Port Guide | Japan | Worth a Wander
Kitakyushu
Michael States | Editor
Published on 2025-01-21
Welcome to Kitakyushu, your cruise ship's surprise party-a city refreshingly free from the clutter of Instagram hashtags and obligatory temple selfies. Perched proudly at the northern gateway of Kyushu island, this scrappy industrial city once wore its smog like a badge of honor, but has since cleaned up so nicely it now boasts sparkly waterfronts, lush parks, and historical landmarks that have managed to dodge tourists on autopilot. Between selfies at Kokura Castle (which somehow survived WWII thanks to good old-fashioned cloudy weather-seriously, look it up), wandering through Mojiko's charmingly retro streets, and sampling sizzling yakicurry (yes, curry covered in bubbling melted cheese; you're welcome), you'll quickly find that Kitakyushu offers an easygoing authenticity most glossy travel brochures accidentally overlook. You've got two to five days to lounge, explore, and eat your weight in grilled yakitori while discovering the Japan that happens when no one's looking-enjoy it deliciously, irreverently, and above all, adventurously.
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Notes from the Editor
Kitakyushu is known for its historical landmarks, beautiful parks, and proximity to popular attractions like Mojiko and Kokura Castle. Make sure to try local cuisine!
Where do cruise ships dock in Kitakyushu?
Port Name Kitakyushu
Country Japan
Region Asia
Ship Terminal Mojiko Retro Dock
Port Type dedicated port
Accessibility The dock is approximately 5 km from the city center, easily accessible via local buses or taxis.
What's the weather like in Kitakyushu?
Best Season to Visit Spring (March to May)
Climate Temperate climate with four distinct seasons; mild winters and hot, humid summers.
Weather Notes Spring is generally pleasant but be aware of potential rain.
Temperature Range 50F to 75F (10C to 24C)
High Temp 91F
Low Temp 30F
Average Temp 60F
What do I need to know about Kitakyushu?
Language Japanese
Currency Japanese Yen (JPY)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 950,000
Timezone Japan Standard Time (UTC+9)
How do I get around Kitakyushu?
Local buses, taxis, and rental cars are available at the terminal.
What are The Best Things to do in Kitakyushu?
Discover what you should do while you're in Kitakyushu.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Kokura Castle Cherry Blossom Viewing
2-1 Jonai, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu
Traditional hanami experience with the backdrop of a beautiful Japanese castle.
Distance from Terminal: 1.3 miles
Visit Ikawa Shrine's Spring Festival
N/A
Attend local traditional rituals performed exclusively in spring.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Visit Kyushu Railway History Museum
2-3-29 Kiyotaki, Moji-ku
Dive deep into Japan's iconic railway history at this niche museum.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Oma Bamboo Lantern Festival
N/A
Springtime festival featuring lighting of intricate bamboo lantern displays.
Distance from Terminal: 9 miles
Zenrin Map Museum
3-1 Nakashima, Kokurakita
Explore the history and art of map-making in this specialized museum.
Distance from Terminal: 2.6 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
TOTO Museum
2-1-1 Nakashima, Kokurakita Ward
Unique museum dedicated to Asia's innovative toilet technology.
Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles
Kitakyushu Manga Museum
2-14-5 Asano, Kokurakita Ward
Discover the genesis and evolution of manga culture in Asia.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Traditional Indigo Dye Workshop
N/A
Hands-on workshop learning authentic Japanese craft of indigo dyeing.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
Fugu (Pufferfish) Specialty Restaurants
N/A
Experience the thrill of indulging in carefully prepared pufferfish dishes.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Wisteria Tunnel at Kawachi Fuji Garden
N/A
Walk through dreamy tunnels covered with blooming wisteria flowers.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Strawberry Picking at Regional Farms
N/A
Indulge in seasonal fruit harvesting experiences near Kitakyushu.
Distance from Terminal: 12 miles
Hiraodai Karst Plateau
N/A
Explore Japanese karst landscapes boasting impressive geological formations.
Distance from Terminal: 15 miles
Mount Sarakura Cable Car Ride
N/A
Scenic cable car ride offering panoramic views of city and nature.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Overnight Trips
Stay Overnight at Ryokan Fukuju
N/A
Experience traditional Japanese lodging and hospitality overnight.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
A Little Extra
Taste Authentic Ramen at Daruma Ramen
N/A
Relish locally famed Kitakyushu-style ramen.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Uomachi Shopping Arcade
Uomachi Kokurakita-ku
Stroll through traditional local market with genuine Asian shopping feel.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Japan Regional Tip
Gift-giving etiquette and presenting gifts with both hands. Present gifts using both hands, and ensure they are elegantly wrapped; modestly downplay their value when offering.