Dontaku is coming! This celebration of Hakata Culture is now the most popular festival in Japan, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to the city. The highlight is the Dontaku Parade, where ‘troupes’ organized by individuals or organizations march through downtown Hakata. This year sees the return of Fukuoka International Association’s hugely successful International Troupe, which any foreign resident of the city can join. Come and soak in the Hakata culture, or better still represent your home country on the Japanese national stage and march in traditional national dress! The parade runs between 12:30 and 15:00 on May 3rd, however the application deadline is April 22. Participation is limited to 150, so apply early at kokusaidontaku@rainbowfia.or.jp or in person at Rainbow Plaza.

A New Rhythm

Australian (and living-legend), Pixie, who recently celebrated her second decade of living in Fukuoka has returned to the hospitality industry. At press time Pixie and her crew were in the early stages of refreshing “Rhythm” Music Bar, located on the third floor of the infamous “Happy Cock” nightclub. Pixie’s experience as a professional chef and caterer guarantee tasty dishes of what she calls home style “real food”: Lasagna, Pork Chops and Apple Sauce, Lamb Shanks, and Creamy mashed Potatoes. The Chef’s Dinner Set (15 settings/night) is just ¥1,500 and includes a glass of wine and dessert. Last order is 23:40, but a snack menu (¥500 or ¥1,000) continues onto the wee hours, as does the good music and good times. Tel: 092-713-4211.