Kokura Castle is the historic symbol of central Kitakyushu, originally built in 1602 by the feudal lord Hosokawa Tadaoki. Surrounded by stone walls and a moat, the keep is built in the distinctive "karazukuri" style, in which the top floor is larger than the one below. Destroyed in the 19th century and rebuilt in 1959, it now houses exhibits on the castle town's history, samurai culture and the local Gion festival, while the surrounding park is a popular cherry-blossom spot in spring.

Mojiko Retro is a charming bayside district at the northern tip of Kyushu, where Moji once flourished as one of Japan's leading international trading ports. Beautifully preserved early-20th-century buildings in Western and Taisho-era styles line the waterfront, including the former customs house and trading offices, now home to cafes, restaurants and museums. With views across the Kanmon Straits to Honshu, retro street lamps and harbour cruises, it is a relaxing place to stroll and sample the local baked curry.

The Kanmon Strait is the narrow, fast-flowing channel separating Kyushu from Japan's main island of Honshu, and it has been a stage for trade, naval battles and legend for centuries. From the Kitakyushu side and the green slopes of Mekari Park you can watch a constant procession of cargo ships and ferries passing beneath the soaring Kanmon Bridge, while the famous Genji-Heike sea battle of 1185 was fought in these very waters. It is one of the most scenic and historically rich spots in the region.

Rising about 622 meters above the city, Mount Sarakura offers what is celebrated as one of Japan's top three night views. A cable car and a small slope car carry visitors near the summit, where an observation deck unveils a sweeping panorama of Kitakyushu, the Kanmon Strait and the Hibiki Sea sparkling below. By day the views stretch across the industrial bayfront and surrounding mountains, while after dark the city lights are said to glitter like scattered jewels.

The TOTO Museum celebrates the history of TOTO, the world-famous toilet and bathroom manufacturer founded in Kitakyushu in 1917. Through stylish exhibits the museum traces how Japan developed its renowned culture of cleanliness and comfort, from early ceramic technology to the high-tech "washlet" bidet toilets now found across the country. Displays of historic products, design prototypes and the company's ceramic craftsmanship make it a surprisingly fascinating and uniquely Japanese stop. Admission is free.

Tanga Market, known locally as Tanga Ichiba, is Kitakyushu's lively "kitchen," a covered shopping street of around 100 small stalls that has served the people of Kokura for roughly a century. Narrow lanes are packed with fresh fish, vegetables, pickles, tofu, meat and ready-to-eat local specialties, and the friendly shopkeepers give the market a warm, old-fashioned atmosphere. It is the perfect place to sample street food and experience everyday life in this castle town.

The Kawachi Fuji Garden is a privately owned wisteria garden in the hills of Kitakyushu, famous worldwide for its breathtaking tunnels of cascading wisteria. In late April and early May, walkways are draped with curtains of purple, pink and white blossoms, while a separate season in autumn brings vivid maple colours. Because it is a seasonal garden that uses a timed-entry ticket system at peak times, your guide can advise on the best way to visit; outside the flowering periods alternative nearby sights can be arranged.

Mojiko Station is one of Japan's most beautiful and historic railway stations, opened in 1914 and built in an elegant neo-Renaissance wooden style. As the terminus that once welcomed travellers arriving in Kyushu by sea, it has been designated an Important Cultural Property and was carefully restored to its original appearance. Its symmetrical facade, vintage waiting rooms and retro details make it the gateway and centerpiece of the Mojiko Retro district and a favourite photo spot.