Moji Port - A Convergence of History

Initially, when planning the trip, I came across travel blogs introducing Moji Port. I thought it was merely a nostalgic journey back to the Taisho era, visiting foreign embassies and old buildings. However, upon discovering "Shimonoseki," formerly known as "Akama-seki" or "Akama-kan," and also abbreviated as "Bakan," I realized Moji Port is more than just a harbor. The name "Akama-seki" is associated with Akama Shrine, while "Akama-kan" is linked to the Treaty of Shimonoseki.

The signing site of the Treaty of Shimonoseki, Shunpanro, still preserves the scene of the signing, including calligraphy by Li Hongzhang and Ito Hirobumi. Reading the words about Taiwan's cession evokes a sense of historical reflection. However, the sweltering weather and the small, stuffy museum made it hard to linger. I followed a path to the nearby Akama Shrine, where the red Suitenmon gate harmonizes beautifully with the greenery and the sea.

Suitenmon is dedicated to Emperor Antoku, also known as the Water and Sky Emperor, symbolizing his body in the water and soul in the sky. This is because the area was the final battlefield of the Genpei War, where the Taira clan was annihilated, marking the beginning of the Kamakura shogunate. Emperor Antoku, a descendant of the Taira clan, was carried into the sea by his relatives, leading to his death. Standing outside the main hall, I saw the Hall of Hoichi the Earless and the graves of the Taira clan, feeling reluctant to disturb the solemnity and unable to stay long.

Although this land is filled with stories of triumph and defeat, it does not diminish its scenic beauty, nestled between mountains and the sea, nor its delicious baked curry and seafood.

☆ Transportation:
JR Hakata Station - Kokura Castle - Moji Port / Ferry: Moji Port - Karato

☆ Restaurants:
Princess Phi Phi (Baked Curry, Banana Beer, Fried Blowfish)

Post by 蘋菓果 | Oct 26, 2025