Kitakyushu (Moji)-Ashiya Route

【Route Length】Approx. 44 km
【Elevation】Approx. 118 m
A route that combines historical townscapes with fresh ocean breezes, scenic nature, and boats

Pass Mojiko to Kokura, where there are historic buildings and modern cityscapes, and across the sea from Tobata to Wakamatsu by boat. After enjoying the cruise, feel the wind as you pass by the giant wind turbines, taking the road next to the ocean with the fresh, salty breezes, all the way to Ashiya.

CYCLE MAP

*This information is accurate as of December 2019.

①Mekari Park & Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel

Enjoy the relaxing views of watercraft passing underneath the Kanmon Bridge. Once you take the elevator 50m below ground to the pedestrian tunnel, you can walk between Honshu and Kyushu in about 15 minutes. You have to walk your bicycle through it, but it only costs 20 yen to cross.

②Moji Red Brick Place

As well as being able to see various buildings known as modernization period monuments, such as the old Sapporo Beer Brewery and the Moji Beer building, it is also a good place for cafes and restaurants. You can even see panoramic views of the Kanmon Strait from the seaside.

③Kokura Castle

Kokura Castle was built in 1602 by Tadaoki Hosokawa. At the time, the unusual design of the keep, known as "karazukuri" design, was the only one of its kind in all of Japan. The current castle was rebuilt in 1959. Various events are held at the castle year-round, and it is known as a famous cherry blossom spot in the spring.

④Wakato Ferry

Enjoy a cruise between Wakamatsu and Tobata that takes approx. 3 minutes and only costs 100 yen! Enjoy views such as the former Furukawa Kogyo Building and other retro facades from the ferry, which is a symbol of the Dokai Bay.

⑤Hibikinada Offshore Wind Farm Giant Wind Turbines

At heights of 65m and with turbine blades 75m across, the view is arresting. There are parks and rest areas nearby with benches where you can enjoy the sight of the deep blue ocean contrasting with the bright white giant wind turbines.

⑥Tanaka Farm

A place to enjoy delicious soft-serve ice cream made with fruit grown on their farm. On sale in the shop are fresh vegetables harvested on that day. The homemade blueberry jam is also a popular favorite.

⑦Toto Ichiba

A market where you can buy fruit, vegetables, and seafood. You can also use the barbecues to grill the items you buy at the market. The seafood donburi bowls and the soft-serve ice creams are delicious.

⑧Ashiya Seaside Park

Enjoy the park's spacious grassy area and the large-scale play equipment. Lots of families visit this park. There is a cycling road right next to the sea, so a nice ride in the fresh ocean breezes on one of the rental cycles available in the park is highly recommended.