Mentaiko” (spicy cod roe). Moreover, the city boasts numerous attractive tourism resources, including historical and cultural sites, as well as shopping spots. 
Fukuoka City formed a sister city relationship with Auckland City, New Zealand, in 1986. Since then, they have strengthened their bond through biennial youth delegation visits and exchanges in various fields, including sports and economic activities.
A place that symbolises the bond between Fukuoka and Auckland is the “Fukuoka Friendship Garden,” located next to Auckland Zoo. The garden is managed by the Auckland Council but is regularly maintained by volunteers from the Fukuoka Friendship Garden Group. Their activities, such as cleaning, help maintain the garden’s beautiful landscape.
In 2023, a Japanese plum tree was gifted by Fukuoka City as a token of appreciation to the group, and a tree planting ceremony was held in the garden. Fukuoka City hopes that the tree will grow, symbolising the enduring friendship between the two cities.
In 2026, Fukuoka City and Auckland will celebrate the 40th anniversary of their sister city relationship. To mark this milestone, the city is planning a range of exchange events to help more people in Auckland learn about their sister city. The city hopes many will take the opportunity to participate in these events.
Finally, Fukuoka City warmly invites you to visit, and they look forward to welcoming you!
