Explore the Asian Pacific world this weekend at Marine Messe and Hakata Station Plaza in Fukuoka, where "all the charms of the Asian Pacific regions" will come together.
The Asian Pacific Festival is part of a symbolic Asian month when Fukuoka promotes cultural events related to education, art and culture, as a way to deepen their ties with other parts of Asia.
Asian month primarily started because of Fukuoka's geographical location: It is closer to Seoul than Tokyo, and the Japanese capital is around the same distance as Shanghai.
Countries set to participate include South Korea, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore.
The Asian Pacific Stage is the main attraction at the festival where those participating countries will present their culture through musical and dance performances. Of course, culinary culture will also be well represented as will crafts and national fashions.
After holding the successful Asian Film Festival last month, Fukuoka seems to be priming itself as a gateway of sorts to a continent that is gaining in terms of international clout.
The Asian Pacific Festival will be held at Marine Messe and Hakata Station Plaza in Fukuoka on Oct. 8-10. For more information, visit www.asianmonth.com.