Mojiko Retro: A Historic Port District Exuding Meiji and Taisho Romanticism

Mojiko Retro: A Historic Port Town That Prospered in Continental Trade

Mojiko Port in Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, was an important port city that prospered in trade with the continent (China and Korea) during the Meiji-Taisho period. Centered on the former Moji Station (now: Mojiko Station) built in 1914, many Western-style buildings from that era including the former Osaka Mercantile Shipping and former Moji Mitsui Club remain, developed as the "Mojiko Retro District."

Highlights of the Retro District

JR Mojiko Station (National Important Cultural Property) is a Neo-Renaissance style station building built in 1914 and a must-see. Adjacent "Kanmon Strait Museum," "former Osaka Mercantile Shipping (drawbridge)," and "former Moji Mitsui Club (where Einstein stayed)" can also be visited.

Banana Bargain Selling

Mojiko Port is the birthplace of banana bargain selling. "Tataki-uri (bargain selling)" began at Mojiko Port as a way to sell bananas imported from the continent before they spoiled. Performances for events and tourists continue today.

Baked Curry and Port Cuisine

Mojiko specialty "baked curry" is a unique dish of curry rice placed in a gratin dish and baked in an oven. Many baked curry restaurants line the retro district.

Access

Nearest station is JR Kagoshima Main Line "Mojiko Station." Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by rapid train from JR Hakata Station. Connected to Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi Prefecture via the Kanmon Tunnel.