Fukuoka, which promotes itself as a historic gateway to Asia, has been hosting events to raise awareness of Asian culture each fall since 1990.
This year, the Fukuoka Municipal Government has declared September to be Asian Month and has organized a wide variety of cultural activities.
As part of the events, a weeklong festival was held at a plaza just outside City Hall from Sept. 10. It featured live performances by dance and music troupes from China, South Korea, India and Thailand, as well as cuisine from various Asian countries cooked at food stalls by professional chefs.
Taeko Yamaguchi, a 20-year-old university student, said she went to the plaza because she was attracted by the colorful decorations and festive sounds.