Mojiko (Moji Port) Day Trip Guide 2026 | Map, Transport & Yaki Curry

Fruit Factory Mooon de Retro

Restaurant Features

This is a popular fruit sundae café operated by a fruit specialty store, located in the nostalgic area of Moji Port, a popular tourist spot in Kyushu. The shop is housed in the historic red brick building of the Old Moji Customs, exuding a nostalgic charm.

As fruit experts, the shop takes pride in using the freshest and sweetest seasonal fruits to create their sundaes. Whether it's peach, melon, or mixed fruit sundae, each cup is piled high with high-quality ripe fruits, delivering a delightful experience with every bite, from the fruit flesh and ice cream on top to the jelly and crispy biscuits below.

There are outdoor seats with a view of the Kanmon Straits, where you can enjoy the sea breeze while savoring delicious fruit sundaes, making it one of the most pleasant experiences in Moji Port.

Ganso Kawasoba Takase Mojiko Nostalgic Shop

Restaurant Features

When in Mojiko, Kyushu, you cannot miss the unique local dish "Kawasoba" (tile soba noodles). "Takase" is the original creator of this dish. The restaurant serves flavorful tea soba noodles on hot tiles, accompanied by a sizzling sound, making it a feast for both the ears and eyes.

The noodles are topped with seasoned beef, egg strips, and seaweed, garnished with lemon slices and red pickled daikon. You can first enjoy the original flavor of the tea soba noodles, then add lemon or daikon to change the taste. The biggest highlight is that the noodles close to the hot tiles become crispy, creating a delightful contrast of textures that is addictive. In addition to Kawasoba, another popular dish "Unameshi" (three styles of eel rice) is also highly recommended.

Experiencing the unique charm of the original Kawasoba in the nostalgic Mojiko is definitely an unforgettable culinary journey.

BEAR FRUITS（ベアーフルーツ）

Restaurant Features

When visiting the nostalgic Moji Port, you can't miss the local soul food "Yaki Curry." Among many specialty shops, BEAR FRUITS is a highly representative and popular establishment, located right across from Moji Port Station, often bustling with queues.

Their Yaki Curry is not only authentically delicious but also gained fame after Japanese star Aya Ueto mentioned on a TV show that it is her "must-eat dish on the last day on Earth." The rich curry, with a hint of fruitiness, is baked with a runny egg and creamy cheese, offering a delightful layered texture in every bite.

Enjoying a steaming plate of Yaki Curry by the historic port is undoubtedly the best way to experience the charm of Moji Port.

Kōmoto Sushi

Restaurant Features

Kōmoto Sushi is just a 1-minute walk from JR Mojiko Station, offering stunning views of the Kanmon Strait. Here, you can enjoy the sea view while tasting the freshest local seafood.

The restaurant's specialty features coastal seafood caught in the Kanmon Strait, such as delicious Kanmon eel, octopus, and mackerel, served as fresh sushi and sashimi. Among them, the "Special Seafood Bowl," rich in toppings, is a popular signature dish that many food lovers must try.

The restaurant has tatami seating with views of the Kanmon Strait, enhancing the dining experience. It also offers private rooms for groups of 10 or more, making it perfect for family gatherings or company banquets.

The World's Only Baked Curry Princess PiPi in Mojiko

Restaurant Features

When in Mojiko, Kyushu, you can't miss the local soul food, "Baked Curry." Princess PiPi is not only a standout but also a representative of Kyushu's culinary scene. Its signature "King's Baked Curry" has sold over 1 million servings, solidifying its unshakeable status.

The restaurant has received numerous awards, including six consecutive years of Fukuoka brand recognition, being selected as one of the "Top 10 Local Curries in Japan," and representing Fukuoka Prefecture on television. It has even been praised by a Thai princess who visited to taste it. The chef, a vegetable connoisseur who has traveled to 27 countries in search of deliciousness, aims for "more energy with every bite," creating a rich and layered flavor. Its baked curry has even been offered as a "sacred offering at Ise Jingu," making it a taste endorsed by the divine.

In addition to curry, the restaurant also offers Thai cuisine and various creative dishes, making it the best choice for dining in the nostalgic area of Mojiko, whether you're looking for classic flavors or exciting surprises.

Curry Honpo Mojiko Nostalgic Store

Restaurant Features

When in Mojiko, Kyushu, you cannot miss the local specialty "Baked Curry." "Curry Honpo" is one of the popular spots, often bustling with queues.

