By 街撮りch
In this immersive walking tour, the creator of the Machidori Channel takes viewers on a journey through Kokura Station (小倉駅) in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture. Arriving via ferry from Yokosuka Port to Shin-Moji Port, the journey resumes along the Seto Inland Sea en route to Tokyo. This particular segment is dedicated to exploring Kokura, a bustling urban area that hadn't been extensively covered in previous videos on the channel.
The footage depicts a lively public holiday scene at Kokura Station with crowded shopping arcades and vibrant social activity. The arcades are filled with locals and visitors browsing through shops, contributing to the city's energetic atmosphere. The video highlights the resilience of Kokura’s local businesses, showcasing the reopening of the Tanga Market (旦過市場) as an open-air venue after a damaging fire incident. This historic market, known for its fresh local produce and street food, is an essential component of Kokura’s cultural and culinary identity.
Another notable aspect of the walk is the Kokura Showakan—a local cinema that has resumed operations, adding to the revitalized spirit of the community. The narration also touches on the area's strip theater district, where a heavy police presence suggested some recent commotion. Nonetheless, this side of Kokura offers an unfiltered look into the complexity and vibrancy of urban life in smaller but culturally rich Japanese cities.
This walking tour is recorded using a DJI Osmo Pocket 3, offering crisp visuals and smooth footage, ideal for virtual travelers interested in the sights and atmosphere of Japan’s cities. The narrated experience allows viewers to understand the dynamic changes in Kitakyushu recently, appreciate the urban planning around the Kokura transit hub, and soak in the on-the-ground culture.