Kanda, Fukuoka
As of April 30, 2017, the town has an estimated population of 36,957 and a density of 800 persons per km. The total area is 46.46 km. Nishinippon Institute of Technology is located in the town. Future merger. A majority of local residents favor remaining an independent municipality, but voices calling for a merger with the neighboring city of Kitakyūshū remain. Transportation. The town is located approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) west of Kitakyūshū Airport, which is built on an artificial island. The airport serves several major cities in Japan and other eastern Asian countries. By road, the  city is adjacent to the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway. By rail, the city is served by the Kanda Station. Economy. The Nissan Motor Kyushu factory started operation in Kanda in 1975. Culture. The Kanda Float Festival is held annually in mid-September. The festival is famous for its 14 "fighting floats", and has been categorized as an "Intengible Folk Cultural Asset" by the Fukuoka prefecture. Sister Cities. Samcheok, South Korea (since 1997)