Kitakyūshū,
Kitakyushu is a city located in Fukuoka Prefecture on the island of Kyushu in Japan. It is known for its industrial history, with industries such as steel and shipbuilding having been prominent in the past. The city is surrounded by beautiful nature, including mountains and the Seto Inland Sea.
Kitakyushu also offers a mix of modern attractions such as shopping malls and historic sites like Kokura Castle.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Historic Sites and Local Eats
morning:Start your day with a visit to the historic Kokura Castle, a magnificent symbol of Kitakyūshū. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil Kokura Garden. Don't miss out on breakfast at the traditional Kokura Fish Market, where you can savor some of the freshest seafood in the city.
afternoon:In the afternoon, head to the Tanga Market, a vibrant marketplace offering local crafts and delicacies. Then, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Kawachi Reservoir Park, perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk. Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at one of the cozy teahouses in the park.
evening:As the sun sets, make your way to Riverwalk Kitakyushu, a lively waterfront district packed with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues for a memorable night-out.
Cultural Immersion and Gastronomic Delights
morning:Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with a morning visit to the Hiraodai Limestone Cave, where you can marvel at the awe-inspiring natural formations. Indulge in a delicious breakfast at one of the charming local bakeries near the cave entrance.
afternoon:Discover the rich heritage of Kitakyūshū at the Kitakyushu Museum of Natural History & Human History, showcasing fascinating exhibits that offer insights into the city's history and environment. For lunch, savor authentic ramen at one of the renowned noodle shops in the area.
evening:As night falls, experience the bustling nightlife of Mojiko Retro, a nostalgic district lined with retro-style buildings, trendy bars, and stylish dining spots to unwind and enjoy the evening.
Scenic Beauty and Flavors of Kitakysh
morning:Start your day with a visit to the stunning Sarakura Shrine, nestled amidst lush greenery and offering breathtaking views of the city. Treat yourself to a delightful breakfast at a local café near the shrine, serving a variety of delectable pastries and beverages.
afternoon:Embark on a scenic boat tour along the Murasaki River, immersing yourself in the picturesque landscapes and tranquil surroundings. After the tour, satisfy your hunger with a delightful lunch at one of the charming riverside restaurants.
evening:Cap off your day with a visit to Riverwalk Kitakyushu, where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and enjoy a delightful evening of dining and entertainment by the waterfront.
Adventurous Explorations and Local Tastes
morning:Embark on an exciting cycling adventure along the Katsuyama Historical Preservation District, where you can explore the quaint streets and traditional architecture. Refuel with a delicious breakfast at a cozy local café, offering an array of freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries.
afternoon:Head to the Kawachi Wisteria Garden, an enchanting floral paradise bursting with vibrant colors and captivating scents. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a charming eatery within the garden, specializing in local culinary delights.
evening:Conclude your day with a visit to Mojiko Retro, a vibrant area with a dazzling array of bars, izakayas, and restaurants, perfect for a memorable night-out featuring delectable cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Kitakyūshū Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Yaki Udon
Thick and chewy udon noodles stir-fried with pork, vegetables, and a soy-based sauce. A must-try is the yaki udon at the Kokura Castle Street stalls.
Must-Try!
Mizutaki
A hot pot dish featuring chicken and assorted vegetables cooked in a flavorful broth. Indulge in authentic mizutaki at the Mizutaki Yatai stalls along Mojiko Retro.
Mentaiko
Spicy marinated cod roe that is often served as a topping for rice or in pasta. Try fresh mentaiko at local markets like Tanga Ichiba.
Karashi Mentaiko
Spicy cod roe that has been marinated with mustard. It's a popular local delicacy available at most seafood markets and specialty food stores.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Tanga Market
This bustling market is packed with vendors offering a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies like mentaiko. Don't miss the street food stalls serving up freshly grilled seafood skewers and takoyaki.
Mojiko Retro
The streets of Mojiko Retro are lined with charming food stalls known as yatai, where you can sample everything from mizutaki hot pot to sizzling yakitori.
Pet sitters in Kitakyūshū
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!