"Let's grow together!"
Friends often ask me "Where is an exciting and vibrant place to go in Japan?" Certainly Tokyo and Osaka are bustling cities, but I always recommend Fukuoka.

I have an inextricable connection with Fukuoka. It is through friendships and radio programs promoting exchange, that various exchanges of information have taken place between Fukuoka and Hong Kong. For example, information about my favorite Fukuoka delicacies, which includes Hakata ramen, mentaiko (cod roe), Amaou strawberries (local Fukuoka strawberries) and eel, is just one of the topics that comes up (on my radio show).

I think that Fukuoka is the most youthful and energetic city in the whole of Japan. The impeccably clean streets feel like they are youthful and lively, as if they are flower buds about to bloom. Fukuoka, which is filled to the brim with happiness and vigor, provides a warm, hospitable environment for young people.

If you take a trip to Japan, I would suggest starting with the cherry blossom season in April, as Fukuoka is a city where the cherry blossoms bloom early within Japan. In the summer you can enjoy all kinds of musical styles in the huge music festivals that take place on Fukuoka's beaches. When autumn comes around, the vivid "koyo" (fall colors) and the decoratively colored streets join together in perfect harmony. Also, Fukuoka Asia Collection(FACo), which is one of Japan's three big fashion shows, introduces original Fukuoka brands and clothing lines to the outside world, and through the efforts of all those who participate has become an event that symbolizes the city.

However, what I love about Fukuoka above all else are its inhabitants. The people are warm, kind and great you as if you are family. It is thanks to the efforts of the people that I think Fukuoka is close to being a perfect city. Hong Kong and Fukuoka are both cities that are filled with charm and excitement. I believe that the efforts and cultural exchange between Hong Kong and Fukuoka will see the two cities develop together and enter full bloom like beautiful flowers.