'Globe-Trotter's Guide' to Kitakyushu

Feb 05, 2024 | News On Japan

Kitakyushu, Feb 05, 2024 (News On Japan) - The Kitakyushu edition of the travel guidebook series "The Globe-Trotter's Guide" was released on February 1st, marking a first as it dedicates an entire edition to a single city rather than a prefecture or region. This pioneering edition focuses exclusively on a city, featuring about 400 pages of detailed information on Kitakyushu’s attractions, gourmet spots, and local celebrities like the flamboyantly dressed Miyabi who gained international attention last year.

Locals expressed their excitement about the guidebook. One resident in their 60s said, "It's delightful that it's specifically about Kitakyushu City, not just Fukuoka. I look forward to reading it thoroughly at home."

Takaji Takekoshi, the manager of Kumazawa Bookstore, remarked on the unexpectedly high sales, "We sold 89 copies just yesterday. We hope that both locals and visitors will pick up this guide to deepen their understanding of Kitakyushu."

The guidebook's cover features Kokura Station, chosen based on residents' feedback, truly representing the station's scenery.

In conjunction with the publication, Kokura Station's staircase has been redecorated to match the book's cover design.

Residents and newcomers alike are keen to use the guidebook to explore Kitakyushu. A new resident from Oita, who just moved in a week ago, mentioned, "Just knowing that there's so much to explore in the Kitakyushu area is exciting. It's especially useful for someone like me who's new to the city."

Among the highlighted features is the "Must-Eat Kitakyushu Local Gourmet" section, including Nishiki Udon, a beloved udon shop for over 50 years.

Ayai Ikuma of Nishiki Udon shared, "It's genuinely gratifying to be featured. We hope to continue welcoming our regulars and attract younger generations."

Photographer Yoichi Ushio, a Kitakyushu resident, had over 50 of his photos featured in the guide. Having captured images of Kitakyushu, including thousands of Kokura Castle, Ushio's work significantly contributes to the book's visual appeal.

Ushio expressed his pride in the publication, hoping it reaches a global audience to invite everyone to visit Kitakyushu.

"The Globe-Trotter's Guide to Kitakyushu City" is available nationwide for 2,200 yen, promising to bring Kitakyushu closer to both tourists and locals.

Source: FBS Fukuoka Broadcasting News

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