Understand

Welcome to Kokura, the heart of Kitakyushu, an ancient feudal castle town guarding the Straits of Shimonoseki. This remarkable city played a pivotal role in history, as it was intended to be the target of the second nuclear bomb during World War II. However, due to cloudy weather, the plane diverted its path and instead targeted Nagasaki. Kitakyushu holds a prominent place in Japan's sea trade and its rapid stride towards modernization and industrialization in the late 19th century. The region thrived with major industries like steel and coal, contributing significantly to Japan's development. Discover the rich heritage and captivating stories while exploring Kokura's streets. Immerse yourself in the history as you wander through this intriguing castle town.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing