2024 Kitakyushu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)
Kitakyushu is a city located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, and is named after the northernmost point of Japan's Kyushu Island. It is the main industrial city and port city in Japan. Established shipping relationships with more than 80 countries around the world. The industry is developed, mainly in steel and chemistry, as well as in machinery, chemicals, food processing, and ceramics. While developing the industry, Kitakyushu City has also made remarkable achievements in urban construction and environmental governance, and is a typical city governed by the United Nations.
Today's Weather
Cloudy 15-18℃
Popular Attractions
Mojiko Retro
Kokura Castle
Mojiko Retro Observation Room
Mojiko Retro District and Mojiko Station
Visiting Mojiko Retro is truly an impressive experience, especially for those who are fascinated by European-style architecture and classic retro atmosphere. The photos taken while strolling through this area clearly reflect the beauty and unique charm of the place.
Mojiko is close to the sea and mountains, offering a diverse and breathtaking scenery. Walking along the pier, you can feel the cool breeze and the refreshing scent of the sea.
There is a symbol commemorating its twin port relationship with Laem Chabang Port in Thailand, which further emphasizes the connection between the two cultures and significant trade. Mojiko Retro thus stands as a remarkable place that reflects the history and international relations.
Old Mitsui Club in Mojiko
Name📝: Old Mitsui Club 三井俱樂部
Address📍: 7-1 Minatomachi, Moji Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 801-0852, Japan
〒801-0852 福岡県北九州市門司区港町7−1
Nearest train station 🚉: Mojiko 門司港
Famous for✨ its quiet area, the beautiful pier view, the posh town
Tourist spots nearby 👀:
🛍️ Mojiko town centre for shopping (5 minute walk)
🖼️ Idemitsu Museum of Art (15 minute walk)
❤️ Love locks lake (5 minute walk)
#Mojiko #Kitakyushu #mitsui
Kokura Castle in North Kyushu
Address📍: 2-1 Jonai, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 803-0813, Japan
〒803-0813 福岡県北九州市小倉北区城内2−1
Nearest train station 🚉: Kokura 小倉 (15 minute wak)
Famous for ✨: its history, its architecture (very instagramable), its Japanese umbrellas all over its entrance, the statues of local samurais, and also the sakura over the hill of the castle in spring
Tourist spots nearby 👀:
🛍️: Kokura Central Shopping Street next to the Kokura Station (15 minute walk)
🚽 : ToTo Museum (10 minute walk) which shows the evolution and variety of toilets in Japan
#Kokura #Kitakyushu #japan
Yasaka Shrine in Kokura Castle
#JapanTravel Yasaka Shrine in Kokura Castle has a history of over 400 years, located in the middle of Nishikokura, next to the River Walk. But when you step in from Omotesando, you will find "a quiet and solemn atmosphere".
This shrine is right next to Kokura Castle. It is a Shinto Buddhist temple with beautiful torii gates and temple gates. See the exquisite architecture of the worship hall or Haiden. This hall is where the shrine's sacred items are kept. Before entering, local people wash their hands with water scooped from a small waterway or spring. This action is called purification and is a traditional procedure before entering the main hall or main shrine.
Yasaka Shrine is easily accessible via the Kitakyushu Riverwalk shopping mall by heading to Kokura Castle. It is located a 5-minute walk south of Nishi-Kokura Station. The shrine is free to visit every day.
