Fukuoka - Guide for Gays, Lesbians and Queers

Fukuoka is the largest city on Kyushu and has its own, fairly small queer infrastructure. The gay bars are concentrated in Sumiyoshi in Hakata Ward and neighbouring Haruyoshi in Chuo Ward. Most are small counter bars tucked into commercial buildings. Because venues open and close frequently, it is worth checking a gay travel guide before you go.

An important point of contact for the community is the Kyushu Rainbow Pride team. Besides organising the autumn festival, it uses its website and social media to recruit volunteers and supporting members. At the festival itself, many counselling services and groups from the region run booths, so it is a good place to meet most local initiatives in one go.

The City of Fukuoka runs its own partnership system, called パートナーシップ宣誓制度 in Japanese. Two adults, at least one of whom belongs to a sexual minority, can declare their partnership to the city if at least one of them lives in Fukuoka or plans to move there. Children living with the couple can also be added to the certificate if they agree. The city states clearly that the certificate has no legal effect under national law, but it gives access to certain municipal services. The responsible office is the human rights promotion section at City Hall.

Fukuoka's administration openly backs queer causes, as its support for the local Pride also shows.