Space World
Spend a day at Space World, Yahata Higashi-ku, (http://www.spaceworld.co....). Near Space World station. A theme park created in 1990 by Nippon Steel when the company was downsizing its massive steel plant in the ward. This theme park offers a wide variety of enjoyable attractions for the whole family, a number of events held daily, and Space Camp, Japanâs first authentic educational space experience facility. Space Camp was created under a licensing agreement with the U.S. Space Camp Foundation, and provides a full curriculum, including special training using the same apparatus as NASA astronauts. The participants stay in the camp, and are given instruction by an expert staff. A variety of courses are available, catering to different age groups and length of course.
Blast furnace
Visit the Blast furnace near Space World. Japan's steel industry began here in 1901 and the original furnace is preserved as steelmaking was so important to Japan and the development of Kitakyushu in the 20th century. Also nearby are the city's natural history museum and environment museum.
Kitakyushu City Art Museum
In tobata ward, with a branch in the riverwalk complex (http://en.wikipedia.org/w...)
midsummer fireworks (hanabi)
Summer firework displays hanabi taikai are also held in various places in and around Kitakyushu in July and August. Usually at least 3,000 fireworks are let off.
The biggest one with no less than 13,000 fireworks! is the Kanmon Straits display between Kitakyushu and Shimonoseki August 13 in 2005. Be prepared for big crowds, especially on the trains to and from Kokura to Moji-ko.
Midsummer festivals
Tobata Gion
(http://www.culture-dome.o...) is designated an important intangible cultural asset of japan and dates back to 1802. it involves the carrying of large floats called yamagasa by about 100 men who shout "yoitosa" to keep in time. fourth weekend in july.
Wasshoi Hyakuman Summer Festival
(http://www.culture-dome.o...) - august 6-7 in 2005. many dance groups. ends with a parade and firework display.