Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mojiko Retro is a tourist district that preserves and maintains the old port town area of Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City. Many of the historical buildings of Mojiko, which flourished as an international trading port from the Meiji to Taisho periods, remain, and retro streetscapes, brick warehouses, old train stations, and classic Western-style buildings line the walking paths. The old Moji Station (Mojiko Station) is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and is popular for its European-style exterior and wooden interior. From its location overlooking the strait, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Kanmon Strait and Kanmon Bridge, and the different atmospheres you can enjoy during the day and at night are also appealing. With local cuisine such as "Mojiko Yaki Curry" and many shops and cafes, this is an area perfect for sightseeing, dining, and photography.
Highlights
- Mojiko Station (old station building): A wooden station building from the Meiji period. The building itself is a must-see, and the square in front of the station also has a nice atmosphere.
- Former Moji Customs House and Former Osaka Shosen (brick buildings): A group of red brick buildings that give you a sense of the city's history as a port town.
- Former Moji Mitsui Club: A Western-style building used as a guest house to welcome foreigners. It is sometimes possible to tour the interior.
- Kyushu Railway Museum: There are exhibits on railway history and steam locomotives, and it is fun for both children and adults.
- Blue Wing Moji (pedestrian-only drawbridge): It is lit up at night, and the time when the bridge is raised is a highlight.
- View of the seaside promenade and Kanmon Straits: The view of the Kanmon Bridge and the Shimonoseki cityscape, as well as the evening and night views are beautiful.
- Shopping & Cafes: There are many retro-style cafes, souvenir shops, and restaurants specializing in grilled curry.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- train: JR Mojiko Station (nearest station). It takes about 10-15 minutes by JR from Kokura Station (local train), and about an hour by express from Hakata Station (travel time varies depending on the type of train). The area is within walking distance from Mojiko Station.
- ferry: The Kanmon Kisen ferry runs between Mojiko Port and Shimonoseki (Karato), and the journey takes just a few minutes. It is convenient to combine this trip with sightseeing in Shimonoseki (such as Karato Market).
- carAccess: From the Kyushu Expressway, Moji IC. Paid parking is available in the area (it tends to get crowded on weekends and holidays).
- From the airportWhen using Kitakyushu Airport, the most common route is to take the airport bus or train to Mojiko via Kokura. Travel time will vary depending on connections.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 1-1.5 hours (just take a quick look at the station and the main brick buildings)
- Leisurely sightseeing: 2-4 hours (including museums/railway museums, meals, cafes, and photo opportunities)
- A leisurely tour: Half a day to a full day (when combining with the surrounding Shimonoseki and Kokura areas)
Nearby spots
- Shimonoseki (Karato Market and Kamon Wharf) — Easily accessible by ferry
- Kokura area (Kokura Castle, Tanga Market, etc.) - About one JR station away
- Observation spots overlooking the Kanmon Bridge and walking paths along the strait
- Other sightseeing spots in Kitakyushu City (such as the factory night view spot on the Moji side) are accessible by car or public transport.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The number of tourists increases on weekends, Golden Week, summer vacation, and autumn holidays. Seaside areas, popular shops, and parking lots tend to be particularly crowded, so please allow yourself plenty of time.
- Store and facility opening hours: Some retro buildings and restaurants may close early. We recommend checking opening times before your visit.
- Feet and steps: There are many stone-paved streets and steps at the entrances and exits of old buildings, so some areas may be difficult to access with strollers or wheelchairs. It is best to wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Weather/sea breeze：As this is a seaside area, there are windy days. Be careful of the cold sea breeze, especially in winter and early spring. Please bring rain gear and cold weather gear.
- Manners: Historical buildings are subject to preservation. Please follow the designated routes and rules within the buildings, and avoid shouting and leaving trash behind. There are also places where photography is restricted.
- payment: Some small stores in tourist areas only accept cash, so it's a good idea to have some cash on hand.
Mojiko Retro is a compact tourist area perfect for strolling, where you can enjoy historical architecture and seaside scenery. Take your time to enjoy local specialties such as grilled curry and the photogenic townscape.
