Kitakyushu is a city where urban functionality and abundant nature exist in perfect harmony. Once an industrial hub, it has now become renowned for its efforts in tourism, culture, and eco-friendly urban development. In this article, we will introduce the diverse attractions of this fascinating city.
What is Kitakyushu?
Kitakyushu is a designated city located in the northern part of Fukuoka Prefecture and is the second largest city in Kyushu after Fukuoka City. With the largest area in the prefecture, it has historically played a significant role as the gateway to Kyushu. Situated along the Kanmon Strait, Kitakyushu serves as a crucial transportation hub connecting Kyushu to mainland Honshu. Historically, the city flourished as a major industrial center, supporting Japan’s industrial growth as part of the ‘Kitakyushu Industrial Zone,’ one of the four major industrial zones in Japan.
The city was formed in 1963 through the merger of five cities: Moji, Kokura, Wakamatsu, Yahata, and Tobata. It later became Japan’s first designated city outside a prefectural capital. Although Kitakyushu once had the largest population in Kyushu, surpassing even Fukuoka, it ceded that position to Fukuoka City in 1979. Apart from its industrial legacy, Kitakyushu also developed as a key transport hub, with well-established rail and port infrastructures.
For example, Moji Port, facing the Kanmon Strait, prospered as Japan’s leading coal export port, and Wakamatsu Port was similarly known for coal and steel exports. Yahata, home to the government-owned Yahata Steel Works, became Japan’s largest steel supplier and is now registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s industrial history can be explored at various locations, making Kitakyushu a must-visit destination for industry enthusiasts.
Eco-City Kitakyushu
Kitakyushu has also gained attention as an eco-city. Though it once faced serious pollution issues due to heavy industrialization, the city overcame these problems through the cooperation of citizens, businesses, and government. This experience led to the development of environmental businesses, such as Kitakyushu Eco-Town, and today, Kitakyushu is known as the “Environmental Capital.” The city’s transformation into an eco-friendly city has made it a model for other municipalities striving for sustainability.
In addition, Kitakyushu has become a popular filming location for movies and TV dramas, with the city’s beautiful scenery and historic streetscapes appearing in many productions. This makes Kitakyushu a great destination for film enthusiasts as well.
Fascinating Tourist Spots
Kitakyushu boasts a wide variety of tourist spots that blend historical buildings with abundant nature. Each location has a deep history and cultural background, captivating visitors with its unique appeal. Through these spots, visitors can experience the rich culture and natural beauty of Kitakyushu.
- Kokura Castle (Kokurakita Ward)
One of Kitakyushu’s most iconic historical sites, Kokura Castle, located in the heart of Kokurakita Ward, has stood for over 400 years. Surrounding the castle are beautiful gardens and lush parks, offering visitors a peaceful atmosphere. Inside the castle, exhibits on the city’s history and culture are on display, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts. The panoramic view from the castle’s observation deck showcases the harmonious blend of the city and nature.
- Mojiko Retro (Moji Ward)
Mojiko Retro is a nostalgic port town that thrived during the Meiji and Taisho eras. Its retro-style buildings create a charming atmosphere, allowing visitors to feel as if they’ve stepped back in time. At night, the area is illuminated, enhancing its romantic appeal. With cafes and shops lining the waterfront, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. This blend of historic architecture and scenic ocean views is especially popular with couples and families.
- Tanga Market (Kokurakita Ward)
Known as the “Kitchen of Kitakyushu,” Tanga Market is a bustling marketplace filled with local vendors offering fresh seafood and produce. Visitors can not only purchase ingredients but also enjoy local delicacies on-site. The market provides an authentic experience of Kitakyushu’s vibrant food culture, and the warm interactions with local shopkeepers offer a glimpse into the city’s friendly community spirit.
- Green Park (Wakamatsu Ward)
Green Park, the largest urban park in Kitakyushu, is a nature lover’s paradise. The park features beautiful seasonal flowers, with the tulip fields in spring being especially captivating. There are also zones where visitors can interact with animals and attractions for children, making it a popular destination for families. The spacious lawns provide an ideal setting for picnics and outdoor activities, allowing visitors to escape the urban hustle and relax in nature.
- Mount Sarakura (Yahatahigashi Ward)
Standing at 622 meters, Mount Sarakura offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Visitors can easily reach the summit via cable car or slope car, and on clear days, the distant landscape is visible. The night view from Mount Sarakura is particularly famous, often referred to as a “billion-dollar night view,” and has been selected as one of Japan’s New Three Major Night Views. It’s a romantic destination perfect for couples and friends, with hiking trails also available for those looking to explore nature on foot.
- Hiraodai (Kokuraminami Ward)
Hiraodai, one of Japan’s largest karst plateaus, is a hidden gem in Kitakyushu. The landscape, dotted with white limestone formations, resembles the surface of the moon and offers a unique natural spectacle. The area is also ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the changing scenery throughout the year, making it a worthwhile destination in any season.
The Benefits of Living in Kitakyushu
Kitakyushu offers numerous advantages in terms of quality of life. The city ranked first among designated cities in Japan for being child-friendly and has excellent medical facilities. With the second-highest number of hospital beds per 100,000 people among designated cities, and the fastest emergency transport times in Japan, Kitakyushu is a safe and comfortable place to live. The low risk of natural disasters also makes it an attractive option for families considering long-term residence.
Abundant Nature and Rich Traditions
While Kitakyushu is an urban city, it’s also surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The beauty of the sea, mountains, and rivers is easily accessible, offering residents and visitors a chance to enjoy nature in their daily lives. Traditional festivals, such as the UNESCO-recognized Tobata Gion Yamakasa Festival and the vibrant Wasshoi Hyakuman Summer Festival, further enrich the city’s cultural heritage, strengthening community bonds and enhancing Kitakyushu’s unique charm.
In Conclusion
Kitakyushu is a captivating city that combines its historical identity as an industrial hub with its new role as an eco-friendly urban center. With convenient transportation and affordable living costs, it’s not only an excellent tourist destination but also a great place to live. Why not consider Kitakyushu for your next adventure? Discover the city’s many charms and make new, unforgettable memories.
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Office Name: Trust Administrative Scrivener Office
Administrative Scrivener: Keiko Utsunomiya
Email: info@trust-gyosei.com
Address：3F-1-1-1 Kajimachi, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka, Japan