#travel
TOTOly amazing toilet museum 🚽
Name 📝: ToTo Museum
Address 📍: 2 Chome-1-1 Nakashima, 北九州市小倉北区 Fukuoka 802-8601, Japan
Nearest station 🚉: Kawaraguchi Mihagino 香春口三荻野
Famous for ✨: having the history of the the most famous toilet maker in Japan, evolution of various toilets in Japan, the very cool Toilet Bike, various designs of toilets to cater for different people
Experience 🤓: blown away! Firstly it’s free of charge. Secondly it’s innovative and high-tech in designs. Also the staff is very polite. There is elegant classical music played inside the museum so you won’t feel you are in a toilet but really somewhere classy! 🎵 #japan #kitakyushu #ToTo
Literature museum with stunning outlook
Name 📝: Kitakyushu Literature Museum
Nearest Station 🚉: Kokura 小倉
Address 📍: 4-1 Jonai, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 803-0813
Famous for ✨:
🛖its architecture both inside and outside
📚 the amount of information you are able to find
Tourist spots nearby 👀:
🏯Kokura Castle (just across the road)
🚽 ToTo Museum (15 minute walk)
🛍️ Kokura Central and Uomachi Gintengai Street full of shops and restaurants
🐠 Tanga Markets with fresh seafood and other food stalls 😋 #kitakyushu #Kokura #Kyushu #japan
Kokura Central
Nearest station 🚉: Kokura
Address 📍: 1 Chome-6-10 Uomachi, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0006
Famous for✨:
🛍️ vibrant streets full of restaurants and shops - it’s the busiest area of the city. Perfect for shopping and eating
🏟️ Mikuni World Stadium - a well built venue for international events. Most recently the World Breaking Series (breakdance competition) was held there which brought competitors from dozens of countries to Kyushu
Tourist spots nearby 👀:
🏯 Kokura Castle (25 minute walk or 5 minute taxi)
🏕️ Katsuyama Park (right next to the castle)
Mojiko - historic port in Kyushu
Nearest station 🚉 : Mojiko
Address 📍: Minatomachi, Moji Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 801-0852
Famous for ✨: retro buildings, grilled curry 🍛
Tourist spots nearby 🤓 :
🛍️ Sakaemachi shopping street (10 minute walk)
⛩️ Santuario Sintoasita (10 minute walk)
🛕 World Peace Pagoda (20 minute walk)
There will be lights lit up around the port after 5:30 pm also 🌉🌃
CHACHA TOWN KOKURA
Address - kokura kitakyushu fukuoka
Atmosphere/Location - Chacha Town is not a very big shopping mall. From what I observed, most of them are shops selling food and snacks from Japan. There are also shops selling food and snacks, Ferris wheels. There are not many branded items. It focuses more on food activities. It is a shopping mall with a large bus stop next to it. You can walk to get on the bus from here to various places.
Highlights - Ferris Wheel
Average price per person - 12 minutes / person 300 yen, very cheap, so cheap it's shocking
Score - 10/10 Good weather, not many people, cheap Ferris wheels
#amusementpark #travelabroad #travelabroadtojapan
Beautiful place 🤩
Almost three months, we have been waiting for enjoying the autumn beauty in this park. Finally we visited here!!! A eye-catching scenery, many things to watch, and for it’s full of beauty, I will obviously recommend this place for seeing the best view of Autumn. I don't know how it looks in other seasons, but you should obviously visit if you want to enjoy the Autumn scenery. Though, you have to buy Ticket, obviously because it’s a beautiful place and need big amount for maintain cost, but I was shock as I have to buy ticket for two times. From 9 to 4:30, you need to buy a ticket of 450 yen(adults) for enjoying the day scenery. But for enjoying the night, which was more attractive, you have to buy a ticket of 1200 yen(adults). Though if you buy the ticket from their website, you can save 200 yen as you have to pay 1000 yen!
Whatever, for it’s attractive view, I think it wasn’t a waste of money project for me!!
#beachlife #2023TravelWish #tripblazers
Showa Memorial Park
Very huge park with variety of flowers and so many ginkgo trees. The entry fee is 450 yen per person per day. We went to see the cosmos matsuri and were very tired after roaming for more than 3 hours. Bicycles are available on rent for ease of transportation within the park however there may be a long waiting time on weekends or holidays. The photos came out very nice and my spouse was really happy. The Japanese garden within the park is really wonderful.#2023travelwish#tripblazers#beachlife
Mojiko Retro Observation Room
Address: Japan, 801-0853 Fukuoka, Kitakyushu, Moji Ward, Higashiminatomachi, 1−32
Getting there: You can take train to the Idemitsubijutsukan Station and the observation room is just about 200meters away.
Highlights: The Mojiko Retro Observation Room is located 103 meters above ground, providing a wonderful panoramic view of the Kanmon Strait, and even Shimonoseki City. This is the tallest buiding in the area, and hence the best view you can get over the Kanmon strait! 🤩
The observation room is also installed with state-of-the-art equipment, including digital telescopes that magnify an image up to 17 times. The observation room also has a cafe, where you can enjoy some coffee while relaxing.😌
Opening hours: 10am to 10pm
Admission fee: 300yen
#bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #culturewalk
The Famous and Busy Moji Port
Address: 3 Chome-4 Kiyotaki, Moji Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 801-0833, Japan
Getting there: Mojiko Station and the various sights around Moji Port are located within an area spanning about two kilometers along the bay. The area is conveniently explorable on foot.
