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Reporter: Wow..., it's like stepping
into the world of fantasy!
Narration:
This is downtown Tenjin, located in Fukuoka City Chuo ward.
As the end of the year approaches, the downtown area is
decorated with magical illuminations.
Reporter:
The illuminations, which brighten up the lives of so many
people every year are organized by a community development
organization called We Love Tenjin Association.
Narration:
Tenjin is the hub of Fukuoka City with many commercial and
office buildings. It is always bustling with people from
within and without Fukuoka prefecture.
Reporter:
But because it is such a popular destination for so many
people, Tenjin has its share of problems.
Reporter:
What kind of improvements would you like to see in Tenjin?
Passerby A: Cyclists on sidewalks are dangerous.
Passerby B: Cigarette litter on the streets,
and people who smoke while they're walking are big issues.
Reporter:
We Love Tenjin Association was established to make Tenjin
better by resolving these problems.
Narration:
We Love Tenjin Association brings together residents and
companies in the Tenjin area, along with NPO and public
administration , in community development.
Narration:
They are presently drawing up the "Tenjin Community
Development Guidelines" and many activities that adhere
to them are already taking place.
Reporter:
How was this Association established?
Ms. Ikeda:
Tenjin has many problems such as town deterioration caused
by moral degeneration, and acceleration of demographic aging.
As those strongly affiliated to Tenjin, we wanted to tackle
these issues by working together.
Reporter:
It's eight o'clock in the morning now. A lot of people are
gathering over there. Let's go and see what's happening.
Narration:
We Love Tenjin Association calls the 14th of each month
"Tenjin Clean Day" and collects litter in the
Tenjin area. Aside from picking up litter, they also take
an active part in removing illegal advertisements and dealing
with illegal in parked bicycles.
Reporter:
Why did you decide to volunteer?
Participant
A: It may be difficult to get rid
of litter completely. But if those who recognize the problem
take action, perhaps others will become aware of it too.
Participant
B: It's a small good deed, but it
feels refreshing to be of help. I look forward to participating
again!
Participant
C: I live in the suburbs, but Tenjin
is a place I visit frequently. I wanted to give something
back by picking up litter.
Narration:
With the cooperation of the local community, We Love Tenjin
Association also tries to contribute to crime prevention
by removing graffiti, and patrolling the area at night.
Reporter:
The Association also organizes an event called "Tenjin
Picnic" with the aim of making Tenjin a fun place for
pedestrians.
Narration:
During Tenjin Picnic held every fall, certain roads, squares,
and parks within the Tenjin area become pedestrian paradise.
Open cafes are set up providing relaxing rest areas in the
bustling streets.
Narration:
Other initiatives include "Oshichari Campaign"
advising cyclists to dismount and push their bicycles along
busy streets, and Bicycle Parking Coupons which offer cyclists
various services, including discounts and small gifts from
stores in Tenjin, if they park their bicycles at designated
underground parking areas. These efforts to make Tenjin
pedestrian-friendly are favorably received by cyclists.
Reporter:
What does the Association wish to achieve?
Ms. Ikeda:
Although we just got into action, our aim is to make Tenjin
a pleasant and enjoyable area. I love Tenjin myself, and
I hope many others will feel the same way.
Reporter:
Tenjin attracts many people, and its appeal is enhanced
by those who love the area. We Love Tenjin Association will
continue its effort to make Tenjin even more vibrant and
well-loved.
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