2010 Fukuoka Moji Port Festival – Ferry Patrol Boat Trial Ride Experience

Fukuoka in Kyushu is a port city by the sea and was designated as an international trade port as early as the Meiji period, exuding a nostalgic charm. The port area is filled with various European-style buildings and warehouses such as shipping company offices and clubs left over from the Meiji era. In 1995, it was officially designated as the “Moji Port Retro Area,” taking visitors along the harbor into the glorious days of the seaport. Since the launch of the “Moji Port Festival” in 1934 (Showa 9), the local area has prepared a variety of events centered around Moji Port for public enjoyment. During the two-day festival, there are parades, ship exhibitions open to the public, flea markets, and stage performances.

After experiencing the festive atmosphere of Moji Port, those who want to fully understand the past, present, and future of the Kanmon Strait may want to visit the Kanmon Straits Theater Ship Museum. The museum’s exterior resembles a ship, and its interior Kanmon Nostalgia Street recreates the elegant ambiance of the Taisho Romantic era, vividly presenting scenes of people strolling and shopping on the streets at the time. There is also Moji Port’s famous banana auction, as well as period features like a tram, and shops such as banks, theaters, and hotels. Visitors can actually go into the shops and shop. The most unique feature is the ceiling lighting, which changes according to the time of day to simulate morning, dusk, and night, and the entire experience is free and open to explore.

Blue Wings Moji Suspension Bridge

Additionally, the Blue Wings Moji Suspension Bridge, which connects various retro buildings on both sides of the harbor, is Japan’s only pedestrian-only suspension bridge. To allow ships to enter the breakwater harbor of Kitakyushu, the bridge opens to both sides every hour, resembling a pair of blue wings – hence its name. At night, it is illuminated with lights that cast a dazzling reflection on the water, adding a romantic atmosphere to Moji Port’s nightscape. Although the Blue Wings Moji Suspension Bridge is not a historic landmark, it has become a must-visit route for Moji Port sightseeing and is well worth seeing.

2010 Fukuoka Moji Port Festival
Event dates: May 22 and 23
Event location: Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture (main venue at the Moji Port Retro Area)
Transportation: A short walk from JR Moji Port Station


Fukuoka Moji Port Retro Museum


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