Enjoy a Walk in Moji Port Retro! Explore These Recommended Tourist Spots!

Moji Port, one of Kitakyushu’s most famous attractions, is easily accessible—about 90 minutes by train from Hakata or a 5‑minute ferry ride from Shimonoseki. The beautiful streets imbued with Taisho-era romance have even been selected as one of the “100 Urban Landscapes” by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Plus, local specialties like the famous "yaki curry" and other regional gourmet treats abound. Here are some retro-inspired tourist spots in Moji Port that you should check out.

1. Moji Port Retro Observatory

The “Moji Port Retro Observatory” is an excellent sightseeing spot and offers breathtaking views from the 31st floor of a 103-meter tall high-rise condominium. Designed by renowned architect Kurokawa Kisho, the interior is an open, glass-walled space where you can take in sweeping vistas of Moji Port Retro, the Kanmon Bridge, and even Shimonoseki city in the distance. At night, the romantic illumination of Moji Port Retro makes it a popular spot for dates. There’s also a café where you can relax and enjoy the night view.

2. Kitakyushu Bank Retro Line “Shiokaze-gō”

The “Shiokaze-gō,” as the Kitakyushu Retro Line is affectionately known, is a sightseeing-focused trolley that runs 2.1 km from Moji Port Station to Wabukari Station. With a top speed of only 15 km/h, it offers the slowest, most leisurely ride in Japan—perfect for soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere. Purchase a free-ride ticket, and you can hop on and off as many times as you like throughout the day. There’s even a ticket available for a full circuit around the Kanmon Strait. Before reaching the final stop, you'll pass through a tunnel that holds a special surprise, making this ride a must-do.

3. Kaikyo Plaza

“Kaikyo Plaza” is a stylish shopping and sightseeing spot within Moji Port Retro. The facility offers a chic, modern space right by the sea, where you can enjoy shopping in a relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can find local Moji Port souvenirs such as handicrafts, sweets, and seafood products—some of which are exclusive to this location.

There are also restaurants serving popular local dishes from Kokura, Shimonoseki, and Moji Port, making it an ideal place for a meal or a break while exploring.

4. Old Osaka Shipping

Another recommended spot is the “Old Osaka Shipping” building, famous for its octagonal spire and distinctive orange-tiled exterior. Constructed in 1917 (Taisho 6), this historic building is registered as an Important Cultural Property. At its peak, Moji Port was a bustling hub where numerous passenger ships bound for Asia and Europe docked. Formerly known as the Osaka Shipping Building, it was once the tallest landmark in Moji.

Today, it is cherished as a tourist destination where you can purchase unique accessories, tableware, and art-inspired goods that you won’t find anywhere else. An art gallery on site also offers a glimpse into the past.

5. Kanmon Kaikyo Museum

The “Kanmon Kaikyo Museum” is a museum where you can experience the history and natural beauty of the Kanmon Strait with all your senses. One of its highlights is the “Retro Strait Street” on the first floor—a free exhibit that recreates a Taisho-era townscape. On the fourth floor, you can try a “pilot simulation” that lets you experience navigating the strait. The museum’s fifth floor houses a restaurant serving local specialties like blowfish.

Note that the museum has been closed for renovations since April 2018 and is expected to reopen after approximately a year and a half.

6. Old Moji Customs House

The “Old Moji Customs House” was built in 1912 and now serves as a tourist attraction. The building features a spacious, open entry hall with a high ceiling on the first floor, and an observation room on the second floor that offers views of the “Blue Wing Moji” drawbridge. On clear days, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the beautifully preserved retro streets of Moji Port Retro, full of Taisho-era charm.

Additionally, there’s a popular fruit parlor where you can indulge in local specialties like baked banana café treats and parfaits brimming with fresh fruit. Enjoying a leisurely meal on the terrace while taking in the vibrant surroundings is a great way to experience Moji Port Retro.

7. Kyushu Railway Memorial Museum

Housed in the restored former headquarters of Kyushu Railway, the “Kyushu Railway Memorial Museum” exhibits tickets, uniforms, and tools used by JR Kyushu. One of its most popular attractions is the driving simulator, which faithfully replicates a train cab from an actual train operating in Kitakyushu, complete with realistic window views.

Outside, you’ll find a railway model diorama where you can not only admire but also interact with the exhibits. Additionally, the mini railway park features actual locomotives like steam engines and blue trains, along with signal lights and detailed tracks that let you experience authentic train operations. This museum is an excellent place to learn about the history of railways in Kyushu through interactive experiences.

◎ Savor Moji Port & Kitakyushu Gourmet Delights!

Moji Port Retro isn’t just about historical buildings and scenic views—it’s also a hotspot for local cuisine. The nostalgic and stylish atmosphere of Moji Port Retro is best enjoyed with its popular local dishes, like the famous “yaki curry,” a baked curry gratin that is simply addictive once you try it. Moreover, Moji Port is known as the birthplace of banana street vending, a lively local tradition that is showcased during events and festivals. With countless visitors from both Japan and overseas flocking to the Moji Port area, you can leisurely explore its streets, immerse yourself in its rich history and art, and enjoy the unique flavors of the region.

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