Oita Food Guide: What To Eat in Beppu, Oita

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

In this Oita food guide, we will introduce the best food to eat in Yufuin, Beppu, and Oita. Check out all the must-eat food in Oita here.

Oita (大分) is home to a rich food culture of locally grown meat, fish, and vegetables. It is a rural area in the Kyushu region in southern Japan and is well known for abundant onsen hot springs. Besides, Oita is also known for many culinary specialties that you hardly can miss during your visit to Oita prefecture. A lot of great restaurants offer various kinds of local dishes such as Toriten, Dango soup, Ryukyu, and more. It is also popular for the Bungo beef, a locally grown beef in Oita.

Table of Contents

Overview: Oita Food Guide

Like many cities in Japan, there’s no end to the best food to eat in Oita. I enjoyed my food trip in Oita and tried various good food here. If you’re planning a trip to Oita, then don’t miss the food experiences in Oita prefecture.

Here is the list of must-eat food in this Oita food guide if you are looking for what to eat in Oita, Beppu, and Yufuin.

Toriten (Chicken Tempura)
Dango-jiru
Ryukyu (marinated sashimi)
Seki-Aji and Seki Saba
Jigokumushi (Hot spring steamed food)
Bungo Beef
Kokonoe Yume Burger
Oita’s Sake

Travel Tips: We recommended to stay nearby Beppu Station for easy getting around and food hunting. The Beppu Kamenoi Hotel is located within 5 minutes walk from the station. It has a high reputation by offering great size rooms with a spacious layout. Popular pick in Beppu.

Chicken Tempura

The best Oita food to try? The toriten (とり天), literally called chicken tempura is the standard dish that is widely found throughout Oita prefecture. The bite-sized pieces of chicken are flavored and battered with wheat flour, and deep-fried. It is a simple dish but brings out all the delicious flavors of the chicken. Moreover, it is best to enjoy the puffy toriten by dipping it with ponzu sauce which is made with soy sauce and citrus juice. These deep-fried chicken delicacies are definitely worth the calories.

Where to eat toriten in Oita: Toriten is a common dish that can be found in almost every restaurant in Oita. However, for a total feast, consider visiting the Toyotsune in Beppu. This cozy restaurant is said to be the birthplace of toriten chicken. It is also popular for its tendon (prawn tempura over rice).

Dango-jiru

The Dango-jiru (だんご汁) is a very different type of dumpling soup compared to the ones that we usually eat in Japan. It is made with wheat flour, and then flattened and lightly stretched by hand into flat long noodles. Normally, it is cooked with local ingredients, such as Japanese vegetables, onion, and shiitake mushrooms, in a miso-based soup. The sweetness of the ingredient will enrich the taste of the Dango soup.

Where to eat dango-jiru in Oita: This dish is very popular and available at most restaurants, and even at the family dinner table.

Ryukyu

If you’re going to try sashimi, why not combine it with Ryukyu (琉球)? It is not only one of the best Oita food to try on but also one of the regional dishes that can only be found in Oita prefecture. The fresh sashimi is marinated and preserved in a special shoyu sauce. So the sashimi is sweeter and filled with exquisite flavor after marinating. It fully absorbs the essence of the sauce and is very appetizing. While the meat is firm and chewy compare with normal sashimi. Highly recommended.

Where to try the Ryukyu in Oita: If you are looking for where to taste this Oita’s specialty, we highly recommended you head to Kotsukotsuan. A local specialty restaurant which full of authentic flavors.

Seki-Aji and Seki Saba

Mackerel fish is usually inexpensive fish but it is one of the top-class premium fish in Oita. The flavorful Seki-Aji (horse mackerel) and Seki-Saba (common mackerel) are types of mackerel fish that are caught in the Saga Seki fish port in Oita prefecture. The mackerel fish is caught through the traditional pole-and-line fishing method without damage to the fish. It is best to eat the seki aki and seki saba in sashimi for the fresh flavor. The fish meat is firm, chewy, and very high quality.

The best time to eat the horse mackerel with the most stored fat is from March to April and the mackerel from September to December.

Jigokumushi

The Jigoku Mushi (地獄蒸し, literally “hell-steaming”) is one of the cooking methods that use the hot spring steam that constantly spouts from the ground. It is one of Beppu’s most famous local specialties that are worth trying when visiting there. A variety of food such as seasonal vegetables, fish, meat, bun, and even pudding is steamed via the hot spring steam. Locals believe the plentiful steam can bring out the original flavor of food in a healthier way.

Where to eat the Jigokumushi: Kannawa area in Beppu has a lot of restaurants offering the Jigokumushi food. We recommended to try it in Jigokumushi Kobo Steam Cooking Center (地獄蒸し工房鉄輪) where you can try to steam your food on your own.

Bungo Beef

Bungo beef is the premium selection of the highest quality beef raised in the fertile lands of Oita. This high-class brand of beef has won prizes such as the Tenno-sho (Emperor’s Prize) and an award from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. It has a rich, yet mild, and mild soft texture. You can taste the juiciness once put it in your mouth.

Where to eat Bungo beef: It is very popular to enjoy Bungo beef in shabu-shabu, barbecue, and steak. But we taste the mouthwatering Bungo beef in Yufumabushi Shin in Yufuin. The Bungo beef is served in mabushi style where you can enjoy the Bungo mabushi on its own, adding it with Yakumi or pouring the stock (dashi-shiro) together with rice.

