Kitakyushu is an ordinance-designated city located in the northern part of Fukuoka Prefecture. It once flourished as a heavy industrial city centering on the Yawata Steel Works, and is now an attractive city with a variety of tourist resources, including historical buildings, natural scenery, and local cuisine.
This article introduces five sightseeing spots in Kitakyushu City. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a gourmet, you will find something for everyone.
1. Kokura Castle (Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City)
Photo courtesy of Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Federation
Kokura Castle is located in Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture.
Kokura Castle was built by Tadaoki Hosokawa over a period of seven years beginning in 1602. The castle keep was destroyed by fire in 1837, but was rebuilt in 1959 to its present appearance.
Inside the castle tower are exhibits of materials related to the history and culture of Kokura Castle.
The area surrounding Kokura Castle is dotted with historical spots such as the Kokura Castle Garden. There are also many sightseeing spots in Kitakyushu City within walking distance from Kokura Castle, such as Tange Market and River Walk Kitakyushu. Kokura Castle is a symbol of Kitakyushu City, so it is a great spot for both history buffs and tourists.
2. Sarakura Mountain (Yahatahigashi Ward, Kitakyushu City )
Photo courtesy of Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Federation
Sarakura is a 622-meter-high mountain located in Yahatahigashi Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. There are cable cars and hiking trails, and the summit commands a panoramic view of the city of Kitakyushu and the Kanmon Straits.
From the observatory at the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Kitakyushu and the Kanmon Straits.
The cable car, with its distinctive retro cars, climbs to the top of the mountain. At night, the cable car is illuminated, and from the summit station visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the city of Kitakyushu and the Kanmon Straits.
3. Tange Market (Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu City)
Tange Market, located in Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a historical market known as the kitchen of Kitakyushu City. The market has been in existence since the postwar period, and is a lively place where fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits are lined up. There are about 200 stores in the market, including fishmongers, butchers, grocers, and delicatessen shops. Many stores offer Kitakyushu’s gourmet delicacies, such as the famous “kashiwa udon” and “nuka taki” (rice cooked in a broth). Tangae Market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. In 2022, a fire destroyed part of the area, but work is currently underway to restore the area.
4. Mojiko Retro (Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City)
Photo courtesy of Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Federation
Mojiko Retro, located in Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City, the gateway to the Kanmon Straits, is a sightseeing district where visitors can enjoy the streets that flourished as an international trading port from the Meiji Period to the early Showa Period. The red-brick historical buildings line the streets, creating a retro atmosphere.
5.Mojiko Station (Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City)
Photo courtesy of Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Federation
Mojiko Station, built in 1914, was the starting point of the Kyushu Railway.
At that time, it was a busy gateway to Kyushu, serving as a departure and arrival station for ferry boats crossing the Kanmon Straits.
Architectural Style The neo-renaissance style station building, a combination of red brick and granite, is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Not only the beautiful exterior, but also the interior retains its original appearance, giving visitors a sense of history.
Inside the station building, cafes and stores offer a retro atmosphere.