Highlights: Moji Port has been prominent as an international trading port. Although some of the main port activities have been moved to the Shin-Moji Port, but this Moji Port still retains its relevance as a tourist destination with a flavor from the past thanks to several well-preserved Western style buildings from the Meiji and Taisho Periods.😁
Remember to also try the local delicacy "Yaki Curry" when you visit here. It is a baked curry and rice dish which is very scrumptious. 😋
#bucketlistreboot #traveljapan
Kawachi Wisteria Garden
Address: 2 Chome-2-48 Kawachi, Yahatahigashi Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 805-0045, Japan
Getting there: Would be more convenient to travel by car as there is free parking provided.
Highlights: Kawachi Wisteria Garden is a private garden in the wooded hills south of central Kitakyushu, famous for its spectacular displays of wisteria flowers.🍀
The most famous part of this garden is the spectacular flower tunnel, it is roughly 100 meter long tunnels made of wisteria trees of differing varieties and colors, ranging from white to dark purple. 😍
This garden attract large numbers of visitor daily so do remember to make reservation before coming!
Opening hours: 8am to 6pm daily
Admission fee: 500yen
#gooutside #traveljapan #awesomepic
KAWACHI FUJI GARDEN, JAPAN
In fact, Kawachi Fuji Garden is the national botanical garden in Japan. Well, here is a famous tunnel filled with wisteria flowers.
There are more than 20 types of wisteria flowers on the roof of the tunnel. So, you will feel the sensation like in a fairy tale when you visit here.#triplocal
#themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes#beaches
Located at the seaside between Kyushu island and mainland of Japan, you can see both sides without any disruption from here. It is an observatory on the 31st floor. You'll get there in 45 seconds by high-speed elevator. You can see Moji Port, Iwaryu Jima, Dannoura in Shimonoseki, and Kanmon Bridge. The ships that come and go are going back and forth without losing to the flow of the Kanmon Bridge. Nice and relaxing place. This place is wonderful. It has a European vibe to it, which makes it a memorable visit in Japan. So if you are around the area and wants something other than usual castles, go to Mojiko Retro. Although I forget how much I paid, it was cheap and worth it.
#givethanks
#givethanks
Kokura Castle is located at Fukuoka, Japan. This nicely restored castle has a good mix of history and fun. Walkable from the Kokura train station. Kids and adults will enjoy riding the palanquin and sitting in on a samurai war council. The views are great from the top floor too. The castle is situated in the middle of the city. It provides a very peaceful place to walk and view the beautiful gardens. The castle is very popular during spring when the cherry blossom blooms but even other seasons, it is worth to visit.
#givethanks
#givethanks
Sato is located in Kokura City, Fukuoka Prefecture. It is very close to the Shinkansen from Hakata Station in Fukuoka City, but I thought it was a short time to miscalculate the Shinkansen shift and was late! I was almost canceled by the restaurant... I ordered a pot of bamboo wine to suppress it. After two days of cold storage, the cold north bucket is poured into a bamboo cup, and it tastes fragrant. After the mood is restored, it begins to enjoy the food~
The earthen bottle with pine mushrooms and squid is steamed very delicious, and the grilled Tangmo (mullet roe) cake And the fried puffer fish tail is impressive. The entire package has both traditional and original ingredients from the owner. The tableware used in the store was collected by the owner in the past, from traditional Japanese pottery to Baccarat crystal plates, which complemented the various dishes of the season.
6-Day Autumn Trip to Japan: Don't Miss These Beautiful Spots!
First time in Japan? Check out this 6-day itinerary to experience the best of Japan and enjoy a unique Japanese-style trip!
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Japan is a country with a rich history, where ancient and modern cultures intertwine. 🏞️ Enjoy cherry blossoms at the foot of Mount Fuji and experience the unique local customs. 🎌 From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the ancient charm of Kyoto, there's something for everyone.
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🌟 Itinerary:
DAY 1: Yutoku Inari Shrine - Oouo Shrine
Visit ancient shrines and experience the mysterious culture of Japan. The torii gate in the sea is a unique sight.