Kokonoe Yume Burger

The Kokonoe Yume burger is one of the recommended food to eat when visiting the Kokonoe Yume Grand Suspension Bridge. This traditional burger can be only sold in the Kokonoe area in selected shops. It is locally sourced by using locally grown vegetables and meats that come from Oita prefectures. The burger’s varieties include bungo beef, yakisoba, chicken Nanban, rice buns, natto patty (fermented soybean patty), and others.

Just grab a Kokonoe burger while visiting the Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi. This delicious burger is the best way to finish up a day trip to Kokonoe.

Oita’s Sake

Lastly, Oita’s sake in this Oita food guide. Although Northern Japan is well-known for its sake, Oita has several smaller, boutique breweries and shochu distilleries. They produce high-quality sake that should not be missed. Oita’s sakes provide a mostly cleaner, drier taste. So locals love to add some of the local kaboshi lime to add flavor and enhance the smoothness.

Overall: Oita Food Guide

All in all, hopefully, my Oita food guide can give you an idea of what to eat when visiting Oita, Yufuin, and Beppu. This Oita food blog is part of my travel stories to Oita prefecture. Free feel to read through my travel blog to Oita prefecture below.

Related Beppu travel stories:

Lastly, if you need some inspiration to plan for your Kyushu trip, check out our trip to some other attractions nearby such as Kurokawa Onsen, Yufuin, Kokonoe, and more.

How To Plan Your Kyushu Itinerary: Ultimate Guide

Northern Kyushu (Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Kurokawa Onsen, Beppu, Yufuin, Kitakyushu, and more):

Southern Kyushu (Kagoshima, Miyazaki, Takachiho Gorge):

Kyushu Food Guide: What To Eat in Kyushu

by Emily | posted in: Asia Food Guide, Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on October 11th, 2024

Planning a trip to Kyushu but wondering what is the best food in Kyushu? Here is the Kyushu food guide if you are looking for what and where to eat in Kyushu.

Kyushu might not be a famous place to visit in Japan. But this little gem gains its popularity in recent years for its historical shrine, stunning natural beauty, lively bustling city vibe, and also a wide range of classic Japanese food. There’s so much delicious food to try in Kyushu. A visit to Kyushu would not be complete without experiencing any of the best food in Kyushu. It will never fail to satisfy your heart and tummy to the fullest. From the mouthwatering Hakata ramen, freshly caught seafood, and various local classic dishes. If you are curious about what to eat in Kyushu, read on for more details on what to eat in Kyushu during our trip to Kyushu.

In this Kyushu food guide blog, I’m going to share with you the best food to eat in Kyushu. Most importantly, the best restaurants where you can try them in Kyushu.

Table of Contents

Kyushu Food Guide: What To Eat

Kyushu Food Guide - Best Food — Yatai in Fukuoka City

Kyushu consists of seven prefectures, which are Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Oita, Kumamoto for North Kyushu, and Miyazaki, Kagoshima for South Kyushu. Each of these seven prefectures has many local food ingredients and unique dishes. It is home to a wide range of delicious foods that will not disappoint your taste buds.

There are so much food and little time to eat it. The culinary delights of Kyushu will be a big part of your vacation in Kyushu. That’s why we listed down the must-eat food in each prefecture that you should try if given the chance.

Kyushu Food Guide (What To Eat in Kyushu and Where to Find Them):

Hakata Ramen (Fukuoka)
Mizutaki (Fukuoka)
Motsunabe (Fukuoka)
Basashi (Kumamoto)
Champon Noodles (Nagasaki)
Sasebo Burger (Nagasaki)
Toriten (Oita)
Jigokumushi (Oita)
Bungo Beef (Oita)
Charcoal Grilled Chicken (Miyazaki)
Chicken Nanban (Miyazaki)
Tonkatsu (Kagoshima)

What are the top five must-eat foods in Kyushu?

The top 5 must eat foods in Kyushu are Fukuoka Ramen, Motsunabe, mizutaki, tonkatsu, Champon noodles.

What is the famous Kyushu food?

Tonkotsu ramen is Kyushu’s most famous dish, which originated in the Hakata district of Fukuoka. It is rated as must-eat food in Kyushu.

Travel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Kyushu check prices for Kyushu Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy. We recommended staying nearby Subway Station for easy getting around and food hunting in Fukuoka. The Hotel WBF Grande Hakata is located in the central location with walking distance from Hakata Station. Open-air bath, free drink, spacious room, and great value for money. A popular pick in Fukuoka.

Hakata Ramen (Fukuoka)

First of all, we’re starting with the must-eat food in Fukuoka in this Kyushu food guide. Fukuoka is located on the North shore of Kyushu. It is the birthplace of many famous specialty dishes. The food is not only famous within Kyushu but also throughout Japan. Although you can try these dishes in other places in Japan, for sure worth giving it a try when visiting the origin place of the mouthwatering dishes.

Hakata Tonkatsu Ramen — Hakata Ramen (Fukuoka)

Tonkotsu ramen is extremely popular and rated as must eat food in Kyushu. It is often referred to as Hakata ramen as it is origin in the Hakata district of Fukuoka. The thick, nutritious, and creamy white pork broth took long hours of simmering until they become geratin. Each ramen shop has its recipe to prepare its super-rich broth. The soup is topped with chopped scallions, seaweed, pickled ginger, and tender slices of char-siu pork.

Hakata ramen is not a fancy dish. A bowl of ramen comes with thin straight noodles and the fairy simple topping. But the rich broth fills your senses on the first sip. Don’t miss a bowl while you are in their birthplace in Fukuoka.

Where to eat Hakata ramen in Fukuoka (Kyushu):

Ichiran ramen (一蘭拉麺) is the most well-known ramen restaurant brand in Japan.
Hakata Issou (博多一双) is the local’s favorite ramen in Fukuoka. Further, read on my food review in Hakata Issou.
Shin Shin Ramen: Fukuoka style Hakata ramen but also well-accepted for foreigners’ stomachs.

Motsunabe (Fukuoka)

Motsunabe Must Eat Food in Fukuoka — Hakata Motsunabe (Fukuoka)

Motsunabe is another popular dish in Japan that originated from Hakata, Fukuoka. It is typically a stew served in a hot pot with beef or pork tripe. Although motsunabe doesn’t sound great it tastes delicious and healthy. It is high in protein, vitamins, collagen, and low in calories. The Japanese especially female diners extremely love it. It is always packed on Friday and Saturday after work for gathering. It is also one of the popular dishes, especially in the winter that helps keep away from the cold.

Choose from the different flavors which include soy sauce, miso, or salt which is beautifully seasoned with lots of garlic and sprinkled with red chili pepper. The flavorful stew will cook together with tripe, cabbage, and vegetables. With just one taste you will know why motsunabe is so popular in Kyushu.

Best Place for Motsunabe in Fukuoka (Kyushu):

Hakata Motsunabe Ooyama is popular for its flavorful miso-based motsunabe. (Food Review)
Hakata Showraku served motsunabe for solo traveler during lunch and dinner. (Food Review)

Mizutaki (Fukuoka)

If motsunabe is not your cup of tea, consider trying the Mizutaki. It is a similar hotpot dish made with chicken instead of beef or pork offal. Typically, the clear broth is made with long hours of simmering with upscale free-range chicken. The chicken meat and bones were boiled in a pot with added green onion, mushroom, and other seasonal vegetables.

Unlike the motsunabe, mizutaki is considerably milder and more delicate in flavor. Taste is subjective so it’s all a matter of personal preference. The chicken is best eaten with a light ponzu sauce.

Read my mizutaki experience in Hakata Hanamidori: Hakata Hanamidori Mizutaki: Fukuoka Best Chicken Delicacy

Basashi (Kumamoto)

Basashi from Suganoya Kamitori Kumamoto — Basashi (Kumamoto)

Horse meat sushi. basashi is popular in certain regions of Japan. This unique Japanese delicacy is particularly popular in Kumamoto prefecture and is rated as the favorite place to try the delicacy in Japan. The basashi, or “cherry blossom meat” is an unusual specialty that incorporates thin slices of raw horse meat. It is normally served as sashimi or nigiri.

Kumamoto is lined with restaurants specializing in horse meat on almost every corner. Suganoya is the most famous horse restaurant in Kumamoto. It has its farms to make sure that you get fresh and local products. Almost every imaginable part of an edible horse is served here. There are three main types of basashi: fatty meat, marbled meat, and lean meat. It was served in sliced raw cuts along with soy sauce, garlic, and wasabi. Try your basashi in sashimi, nigiri, yakiniku, shabu-shabu, or steak.

Further read more: Suganoya Kumamoto: Must Try Food in Kumamoto

Champon Noodles (Nagasaki)

Located on the northwestern coast of Kyushu, the Nagasaki food culture is a result of its historical connections with China and Western country. Most of the Nagasaki dishes are perfectly mixed with Japanese and foreign cultures and developed their distinct flavor.

The Champon noodles are a specialty dish from the Nagasaki region and are made for Chinese students who were studying in Nagasaki during the Meiji Era. It then becomes one of the most common as it is a low-cost, highly nutritious dish. Champion noodles are packed with vegetables, meat, fishcake, and seafood. It is one of the hearty, filling, and affordable meals with a true taste of Nagasaki. Nowadays, champon noodles are widely common in Kyushu and served as a complete meal in a bowl of motsunabe. These noodles dishes are just like how people in the Kanto region eat Ramen, Udon, and Soba.

The Yokohama Shianbashi Branch and Horaiken Bekkan is the best place where you can eat the best Champon noodles in Nagasaki.

Sasebo Burger (Nagasaki)

What To Eat in Sasebo - Sasebo Burger — Sasebo Burger (Nagasaki)

The Sasebo burger is another worth recommended food in Nagasaki. Being a seaside city and US Naval base, there is no surprise that locals have adopted the American burger into local flavor and created their style of burger. This American-Japanese fusion burger is a product of generations of reworking and remodeling by Japanese chefs. It is always served with a generously huge patty and layered with several ingredients such as eggs, bacon, cheese, lettuce, onions, and mayonnaise.

The best place to try the Sasebo burger is Log Kit, BigMan, and Hikari.

Toriten (Oita)

Oita is a largely rural prefecture on the northeast tip of Kyushu. It is rich in the natural, mountain, and seafood with lots of local dishes to try in Oita. When in Oita, one must try its chicken dishes as Oita is famous for fried chicken. It is so common and Oita is consumed more chicken compare with other cities in Japan.

