Article about Lovely Places

Mekari Park: Stunning Views and a Touch of History and Peace
Cultural Experiences Hideyuki Ito Cultural Experiences Hideyuki Ito

Mekari Park: Stunning Views and a Touch of History and Peace

Mekari Shrine in Kitakyushu’s Moji District is a popular destination for tourists, but did you know there’s another hidden gem nearby? Mekari Park, perched high above the area, offers not only breathtaking views of the Kanmon Strait but also a chance to experience cultural and historical landmarks, such as the World Peace Pagoda nestled within its grounds.

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Enjoy the Fun of Souvenir Shopping at Minato House in Mojiko Retro
Hideyuki Ito Hideyuki Ito

Enjoy the Fun of Souvenir Shopping at Minato House in Mojiko Retro

Minato House in Mojiko Retro is the perfect place to shop for local souvenirs and enjoy the charm of Mojiko. From baked curry kits to handmade crafts, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to sample treats and relax at the café as you wrap up your visit with a memorable gift for yourself or your loved ones.

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Chofu Garden – A Hidden Gem of Serenity
Hideyuki Ito Hideyuki Ito

Chofu Garden – A Hidden Gem of Serenity

Located in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Chofu Garden is a traditional Japanese garden built on the grounds of a former samurai residence from the Edo period. Despite its expansive beauty, this garden remains an under-the-radar destination, offering a peaceful retreat from bustling tourist spots. Here, we share a personal account of visiting the garden during the quiet winter season, as well as tips for enjoying it during the vibrant spring and autumn months.

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Discover the Wonders of Mojiko: Stunning Views and a Fascinating Intersection
Hideyuki Ito Hideyuki Ito

Discover the Wonders of Mojiko: Stunning Views and a Fascinating Intersection

Mojiko, located in Kitakyushu, is a picturesque harbor town where history meets timeless charm. The Mojiko Retro district, with its beautifully preserved buildings from the Meiji and Taisho eras, offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the nostalgia of Japan's past.

Among Mojiko’s many attractions, the Mojiko Observation Deck stands tall, quite literally, as a must-visit destination. Perched atop a 31-story high-rise, the observation room provides a breathtaking panorama of the Kanmon Strait, the nostalgic Mojiko streets, and even the distant ships gliding across the sea.

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Fujitaka Liquor Store:A Nostalgic Bar That Feels Like a Time Machine
Chihiro Terada Chihiro Terada

Fujitaka Liquor Store:A Nostalgic Bar That Feels Like a Time Machine

A Nostalgic Bar That Feels Like a Time Machine

Kitakyushu is known as the birthplace of kakuuchi—the unique standing bar culture where locals gather to drink inside sake shops.
Among the many historic spots, Fujitaka Saketen in Tobata stands out as a place where time seems to have stopped.

It’s not just about the drinks.
It’s about the atmosphere, the experience, and the sound of an old-world tool—the soroban (Japanese abacus).

When it’s time to pay, instead of a digital register or a smartphone app, the shop owner picks up a soroban.

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A Different Kind of Journey: Discovering the Underground
Hideyuki Ito Hideyuki Ito

A Different Kind of Journey: Discovering the Underground

A Different Kind of Journey: Discovering the Underground

Just outside Kokura Station, a lively dining district unfolds.

Restaurants with bright signs and inviting entrances attract both locals and visitors, naturally drawing them toward the surface-level bustle.

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Atsumi Coffee:A Luxurious Blend of Specialty Coffee & Exquisite Katsu Cuisine
Hideyuki Ito Hideyuki Ito

Atsumi Coffee:A Luxurious Blend of Specialty Coffee & Exquisite Katsu Cuisine

ATSUMI COFFEE: A Luxurious Blend of Specialty Coffee & Exquisite Katsu Cuisine

For coffee connoisseurs and food lovers visiting Japan—what if there was a place where you could experience world-class specialty coffee alongside a gourmet katsu meal?

Nestled just a 5-minute walk from Kokura Station in Kitakyushu, ATSUMI COFFEE offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience that perfectly blends artisanal coffee craftsmanship with Japanese culinary excellence.

For discerning travelers from Europe, Australia, and North America who seek more than just an ordinary café, this is a must-visit destination. Here, you'll encounter exceptional coffee crafted by certified professionals and a visually stunning, flavor-packed katsu dining experience.

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