DAY 2: Arita Porcelain Park - Kujukushima Cruise - Bukeyashiki Street - Shimabara Port
Enjoy a porcelain art tour, take a cruise to see the beautiful scenery of Kujukushima, stroll along Bukeyashiki Street to experience the historical charm, and finally arrive at Shimabara Port.
DAY 3: Kumamoto Castle - Kusasenri (Kusasenrigahama) - Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine - Shirakawa Spring
Visit the ancient Kumamoto Castle, stroll through Kusasenri to enjoy the beauty of nature, visit Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine, and explore the fresh Shirakawa Spring.
DAY 4: Yufuin Street - Lake Kinrin - Kamado Jigoku - Mojiko Retro
Shop and relax on Yufuin Street, enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Kinrin, experience the unique Kamado Jigoku, and take a nostalgic trip to Mojiko Retro.
DAY 5: Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
Visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine to pray for academic success and career development.
DAY 6: Saga - Shanghai
End your wonderful trip to Japan and return to Shanghai from Saga. 🛫
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**Notes**:
- Visa information: You need to apply for a visa in advance to visit Japan. Prepare the required documents. 📝
- November weather: Japan is already in autumn in November, so remember to bring a thick coat and an umbrella. 🧥☔
- Specialty prices: Japan has a wide variety of specialties, but they are expensive. Compare prices before buying. 💰
- Food exploration: Sushi and ramen are must-tries, and you can also try local Wagyu beef barbecue. 🍣🍜🥩
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Don't forget to like and save this post! 🙌 Your support is a great motivation for me. Let's explore more beautiful scenery in Japan together! 🌸🌟
Enjoy the illuminated Kokura Castle in Fukuoka.
Kokura Castle
2-1 Jonai, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture
April to October: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
November to March: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
General Admission: 350 yen
Middle and High School Students: 200 yen
Elementary School Students: 100 yen
093-561-1210
Open year-round
When it comes to castles in Fukuoka, Kokura Castle is the place to visit.
I stopped by during my trip to Fukuoka.
The castle is illuminated at night, and its reflection in the moat
makes it even more beautiful and very captivating.
Located about a 10-minute walk from Kokura Station,
I enjoyed the fresh and fun sight of modern buildings coexisting with the castle.
From the end of October to early November,
the area around Kokura Castle is beautifully decorated
with bamboo lights during the Bamboo Light Festival.
Such a lovely place with retro vibes💗
A must visit place☑️
Mojiko Retro.
Kitakyushu
🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions
Kokura Castle
Manga Musuem
Mojiko Retro
🍜 Local Cuisine
Fried Udon
Kokura beef
Mojiko baked Curry
🏠 Accommodation
1.Quintessa Hotel Kokura Comic&Books
The Classic Taisho Era Station 'JR Mojiko' - A Fusion of Western and Japanese Architectural Styles.
Mojiko is located between Kyushu and Honshu and was once an important international trading port. It still preserves many historical buildings from the Taisho era, such as the Old Moji Customs and the Old Moji Mitsui Club, showcasing the prosperity and culture of the past. The biggest highlight of Mojiko is its well-preserved historical district, where carefully restored relics display various architectural features that blend Western and Japanese styles. It's like stepping back into the Meiji and Taisho periods, witnessing the scene of large merchant ships from around the world docking at Mojiko for trade. When you visit, it's recommended to start at the rustic wooden Mojiko Station and leisurely stroll to the Strait Plaza, admiring numerous buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods along the way and experiencing the unique Taisho romantic atmosphere.
Sunny Day in Mojiko
Mojiko, the most romantic port city in Kyushu
A chic and vintage atmosphere that impresses from every angle, perfect for taking beautiful photos
Travel: Take the train to Mojiko Station
Tips
- From Mojiko Station, you can take a ferry to Karato Fish Market
- Traveling in the Kyushu region is very convenient with the JR Kyushu Pass, which can be purchased to match your travel plans
Travel to Mojiko
Mojiko, a port city in Kitakyushu✨️✨️
It's a place full of retro-style buildings.
Mojiko is a small Japanese town where you can feel the retro vibe,
and it's also recommended as a travel destination near Fukuoka!
There are many photo spots, making it great for taking pictures everywhere.
