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Moji Port 2024 Guide: 10 Things to Do, Local Cuisine, Access, and Hotels
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The Moji Port area in Kitakyushu City, boasting a 130-year history and a distinct ambiance, is home to many Western-style buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods. A journey through the architectural charms of the past and present Moji Port is a must when visiting Kyushu!
Moji Port Guide 2024
1. Moji Port: Historical Overview
2. How to Get to Moji Port
3. Top 10 Nostalgic Spots in Moji Port
4. Dining Options at Moji Port
5. Hotels Near Moji Port
1. Moji Port: Historical Overview
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
Moji Port (Mojiko), the main port in Kitakyushu City, opened in 1889. One of the important international trade ports during the Meiji (1868-1912) and Showa (1926-1989) eras, it was often referred to as one of "The Three Great Ports of Japan" alongside Kobe and Yokohama.
Numerous commercial facilities, hotels, offices, and other buildings surround the port, predominantly showcasing Western-style architecture from the early 20th century.
The retro and nostalgic buildings in Moji Port have earned it the nickname "Mojiko Retro." With the resurgence of retro trends and the completion of renovations at Mojiko Station in 2019, approximately 2 million visitors flock to this district each year.
2. How to Get to Moji Port
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
There are four main ways to access Moji Port. If you are planning a day trip to Moji, make sure to save this information.
Shinkansen
To reach Moji Port outside the Kyushu region, take the Shinkansen to Kokura Station. Then, transfer to a local or rapid train to reach Moji Port in about 15 minutes.
Take JR Trains from Hakata
From Hakata to Moji Port, you can board the Sonic train operated by the Kyushu Railway Company (JR Kyushu), which will take approximately 40 to 60 minutes to reach Kokura Station. From there, transfer to a local or rapid train to Moji Port, which is about a 15-minute journey.
Consider using the JR Kyushu Rail Pass, available in versions such as All Kyushu and Northern Kyushu.
The All Kyushu Area Pass comes in 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day options. It allows unlimited travel on local, express, and Shinkansen trains across Kyushu.
The Northern Kyushu Pass is available for 3-day and 5-day use, covering travel to destinations like Kumamoto, Oita, Nagasaki, Moji Port, and more. Passholders can also reserve seats on some trains.
Board a Bus in Hakata
With the purchase of the Moji Retro Ticket, you can take a round-trip bus ride between Fukuoka and Kokura, as well as Kokura and Moji, within two days.
Holders of this ticket can also enjoy discounts at facilities and dining establishments in the Moji area. For detailed schedules and ticket prices, please visit the Nishitetsu official website.
Boarding a Ferry from Shimonoseki to Karato
When traveling from Shimonoseki or Karato to Moji, you can take advantage of the Kanmon Ferry, which is the fastest and most convenient way to travel. You can reach Moji in just 5 minutes.
For detailed schedules and ticket prices, please visit the Kanmon Ferry official website (Japanese).
3. Top 10 Nostalgic Spots in Moji Port
1. JR Moji Station
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
JR Moji Station, after a restoration period of 6 years, once again showcased its "Taisho Romance" architectural style in March 2019. This station, which has stood the test of time for a century, is the oldest station in Kyushu.
Its understated classical charm captivates visitors, prompting them to pause, take photos, and admire its beauty. Therefore, it is a prominent landmark in Moji Port!
Hotels near JR Mojiko Station
2. Kyushu Railway History Museum
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
The first Kyushu Railway Company was established in Kyushu in 1882. It later merged with the national railway to form the current JR Kyushu.
Retired trains are on display inside the museum, allowing visitors to experience what it was like to drive them back in the day. Additionally, there are mini trains for children to enjoy, making it a perfect spot for families to visit and play together.
Hotels near Kyushu Railway Memorial Hall
3. Old Moji Mitsui Club
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
The Old Moji Mitsui Club in 1921 was a lodging establishment of the renowned Japanese company Mitsui & Co. specifically designed to accommodate guests. The exterior features dignified and stable Western-style architecture, while the interior boasts splendid European decorations.
The famous physicist Albert Einstein also stayed there in 1922. As a result, one of the rooms in the club has been restored to recreate the setting of Einstein's accommodation during his visit.
Hotels near Former Moji Mitsui Club
4. The Former Moji Customs Office
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
The facade of the Former Moji Customs Office in Moji Port is a structure left from the prosperous trade and economic era built in 1912. The interior was once destroyed by fire but was restored to its original state in 1991.
Currently, the building houses resting areas and a cafe. After exploring the surrounding attractions, visitors can come here to relax and experience one of the oldest buildings in Moji Port.
Hotels near Former Moji Customs
5. Moji Port Tower Observatory
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
In 1999, the renowned architect Kisho Kurokawa designed the Moji Port Tower Observatory, standing 103 meters tall and offering panoramic views of Moji Port, Shimonoseki, and the Kanmon Strait.
Apart from the breathtaking views, the nostalgic observatory in Moji Port also houses a cafe where visitors can enjoy ice cream soda and soak in the unique atmosphere of the Moji Port Retro District.
Hotels near Mojiko Tower Observation Deck
6. Kanmon Strait
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
The Kanmon Strait is located between Honshu and Kyushu, connecting the closest city in the westernmost point of Honshu, Shimonoseki. It can be accessed via the Kanmon Bridge, the undersea pedestrian walkway, the Shinkansen (bullet train), and by taking the Kanmon Ferry to Shimonoseki.
