Kitakyushu

Kitakyushu, the second-largest city in Kyushu, extends to the northernmost point of the island, almost touching Honshu across the Kanmon Straits. You can climb the reconstructed Kokura Castle, walk through wisteria-covered tunnels at Kawachi Garden, and step back in time among the red-brick buildings at Moji Port. At night, take in the city lights from Mt. Sarakura, one of Japan's top three night viewing locations.

Getting Around Kitakyushu

JR Kokura Station connects to both local trains and the Shinkansen bullet train line. You can reach Hakata Station in Fukuoka within 15 minutes by bullet train. Local buses and three ferry lines run between different areas of the city and across the Kanmon Straits to Shimonoseki.

Exploring Kokura District

The five-story Kokura Castle, built in 1602, stands in central Kokura district. Inside the castle grounds, you'll find the Kokura Castle Japanese Garden where you can learn about Japanese customs and etiquette. Cherry trees fill Katsuyama Park around both sites, creating pink canopies each April. Near the castle, the TOTO Museum displays the evolution of Japanese bathroom technology and design.

Historic Moji Port Area

Moji Port's late 1800s buildings tell the story of its past as a coal export hub. Walk past the red-brick Moji Customs Building and the distinctive Old Mitsui OSK Line Building to see examples of Meiji-era architecture. From the Mojiko Retro Observation Room, you can look across the Kanmon Straits and the connecting bridge to Shimonoseki.

Natural Landscapes

Kawachi Wisteria Garden opens twice yearly - during spring for the wisteria blooms and in autumn for maple viewing. Walk through long tunnels covered in hanging purple wisteria flowers. Take the cable car from Hobashira Park to reach Mt. Sarakura's summit at 622 meters. From the observation deck, you can see the entire city, industrial zones, and the straits connecting to Honshu.

Local Food and Markets

Local vendors sell fresh seafood and produce at Tanga Market in central Kitakyushu. Try Kokura Udon - thick noodles in hot soup or stir-fried, and Nuka-Miso Daki - mackerel or sardines simmered with fermented rice bran paste. Look for Buzen oysters, which grow where three rivers meet the sea and reach impressive sizes.

Summer Festivals

The city celebrates several festivals in summer. Watch fireworks launch from both sides of the strait during the Kanmon Strait Fireworks Festival. During the Tobata Gion Yamagasa festival, an UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event, decorated floats parade through the streets. In August, the Wasshoi Hyakuman Festival brings together all local festivals for a grand parade near City Hall.