Shimabuta Shichirin-yaki Manmi | Review by 楊雅雯

On this trip to Kokura Castle in Kitakyushu, Japan, of course I couldn't miss nearby Katsuyama Park! Katsuyama Park is right in downtown Kokura and extends outward from Kokura Castle. Kokura Garden is also nearby, and the entire area combines historic sites, a Japanese garden, and natural scenery, making it a great place for a leisurely walk.

I really liked the surroundings here. Even though it's in the bustling downtown area, stepping into the park feels like getting away from the noise. Walking slowly along the waterfront and taking in the green trees on both sides, the calm water, and the historic-looking Kokura Castle made for a really pleasant atmosphere.

In particular, seeing the historic architecture of Kokura Castle together with the surrounding stone walls and moat really makes you feel like you've traveled back in time to the era of feudal lords in ancient Japan.

I heard that Katsuyama Park is also a well-known cherry blossom viewing spot among locals, and it must be beautiful when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom every spring! Unfortunately, I visited in the summer this time, so I didn't get to see them.

But I think Katsuyama Park has a different kind of beauty in the summer! The weather was very nice that day, with bright sunshine and a deep blue sky. The trees throughout the park were lush and green, and paired with the white exterior of Kokura Castle, they looked really beautiful in photos. Especially while walking along the moat, seeing the surrounding trees reflected on the water made me stop and take a few more pictures.

You don't need to plan any special activities here. Just walking slowly and enjoying the scenery feels very relaxing. Although I missed the most beautiful cherry blossom season, I still think it was well worth seeing the summer scenery of Kokura Castle and Katsuyama Park in such nice weather!

When visiting Kitakyushu, Mojiko Retro is definitely a place worth exploring at a leisurely pace! What attracted me most was the vintage architecture filled with historic charm. The red-brick exteriors, European-style designs, and harbor views all blend together, making it feel as though you’ve stepped into the Meiji or Taisho era.

The weather was beautiful that day, with blue skies and white clouds over the harbor, and sunlight sparkling on the water. I strolled along the waterfront, admired the pedestrian bridge spanning the harbor, and looked at the well-preserved historic buildings nearby. There was something charming from every angle.

I especially liked the way old and new buildings stand side by side here. It feels nostalgic while still retaining the relaxed atmosphere of a modern harbor. Compared with busy, crowded tourist attractions, I prefer places like this where you can slow down, wander around, and take photos at your own pace.

When I arrived at Mojiko, this red-brick building caught my eye from a distance! The Former Moji Customs House is really distinctive. Its red brick and gray stone exterior has a strong retro feel and blends beautifully with the harbor scenery. It looks atmospheric no matter how you photograph it.

I originally thought this was just a place to photograph the exterior and admire the historic architecture, but I was surprised to find there was quite a bit to see inside too!

Although it’s an old building with a sense of history, the interior is very well maintained, and the space is clean and comfortable. Some of the original equipment and facilities from its early days have been preserved, along with some modernized spaces. The exhibits also introduce the history of Mojiko. As you walk around and look at them, you get a better understanding of the role this building once played.

My favorite part was the observation room upstairs. Looking out from the windows, you can enjoy an elevated view of Mojiko’s streets and harbor, as well as the scenery on the opposite shore. That day, I just took my time enjoying the view without being in any particular hurry, and it made the pace of the trip feel very relaxing.

Mojiko really has surprises everywhere. It’s not just the beautiful red-brick buildings—there are also historical stories worth taking the time to appreciate. If you come here, I recommend not just taking photos outside. Be sure to go inside as well so you can experience its different charms!