Located in the heart of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution of the late 19th century, Mojiko Retro is a trip back in time. If you appreciate walks along a harbor and old red brick architecture, hop on a train and head down to Mojiko Retro in Kitakyushu.
The Meiji Industrial Revolution
Photo by: PIXTA/denkei A site of industrial development and a hub for railway travel.
Building on the impressive education system and culture of innovation laid during the Edo period, Japan entered the Meiji Industrial Revolution in the decades after opening up its ports to colonial powers in the second half of the 19th century. In addition to Yokohama and Kobe, Fukuoka Prefecture and Mojiko in Kitakyushu in particular became valuable assets in this project to modernize the nation’s industries. Located on the water, Mojiko was a site of industrial development and a hub for railway travel. Raw materials, such as coal, were shipped to factories in central and eastern Japan via train and ships. Earning a special port designation in 1889, Mojiko also won a significant place in the country’s history of industrialization.
Mojiko Retro Today
Photo by: PIXTA/ まちゃー Mojiko station is a symbol of a neo-renaissance-style building that was constructed in 1914.
Strolling along the harbor of Mojiko Retro means walking through time. Several historic buildings still stand and have been restored in recent years. If you’re coming to the area by train, you’ll enter via Mojiko station, a neo-renaissance-style building constructed in 1914. From 2012 to 2019, the station underwent massive renovations and many details, including rooftop ornamental pieces, were faithfully restored using old photographs. Heading outside the station, visitors will find Moji Mitsui Club built in 1921 which famously hosted Albert Einstein and his wife the following year. Train fans shouldn’t miss the Kyushu Railway History Museum which boasts a history of the railway as well as several historic trains on display, some of which you can enter.
Annual Events
Photo by: PIXTA/ Kassa Watch the fireworks display that will light up the sky from Mojiko.
Depending on the time of year you visit, you’ll be treated to some extra highlights at Mojiko Retro. From the end of November to mid-February, over 300,000 lights will illuminate the old port. You’ll see the historic buildings in a new light on these evenings. On New Year’s Eve, you’ll be able to enjoy the illumination as well as the fireworks display that will light up the sky. Check out the stalls added on site which include tasty treats and drinks. Mojiko Beer Festa is also held annually in the summer and brings over 20 varieties of beer to the harbor.
