About a 5-minute walk from JR Mojiko Station, you’ll find the “Kyushu Railway History Museum,” which tells the history of railways in Kyushu. At the entrance, do you know about the “Old 0 Mile Marker” quietly standing there? Even those who are not railway fans can deepen their understanding of the city of Moji Port by learning about its historical significance. This time, we will introduce the story hidden in the old 0 mile marker and the charm of the Kyushu Railway History Museum.
What is the Old 0 Mile Marker?
The Old 0 Mile Marker was installed at Mojiko Station in 1889 as the starting point for railway construction surveys when the Kyushu Railway opened. “Mile” is read as “mile” and was used as a unit to indicate railway distance. It was formerly located along the railroad tracks, but has now been relocated to the entrance of the Kyushu Railway History Museum and preserved as a monument.
The History Told by the Old 0 Mile Marker
Railways supported Japan’s modernization during the Meiji era. The Kyushu Railway laid the foundation for the railway network in Kyushu and greatly contributed to the development of the region. The old 0 mile marker is truly the starting point of the Kyushu Railway and can be said to be a symbol of its history.
A new 0 mile marker has been installed at the current Mojiko Station. This is because the starting point was changed due to the opening of the Kanmon Tunnel in 1942. However, the old 0 mile marker is still carefully preserved as a valuable remnant that shows that Mojiko Station at the time of its opening was located at the current site of the Kyushu Railway History Museum.
Highlights of the Kyushu Railway History Museum
Old 0 Mile Marker: You can experience the origin of the history of the Kyushu Railway.
Vehicle Exhibition: Famous old vehicles such as the ED72 electric locomotive and the Kuha 481 express train are on display.
Mini Railway Park: A park where you can ride miniature trains.
Railway Diorama: The diorama that reproduces the railway network of Kyushu is spectacular.
Basic Information of the Kyushu Railway History Museum
| Item | Content |
| Name | Kyushu Railway History Museum |
| Address | 2-4-3-29 Kiyotaki, Moji-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka 801-0833 |
| Phone Number | 093-322-1006 |
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission 4:30 PM) |
| Closed | Every Monday (the following day if it is a public holiday) |
| Year-end and New Year holidays | |
| Admission Fee | Adults: 300 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students: 150 yen |
| Access | About a 5-minute walk from JR Mojiko Station |
| Parking | Available (paid) |
| Official Site | [Invalid URL removed] |
Summary
The Old 0 Mile Marker is an indispensable part of telling the history of the Kyushu Railway. When you visit the Kyushu Railway History Museum, please pay attention to the Old 0 Mile Marker and feel its historical significance. It is a recommended spot not only for railway fans but also for those interested in history and those who enjoy sightseeing in Mojiko Port.