Kitakyushu

Planning Your Trip to Kitakyushu, Japan

Essential Information for Your Visit

Country:

Japan

Timezone:

GMT +9

Languages Spoken:

Japanese

Currency:

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Weather and Climate in Kitakyushu: A Month-by-Month Guide

• January-February: Cold, with average temperatures around 5-10°C. Occasional snow. Consider bringing warm layers.
• March-May: Mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10-25°C. Cherry blossom season in late March/early April – a truly magical time!
• June-August: Hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 25-35°C. Rainy season arrives in June, so pack accordingly.
• September-November: Warm and comfortable, with temperatures between 15-25°C. Enjoy the stunning autumn foliage in November.
• December: Cool, with average temperatures around 5-15°C.

Discovering Kitakyushu: A City Overview

Kitakyushu, nestled at the northern tip of Kyushu Island, offers a captivating blend of industrial heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Once a powerhouse for steel production, the city has brilliantly transformed into a modern hub focused on technology and environmental sustainability. Explore diverse attractions, from the historical Kokura Castle to the enchanting Kawachi Wisteria Garden. Wander through the nostalgic Mojiko Retro District, savor delicious local cuisine, and experience the unique harmony of tradition and innovation that defines Kitakyushu. The city’s dedication to green initiatives makes it a model for sustainable urban living, offering visitors a glimpse into a future where industry and nature thrive side-by-side. Whether you’re drawn to history, culture, or nature, Kitakyushu has something special waiting for you.

When to Visit Kitakyushu: Finding the Perfect Time

Seasonal Pros and Cons to Consider

• Spring (March-May):
  • Pros: Delightful weather, the spectacle of cherry blossoms.
  • Cons: Larger crowds, especially during peak cherry blossom viewing. Book accommodations in advance!
• Summer (June-August):
  • Pros: Vibrant local festivals and celebrations.
  • Cons: Hot and humid conditions, plus the rainy season in June.
• Autumn (September-November):
  • Pros: Comfortable temperatures, stunning autumn colors.
  • Cons: A slight chance of typhoons, so keep an eye on the weather forecast.
• Winter (December-February):
  • Pros: Fewer tourists, offering a more peaceful experience. Potential for seeing snow-covered landscapes.
  • Cons: Colder weather.

Getting To Kitakyushu: Transportation & Visa Information

Flights, Trains, and Visa Requirements

• Flights: Kitakyushu Airport (KKJ) handles both domestic and international flights. Fukuoka Airport (FUK) is another convenient international option nearby.
• Trains: Kitakyushu boasts excellent Shinkansen (bullet train) connections to major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, making travel fast and easy.
• Visa Details: Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. Please consult the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the most up-to-date information before you travel.
• Airport Transfers: Buses and taxis provide easy transfers from Kitakyushu Airport to the city center. The Shinkansen offers direct access to Kokura Station.

A Glimpse into Kitakyushu’s Past: Fun Facts and Stories

Kitakyushu was born in 1963 from the merging of five distinct cities: Kokura, Moji, Tobata, Wakamatsu, and Yahata. This union was a groundbreaking event in Japanese urban planning, creating a major industrial powerhouse and setting a new standard for metropolitan development.

Famous Faces of Kitakyushu

Matsumoto Seicho, a highly acclaimed novelist, was born in Kitakyushu and left a lasting impact on Japanese literature. Look for his works to gain a deeper understanding of the region.

Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Kitakyushu

• Kokura Castle

  Description: A beautifully restored castle featuring a museum that delves into local history and culture.

  Address: 1-1 Jonai, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 803-0813, Japan

• Kawachi Wisteria Garden

  Description: An absolutely breathtaking garden renowned for its tunnel of cascading wisteria flowers – a photographer’s dream!

  Address: 2-14-48 Kawachi, Yahatahigashi Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 805-0045, Japan

• Mojiko Retro District

  Description: A charming port area brimming with beautifully preserved historical buildings from the Meiji and Taisho eras.

  Address: Mojiko, Moji Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 801-0841, Japan

• Space World (Currently Closed)

  Description: While currently closed, this space-themed amusement park remains a significant landmark and a piece of Kitakyushu’s history.