The restaurant insists on using a special 320°C oven to bake the curry to perfection. Its base is a time-consuming brown roux combined with homemade broth, resulting in a rich and flavorful European-style curry. When served, the baked curry sizzles in the iron plate, topped with gooey cheese and a soft-boiled egg, creating an irresistible aroma.

The interior is filled with a nostalgic retro atmosphere, with views of the Mojiko seaside outside. You can customize your meal by selecting the rice portion and spiciness through a touchscreen. Whether you choose the classic "Wagyu Beef Baked Curry" or the hearty "Seafood Baked Curry," you'll experience the true charm of this local delicacy.

King's Egg

Restaurant Features

"King's Egg" is located in the nostalgic Moji Port, just a 1-minute walk from the station, and is a popular spot frequently featured on television. The highlight of the restaurant is its outdoor terrace seating with a view of the Kanmon Straits, where you can enjoy your meal with a refreshing sea breeze, and pets are welcome.

The signature dish is the soul food of Moji Port, "Grilled Curry," served sizzling on an iron plate, topped with generous cheese and the restaurant's proud eggs, filling the air with a delightful aroma. Additionally, the visually appealing "Skirt Omelette Rice" and the fluffy soufflé pancakes from the nearby famous Cafe del SOL are also must-try dishes.

Whether for a full meal, an afternoon tea date, or a family outing, the stunning views and delicious cuisine here will meet your needs.

Koganemushi

Closed: Friday (If Friday is a national holiday, the restaurant will be open and closed the previous day)

Restaurant Features

In the nostalgic Moji Port area, "Koganemushi" is a long-established café with nearly half a century of history, exuding a Showa-era atmosphere. As a popular local spot, long lines often form before opening, all for a taste of Moji's soul food—"Baked Curry (焼きカレー)."

The baked curry here is different from typical expectations; it resembles a gratin, served hot with smooth, flavorful curry topped with rich cheese and garnished with fried onions, creating a delightful layered experience. Another popular dish, "Omelette Curry (オムレツカレー)," is well-loved for its fluffy omelet.

The secret to its deliciousness lies in the curry sauce, which has been simmered for over 40 years, resulting in a deep flavor. However, what warms the heart even more than the food is the owner's friendly and gentle hospitality, making this famous eatery a warm and worthwhile destination to visit.

Taiheizan Mojiko Main Store

Restaurant Features

When it comes to representative ramen in Mojiko, many locals immediately think of "Taiheizan." This historic shop has recently undergone renovations, welcoming customers with a fresh look while maintaining its nostalgic traditional flavors.

The signature dish is "Taiheizan Ramen," known for its rich and flavorful soy sauce broth. Unlike the mainstream tonkotsu broth found in Fukuoka, this unique base creates a deep taste that perfectly complements the noodles, resulting in a distinctive texture.

Located in the nostalgic Mojiko area, it's an ideal spot to enjoy a bowl of locally-inspired ramen, whether traveling alone or with friends.

Mitsui Club

Restaurant Features

Mitsui Club is located within the nationally designated important cultural asset "Old Moji Mitsui Club," a historic Western-style building filled with Taisho romantic charm, where even Dr. Einstein once stayed. Just a 1-minute walk from JR Moji Port Station, you can step into this story-rich space.

Here, you can enjoy the historical atmosphere of the Taisho era while tasting two famous dishes from Moji Port: the aromatic "Yaki Curry" and exquisite "Fugu Kaiseki." Especially memorable is the seafood yaki curry served hot in earthenware, with its rich aroma and delicious flavor.

The restaurant offers views of the bay area of Moji Port, making both the building itself and the scenery outside incredibly appealing. Enjoy a unique dining experience that transcends time in this space where history and cuisine intertwine.

Kazaguruma

Restaurant Features

Nestled in the nostalgic alleys of Moji Port in Kitakyushu, "Kazaguruma" is a renowned Japanese restaurant that has received a Michelin Plate recommendation. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by the owner, dressed in a traditional chef's coat, who provides a comforting sense of home with her swift culinary skills and warm dishes.

Known for its exceptionally fresh seafood, must-try dishes include a luxurious sashimi platter featuring the premium fish "Kijihata" and the rich, creamy anglerfish hot pot. The hot pot broth can also be paired with Chinese noodles and mixed grain rice, offering an ultimate "three-in-one" dining experience.

