Kitakyushu

Kitakyushu (北九州) is a city located in the northern part of Kyushu island in Japan. It is the third-largest city in the Fukuoka Prefecture and is known for its rich history, modern industry, and beautiful natural scenery.

One of the main attractions in Kitakyushu is Kokura Castle, a historic castle that was built in the early 17th century. The castle grounds are a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring, and the castle itself houses a museum that showcases the city’s history.

Another popular attraction in Kitakyushu is the TOTO Museum, which is dedicated to the history of Japan’s toilet culture. The museum features exhibits on the evolution of toilets and bathrooms, as well as interactive displays and activities.

For nature lovers, the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden is a must-see destination in Kitakyushu. The garden features thousands of wisteria flowers in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and purple. The garden is open to the public during the spring season, when the wisteria are in bloom.

Kitakyushu is also known for its vibrant food scene, with many local specialties such as yaki-ramen, a type of fried noodle dish, and mentaiko, a spicy fish roe that is often used as a topping for rice and other dishes.

Getting there

From Hakata Station to Kokura Station:

Shinkansen	Hakata Station ↓ Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen ↓ 18 minutes (Nonstop) Kokura Station (Cost 2,160 yen)
Train	Hakata Station ↓ Kagoshima Line ↓ 1 hour 10 minutes (14 stops) Kokura Station (Cost 1,310 yen)