Social welfare house Fukudenkai was officially established in 1876 as the Fukudenkai orphanage (Fukudenkai‐ikujiin). The main founder was a Buddhist monk, and the name of Fukudenkai itself also comes from the philosophy of Buddhism. In the early days of Fukudenkai’s history, the main source of funding for activities were donations. Fukudenkai received donations not only from individuals but also from imperial families, and it was one of the most prestigious orphanages at that time.

Fukudenkai has encountered financial and operational difficulties several times during their history but thanks to reasonable business decisions and support from the donors, it has operated until today. Fukudenkai played an important role in saving children who had nowhere to go during emergencies such as huge earthquakes and wars. The most symbolic support was the acceptance of 375 Polish children from Siberia. Children from Siberia spent about three months in Fukudenkai (during the stay, some children who had health problems went to the Japanese Red Cross hospital for medical care). This history connects Fukudenkai and Poland until today. Fukudenkai regularly welcomes artists, specialists and governors from Poland.

Today Fukudenkai is operating as a children’s home, a care facility for elderly people and also as a facility for children with intellectual disabilities. It remains true to its founding philosophy and carries out innovative projects that contribute to the well-being of children. Indeed, Fukudenkai has made great efforts to commemorate the history of Siberian Children and to strengthen the friendship between Japan and Poland by organizing events.