Hello, today I would like to introduce Mojiko Station in Kitakyushu City. Mojiko Station is the starting station of the Kyushu Railway Company (JR Kyushu) Kagoshima Main Line, and its station number is JA31. This station is famous for its two-story, wooden neo-Renaissance style station building, which was built in 1914 (Taisho 3) and was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1988 (Showa 63) for the first time as an active railway station in Japan.
Mojiko Station was originally Moji Station, which opened in 1891 (Meiji 24) as the starting point of the Kyushu Railway. From 1901 (Meiji 34), the Kanmon ferry service began, and it thrived as a gateway connecting Honshu and Kyushu. However, with the opening of the Kanmon Tunnel in 1942 (Showa 17), the then Orito Station became the new Moji Station. Along with that, the former Moji Station was renamed Mojiko Station. Since then, it has become a central presence in the region, used by tourists and local residents.
At the current Mojiko Station, the former Moji Station building, which was designated as an Important Cultural Property, underwent a large-scale preservation and repair project from 2012 to 2019, restoring it to its original state and reinforcing its earthquake resistance. Even during the construction, it continued to operate with temporary ticket windows and ticket gates.
There are many things to see at the Moji Station building. The first thing that catches your eye is the symmetrical structure, and the central part expressing “gate.” This part has a clock tower and a dome roof. The weathercock rooster on the roof is also distinctive. The weathercock rooster is a device that indicates the wind direction and is actually designed to move.
Inside, you can visit the lobby, waiting room, and other areas. In the lobby, the gorgeous decorations such as the ceiling painting and chandeliers are eye-catching. The waiting room exhibits historical photographs and materials.
Access Information
Address: 1-5-31 Nishi-kaigan, Moji Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 801-0841
Transportation: Approximately 0-minute walk from JR Mojiko Station