Kitakyushu

 
Overview

Kitakyushu is the northernmost city on Japan’s Kyushu Island. Kokura Castle is surrounded by Katsuyama Park, known for its spring cherry blossoms. Riverwalk Kitakyushu is a shopping mall by the Murasaki River.

Description

Kitakyushu became a city in 1963, though its history extends well beyond this. The city sits on the north coast of Kyushu, next to the Kammon Straits, and is best known as a major industrial employer within Fukuoka Prefecture, but there are also many opportunities for sightseeing to be found across the city.



Kokura Castle is a well-restored castle that has become a symbol of Kitakyushu and is the only standing castle keep in Fukuoka Prefecture. The keep is bordered by a moat on two sides and on the other two by the castle's extensive grounds, which are collectively known as Katsuyama Park. The park is home to hundreds of cherry trees that transform the look of Kokura Castle each April during the sakura season.