At "Kazaguruma," you can savor the chef's exquisite craftsmanship and top-quality ingredients while experiencing the irreplaceable warmth and hospitality, making it a feast that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

Observation Restaurant Sunny Place

Restaurant Features

Take a ride in the vintage-style elevator to the 7th floor, where the "Sunny Place" reveals itself away from the hustle and bustle. It offers stunning views, capturing the "Kanmon Bridge" connecting Shimonoseki and Mojiko, along with the shimmering sea, providing a luxurious visual feast.

When in Mojiko, you must try the local specialty "Yaki Curry." Served sizzling on a hot plate, the rich curry sauce has a deep, layered flavor, complemented by gooey Camembert cheese and crispy bread crumbs, creating a delightful and surprising taste.

In this nostalgic yet stylish space, enjoy the unbeatable sea view while savoring authentic Yaki Curry; this experience is one of the best things to do in Mojiko.

Second Generation Kiyomi Dining Hall

Restaurant Features

Located in the nostalgic Moji Port area, "Second Generation Kiyomi Dining Hall" is a cafeteria filled with Showa-era charm, beloved by locals and tourists alike. The radio broadcasts create a strong retro atmosphere, making you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

The signature dish here is the unique "ちゃんらー (Chanra)." This dish combines the characteristics of ramen and strong noodles, featuring smooth strong noodles paired with a Japanese-style broth reminiscent of udon, offering a refreshing and warm flavor, making it a nostalgic local delicacy. In addition to the signature ちゃんらー, the homestyle curry rice and flavorful fried rice are also popular choices among many diners.

When visiting Moji Port, be sure to step into this dining hall, order a comforting ちゃんらー set, and savor the simple and nostalgic flavors.

Kanmon Straits Museum (Kaikyo DRAMASHIP)

Exhibition Overview

Located in the nostalgic Moji Port area, the "Kanmon Straits Museum" is an experiential museum centered around the concept of "fully experiencing the Kanmon Straits." Inside, visitors can immerse themselves in the nature, history, and culture of the Kanmon Straits through large projection screens, meticulously recreated historical streets, and engaging interactive installations.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The Kanmon Straits have long been an important stage in Japanese history. From the "Battle of Dan-no-ura," which determined the outcome of the Genpei War, to the anti-foreign movements and wars during Japan's modernization, this narrow body of water has witnessed countless pivotal historical moments. It serves not only as a vital maritime route but also as a crossroads for cultural and material exchange.

The museum vividly narrates these "DRAMA" (dramas) that occurred in the straits through exhibition areas like the "Strait History Corridor." It recreates the bustling street scenes of Moji Port during the Taisho era, when it thrived as an international trade port, filled with various Western-style buildings and businesses, embodying a lively atmosphere of East-West fusion.

Kanmon Ferry Mojiko Terminal

Attraction Overview

The Kanmon Ferry Mojiko Terminal and ticket office is the starting point for exploring the historic Kanmon Strait. This is not just a transportation facility, but an important gateway to experience the unique geographical and cultural connections between Kyushu and Honshu. From here, you can take a ferry and cross the swift currents of the Kanmon Strait in about 5 minutes, reaching Shimonoseki City in Yamaguchi Prefecture, making it the most convenient and scenic way to travel between the two locations.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The Kanmon Strait has long been a crucial maritime route and strategic point in Japanese history. From the final battle of the Genpei War, the "Battle of Dan-no-ura," to the anti-foreign battles during the Bakumatsu period, countless historical events have unfolded here. Riding the Kanmon Ferry is not just a geographical journey, but a cultural voyage through time. The vessels sail across a historical stage, with the scenery on both sides narrating tales of past prosperity and change.

From the ferry, you can closely admire the magnificent Kanmon Bridge connecting Kyushu and Honshu, experiencing the spectacular sight of ships and bridges intertwining. Additionally, the route passes by Ganryujima, the legendary site of the duel between Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojirō. For history enthusiasts, this brief journey is filled with endless imaginative possibilities. Mojiko itself is a tourist destination rich in Taisho romanticism, preserving many modern historical buildings, allowing you to deeply appreciate the profound history and cultural heritage of this maritime area.

Former Osaka Merchant Ship

Attraction Overview

Located in the nostalgic area of Moji Port, the "Former Osaka Merchant Ship" is a highly representative historical building. Its most striking features are the orange-red tiled walls and an elegant octagonal tower, exuding a strong "Taisho Romance" atmosphere, making it a must-see landmark for visitors to Moji Port. Today, this building has transformed into a cultural space, with a "Moji Port Design Workshop" and café on the first floor, and the famous "Watanabe Seizo Gallery" on the second floor, showcasing romantic illustrations that perfectly match the ambiance of Moji Port.

