Overview: Kanmon Strait
The Kanmon Strait, located between Honshu and Kyushu—two of Japan’s main islands—is one of the country’s most important maritime passages. At its narrowest point, the strait is approximately 700 meters wide, close enough to clearly see the town on the opposite shore. Around 500 vessels of all sizes pass through daily, making it one of the busiest straits in the world. It is also known as a difficult waterway for navigation, with strong tidal currents that change direction four times a day roughly every six hours, and a significant tidal range.
The towns on both sides of the strait developed alongside the movement of people and goods brought by passing ships. From the Meiji period onward, Moji Port flourished as an international trading port, attracting trading companies and banks. The buildings from that era remain standing today, preserving the character of the port town. Across the water, Shimonoseki presents a different kind of port town landscape. Kanmon Strait Cycling offers a route through both of these port towns.
Kanmon Strait Cycling is a half-day to full-day route in Kitakyushu and Shimonoseki that departs from Moji Port (Kyushu side), follows the strait, crosses to Shimonoseki (Honshu side) by ferry or the pedestrian undersea tunnel, and returns to Moji Port. What makes this route appealing is the chance to experience the contrast between the two sides of the strait by bicycle—a journey that connects two port towns on two separate islands, Kyushu and Honshu, as a single continuous trip.
Start: Setting Off by Bicycle from Moji Port (Kitakyushu)
Rental bicycles are available at Moji Port in Kitakyushu, so you can start riding right away. No specialized cycling gear is required; casual clothing is perfectly suitable. If you are concerned about fitness or pace, an electric-assist bicycle can make the ride more comfortable. Details on pricing and what to wear are provided later in this guide.
Why Bicycle?
The full route including Shimonoseki is around 10 km. The course is mostly flat and accessible even for beginner cyclists. Walking takes too long to cover the points of interest, while driving involves the inconvenience of parking and does not allow you to take in the coastal scenery at a relaxed pace. By bicycle, you can stop wherever catches your attention and enjoy the changing views along the strait at your own speed.
Route Guide
Overview of the Route
Depart from Moji Port in Kitakyushu on the Kyushu side, cross the Kanmon Strait to Shimonoseki on the Honshu side, then return to Mekari on the Kyushu side and finish at Moji Port. You can cross the strait either by ferry (approx. 5 minutes) or via the pedestrian undersea tunnel (approx. 780 m).
The map below shows the main locations featured in this cycling route. You can use it to get an overview of the route and its key spots.
View the cycling route on Google My Maps
Moji Port
Before setting off, visiting the Mojiko Retro Observation Room to take in a full view of the strait will help you visualize the route. From the observation room, you can also identify the ferry terminal and Shimonoseki on the opposite shore.
Mojiko Retro Observation Room
A popular viewpoint offering a panoramic view of the Kanmon Strait and the Moji Port townscape. Located adjacent to the rental bicycle shop. Café on-site.
(View on Google Maps)
Rental Bicycles
Available at Moji Port for immediate departure.
(View on Google Maps)
Blue Wing Moji
A pedestrian-only bascule bridge. The center section lifts several times a day. Cyclists must dismount and walk their bicycles across.
(View on Google Maps)
Former Moji Customs House
A historic red-brick building constructed during the Meiji period. Currently used as an exhibition and viewing space.
(View on Google Maps)
Kanmon Strait Museum
A museum introducing the history of the Kanmon Strait and maritime culture through interactive exhibits. Also features a café and a viewing space overlooking the strait. If cycling is your main focus, simply riding past and taking in the exterior and surrounding area is enough.
(View on Google Maps)
Crossing the Kanmon Strait
You can cross to Shimonoseki by ferry or via the pedestrian undersea tunnel (the Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel, sometimes labeled Kanmon Tunnel Jindo on local bus stops and signs). The ferry terminal is located in the Moji Port area, and the undersea tunnel entrance is approximately 10 minutes by bicycle. Bicycles are permitted on both. Note that the ferry accepts cash only. During busy periods, bicycles may not be accommodated; in that case, wait for the next service or use the undersea tunnel.
By Ferry
Travel time: 5 minutes
Terminals: Moji side (Marine Gate Moji) / Shimonoseki side (Karato Terminal)
(View on Google Maps: Moji side)
(View on Google Maps: Shimonoseki side)
By Undersea Tunnel
Tunnel length: 780 m
Please walk your bicycle through for safety.
Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel entrance (Moji side / Shimonoseki side)
(View on Google Maps)
Shimonoseki
Once across the strait, the atmosphere of the town changes. On the Shimonoseki side, points of interest are concentrated along the waterfront, and even a short visit offers a different experience from Moji Port. If you plan to stop at Karato Market, the recommended time is Friday to Sunday and public holidays in the morning, when sushi and other foods are sold from stalls (Fri–Sat 10:00 AM–3:00 PM, Sun & public holidays 8:00 AM–3:00 PM). Items can sell out, so an early visit is advisable.