Visitors can use the undersea pedestrian walkway, which takes about 15 minutes one way, to experience the sensation of crossing the sea. On the return trip, the Moji Port to Shimonoseki Ferry provides a different scenic experience.
7. Blue Wing Moji
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
The Blue Wing Moji is Japan's only pedestrian-only movable suspension bridge, spanning approximately 108 meters and opening six times a day to allow boats to pass through.
From day to night, the bridge's movements, along with the scenery of the Kanmon Strait, showcase different charms, enticing many visitors to pause and appreciate this unique sight exclusive to Moji Port.
Hotels near Blue Wing Moji
8. Mekari Park
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
Located at the northern tip of Kyushu, Mekari Park spans approximately 37 hectares and features three observation decks. During the day, visitors can enjoy views of the Kanmon Bridge and the streets of Shimonoseki.
In the evening, the Kanmon Strait is recognized as a Japanese Night View Heritage Site, where the lights from boats and the bustling city create a romantic atmosphere.
Hotels near Mekari Park
9. Moji Electric Communication Retro Museum
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
The Moji Electric Communication Retro Museum was constructed by the Telephone Department of the Post Office in 1924.
Inside the hall, you'll find displays of various telecommunication and telephone equipment used in the past and present, allowing visitors to experience the older communication devices. It is an excellent place for families to explore and experience items from different generations together.
Hotels near Moji Electric Communication Retro Museum
10. Kanmon Strait Museum
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
The Kanmon Strait Museum is designed around the concept of a cruise ship, with a cafe and observation deck located on the 5th floor.
The deck design mimics a cruise ship's layout, allowing visitors to enjoy sea views while feeling the ocean breeze. Additionally, the museum recreates the streets of the Kanmon Strait and Moji Port from the Taisho and Showa eras, providing a glimpse into the prosperity of Moji Port during that time.
Hotels near Kanmon Strait Museum
4. Dining Options in Moji Port
Japanese cuisine in Kyushu is renowned, with dishes like the famous Fukuoka Tonkotsu Ramen, Miyazaki Charcoal-Grilled Jidori Chicken, and Nagasaki Champon. What are some must-try foods in Moji Port?
Grilled Curry
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
One of the must-try foods in Moji Port is the Grilled Curry. In 1995, a cafe in the area baked leftover curry, enhancing its aroma and drawing numerous food enthusiasts to taste it. As a result, Moji Port's Grilled Curry has gained popularity.
There are over 20 grilled curry restaurants in Moji Port, each offering unique curry flavors and ingredients, making it worthwhile exploring.
Recommended Grilled Curry Restaurants in Moji Port: Koganemushi, Mitsui Club, Dolce
Showa Era Pudding at Cafes
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
The Showa Era Pudding has become an inseparable part of Moji Port's nostalgic charm. This dessert has recently gained popularity by embracing the Taisho and Showa period vibes.
Unlike the creamy and soft texture of regular pudding, the Showa Era Pudding tends to be firmer. It has a subtle egg and milk fragrance, complemented by a slightly bitter caramel flavor, intensifying the pudding's richness.
Recommended Shops for Showa Era Pudding in Moji Port: Wazuka, Milk Hall Moji Port, Moji Port Rokuyokan
Blowfish Cuisine
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
There is a long-standing culture of consuming fugu (blowfish) in Shimonoseki and Kitakyushu. In 1888, Japan's first Prime Minister, Hirobumi Ito, lifted the ban on consuming fugu, leading to a proliferation of fugu cuisine establishments in the Shimonoseki region.
Nearby in Moji Port, there are several excellent longstanding fugu cuisine restaurants where visitors can enjoy high-quality and delicious fugu without needing to travel to Yamaguchi Prefecture.
Recommended Fugu Cuisine Restaurants: Sangi-rou Salon KAITO, Kaiseki Tenka, Moji Port Fugu Cuisine Shigeru
5. Hotels near Moji Port
If you are planning to stay overnight in Moji Port and prefer accommodations beyond the standard business hotels, here are some lodging options with unique characteristics.
Moji Port PREMIER Hotel
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
The Moji Port PREMIER Hotel is situated in the heart of Moji Port's most popular tourist spot, within a 5-minute walk to attractions such as JR Moji Port Station, Moji Port Tower Observatory, and the Old Moji Customs, making sightseeing convenient and time-efficient.
The hotel's interior design primarily revolves around a nostalgic theme, with a blend of white and wood tones creating a comfortable and cozy atmosphere.
Hotels near PREMIER HOTEL MOJIKO
Mojiko Guesthouse PORTO
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
Originally a wooden inn over 70 years old, Guesthouse PORTO has been renovated to become a nostalgic accommodation. Some elements from its past have been preserved, combined with modern Western design touches, enhancing the overall quality of the building. Every corner is picturesque and perfect for photography, creating a unique and visually appealing atmosphere throughout the guesthouse.
Hotels near Mojiko Guesthouse PORTO
Enjoy Exploring Moji Port
Moji Port was once a vital hub for trade and commerce. Today, it has become a nostalgic tourist attraction.
Whether you visit to immerse yourself in its retro charm or to explore its rich history, this city offers a unique glimpse of Japan's allure that will captivate visitors with its distinctive charm.
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