Historical Background

The "Former Osaka Merchant Ship" was built in 1917, originally serving as the Moji branch of "Osaka Merchant Ship," one of Japan's three major shipping companies. During an era dominated by maritime trade, Moji Port thrived as an important gateway connecting Japan to the Eurasian continent, and this building stands as a testament to that prosperity. Not only was it the latest in reinforced concrete structure at the time, but its elegant design also reflected the shipping company's strength and Moji Port's international status. In 1991, this building was designated as a tangible cultural asset of Kitakyushu City and was opened to the public after restoration in 1994.

Cultural Significance

As a base for continental shipping routes, the "Former Osaka Merchant Ship" was not only a center for commercial activities but also a hub for cultural and information exchange. Its architectural style blends Western design with traditional Japanese craftsmanship, marking an important milestone in modern architectural history and perfectly embodying the spirit of Japan's active absorption of Western culture at the time. Today, through the revitalization of its internal spaces, this century-old building has been given new life. It is no longer just a relic for remembrance but has become a cultural point that preserves historical memory while inspiring contemporary art and design, allowing visitors to deeply experience the unique charm of Moji Port from past to present.

Old Moji Mitsui Club

Admission Fee:
2nd Floor: Adult ¥150, Below Junior High School ¥80

Attraction Introduction

The Old Moji Mitsui Club stands quietly in a corner of the nostalgic Moji Port area, a two-story wooden building exuding a strong romantic atmosphere from the Taisho era. Its architectural style blends traditional European half-timber construction with unique Japanese design elements, featuring a pale yellow exterior and deep brown wooden beams, creating an elegant and warm scene, making it one of the iconic historical landmarks of Moji Port.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

This building was originally constructed in 1921 (Taisho 10) by the large trading company Mitsui & Co. as a reception and accommodation facility for its Moji branch. At that time, Moji Port was an important international trade port in Japan, bustling with merchants and prosperity, and the Old Moji Mitsui Club stands as a witness to this glorious history.

Its profound historical significance does not end there. In 1922, the world-renowned physicist Albert Einstein and his wife stayed on the second floor during their visit to Japan. Today, the room where they stayed has been preserved intact and is open to the public as the "Einstein Memorial Museum," allowing future generations to glimpse the footsteps of this century's genius. The first floor features the "Mitsui Club" restaurant, offering exquisite Western cuisine, allowing visitors to enjoy fine dining in a space rich in history.

Kaikyo Plaza (海峡プラザ)

Highlights

Kaikyo Plaza is the central commercial facility of the "Moji Port Nostalgic Area," located by the Kanmon Strait, offering stunning sea views. This two-story building consists of East and West wings, featuring a variety of shops, from local souvenirs and seafood products to groceries, accessories, and restaurants. It's not only a great place for shopping and dining but also houses unique attractions like the "Moji Music Box Museum" and the "Red Brick Glass Museum," allowing visitors to enjoy a treasure hunt in a nostalgic atmosphere. The architecture itself blends with the surrounding retro landscape, making it an essential stop along the nostalgic area walking route.

Floor Guide

Kaikyo Plaza mainly consists of the connected West and East wings:

【West Wing】
1st Floor: Focused on souvenirs and groceries. Here you can find the "Moji Retro Confectionery Museum," a seafood market with a rich variety, and local specialties from Kyushu. The famous "Red Brick Glass Museum" is also located on this floor.
2nd Floor: This floor is filled with fun and whimsical elements, featuring Kyushu's largest "Moji Music Box Museum," which houses over 500 music boxes. Additionally, there is a specialty store for Studio Ghibli merchandise, "Acorn Republic," a must-visit for anime fans.

【East Wing】
1st & 2nd Floors: Primarily dining areas. This space gathers several restaurants where you can taste the local specialty "Burnt Curry," along with seafood dishes and cafes. Visitors can enjoy delicious food while taking in the beautiful views of Moji Port.