Karato Market
A popular market in Shimonoseki known for its fresh seafood. On weekends, sushi and other foods can be purchased and eaten on the spot.
(View on Google Maps)
Kamon Wharf
A commercial facility along the Kanmon Strait. Offers dining featuring Shimonoseki specialties such as fugu (blowfish) cuisine and fresh seafood, with views of the sea.
(View on Google Maps)
Akama Shrine
A shrine notable for its vermilion gate facing the sea. A historic place of worship with a view of the Kanmon Strait. A good stop if you want to take in a more historic atmosphere.
(View on Google Maps)
For more information about attractions in the Shimonoseki area, see the official tourism guide below.
Shimonoseki Sightseeing Map
Returning to the Moji Side: Heading to Mekari
Mekari is a quiet area facing the Kanmon Strait. It is home to Mekari Shrine, founded approximately 1,800 years ago, and the Second Observation Deck of Mekari Park, which offers a panoramic view of the Kanmon Bridge and passing vessels. Reaching the observation deck requires climbing a steep slope, but it is a suitable place to look back on the full route.
Mekari Shrine
A shrine founded approximately 1,800 years ago, facing the Kanmon Strait and known for prayers for maritime safety.
(View on Google Maps)
Mekari Park Second Observation Deck
A viewpoint with a panoramic view of the Kanmon Strait, well-suited for reflecting on the route you have traveled while overlooking the Kanmon Bridge, which connects Honshu and Kyushu, and the ships passing below.
(View on Google Maps)
From here, ride along the strait back to Moji Port.
Once back in the Mojiko Retro area, a stop at Kaikyo Plaza is an option. The facility houses shops offering Moji Port specialties and souvenirs, including yaki-curry (baked curry), Moji Port craft beer, and banana sweets referencing the port’s historical role as a banana import hub. It is a convenient spot to rest or look for souvenirs after cycling.
(View on Google Maps)
Duration, Physical Demand, and Who This Route Suits
Depending on the number of stops, this route takes roughly half a day to a full day. Rather than completing it as quickly as possible, the enjoyment lies in the rhythm of stopping to take in the view, then riding on again.
If time or fitness is a concern, adjustments can be made by limiting the number of stops or choosing an electric-assist bicycle.
This route is suited to those who:
– like traveling while following changes in the scenery
– prefer experiencing the character of a place at their own pace rather than rushing from one landmark to another
– want a flexible itinerary with time for detours and photography
Practical Information
Note
Figures in this section, including opening hours, prices, and service frequencies, are accurate as of February 2026. As these are subject to change, please check the latest information on each official website.
Clothing and Footwear
Specialized cycling gear is not required. Casual clothing is perfectly adequate. As the area along the strait is exposed to wind, a layer may be useful depending on the season. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Rental Bicycles
As operating hours and prices are subject to change, please check the latest information on the official website.
Opening hours:
10:00 AM–6:00 PM (April–October) / 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (November–March)
Pricing:
Electric-assist bicycle: ¥1,000 per day. Credit cards are not accepted.
Latest information:
The site is displayed in Japanese only; using your browser’s translation function may be helpful.
Official website of the rental bicycle shop
Notes:
Notes on rental bicycles (PDF)
Usage notes:
Luggage can be stored in small lockers, but large items such as suitcases cannot be accommodated. Coin lockers at Moji Port Station are available for larger luggage.
Hills and Gradients
The course is generally flat and easy to ride, but the Second Observation Deck of Mekari Park is situated on a hillside, requiring approximately 1 km of steep uphill along the road. If using an electric-assist bicycle, it is advisable to check the remaining battery level toward the end of the ride.
Ferry
Frequency:
3 departures per hour
Timetable:
Please check the official website for schedules.
Kanmon Strait ferry timetable
Fares:
¥400 per person + ¥260 per bicycle (one way). The same fare applies for the return to Moji Port.
Payment:
Cash only
During busy periods:
Bicycles may not be accommodated. In that case, wait for the next service or use the undersea tunnel.
Pedestrian Undersea Tunnel (Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel)
Fare: Free for pedestrians. ¥20 for bicycles.
Hours: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM
Rules: Please dismount and walk your bicycle through the tunnel.
Cafés and Restaurants
Cafés and local restaurants are scattered around Moji Port and the Karato area. As there is a good selection of options, you can search for cafes, lunch spots, or seafood restaurants on Google Maps, check reviews and opening hours, and decide on the spot. Note that some establishments in this area accept cash only, so carrying cash is advisable.
If you would like to explore more cycling routes, the following website offers a wide range of cycling information in Kitakyushu.
It features routes of various distances as well as cycling courses beyond the Kanmon Strait area.
Kitakyushu Cycling Routes and Information (Smart Cycle Life Kitakyushu)
For more information about the Mojiko Retro area featured in this cycling route, the following page may also be of interest:
Mojiko Retro Official Website