There are also many souvenir shops and it's a good place for a stroll.☺️
Mojiko is famous for its Yaki Curry, so be sure to try it!
Sushi Restaurant in Kitakyushu
Fukuoka, Kitakyushu's exclusive conveyor belt sushi restaurant, Heishiro
You can order using a tablet, and there's an option for Korean translation, so it's not difficult. At the end, you can also pay by yourself at a kiosk!
I recommend this restaurant for its fresh and high-quality sushi.
Address: Japan 〒802-0001 Fukuoka, Kitakyushu, Kokurakita Ward, Asano, 1 Chome−1−1 Amu Plaza West Building 6th Floor (Amu Plaza 6F)
Recommended Sushi Conveyor Belt Restaurant in Kitakyushu
I visited Heishiro, a sushi conveyor belt restaurant in Amu Plaza Kitakyushu.
I stumbled upon this place by chance, and it was affordable and fresh, making it a delightful meal.
Located on the 6th floor of Amu Plaza Kokura, I entered just after lunchtime, so there were no sushi plates on the conveyor belt. Instead, I ordered each plate via a tablet.
The sea bream sushi was the freshest and most chewy. The shocking price was about 1200 KRW for 2 pieces!
Izakaya Tako-chan near Kokura Station~~~
Located in an alley off the main street of Kokura Uomachi, directly opposite Ichiran Ramen, this izakaya offers a nomihodai (all-you-can-drink) for 990 yen for 30 minutes, with an additional charge of 330 yen for every 10 minutes over. Takoyaki and dashiyaki are 660 yen for 8 pieces. All regular menu items are 440 yen. They have a Korean menu available, making it easy to order. The owner slightly resembles Son Seok-koo and The Quiett, and they take photos of every customer and post them on Instagram~~. The part-time female staff (Hiyori) is a university student who is very interested in Korea and can converse in Korean, asking lots of questions and being so kind and attentive that you might forget you're in Japan~~. Among the izakayas in Kokura, some places might ignore you if you come alone, but here they welcome you warmly, making it the perfect place to end your day~~. If I come back to Kitakyushu, this will definitely be my number one spot, it's such a pleasant placeㅎㅎ
Experience the nostalgic blend of Japanese and Western styles at Mojiko in Fukuoka, Kyushu, Japan!
What attractions does Kitakyushu offer? Besides the famous Fukuoka, consider a day trip to Mojiko, one of Japan's three major ports!
Mojiko was once Kyushu's most important international port, and the district has well-preserved the historical atmosphere of the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods.
As soon as you get off the train, you can see the station building with its distinctive architecture, a fusion of Western and Japanese styles, starting your journey back in time.
Mojiko Station is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Notably, there is a Starbucks inside the station with unique retro yellow decor, the only one of its kind. So, when you visit, be sure to experience this unique Starbucks atmosphere!
📍Mojiko
Fresh sushi and railway history around Mojiko Station🍣
Step back in time to Mojiko, where history meets modernity. Wander through the bustling Karato Fish Market, savor the freshest seafood, and then ascend to the Mojiko Observation Room for panoramic views of the city and the majestic Blue Wing Bridge. A journey through Mojiko is a feast for the senses, a blend of tradition and innovation that will leave you longing to return.
How to Go🚞
Take the train Kagoshima Line from Hakata Station to Mojiko Station (Included in Kyushu JR Pass)
Location📍
- Karato Fish Market
5-50 Karatocho, Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi 750-0005, Japan
- Mojiko Retro Observation Room
Japan, 801-0853 Fukuoka, Kitakyushu, Moji Ward, Higashiminatomachi, 1−32
Open Hour⏰
- Karato Fish Market
Sat-Sun 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Fresh food mostly sold out before 2:00 PM
- Mojiko Retro Observation Room
Everyday 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Last entry 9:30 PM)
Price💴
- Karato Fish Market
Ferry Fee: Adult JPY 400 Children JPY 200 (One Way)
- Mojiko Retro Observation Room
Entrance Fee: Adult JPY 300 Children JPY 150
Tips‼️
If you will travel to Japan during summer like me, don't forget to drink enough water and put the sunscreen!
#japan #fukuoka #yamaguchi #mojiko #fishmarket #kyushu #trip #japantrip #travel #asiatrip #asia #summer #summervacation #summerdestinations #sushi #icecream
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