Enjoy cherry blossoms, local flavors, and canoeing in the heart of Kokura.

Spring in Full Bloom: Active Day in Kokura City

When spring paints Kokura in soft pink hues, the city becomes the perfect place to enjoy an active and refreshing day. Start your journey under the cherry blossoms at Kokura Castle, discover local specialties and souvenirs, and feel the city’s energy from a canoe gliding down the Murasaki River. End your day exploring the world of Japanese manga — a perfect mix of culture, nature, and creativity in the heart of Kitakyushu.

Duration : Half day

Transportation : Walking

📍Places to visit on this course

  1. Kokura Castle

  2. Shiro Terrace

  3. Sandwich Factory OCM

  4. Kitakyushu Water Environment Museum

  5. Kitakyushu Manga Museum

🚩START!

JR Kokura Station

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On foot (15 minutes)

1. Kokura Castle

Stroll through cherry blossoms surrounding this iconic landmark

Built by the first Kokura Domain lord, Tadaoki Hosokawa, Kokura Castle stands at the heart of the city. In spring, around 300 cherry trees bloom around its walls, creating a breathtaking scene. The contrast of pink blossoms and the white castle tower makes for stunning photos. Don’t miss the Kokura Castle Cherry Blossom Festival, held annually from late March to early April.

📍 Basic Info

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On foot (Within the castle grounds)

2. Shiro Terrace

🎁 Discover stylish and traditional souvenirs at the foot of Kokura Castle.

Located at the Otemon Square, Shiro Terrace serves as a cultural hub with a lounge, shop, café, and tourist center. Browse charming Kokura Castle-themed sweets like Castle Chocolates and Stone Wall Cookies, or pick up Chobinuka — a modern twist on Kitakyushu’s local delicacy, Nukamisodaki.

📍 Basic Info

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On foot (7 minutes)

A local favorite — the soul food of Kokura!

3. Sandwich Factory OCM

Loved by locals for over 45 years, OCM serves made-to-order sandwiches using soft, freshly baked bread from Shiroya Bakery, another Kokura staple. Choose two fillings to create your own combo — the most popular is the Original Chicken sandwich, featuring homemade meat sauce and juicy chicken.

📍 Basic Info

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On foot (2 minutes)

4. Kogetsudo Main Store “Kissako”

🍡 Relax with Japanese sweets at a beloved 19th-century confectionery.

Founded in 1895, Kogetsudo is known for its chestnut manju and serene tea lounge “Kissako,” where locals gather to unwind. Try their Shiratama Zenzai or Shiruko Float. In summer, don’t miss their shaved ice creations — perfect for cooling off after the festival.

📍 Basic Info

Pick Up!

A 400-Year-Old Summer Tradition — The Kokura Gion Taiko Festival

Held annually for three days in mid-July, including the third Saturday, the Kokura Gion Taiko Festival boasts a proud 400-year history. Its most distinctive feature is the two-sided walking drum performance, a rare style even in Japan. The powerful sound of the taiko drums, the rhythmic clang of the Jangara cymbals, and the children’s cheerful festival chants come together in a breathtaking harmony that fills the streets of Kokura with energy and excitement.

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On foot (3 minutes)

JR Kokura Station

🏁GOAL!