Flights overseas can get expensive around the New Year's holidays, so Fukuoka-based tourist organization Wahaha Studio Japan are hoping to make the holidays here a memorable experience.

Wahaha, which also offers Japanese lessons and other culture-related activities throughout the year, is organizing a series of events for the holiday season. The first will be a class on writing nengajo (New Year's greetings cards), which takes place on Dec. 28.

On Dec. 30, Wahaha will organize a trip to Yanagibashi shopping arcade to buy various New Year's supplies. Then, on New Year's Eve, the company will hold a yearend party where the staff will serve toshikoshi (end of the year) soba noodles. These noodles symbolize longevity and are eaten throughout Japan on Dec. 31.

On Jan. 1, Wahaha will coordinate visits to the homes of several Fukuoka residents where participants can stay overnight and enjoy a traditional holiday dinner and breakfast with the families.

Other activities will include kakizome, the first calligraphy of the year, and the opportunity to dress in kimono. The prices of these events vary between ¥2,500-¥5,000 and include guides and transport. To take part in the home visit, participants must pay ¥5,000 and their own transportation fees to the homes. The entire course of events costs ¥30,000 and you must apply three days prior to the event.

For details, call Wahaha at (092) 737-2288 or visit www.wahahastudiojapan.com.