Besides, the Jigokumushi (hot spring steam food) is also one of the unique food that can be found in Beppu. It is the cooking method where you can taste the most original flavor of food healthily. While the Bungo beef is the premium wagyu beef that is raised on the fertile lands of Oita.

Chicken Tempura or Toriten is widely available through Oita prefecture. It is similar to standard dishes with a homemade flavor to them. The random cut chicken is chunked into large pieces and buttered with tempura coating. It is then deep-fried into a crunchy structure with a fantastic aroma. The succulent toriten is served in sizzling hot, straight from the flyer. Enjoy your toriten with homemade ponzu or mustard sauce. One of the popular local specialties and must eat in Oita, Kyushu.

Where to eat Toriten:

This Oita must-eat food, Toriten can be found on the menus of restaurants, izakaya Pubs, bento shops, and other eating and drinking establishments. We try the toriten in Kotsukotsuan, Oita. One of the best places to sample all the local cuisine in Oita.

Jigokumushi (Oita)

Must Try Food in Beppu — Jigokumushi (Oita)

Beppu city in Oita prefecture is a gift with thousand of hot spring spots throughout the city. Locals have fully used the hot spring gushing steam stouts to cook food. This ancient cooking method is especially popular in Kannawa with serving this unique food in Beppu.

Seasonal vegetables, meat, and fish are cooked with hot steam jetting out directly from the ground. This simple cooking method can bring out the most original flavor of food with hot spring nutrients added to food. Despite the food, you can also find Jigokumushi egg, pork buns, and pudding if you are looking for a unique snack while wandering in town.

Best place to try Jigokumushi food:

The most popular Jigoku Mushi Kobo (地獄蒸し工房鉄輪) in Kannawa. It is a self-service restaurant run by local volunteers. That means you have the opportunity to try and prepare the hot steam food on your own.
Try the Jigoku-Mushi Pudding from Okamotoya (岡本屋売店). It is the first restaurant to invent the hot spring steamed pudding in Beppu.

Bungo Beef (Oita)

Bungo beef is the common name for Wagyu beef in Oita. It is raised in the rich natural environment of Oita with a premium selection of the highest quality beef that had been selected. The main characteristics of Bungo Beef include its tenderness, marked by a rich taste and high unsaturated fat content. It almost melts in your mouth, with the signature of premium wagyu beef.

There are many ways to eat Bungo beef with no shortage of restaurants in Oita. Bungo beef can be served in steak form, yakiniki (Japanese barbecue), shabu-shabu (Japanese hot pork), or even various snacks. It is very popular to enjoy the Bungo beef at a barbeque establishment with your friend and family.

One of the most popular ways to try Bungo beef is mabushi style in multiple ways. We taste the mouthwatering Bungo beef in Yufumabushi Shin while visiting Yufuin. You can enjoy your Bungo mabushi on its own, adding with Yakumi, or eat as ochazuke by pouring the stock (dashi-shiro) together with rice. That means you can enjoy three different tastes.

Charcoal Grilled Chicken (Miyazaki)

Miyazaki Prefecture is located in southeast Kyushu bordered by Oita, Kumamoto, and Kagoshima prefectures. Thanks to its tropical weather, Miyazaki has a wide range of delicious food to try on. It is known as Miyazaki beef and its flavorful chicken dishes. Much care and attention are paid how to chickens is bred and raised. These locally raised chickens are widely recognized as of superior quality. So, it is no surprise that Miyazaki is famous fr its chicken specialties.

Charcoal Grill Chicken — Charcoal Grilled Chicken (Miyazaki)

The Charcoal grilled chicken (Jidori no Sumibiyaki) is a popular, must-try regional dish. The bite-sized pieces cut of chicken are salted and grilled over a charcoal fire. The meat is rich in flavor with a chewy texture in a slight charcoal burn smell. The appearance might not look so appealing. But trust me, it is extremely delicious and full of juiciness.

Nanban Chicken (Miyazaki)

Miyazaki Nanba Chicken — Nanban Chicken (Miyazaki)

Next, Nanban chicken. It is another deep-fried chicken dish that can be found all over Japan. And Miyazaki claims for the originator of Nanban chicken. The chicken is marinated with sweet vinegar and deep-fried to perfection, topped with tartar sauce when serving. The succulent crispy fried chicken is a great combination with in-house original tartar sauce.

Tonkatsu (Kagoshima)

Tonkatsu - Kyushu Must Eat — Tonkatsu (Kagoshima)

Lastly the Kyushu food guide is the best food from Kagoshima. The Kagoshima is located on the southwestern tip of Kyushu. This region is famous for producing Kyushu’s kurobuta, the black Berkshire pork that is raised in Kagoshima prefecture.

It is famed throughout Japan for its richly marbled texture that is clean in flavor. Kurobuta is often eaten as tonkatsu pork cutlets. The succulent bites of pork cutlet is coated in crispy bread crumbs and deep-fried in hot oil. It is best to enjoy with refreshing shredded cabbage and dipped it with yellow mustard or in-house tonkatsu sauce.

We try the mouthwatering tonkatsu in Katsuretsutei Shinshigai Honten (勝烈亭) in Kumamoto. It is one of the popular restaurants serving the best tonkatsu in Kyushu. The thick-cut premium tonkatsu is made from premium Berkshire pork from Kagoshima. One of the best restaurants to enjoy the tonkatsu from Kagoshima.

