Moji Port, Karado Market, Kokura Castle & Miyajitake Shrine Tour

Fukuoka , Japan

Moji Port, Karado Market, Kokura Castle & Miyajitake Shrine Tour

Active

9h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a scenic and cultural journey through northern Kyushu, where history, tradition, and local flavors come alive. Begin your adventure at Moji Port, a charming retro harbor filled with preserved Western-style buildings, seaside cafés, and nostalgic streets that reflect Japan’s early modern era.

Next, cross over to Karato Market, a bustling seaside marketplace famous for its fresh seafood and sushi stalls, where you can savor local specialties while overlooking the Kanmon Strait. Continue to Kokura Castle, one of Kyushu’s most beautiful historic landmarks, surrounded by tranquil gardens and offering panoramic views from its tower.

Your final stop is the serene Miyajitake Shrine, renowned for its stunning “Path of Light” that perfectly aligns with the sunset twice a year. Stroll through sacred grounds, admire the massive shimenawa (sacred rope), and feel the peaceful atmosphere of this ancient Shinto site.

Available options

Moji Port, Karado Market, Kokura Castle & Miyajitake Shrine Tour

What's included

Round-trip transfers to and from the meet up location

Chinese-speaking professional driver/guide

English / Chinese-speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Step into the charm of Japan’s maritime past with a visit to Moji Port, a picturesque retro district in Kitakyushu. Stroll along the beautifully preserved Meiji and Taisho-era buildings, admire the scenic waterfront, and take in views of passing ships from the iconic Mojiko Retro Observation Room. This historic port blends old-world elegance with cultural vibrancy, offering museums, cafes, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Next, head across the Kanmon Strait to Karato Ichiba in Shimonoseki, a bustling fish market famed for its fresh seafood and vibrant street food stalls. Savor local delicacies like fugu (pufferfish), uni (sea urchin), and sushi prepared right in front of you. On weekends, the market transforms into a lively food court where visitors can sample a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

Step back in time with a visit to Kokura Castle, a beautifully restored symbol of Kitakyushu’s samurai heritage. Originally built in 1602 by the powerful Hosokawa clan, this striking five-story castle combines traditional Japanese architecture with sweeping views of the surrounding city. Inside, discover engaging exhibits on the castle’s history, feudal life, and regional culture, all brought to life through interactive displays and historical artifacts.
Stroll through the peaceful grounds featuring a picturesque Japanese garden, tranquil koi ponds, and seasonal cherry blossoms in spring. The nearby Kokura Castle Garden and Matsumoto Seicho Memorial Museum add depth to your cultural journey.
Perfect for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike, Kokura Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s feudal past in the heart of modern Kitakyushu.

Discover the spiritual charm of Miyajidake Shrine, one of Fukuoka’s most revered Shinto sites. Famous for its massive shimenawa (sacred straw rope) — one of the largest in Japan — the shrine is dedicated to the legendary Empress Jingu and attracts visitors seeking blessings for success and prosperity.
The shrine is beautifully situated on a hilltop, offering a breathtaking view along a straight path that leads to the sea — known as the "Path of Light" — which aligns perfectly with the setting sun a few times each year, creating a stunning natural spectacle. The serene grounds, seasonal flowers, and traditional architecture provide a peaceful retreat from city life.
Ideal for cultural enthusiasts and photographers alike, Miyajidake Shrine is a captivating stop that blends spiritual heritage with scenic beauty.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ZH-CN

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Total Tour Duration includes transportation time

Children aged 0-2 can join this activity free of charge provided they will not occupy separate seats

Seniors aged 70+ should present a medical certificate before participating

If the number of participants does not reach the minimum number of participants, the tour will be cancelled and an email notification will be sent 1 day before departure.

The above itinerary is for reference only. Since traffic conditions are uncontrollable, please try to avoid arranging activities that night to avoid any delays.

Meeting point

Meet at Lawson convenience store. Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure.
Departure time: 8:30 AM.

Important notes

We will send an e-voucher, Driver and Guides details one day before travel date via email.

About Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a vibrant coastal city in southern Japan known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm climate. As the largest city in Kyushu, it offers a perfect blend of traditional culture and modern urban living, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Top Attractions

Ohori Park

A large, beautiful park featuring a lake, gardens, and historic sites. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

The ruins of a historic castle that played a significant role in Japanese history. The site offers beautiful views and a glimpse into the past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Kushida Shrine

A historic Shinto shrine known for its vibrant festivals and beautiful architecture. It's a significant cultural and religious site.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Canal City Hakata

A large shopping and entertainment complex featuring a canal, theaters, and a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Shopping/Entertainment 1-3 hours Free to enter (costs vary for shops and restaurants)

Fukuoka Tower

A iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. It's a great spot for photography and sightseeing.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for observation deck and restaurant)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hakata Ramen

A type of ramen featuring a rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu (braised pork) and green onions.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles and broth)

Mentaiko

Spicy cod roe, often served as a topping for rice or noodles, or as a side dish.

Snack/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (if served with rice or noodles)

Motsunabe

A hot pot dish featuring offal, typically beef or pork, cooked in a savory broth with vegetables and tofu.

Dinner Contains meat, gluten (if served with noodles or dipping sauce)

Yaki Toro

Grilled chicken skewers, often seasoned with salt or soy sauce, and served with a side of grated daikon radish.

Dinner Contains chicken, gluten (if seasoned with soy sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains and parks Water sports at nearby beaches and waterways Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples, shrines, and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat rides on the canals of Yanagawa Swimming and water sports at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn features vibrant fall foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese (limited), Korean (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukuoka is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour guides
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN

Getting there

By air

Fukuoka Airport • 4.5 km from city center

By train

Hakata Station, Fukuoka Station

By bus

Hakata Bus Terminal, Tenjin Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Kūkō Line, Hakozaki Line, and Nanakuma Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tenjin Nakasu Hakata Dazaifu

Day trips

Dazaifu

10 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

A historic town known for its temples, shrines, and beautiful gardens. It offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience.

Yanagawa

30 km from Fukuoka • Full day

A picturesque town known as the 'City of Waterways' for its network of canals. It offers a unique and charming experience with its historic houses, boat rides, and local specialties.

Beppu

120 km from Fukuoka • Full day to overnight

A popular hot spring resort town known for its numerous hot springs, or 'hells' (jigoku), and scenic beauty. It offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival • July 1-15 (main events on July 15) Hakata Dontaku Festival • Early May (typically the first Sunday and the following day) Fukuoka Hakata Matsuri • October 15-18

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as Suica or Icoca, for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try local specialties, such as Hakata ramen, mentsuyaki, and yakitori, at yatai (food stalls) or local restaurants
Visit popular attractions, such as Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle Ruins, during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Tenjin, Nakasu, and Hakata, for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival and the Hakata Dontaku Festival, for a unique and memorable experience