  Address: 4-1-1 Higashida, Yahatahigashi Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 805-8503, Japan

• Kitakyushu Museum of Natural History & Human History

  Description: Explore the region’s fascinating natural and human history, including impressive dinosaur exhibits.

  Address: 3-1-1 Higashida, Yahatahigashi Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 805-0071, Japan

• TOTO Museum

  Description: A surprisingly interesting museum dedicated to the history and technology of TOTO, the famous Japanese toilet manufacturer.

  Address: 2-1-1 Nakashima, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-8601, Japan

• Ogura Castle Garden

  Description: A serene traditional Japanese garden located near Kokura Castle, perfect for a peaceful escape.

  Address: 1-2 Jonai, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 803-0813, Japan

• Hiraodai Plateau

  Description: A stunning karst plateau offering scenic hiking trails and breathtaking panoramic views.

  Address: Hiraodai, Kokuraminami Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan

• Environment Museum

  Description: A unique museum teaching visitors about the vital relationship between industry and the environment – very relevant to Kitakyushu’s story.

  Address: 1-2-1, Asano, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture 802-0001, Japan

• Arasaki Hikanzakura Park

  Description: A gorgeous park boasting around 600 Hikanzakura cherry trees, making it an incredibly popular spot during cherry blossom season.

  Address: 1481-1 Arakawa, Kokuraminami Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 803-0272, Japan

Unveiling Kitakyushu’s Hidden Gems

• Mekari Park

  Description: A beautiful park with spectacular views of the Kanmon Straits and a unique underground cable car experience.

  Address: Moji, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan

• Komor江井ヶ島 Lighthouse

  Description: A historic lighthouse offering picturesque coastal views and a tranquil atmosphere.

  Address: 1130 Monouchi, Moji-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 800-0115, Japan

• Taikodai Festival Museum

  Description: A museum showcasing the elaborate floats and costumes used in the annual Taikodai Festival in Tobata.

  Address: 3-1-1, Higashiyawata, Tobata-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka, 804-0077, Japan

Immerse Yourself in Kitakyushu’s Local Festivals & Events

• Tobata Gion Yamagasa Festival (July)

  Description: A high-energy festival featuring towering floats carried through the streets – an unforgettable sight!

• Wakamatsu Minato Festival (July)

  Description: A vibrant port festival complete with fireworks, parades, and delicious food stalls.

• Kokura Gion Daiko (July)

  Description: A traditional drumming festival celebrated in Kokura – feel the rhythm!

Explore Beyond Kitakyushu: Exciting Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

• Fukuoka City (1 hour by train)

  Description: Discover the bustling city of Fukuoka, renowned for its incredible food scene and vibrant culture.

• Shimonoseki (30 minutes by train)

  Description: Visit the historic city of Shimonoseki, just across the Kanmon Straits, and famous for its fugu (pufferfish).

• Beppu (2-3 hours by train)

  Description: Experience the rejuvenating hot springs and geothermal wonders of Beppu.

Kitakyushu Through the Lens: Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places

• Kawachi Wisteria Garden: Capture the ethereal beauty of the wisteria tunnels.
• Mojiko Retro District: Photograph the charming historical buildings and picturesque waterfront views.
• Kokura Castle: Frame the majestic castle against the backdrop of the cityscape.
• Hiraodai Plateau: Capture panoramic shots of the unique karst landscape.
• Kanmon Straits: Photograph the iconic bridge connecting Kyushu and Honshu.

Your Kitakyushu Home Base: Where to Stay & How to Get Around

Recommended Length of Stay

We suggest planning for 3-4 days to fully experience Kitakyushu.