Overview: Kyushu Best Food

Kyushu Food Guide - What To Eat — Sushi in Karato Market, Shimonoseki

All in all, no trip to Japan can ever be complete without trying on their Japanese food. No matter how many times we visited Japan, we were all still impressed by its culture, building, and food. While most people are flocking to Tokyo or Osaka when visiting Japan. Kyushu food is truly amazing with the various kinds of foods that they have offered. It is worth visiting just in search of the best food in Kyushu.

Last but not least, there is still much more food that is worth recommending that does not include in this Kyushu food guide. Free feel to read through below separate food guide with more detail. Hopefully, my Kyushu food guide has inspired your coming visit to Kyushu. Enjoy your food trip to Kyushu.

Fukuoka Food Guide: Best Must Eat Food in Fukuoka

Kumamoto Food Guide: What To Eat in Kumamoto

Miyazaki Food Guide: What To Eat in Miyazaki

Oita, Beppu, Yufuin Food Guide: What To Eat in Oita, Beppu and Yufuin

Hakata Issou - Best Tonkotsu Ramen in Fukuoka

Hakata Issou: Local Favorite Best Ramen in Fukuoka

by Emily | posted in: Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on July 24th, 2024

For a bowl of rich and creamy Hakata ramen, heading to Hakata Issou. The most popular ramen among the locals and must eat when visiting Fukuoka.

We are a fan of ramen and love to have a bowl of ramen whenever visit Japan. No doubt, ramen is the most popular Japanese local dishes and most of the cities have its version of ramen. We particularly love the tonkotsu ramen with rich creamy pork bone soup, slowly boiled down for a few hours.

Fukuoka is famous for its ramen and origin of tonkotsu ramen in Japan. So this must eat food must be on your Fukuoka food list. Besides, the famous ramen chain restaurant Ichiran ramen, one must try the best ramen from Hakata Issou (博多一双) in Fukuoka. It is the most popular ramen shop among locals and famous its slow cook flavorful tonkotsu ramen. So, we were very excited to check it out during our visit to Fukuoka.

My Food Trip To Hakata Issou

How To Order at Hakata Issou — Hakata Issou Menu From Vending Machine

After a day trip to Fukuoka, we decided to have a hot bowl of tonkotsu ramen before back to the hotel. The Hakata Issou Ramen shop was about 6 minutes walk from the Hakata Station. It was still early when we arrived. So there were not too many people and we can have our early dinner without waiting.

Like a standard ramen shop in Japan, we needed to buy the ticket at the vending machine and pass it to staff for food ordering. The vending machine was located inside the shop nearby the entrance. We were a bit surprised as the menu from the vending machine were in Japanese only. Luckily, we barely understood Japanese for the past years of traveling in Japan. So it was not too difficult for us. But no worry. Hakata Issou also has a picture book if you are not sure what and how to order in Hakata Issou.

There are a variety of options to choose from. The ramen is the same and the difference is only an additional order of barbecued pork (char siew), soft boiled egg. While local Japan, particular Fukuoka are love to order the dumpling and fried rice for a complete meal.

We ordered the tonkatsu ramen with an additional soft boiled egg at ¥780. Reasonable price for a hearty bowl of ramen in Japan.

Cosy Dinning in Hakata Issou — Inside Hakata Issou

After passed the food coupons to the staff, we choose to seat in the bar counter. The Hakata Issou was not too big and probably can fit for 20 to 30 people. There are two to three table seating for a group and also bar counter seating for solo traveler. Overall, the dining environment inside was cozy and comfortable.

We choose to seat at the bar counter. So we had a front-row view of how they made the ramen. It was always awesome and fun to watch people preparing your meal right in front of you.

Variety of Seasoning

Seasoning in Hakata Issou — Sweet ginger shreds and spicy pickled mustard

On the table, there were many seasonings and you are free to add in some sweet ginger shreds or spicy pickled mustard into your ramen. This is the common condiment in most of the ramen shop in Kyushu. Feel free to add some into your ramen to adjust your favorite taste.

Fresh Garlic Provided in Hakata Issou — Additional Garlic Topping

Added, you can use the garlic press on the side to squeeze out the freshest garlic. I love to add extra more fresh garlic into my ramen. It goes well with noodles and soup.

Flavorful Rich Tonkatsu Ramen

Without a long wait, our bowl of tonkatsu ramen was served. My bowl of hearty broth ramen was comprised of incredible ingredients such as slices of meat, soft boiled egg, spring onions, and seasoning.

My first sip on the flavorful broth. It was Hakata style ramen with heavily loaded with strong flavorful pork broth. The taste was so rich, creamy and full of porky smell.

You might question why so many bubbles for the tonkatsu ramen from Fukuoka. The more bubble means the rich taste of pork bone broth. If you found it was too strong, you can make good use of the garlic or spice to change the richness taste.

The thin-cut noodles have a slightly soft texture. It perfectly absorbed the broth and taste very good.

My empty bowl of ramen from Hakata Issou

For a bowl of authentic Fukuoka ramen, come to Hakata Issou for flavorful tonkatsu ramen. Hakata Issou is famous for its ultra-thick tonkotsu broth. No doubt one of the best ramen that we ever had in Japan. We truly enjoy the rich taste of the pork broth together with the soft-boiled egg. A must-try ramen in Fukuoka.

