An Evening Escape in Kokura: From Sauna Serenity to Seafood Delights

Unwind After Work: Evening Sauna & Seafood Course in Kokura

After finishing work early, why not take a short evening trip through Kokura’s heart?
Start with an inspiring visit to the Zenrin Map Museum, stroll across an iconic art-filled bridge, and then treat yourself to a rejuvenating sauna session at Kokura Sauna TOTONOI.
Finally, unwind with a seafood dinner and local sake at a long-loved izakaya — the perfect way to reset both body and soul before another busy day.

Duration : 3 hours

Transportation : Walking

📍Places to visit on this course

  1. Zenrin Museum

  2. Naka no Hashi (Sun Bridge)

  3. Kokura Sauna TOTONOI

  4. Izakaya Miraku (Kyomachi Main Branch)

🚩START!

JR Kokura Station

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On foot (10 minutes)

1. Zenrin Museum

Discover history through maps — a fascinating journey through time.

Dedicated to the theme “Exploring World and Japanese History Through Maps,” this museum showcases centuries of cartography, from 16th-century European maps of Japan to detailed Edo-period maps by Tadataka Inō. Each exhibit reveals how geography shaped global connections, offering both history buffs and casual visitors an engaging experience.

📍 Basic Info

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On foot (7 minutes)

2. Naka no Hashi (Sun Bridge)

A quirky bridge that doubles as public art.

Among the nine bridges spanning Kokura’s Murasaki River, the Sun Bridge stands out with its seven tubular-headed sculptures — affectionately called “macaroni people” by locals. The walkway mosaics of sunflowers and unique artistic design make it a fun stop for photography and a symbol of Kokura’s creative spirit.

📍 Basic Info

  • Address : 1-1-17 Umagurashi, Kokurakita-Ku, Kitakyushu City

  • Phone : 093-541-4189 (Kitakyushu City General Tourist Information Center)

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On foot (8 minutes)

3. Kokura Sauna TOTONOI

Rejuvenate your mind and body in a modern urban sauna.

This sauna-centered relaxation spot offers multiple options, from traditional steam saunas to meditation-style dry saunas. After sweating it out, unwind in the outdoor lounge equipped with hammocks and cool-air baths. Private saunas opened in late 2022, making it a great choice for both men and women to experience the Japanese art of totonou — the ultimate sauna bliss.

📍 Basic Info

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On foot (4 minutes)

4. Mikazukiya Wakamatsu Store

🥐 Handcrafted croissants made with natural yeast

A bakery specializing in natural yeast croissants, famous for their crisp outside and soft, chewy center.
Choose from 14 varieties, including the store-exclusive Zamand and the classic Plain. Their croissant sundae is also a hit—best enjoyed while gazing out over the sea.

📍 Basic Info

Pick Up!

Wakamatsu is home to many retro Western-style buildings, remnants of its coal port past. Mikazukiya is housed in the historic Sekitan Kaikan (Coal Hall), built in 1905—the oldest Western-style building in the district.

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On foot (8 minutes)

5. Toraya

🍡 A nostalgic local snack shop loved since 1923

A long-loved shop offering delicious street foods like takoyaki , okonomiyaki, yakisoba, and yakionigiri.
Don’t miss the signature Mohei Manju—soft, thin-skinned buns filled with rich, sweet red bean paste. Enjoy them hot for the best flavor!

📍 Basic Info

  • Address : 3-8-18 Honmachi, Wakamatsu-Ku, Kitakyushu City

  • Phone : 093-771-9990

  • Toraya Related site

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On foot (2 minutes)

JR Wakamatsu Station

🏁GOAL!