Historical Background

The history of Kaikyo Plaza is closely tied to the revitalization project of the entire "Moji Port Nostalgic Area." Moji Port thrived as an international trade port during the Meiji to Taisho periods, leaving behind many historical Western-style buildings. As the port's functions declined over time, the local area launched the "Moji Nostalgia" project in 1995 to preserve and revitalize these precious historical assets. Kaikyo Plaza was born against this backdrop as a modern commercial facility, designed to harmonize with the surrounding heritage sites. Its establishment not only added commercial vitality to the nostalgic area but also became a comprehensive hub that showcases local charm, providing visitors with shopping, dining, and cultural experiences, symbolizing the revival of Moji Port tourism.

Rokumachi Ginten Street (Moji Port)

Product Features and Store Introductions

Walking into Moji Port's "Rokumachi Ginten Street" feels like stepping back in time to the vibrant Showa era. This nostalgic arcade-style shopping street is not only a hub for local residents but also the birthplace of Moji Port's signature dish, "Yaki Curry." The air is filled with the rich aromas of coffee and curry, inviting travelers to explore this story-filled street.

Rokumachi Ginten Street was once one of Kyushu's most prosperous shopping streets, witnessing Moji Port's golden age as an international trading port. Today, it still retains a strong retro atmosphere, with charming old signs, shop displays, and friendly local interactions. The street is home to a variety of shops, from traditional fruit and vegetable stores, watch shops, and kimono stores to trendy cafes, general stores, and art galleries, blending the old and new to breathe new life into the area.

When you visit, be sure to try the authentic Yaki Curry. Many renowned shops are tucked away in the alleys of the shopping street, each offering its unique flavor. This place is not just for shopping; it's an excellent spot to deeply experience the local culture and historical essence of Moji Port.

Old Moji Customs (旧門司税関)

Attraction Overview

Located in the heart of the nostalgic Moji Port area, the Old Moji Customs is a historic building renowned for its elegant red brick facade. It quietly witnesses the transformation of Moji Port from a small fishing village to an international trade hub. Today, this building is not only a focal point for visitors but also a complex space that embodies local history and culture.

The first floor features a spacious high-ceilinged hall, a permanent customs-themed exhibition, a charming café called "Nostalgic Café," and a resting area for travelers. Here, you can savor rich coffee while enjoying the stunning sea views of Moji Port through the surrounding arched windows. On weekends and holidays, it transforms into a lively venue for concerts and events, breathing new life into the historic structure.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The history of the Old Moji Customs dates back to 1912, when Moji Port, as one of Japan's three major ports, experienced a surge in trade volume, necessitating the construction of this building to handle the increasing customs operations. Designed by engineers Yasuhiro Tsukimi and Higashitake Yoshitake from the Ministry of Finance's General Affairs Department, the building features a robust red brick structure and a tiled roof, becoming a representative architecture of its time. However, this building, which witnessed the prosperity of the port city, suffered severe damage during World War II due to air raids, with much of the roof destroyed.

After the war, the building's functions were gradually replaced by newly constructed facilities, and it ceased operation in the early Showa period. It wasn't until the Heisei era (1990s) that, with the implementation of the "Moji Port Nostalgia" project, this historically significant building was restored. The restoration efforts aimed to recreate its original appearance, particularly by rebuilding the iconic octagonal tower, restoring its former glory. In 1995, the restored Old Moji Customs was opened to the public as a core facility of the Moji Port Nostalgia area, becoming not only an excellent spot to view the Moji Strait but also an important site for conveying history and promoting cultural exchange.

Blue Wing Moji Bridge (ブルーウィングもじ)

Moji Port bridge opening times: 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 4:00 PM. The bridge closes after about 20 minutes each time. Times may change for vessel traffic, events, or other arrangements, so check the latest official notice.

Night Lighting: Sunset – 10:00 PM

Attraction Overview

The Blue Wing Moji Bridge is Japan's largest pedestrian suspension bridge, gracefully spanning the waters of the nostalgic Moji Port area. This bridge not only serves as a connection between the two shores but is also an elegant and unique sight in itself. During the day, the blue bridge contrasts beautifully with the azure sea and expansive sky, creating a refreshing harbor scene. When boats need to pass, the bridge slowly opens like wings, a process that takes about 20 minutes, attracting countless visitors to watch.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The Blue Wing Moji Bridge was completed in 1993 as one of the core facilities of the "Moji Port Nostalgic Area" development project. Since the Meiji era, Moji Port has been an important international trade port in Japan, thriving for a time. However, as times changed, the port's functions gradually shifted, leaving behind many historically rich buildings with exotic charm. To revitalize this historically significant area, Kitakyushu City initiated the "Moji Port Nostalgia" project, aiming to create a space that blends history, culture, and tourism, with the Blue Wing Moji Bridge as its symbolic landmark.