How To Get To Hakata Issou

This must-try local favorite ramen shop, Hakata Issou is run by Yamada brothers. Hakata Issou has two branches in Fukuoka, located nearby Hakata Station and Gion.

1) Hakata Issou
Address: 3 Chome-1-6 Hakataekihigashi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0013, Japan
Access: 6 minutes walk from Hakata Station

2) Hakata Issou Nakasu
Address: 2-6-6 Nakasu, Hakata-ku, Nakasu, Hakata, Fukuoka 810-0801, Fukuoka Prefecture
Access: 5 minutes walk from Nakasukawabata Subway Station

Looking for other best food to eat in Fukuoka? Continue to read on our Fukuoka food guide on some of the must-eat food that we tasted so far. Enjoy your food hunt in Fukuoka.

Fukuoka Food Guide: Best Must Eat Food in Fukuoka

If you are looking for more information about traveling in Fukuoka, take a look at our travel blog post below.

Kitakyushu Itinerary: Travel Guide To Shimonoseki, Mojiko, Kokura

by Emily | posted in: Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Read on how we planned on Kitakyushu itinerary to Mojiko, Kokura, and Shimonoseki within one day. A day trip from Fukuoka that full of mouthwatering food, historical monuments, and fun experience.

Kitakyushu (北九州) is located in the northernmost city in Kyushu. It was formed by the merging of five independent cities, namely, Kokura, Moji, Yahata, Tobata, and Wakamatsu. Kitakyushu is an important hub for international trade since the Meiji period and connected between Honshu and Kyushu. Thanks to the well-connected rail system in Japan, it is very ideal to plan for the Kitakyushu itinerary from Fukuoka to Mojiko and Kokura by using the JR train. You can even further your visit to Shimonoseki at Honshu Island with a short journey of ferry or bus.

In below Kitakyushu travel guide blog, let us explore the Kyushu’s hidden gem to Mojiko, Kokura, and Shimonoseki with an easy day trip from Fukuoka.

Table of Contents

Planning On Kitakyushu Itinerary

During our visit to Fukuoka, we headed Kitakyushu to Mojiko, Kokura, and Shimonoseki for a day trip. It was a fun Kitakyushu itinerary full of interesting places and mouthwatering food to eat within one day. Although we took various transport within one day, it is superbly easy to plan for one day Kitakyushu itinerary.

Kitakyushu itinerary (What To Do and Eat in Kitakyushu):

Seafood Feast in Karato Market, Shimonoseki.
Walk across the Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel
Wandering at Mojiko Retro
Taste The Yaki Curry in Mojiko
Visit Kokura Castle
Food hunting in Tanga Ichiba Market
Flower Tunnel at Kawachi Wisteria Garden (Seasonal Trip)

Make sure to follow us to tour around in this Kitakyushu travel guide blog that full of scrumptious local delicacies, historical monuments building, and exciting activities.

From Fukuoka To Karato Market

From Fukuoka To Mojiko by JR Train — Getting To Mojiko from Hakata Station (Fukuoka) by JR Train

From Hakata Station (Fukuoka), we boarded the express train to Mojiko Station with one transfer at Kokura Station. The train ride took about 50 minutes and covered under JR Kyushu Pass.

Do note that shinkansen rides between Hakata station and Kokura are not covered by the JR Kyushu Pass.

From Mojiko To Karato Market by Ferry Ride

Next, from Mojiko Station, we then continued by taking a ferry to across to Shimonoseki from Moji Ferry Terminal. The Kanmon Kisen Ferry Terminal (関門汽船門司港乗り場) is located just opposite the Mojiko Station within 3 minutes walk. You can easily spot it when getting out of the Mojiko Station.

The ferry ride cost ¥400 per person for the short 5 minutes ride. It was a short journey of ferry ride with a beautiful view on Japan sea across the Kanmon Straits.

The ferry ride cost ¥400 per person for the short 5 minutes ride. It was a short journey of ferry ride with beautiful view on Japan sea across the Kanmon Straits.

Seafood Feast in Karato Market

Our first destination was Karato Market (唐戸市場). Located in Shimonoseki of Yamaguchi Prefecture, Karato Market is a lively fresh market and popular among locals. It is well known for freshly caught seafood especially the extraordinary Japan blowfish (fugu). The best place to try the fresh blowfish/pufferfish.

Karato Market - Sushi Battle Event — Karato Market – Sushi Battle Event

Moreover, Karato Market will host a sushi battle event during Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Japan public holidays. During that time, many fish stalls will participate in the event by selling various raw and cooked seafood dishes.

Mouthwatering sushi, raw sashimi, seafood don, fried food at an unbeatable price. The nigiri sushi was started from as low as ¥100 with a generous portion of sashimi on top. It is also the best place to try the expensive fugu fish in the Karato market. A fugu fish meal in Tokyo and Osaka can easily cost more than ¥3,000 and above. Can’t believe we manage to try on it with ¥800 at the Karato market. What a good bargain!

Generous Portion of Seafood in Cheap Price

Enjoy The Fresh Sushi bought from karato market

We enjoyed our time wandering around in Karato Market and choosing on our breakfast. All the sushi were so fresh and big portion. We also tried the fugu sashimi and soup here. It was truly a seafood feast in Karato Market. Highly recommended seafood lover heading to Karato Market during the weekend to join the sushi battle event. It can be crowded with locals and tourists. Come early to grab your seafood meal at Karato Market.