Top Places to Stay in Kitakyushu

Budget-Friendly Options

• Toyoko Inn Kitakyushu Ekimae:

  Address: 1-1-1 Asano, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0001, Japan

• Hotel Relief Kokura Station:

  Address: 1-1-1 Asano, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0001, Japan

• Business Hotel Uoichi:

  Address: 2-1-5 Uomachi, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0006, Japan

Mid-Range Comfort

• Rihga Royal Hotel Kokura:

  Address: 2-14-2 Asano, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0001, Japan

• Hotel Crown Palais Kokura:

  Address: 5-14-20, Kaji-machi, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka, 802-0022, Japan

• Comfort Hotel Kitakyushu Kokura:

  Address: 1-1-1 Asano, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0001, Japan

Luxury Indulgence

• Imperial Hotel Kokura:

  Address: 2-1-1 Asano, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0001, Japan

• The Celecton Kitakyushu:

  Address: 2-12-1 Senba-cho, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, 802-0002, Japan

Navigating Kitakyushu: Getting Around the City

• Public Transport: Kitakyushu boasts an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy to get around.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available, but can be a more expensive option.
• Bikes: Renting a bicycle is a fantastic way to explore the city, particularly the scenic coastal areas.
• Walking: Walking is a great way to soak in the atmosphere of smaller districts like Mojiko Retro.

Prepping for Your Kitakyushu Adventure

What to Pack for Your Trip

• Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of exploring!
• Appropriate clothing for the season – check the weather forecast before you go.
• Rain gear, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season (June).
• A Japanese phrasebook or translation app – it will enhance your experience.
• A portable charger for your electronic devices – you don’t want to run out of power while capturing those amazing photos!

Useful Apps for Your Kitakyushu Trip

• Google Maps: For reliable navigation.
• Japan Official Travel App: For comprehensive travel information and guides.
• HyperDia: For accurate train schedules and route planning.
• Guronavi: For discovering great restaurants.

Essential Local Customs, Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

• Do’s: Learn a few basic Japanese phrases, remove your shoes when entering homes or traditional establishments, and accept business cards with both hands as a sign of respect.
• Don’ts: Avoid talking loudly on public transport, blowing your nose in public, and sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice (it resembles a funeral ritual).
• Scams to Avoid: Be cautious of overly pushy touts or unsolicited offers. It’s always best to stick to reputable businesses.

Taste, Explore, and Discover: Food, Fun & Finds in Kitakyushu

Top Restaurants in Kitakyushu

• Tanga Market:

  Description: A bustling market offering a wide array of local dishes and delicious street food.

  Address: 4-2-18 Uomachi, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0006, Japan

• Beer Restaurant Mojiko Retro Chuo-Denkai:

  Description: A fantastic restaurant in Mojiko, serving unique and flavorful local beer.

  Address: 1-5-4 NishiKaigan, Moji Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 801-0852, Japan

• Fukusuke Udon:

  Description: A restaurant offering a variety of delicious udon dishes.

  Address: 1-1-2 Kyomachi, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0003, Japan

Must-Try Dishes in Kitakyushu

• Yaki Udon: Stir-fried udon noodles with meat and vegetables – a true local specialty.
• Motsunabe: A flavorful hot pot dish made with beef or pork offal. Don’t be afraid to try it!
• Fugu (Pufferfish): A delicacy, especially popular in nearby Shimonoseki, but also available in Kitakyushu. Prepared by licensed chefs only!
• Kashiwa Meshi: Rice cooked with chicken, vegetables, and soy sauce – a comforting and savory dish.

Nightlife & Entertainment Hotspots

• Kokura Area:

  Description: Kokura is a lively area with a wide selection of bars, izakayas (Japanese pubs), and karaoke establishments.

  Location: Centered around Kokura Station.

• Mojiko Retro:

  Description: Mojiko boasts some stylish bars and restaurants offering stunning views of the harbor.

  Location: Mojiko Retro District.

What to Buy: Souvenirs & Local Markets

• Mentaiko:

  Description: Spicy marinated cod roe – a popular and flavorful local food souvenir.

  Location: Available at Tanga Market and department stores.

• Local Ceramics:

  Description: Browse the shops selling unique local pottery and ceramics.

  Location: Near Kokura Castle and in craft shops around the city.

• Mojiko Retro Souvenirs:

  Description: Find charming retro-themed goods and crafts.

  Location: Shops throughout the Mojiko Retro District.