Walking in Kitakyushu, Murasaki River, Bridge of Sun, and Monotail

I’m on day 8 of my first trip to Japan in November and December of 2025. This time I’m in the lovely city of Kitakyushu in the Fukuoka Prefecture.

Kitakyushu was established during February 1963 when five cities were joined together to form a bigger municipality. It has a population of around 903,000 people, although if you include the greater metropolitan area, that rises to more than 5,740,000. It is also the second largest city on Kyushu Island.

In previous decades, Kitakyushu was seen as a major player in Japanese industry, which is why the city was considered the primary target for the US Air Force on 9th August 1945. However, because of smoke and clouds, Major Charles Sweeney was unable to accurately identify his target, and he proceeded to the next destination for his load, the city of Nagasaki.

The greatest problems look more solvable over the rim of a teacup; indeed, there is nothing that cannot be enhanced when viewed from above a cup of tea. So come with me as I view the world from the rim of my drink…..

Nothing special, just a grumpy old fart from England, living his bucket list before time runs out.