Fukuoka Mojiko Retro Shimonoseki and Kokura Castle Full Day Tour

Departure Time: 08:30
Meeting Address: Lawson Fukuoka Oriental Hotel
Please arrive 10 minutes early.

Moji Port is a historic port city in Fukuoka Prefecture, famous for its well-preserved retro buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods. Visitors can enjoy a nostalgic harbor atmosphere, scenic waterfront views, and learn about Japan’s early international trade history.

At the Railway History Museum, travelers can explore the rich history of rail transport through historic steam locomotives, classic passenger carriages, and modern train displays that show how railways have evolved over time. Visitors will enjoy interactive exhibits explaining train operations, signaling systems, and railway engineering, along with hands-on simulators that let them experience what it’s like to drive a train. Detailed models, photographs, uniforms, and multimedia presentations bring the stories of railway innovation and everyday travel to life, making the museum an engaging and educational stop for visitors of all ages.

At the Old Moji Mitsui Club, travelers will step into an elegant Western-style building from the early 20th century that reflects Moji Port’s history as an international trading hub. Visitors can admire beautifully preserved architecture, period furniture, and historic interiors that once hosted foreign guests and dignitaries, including Albert Einstein. Inside, exhibits and photo displays showcase the lifestyle, culture, and diplomacy of the Taisho era, while the refined atmosphere offers a glimpse into Japan’s modernization period and Moji’s important role in global exchange.

At Mojiko Station, travelers will visit one of Japan’s oldest and most beautifully preserved railway stations, known for its striking Neo-Renaissance architecture. Visitors can admire the historic red-brick building, elegant interior details, and classic clock tower, while learning about the station’s role in the development of rail travel in Kyushu. The surrounding Mojiko Retro area offers scenic harbor views, nostalgic streets, cafés, and photo spots, making Mojiko Station both a cultural landmark and a charming place to explore and relax.

At Karato Market, travelers can experience the lively atmosphere of one of western Japan’s most famous seafood markets. Visitors will see a colorful variety of fresh seafood, including local specialties like fugu (pufferfish), tuna, and seasonal fish, and can enjoy sushi and seafood bowls prepared on the spot. The market’s waterfront setting adds to the experience, making it a great place to sample authentic local flavors, interact with vendors, and enjoy a casual, vibrant dining experience loved by both locals and visitors.

Kokura Castle is a historic landmark in Kitakyushu, known for its bold and simple exterior influenced by Tang Dynasty–style architecture. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, enjoy views of the surrounding moat and park, and learn about the samurai history of the Kokura domain.

Travelers visiting Kokura Castle Garden will step into the refined world of Japan’s Edo-period samurai culture, wandering through a peaceful strolling garden designed with ponds, stone paths, and carefully manicured plants that change with the seasons. Inside the reconstructed daimyo residence, visitors can explore traditional tatami rooms, sliding doors, and cultural exhibits that reveal the daily life, etiquette, and aesthetics of feudal lords. Guests may also observe or participate in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony, gaining insight into centuries-old customs while enjoying the calm atmosphere. The garden’s quiet beauty and historical setting offer a relaxing contrast to the nearby city, making it an ideal stop for travelers interested in history, culture, and classic Japanese landscapes.

At the Matsumoto Seicho Memorial Museum, travelers can learn about the life and works of one of Japan’s most influential mystery and social-novel writers. The museum features original manuscripts, personal belongings, photographs, and multimedia exhibits that explore Matsumoto Seicho’s writing career and his impact on modern Japanese literature. Through interactive displays and detailed explanations, visitors gain insight into the historical themes and social issues reflected in his novels, making the museum an engaging stop for literature lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Travelers visiting Miyajidake Shrine will experience one of Kyushu’s most spiritually significant Shinto sites, set against a backdrop of serene forested hills. As they walk through the shrine grounds, visitors will see the massive sacred shimenawa rope, one of the largest in Japan, symbolizing purification and divine presence. The approach to the shrine offers stunning views, especially along the straight pathway that aligns perfectly with the setting sun on special days known as the “Path of Light.” Guests can explore the main hall, offer prayers for good fortune and success, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that reflects traditional Japanese beliefs. Seasonal festivals and natural scenery further enhance the visit, making Miyajidake Shrine a memorable blend of spirituality, culture, and scenic beauty. Special Note: This attraction will be changed to Kitakyushu Outlet from January 1st to 3rd.