Kitakyushu Day Trip

Moji Port Nostalgic District is a historic district located in Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. It is renowned for its collection of Western-style buildings constructed during the Meiji to Taisho periods and once served as Kyushu's international trade gateway. The district features important cultural properties such as the Old Moji Port Station and the Old Moji Mitsui Club, as well as a nostalgic port city ambiance. The area is one of Japan's 100 Selected Urban Landscapes. Visitors can stroll through the retro buildings, enjoy views of the Kanmon Strait, savor Moji Port's signature grilled curry, and experience the local culture and cuisine.

The Kanmon Bridge (関門橋) is a suspension bridge connecting Honshu Island (Yamaguchi Prefecture, Shimonoseki City) and Kyushu Island (Fukuoka Prefecture, Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City) across the Kanmon Strait. It spans 1,068 meters in length, with the bridge deck 61 meters above sea level, and was completed and opened to traffic in 1973. This bridge is the first cross-sea link connecting Honshu and Kyushu in Japan, and serves as a core hub for the Honshu-Kyushu Expressway and the Kyushu Expressway. It plays a crucial role in the transportation network connecting Honshu and Kyushu.

Tanghu Market is a renowned local wholesale market and tourist attraction located in Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, known as the “Kitchen of the Kanmon Strait.” The market features fresh seafood and seasonal produce, where visitors can purchase various types of seafood and sushi. During the “Vitality Shimonoseki Street” event held every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and public holiday, visitors can also enjoy fresh and delicious sushi, seafood bowls, and fugu (pufferfish) dishes directly at the seafood snack stalls within the market. The market also has restaurants where visitors can dine while enjoying the views of the Kanmon Strait and passing ships.

Motonosumi Shrine is a shrine located in Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, known for its spectacular view of red torii gates lining the sheer cliffs. Founded in 1955 following a vision of a white fox that appeared in the dream of a fishing boat owner, the shrine is said to grant numerous blessings, including prosperous business, abundant catches, and maritime safety. In particular, it is believed that tossing coins into the offering box at the large torii gate at the exit of the approach path will make wishes come true, making it a popular power spot attracting attention from around the world.

Kokura Castle is located in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, and is a famous castle built by Tadaoki Hosokawa in 1602. Its distinctive features include the “Karazukuri” style of the main keep, where the fifth floor is larger than the fourth, and the bold “Nozura-zumi” stone walls, which do not use cut stones. Today, it serves as an amusement facility, featuring a theater and observation deck, offering visitors the chance to enjoy history, culture, and beautiful scenery.