Kanmon Straits (Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

The Kanmon Strait is a narrow strait separating Honshu (Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture) from Kyushu (Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture), and is an important sea route connecting the Sea of Japan with the Seto Inland Sea. In ancient times, it was the site of historical events such as the Battle of Dannoura during the Genpei War, and in modern times it has developed as a key maritime transportation and military hub. It is characterized by the impressive scenery of large ships and fishing boats passing through the narrow waterway, the fact that it can be enjoyed from both land and sea, with the Kanmon Bridge and undersea pedestrian tunnel, and Shimonoseki's seafood culture, including pufferfish (fugu). Its attractions include the daytime sailing scenes, the illuminated bridge and cityscape at dusk and at night, and seasonal events (fireworks).

Highlights

• View of the Kanmon BridgeYou can enjoy the scale of the bridge from both sides. It is lit up at night, creating a romantic atmosphere.
• Kanmon Tunnel pedestrian: An undersea tunnel that connects Honshu and Kyushu on foot. You can experience "walking between Honshu and Kyushu" using a map (you must push your bicycle when walking).
• Karato Market: A market where you can enjoy fresh seafood, stand-up eating events for fugu and sushi, etc. It is lively from morning to noon (please note the opening hours).
• Mimosusogawa Park and Dannoura Battlefield Site: A place associated with the Battle of Dannoura. There are many walking spots overlooking the strait and historical sites scattered around.
• Kanmon Strait Museum and Strait Dream Tower: A facility where you can enjoy explanations of the strait's history and shipping, as well as a panoramic view from the observation deck (please note the opening hours of the exhibits and observation deck).
• Mojiko Retro (Kitakyushu, Moji side): Retro Western-style buildings, Mojiko Station, observation facilities, etc. We recommend touring both banks on foot or by ferry.
• Cruises and ferries from the ship: You can see the strait and bridges up close from the sea on a short ferry or sightseeing boat (please check the operating dates).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• By train
  • From JR Shimonoseki Station or JR Shimonoseki Station, take a bus or walk towards Karato Market (Shimonoseki Station is the nearest station to the conventional line, while Shin-Shimonoseki is the nearest station to the Sanyo Shinkansen).
  • On the Kitakyushu side, Mojiko Station (JR) is within walking distance of the Mojiko Retro area, and you can also visit it on a day trip from the Moji side.
• Crossing the Strait on foot: You can travel between Honshu and Kyushu on foot using the Kanmon Tunnel Footway (the entrances are on the Shimonoseki and Moji sides, and it's about a 10-15 minute walk, with ramps for going up and down).
• By carAccess via the Kanmon Bridge and Kanmon Tunnel. There are several parking lots around Karato and the tourist area, but they may be full during peak hours.
• By boat: Short-distance ferries and sightseeing cruises may operate. Please check with the operators for operating days and times.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short-term viewing and photography: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Dining at Karato Market + strolling around the area: 2-3 hours
• Day trip across the Kanmon Tunnel and visiting Mojiko Retro: Half a day to a full day (4 to 8 hours)
• If you want to take your time to explore the area and enjoy the food, historical sites, and museums: 1 day or more

Nearby spots

• Karato Market (Shimonoseki) — Fresh seafood and puffer fish dishes
• Mimosusogawa Park and Dannoura Battlefield (Shimonoseki)
• Strait Dream Tower/Kanmon Strait Museum (Shimonoseki side)
• Mojiko Retro (Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City) — Retro architecture, Mojiko Station, and a night view of the strait
• Ganryujima (accessible by boat) — a small island famous for the duel between Musashi and Kojiro
• Nearby hot springs (Yuda Onsen, Shimonoseki Onsen, etc.) - We also recommend combining sightseeing with a stay at a hot spring.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: The area around Karato Market, tourist spots, and parking lots will be extremely crowded on weekends, Golden Week, summer vacation, the New Year holidays, and during events such as fireworks festivals. We recommend using public transportation and leaving early.
• safetyDue to the strong currents in the strait, it is dangerous to enter, fish, or swim along the coast or in the rocky areas. Please avoid using the waters outside of designated areas.
• Footbridge Tunnel: There is a long slope. You will often need to push your bicycle across the road, so please be mindful of the burden on your feet. There may also be nighttime closures and inspections.
• Weather and visibility: Strong winter winds and dense fog, and approaching typhoons can cause poor visibility of bridges and views, and boat operations may be suspended or road traffic restrictions may be imposed. Please check weather and traffic information before setting off.
• Manners：When taking photos at tourist spots, please be considerate to others around you so as not to obstruct traffic. Please also follow local rules, such as taking your trash home with you when eating and drinking, and following the rules when queuing at stores.
• Eating and drinking: Certain dishes, such as fugu, may require a license to prepare. Restaurants have opening hours and closing days, so it's best to check in advance.

The Kanmon Strait is a fascinating place where land and sea, history and modernity intersect. It's enjoyable enough for a day trip, but you'll enjoy it even more if you take the time to tour both sides. Please be sure to pay attention to safety and etiquette, and enjoy the scenery and cuisine that are unique to the strait.