Culturally, the bridge is imbued with romantic significance, as it is said that "couples who walk together across the opening bridge will gain eternal happiness," earning it the title of "Sacred Place for Lovers." As night falls, warm lights illuminate the bridge, reflecting off the surrounding historical buildings in the water, creating a dreamy and romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for couples and tourists to stroll at night.

Kitakyushu City Dalian Friendship Memorial Hall

Admission

Attraction Introduction

In the exotic Moji Port nostalgic area, this striking German half-timbered building, with its brown and white walls, chimneys, and dormer windows, is the "Kitakyushu City Dalian Friendship Memorial Hall." The first floor houses the Chinese restaurant "Dalian Acacia," while the second floor features a free relaxation area, an introduction to Dalian City, and the "Masazo Watase and the Sea Gallery," showcasing works by manga artists with deep ties to Moji Port, making it a complex space for travelers to rest and enjoy the artistic atmosphere.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

This beautiful building was constructed in 1994 to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the friendship between Kitakyushu City and Dalian City, China. Its design is not a mere imagination but an accurate replica of the "Eastern Qing Railway Steamship Company" office built by the Russian Empire in Dalian in 1902. This building not only recreates the European style of a century ago but also embodies the deep friendship between the two port cities.

Moji Port Nostalgic Observation Room

Admission Ticket

Attraction Introduction

The Moji Port Nostalgic Observation Room is located on the 31st floor of the "Retro Hi-Mart" high-rise apartment designed by the renowned Japanese architect Kenzō Tange. From this height of 103 meters, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the charming scenery of the Moji Port nostalgic area. During the day, sunlight illuminates the historic buildings and the shimmering Kanmon Strait; at night, the lights of the entire port and the majestic Kanmon Bridge create a dazzling scene, recognized as a "Japanese Night View Heritage," making it an excellent spot to appreciate the night view of the port city.

MINATO HOUSE

Product Features and Store Introduction

MINATO HOUSE is one of the largest souvenir shops in the nostalgic area of Mojiko, located on the first floor of the "Strait Plaza" west building. For travelers looking to gather unique Mojiko souvenirs in one stop, this is undoubtedly the best choice.

The store offers a wide variety of products, from various banana desserts representing Mojiko, nostalgic curry packages, to processed seafood products made from local fresh catches like fugu and sea urchin, as well as local sake exclusive to Kyushu. In addition to food, it also features many original goods and limited items filled with the nostalgic charm of Mojiko, making it a great place to find satisfying unique items for gifts or personal use. The spacious shopping area allows for a relaxed selection experience, adding to the treasure-hunting fun.

Idemitsu Museum of Arts (Moji)

Closed: Every Monday (if Monday is a national holiday, closed the following day), year-end and New Year, during exhibition changes

Overview

Located in the nostalgic Moji Port area, the Idemitsu Museum of Arts (Moji) is an art museum that revitalizes a historical building. It is not only a hall of art but also a precious testament to its era. The museum primarily collects and displays art treasures gathered by Mr. Sazo Idemitsu, the founder of Idemitsu Kosan, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of Eastern classical art in a space filled with Taisho romanticism.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

This museum has deep ties to the Japanese company Idemitsu Kosan. Moji Port is the birthplace of Idemitsu Kosan, and to commemorate the company's 85th anniversary, this museum was opened in November 2000 to give back to the community and promote the artistic philosophy of founder Sazo Idemitsu.

The building was originally constructed in 1921 as the "First Business Office of Idemitsu Kosan," serving as an oil storage warehouse. It was designed by Czech-American architect Antonin Raymond. After careful restoration and renovation, the building retains its red brick facade and vintage structure from the warehouse era, perfectly blending into the nostalgic streetscape of Moji Port. The museum's high ceilings and warm wooden floors provide an excellent stage for the artworks.

The core collection consists of the personal collection of founder Sazo Idemitsu, also known as the "Idemitsu Collection," which includes Japanese paintings and calligraphy, as well as ceramics from East Asia. Among these, the works of the Edo period Zen monk Sengai Gibon are particularly famous for their free and spontaneous brushwork, filled with Zen spirit and humor. The museum features themed exhibitions that change several times a year, allowing visitors to explore the rich collection from different perspectives, with each visit offering new discoveries and inspirations.