Further Read More: Karato Market: Sushi Battle Event in Shimonoseki

Besides, if you are unable to make it during the weekend, there are restaurants located on the second floor serving the seafood meal.

Getting to Karato Market:

Take the JR Express train from Hakata Station (Fukuoka) to Mojiko with a one-time transfer in Kokura Station. Free with JR Kyushu Pass. Next, board the 5 minutes ferry ride from Moji to Shimonoseki Ferry Terminal.

Walk Across The Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel

After the wonderful seafood feast, we proceeded with our Kitakyushu itinerary at Shimonoseki. You can choose to board the ferry back to Mojiko retro and spend your time there. But we decided to walk across the Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel which connected between Mojiko at Kyushu and Shimonoseki at Honshu island.

Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel Entrance

Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel is the first Japan undersea tunnel that goes underneath the Kanmon Straits with a length of 780 meters. The upper level is used for cars but the lower level is used for bikes, bicycles, and pedestrians.

There are clear instructions on how to walk across the Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel at the entrance.

Instruction on Walk Across The Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel

Took the elevator down to 60 meters underground of the pedestrian tunnel walkway. Passing through the Kanmon Tunnel by foot is free of charge but you need to pay for ¥20 for bike and bicycles. Take note that you can’t ride the bike or bicycles, and need to push it along the walkway.

Walk Across The Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel

There was no much people during our visit with locals were jogging along the Kanmon tunnel. Think it is fun experience jogging in the underwater walkway every day.

The Border Point Between Kyushu and Honshu

Border point between Kyushu and Honshu Island

The border point between Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyushu and Yamaguchi Prefecture, Honshu. People standing on the border to take some photos.

The whole journey took us less than 30 minutes to walk across the Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian walkway. Not a bad idea walking across the two Japan’s islands with an underwater tunnel.

How To Get To Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel

Getting there: Both sides of Kanmon Pedestrian can be accessed by bus from JR Mojiko and Shimonoseki station. Just get off at Jindō-guchi (関門トンネル人道口) at Mojiko side entrance or Mimosusogawa (御裳川) at Shimonoseki entrance.

Alternatively, both entrance is walkable with about 20 to 30 minutes on foot.

Wandering at Mojiko Retro

We next back to Moji in Kitakyushu, a port city that facing the Kanmon strait in Fukuoka prefecture. Mojiko or Moji Port has been prominent as an international trading port since the late 19th date. So there are several number of well-preserved old Western-style building near the port area. It is very ideal to spend some time in Mojiko Retro to experience the nostalgic atmosphere of old Japan.

Mojiko Station

Build-in 1891, Mojiko Station is one of the few remaining wooden stations in Japan. The building is the perfect example of Western influence in Japan with Neo-Renaissance style appearance. Some of the historical facilities are still well kept at its original appearance.

Kitakyushu International Friendship Memorial Library

The Kitakyushu International Friendship Memorial Library is probably the prettiest and most photogenic building in Mojiko Retro Town. It is the memorial building between Moji and Dalian, China. Standing alone in the Mojiko Retro Central Square, the building can be viewed and admired from many directions and it is a building that looks equally good when viewed on any facade.

Former Moji Customs Building

Another worth recommended building is the eye-catching red brick building. It is the former Moji Customs Building up until 1920. Now it is the house of art gallery and rest area for visitors with free to enter.

Blue Wing Moji Bridge

Walked along the promenade by the sea and you will see the Blue Wing Moji Bridge. This pedestrian-only bridge will be raised several times per day from 10:00 to 16:00 for about 20 minutes to let the boats passing it.

Bridges raised: 10:00, 11:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00 and 16:00
Bridges lowered: 10:20, 11:20, 13:20, 14:20, 15:20 and 16:20

Getting to Mojiko Retro: 2 minutes walk from JR Mojiko Station.

Taste The Yaki Curry in Mojiko

Bear Fruit - Mojiko Must Food Yaki Curry Restaurant — Bear Fruit – Mojiko Must Food Yaki Curry Restaurant

What To Eat in Mojiko: If the seafood feast in Karato Market does not satisfy your stomach, please don’t hesitate to try the yaki curry in Mojiko. It is the popular local delicacy and must-try food in Mojiko. The yaki curry is baked curry topped with cheese and eggs on rice.

Bear Fruit is the most well-known yaki curry restaurant, located nearby the JR Mojiko Station. The aroma of curry together with yummy cheese and eggs truly heaven. Very popular among locals and queues can be long during lunch hours.

Visit Kokura Castle

After spending time Mojiko Retro, we proceed to Kokura with a short journey of the train ride. The Kokura Castle (小倉城) is one of the well-known castles and landmarks in Kitakyushu. Build-in year 1602, the construction of Kokura Castle took about 7 years to complete. Kokura Castle is the only castle in Fukuoka prefecture.

Although it is not the Premier Castle and might not as grand as Kumamoto castle, it is still worth to spend some time to view on the traditional architecture. This area is also one of the popular sakura viewing spots in Kyushu.

The entrance fee cost ¥350. But we choose not to went up to Kokura Castle and took a short visit to the castle ground with free.

Kokura Castle

Opening Hours: 9:00-18:00 (April to October) and 9:00-17:00 (November to March)
Entrance Fee: ¥350 for adult and ¥250 for junior and high school student
Address: 2-1 Jōnai, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyūshū-shi, Fukuoka-ken 803-0813, Japan

Getting There: 15 to 20 minutes walk from JR Kokura Station.

