Learn from the past and discover the city’s hope for peace through museums, monuments, and local craftsmanship.

Reflecting on Peace : A Journey Through Kokura’s History

Kokura once stood at the center of history — it was the original target of the atomic bombing in August 1945. Today, the city preserves stories of war and recovery through meaningful museums and memorials that teach the value of peace. This course invites you to walk through tranquil parks, explore the city’s Peace Museum, and finish your journey with a taste of local flavor and creativity.

Duration : Half day

Transportation : Walking

📍Places to visit on this course

  1. Katsuyama Park

  2. Kitakyushu Museum of Peace

  3. Hamburger & Steak Lolo

  4. Kaleidoscope Studio KAZU

🚩START!

JR Nishi-Kokura Station

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On foot (10 minutes)

1. Kokura Castle

A traditional Japanese castle with white walls and dark roof tiles, surrounded by cherry blossom trees in full bloom, under a clear blue sky.

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

Interior of a retail store with shelves and tables displaying various candy, snacks, and collectible items. Bright lighting, large windows, and modern decor are visible.

🎁 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

  • Address : 2-1 Jōnai, Kokurakita-Ku, Kitakyushu City

  • Phone : 093-561-1210 (Kokura Castle)

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On foot (7 minutes)

Close-up of a plate with two sandwiches made with white bread, lettuce, tomato, turkey slices, and possibly cheese.

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. River Museum Kitakyushu 

Explore the river… from the water! Try canoeing on the Murasaki River

This interactive museum showcases the ecology of the Murasaki River, flowing through the center of Kokura. The highlight? A guided canoe tour that lets you paddle from downtown to the sea — a rare urban adventure. Pass under bridges and enjoy the mix of cityscape and nature from a whole new perspective.

📍 Basic Info

  • Address : 1-2 Senbamachi, Kokurakita-Ku, Kitakyushu City

  • Phone : 093-551-3011

Pick Up!

🛶 Canoe Experience in Murasaki River (April–November)

Two types of tours are available: a Basic Experience for casual paddling within the area, and a Canoe Touring Course exploring the brackish zone near the river mouth. The basic experience can be booked online, while the tour requires a phone reservation.

[Visit the official website of River Museum Kitakyushu  (external link)]

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On foot (15 minutes)

5. Kitakyushu Manga Museum

See, read, and draw — dive into Japan’s manga culture!

Kitakyushu, a city known for its creativity and innovation, has produced over 100 professional manga artists. The museum celebrates their work with exhibitions, an extensive manga reading area, and drawing experiences for visitors. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer, you’ll feel the vibrant spirit of Japan’s manga scene here.

📍 Basic Info

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On foot (4 minutes)

JR Kokura Station

🏁GOAL!

  • A bowl of udon noodle soup topped with green onions, tempura, beef, and a fish cake, served alongside onigiri rice balls wrapped in seaweed.
  • A modern building with glass doors and windows, decorated with flags and signs, including a cartoon tiger mascot wearing a white hat and cape, outdoors on a sunny day with trees in the background.
  • Young girl dressed in traditional Japanese attire hitting a large taiko drum during a cultural festival.
  • A dessert served in a tall glass with various toppings like fruit, beans, and cookies, viewed on a tray with a blurred background.