Kitakyushu: Kyushu’s Northern Port City
As the hub between Kyushu and Honshu, Kitakyushu is one of the 3 biggest port in Japan along with Yokohama and Kobe. Kitakyushu is also home to several of Kyushu’s most popular historical landmarks and museums.
1. Mojiko Retro
The historic buildings from its glory days as an international shipping center now make for a delightful setting to spend a day or evening. After the Meiji Restoration of 1868 saw the launch of feudal Japan into the modern era, northern Kyushu became a major focus for coal and steel production with Mojiko its point of distribution.
All within walking distance, you’ll find western-style early 20th century buildings such as the Moji Mitsui Club, which hosted Albert Einstein in the 1920s. The former Osaka Shosen Mercantile Steamship Co. is the attractive orange brick building next to it. Along the large central harbor, you’ll see Kaikyo Plaza, full of stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants.
2. Kyushu Railway History Museum
The Railway History Museum is a popular destination for children and railroad fans. The red brick museum has a train driver simulator, a diorama of the railway network of Kyushu for everyone to have fun while learning about railroad history. The train cars including a steam locomotive (SL) outside were once in operation, you can actually ride on them. The mini train which you can drive for 300 yen a time is a favorite with children.
3. Kanmon Tunnel
IMAGINE WALKING FROM HONSHU TO KYUSHU – UNDER THE SEA! That’s exactly what KANMON TUNNEL is for. Some use it as their jogging track. It is about 3.5km long and was built around 1936-1944. Many tourists always talk a photo of stepping foot on both Kyushu island and Honshu. See and walk from Mojiko via the Kanmon Tunnel to visit Shimonoseki city.
4. Grilled Curry
Fukuoka prefecture is the source of the best food in Japan. Grilled curry is one of the best local dishes you should try. Toppings with cheese and egg to this curry-on-rice, then gill in the oven until it has a deliciously fragrant and smoky taste. it is a definitely famous plate of Mojiko area.
5. Kokura Castle
Now you can time travel to the Japanese style architectures and buildings in Kokura area.
Firstly, Kokura Castle was built in 1602 by Hosokawa Tadaoki.
There are also many things to see inside the castle itself, including a learning zone with introductions to the history and culture of Kokura Castle, and an observation zone with panoramic views over Kokura.
And it is also renowned for its 300 cherry trees, which bloom in spring, and the autumn colors of zelkova and gingko trees.
※From 6. August 2018 to 31. March 2019, due to renewal work, we will be closed.
6. Rickshaw
Rickshaw is a perfect fit for this nostalgic atmosphere. While you are taking a rickshaw, the “Shafu”(runner pulling the rickshaw) will guide you good sightseeing spots around the area.
7. Kokura Castle Japanese garden
The Kokura Castle Japanese garden is a cultural facility which was restored from the recreation villa of Daimyo Ogasawara and transformed into a complex with tearooms and exhibition halls.
8. Tea Ceremony
You can also experience an authentic style of Japanese Matcha tea with seasonal “Wagashi”, a Japanese confectionery. it is a perfect way to take a break after touring the area.
9. Tanga market
Kitakyushu’s kitchen is here! Come feel the energy of the city’s people in this marketplace, which feels like it was lifted straight out of the Showa era. There are 120 shops overflows with locally sourced marine products, vegetables, side dishes, and more.