Food Hunting in Tanga Ichiba Market

Lastly, we walked to the nearby Tanga Ichiba Market (旦過市場), the kitchen of Kitakyushu. There are about 120 stalls lined in the narrow little street in Kokura. Locals come to Tanga Ichiban market to get their daily fresh local produce such as seafood, vegetables, fruits and also food.

In recent years, the Tanga Ichiba market caught people’s attractions by its Daigaku don, a type of rice bowl that unique in Kitakyushu. Visitors can buy a bowl of rice at ¥200, Daigaku don from Daigakudo (大學堂) which located in the middle street of the market.

Next, you can stroll along the Tanga Ichiba market, buy the food you want to top on your rice, return to Daigakudo and enjoy it.

Nukadaki - Kokura Local Food — Nukadaki – Kokura Local Food

There are a wide variety of local specialties and food to top into your Daigaku don. For example, karashi mentaiko (spicy salted roe), nukadaki (fish simmered in miso), sashimi, yakitori and many more. Create your version of Daigaku don is a fun experience in your Kitakyushu itinerary.

Kokura Tanga Ichiba Market

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-18:00
Address: 4 Chome-2-18 Uomachi, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0006, Japan

Getting there: 10 minutes walk from JR Kokura Station. You can choose to visit Tango Ichiba Market before or after the Kokura Castle.

Flower Tunnel at Kawachi Wisteria Garden

Another worth recommended when planning on Kitakyushu itinerary is the flower tunnel at Kawachi Wisteria Garden. It is rated as 10 Beautiful Places in the World That Exist and on the list of Japan’s 31 Most Beautiful Places broadcasted by American CNN in the year 2015.

The Kawachi Wisteria Garden is extremely amazing with beautiful wisteria trellis welcoming visitors started from mid-April to mid-May. However, due to the overwhelming of visitors, advanced reservation is required to visit Kawachi Wisteria Garden in peak season.

Take note that there are no public transport and shuttle to get to the Kawachi Wisteria Garden. The only option to get there is by taxi with one way of taxi ride cost about ¥3,000. Alternatively, consider getting the rental car from RentalCars.com to visit the Kawachi Wisteria Garden leisurely.

For more detail please check on the official website: https://kawachi-fujien.com/.

Overview: 1-Day Kitakyushu Itinerary

All in all, we spend about 5 to 6 hours in this one day Kitakyushu itinerary. The Kitakyushu is truly a unique cultural and historical places in Japan. It might not full of WOW attractions and must-visit on your Kitakyushu trip. But we enjoyed our visit to Kitakyushu and spend time wandering in the old Japanese cities. An easy day trip from Fukuoka to Shimonoseki, Mojiko, Kokura.

Here is the quick summary of various of transportation on above Kitakyushu itinerary:

From Hakata Station (Fukuoka) to Mojiko Station with JR express train with a one-time transfer required at Kokura. Free with JR Kyushu Pass.
From Moji Ferry Terminal, board the ferry to across Kanmon strait to Karato Market in Shimonoseki. One ride of ferry cost ¥400 per adult.
Take a bus or walk to Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel.
From Mojiko Station to Kokura Station by JR express train.

Lastly, hopefully, our Kitakyushu travel blog is helpful. Free feel to contact us if you need further help with planning on your Kitakyushu itinerary. Happy travel to Kitakyushu, Mojiko, Kokura, and Shimonoseki.

Planning on a trip to Fukuoka? The following posts provide more in-depth information about Fukuoka travel. Including transportation, foodie guide, travel tips and tours in Fukuoka. Be sure to check out our travel guide below if you are looking for little inspiration.

Blog Full

Overview: Oita Food Guide

Chicken Tempura

Dango-jiru

Ryukyu

Seki-Aji and Seki Saba

Jigokumushi

Bungo Beef

Kokonoe Yume Burger

Oita’s Sake

Overall: Oita Food Guide

Kyushu Food Guide: What To Eat

Hakata Ramen (Fukuoka)

Motsunabe (Fukuoka)

Mizutaki (Fukuoka)

Basashi (Kumamoto)

Champon Noodles (Nagasaki)

Sasebo Burger (Nagasaki)

Toriten (Oita)

Jigokumushi (Oita)

Bungo Beef (Oita)

Charcoal Grilled Chicken (Miyazaki)

Nanban Chicken (Miyazaki)

Tonkatsu (Kagoshima)

Overview: Kyushu Best Food

My Food Trip To Hakata Issou

Variety of Seasoning

Flavorful Rich Tonkatsu Ramen

How To Get To Hakata Issou

Planning On Kitakyushu Itinerary

From Fukuoka To Karato Market

Seafood Feast in Karato Market

Generous Portion of Seafood in Cheap Price

Walk Across The Kanmon Underwater Pedestrian Tunnel

The Border Point Between Kyushu and Honshu

Wandering at Mojiko Retro

Mojiko Station

Kitakyushu International Friendship Memorial Library

Former Moji Customs Building

Blue Wing Moji Bridge

Taste The Yaki Curry in Mojiko

Visit Kokura Castle

Food Hunting in Tanga Ichiba Market

Flower Tunnel at Kawachi Wisteria Garden

Overview: 1-Day Kitakyushu Itinerary