Located in Kitakyushu, Mojiko Retro marks 30 years since its grand opening. Once a thriving international trading port during the Meiji era (1868-1912), the district’s historic streets still charm visitors today. Guided by the theme “Enjoy the Kanmon Strait,” Mojiko Retro continues to evolve with the community, bringing new attractions for the years ahead.
Sonoko Machida, an author with close ties to Kitakyushu, wrote the popular novel The Convenience Store by the Sea (published by Shincho Bunko nex). Its story unfolds right here in Mojiko Retro.The story features the observation deck and other local landmarks, along with beautiful views of the Kanmon Straits.
This collaboration brings that fictional world to life in the very streets where the story unfolds. Whether you’re already a fan of The Convenience Store by the Sea or visiting Mojiko Retro for the first time, you can stroll through the novel’s settings, take in the sights, and experience the district’s charm in a whole new way.
Mojiko has always been special to me — I used to visit often when I was a student.
I tried to capture its magic in my novel, but there’s still so much about this town that words can’t quite express.
Sometimes I even felt frustrated, knowing I couldn’t fit it all in. That’s why I was so grateful for this collaboration. It made me feel that maybe I had managed to share at least a little of what makes Mojiko so dear to me. I’ll keep doing my best to share the many stories and wonders this town has to offer, and I truly hope this collaboration helps even more people feel the allure of Mojiko.
A themed photo area inspired by Tenderness Mojiko Kogane Village Store will be set up on the first floor of the Mojiko Retro Observation Room. Step into the story’s world and snap a memorable photo!
Discover lines and scenes from The Convenience Store by the Sea woven throughout Mojiko Retro—from the Observation Room and the former Osaka Shosen Building to the Kanmon Straits Museum and other beloved landmarks. Step into the story’s world right in the heart of where it all began.
Explore the real-life locations from The Convenience Store by the Sea with a self-guided tour around Mojiko Retro. A special guided version will also be available, featuring exclusive gifts such as a newly written short story by Sonoko Machida.
Exclusive original merchandise will be available for a limited time. At the Mojiko Retro Observation Room, we recommend the special ticket that includes both admission and exclusive merchandise.
Tenderness Mojiko Kogane Village is a small local convenience store in Mojiko, run by siblings Mitsu and Tsugi. The shop draws in people burdened by worries and loneliness—a high school girl with a sweet tooth, adults carrying old emotional scars, and others seeking a moment of connection. Through these heartwarming encounters, this collection of linked short stories gently captures the kindness found in everyday life and the quiet healing it brings.
©Sonoko Machida 2020 Original Japanese edition published by SHINCHOSHA Publishing Co., Ltd.
※Business hours may vary depending on the venue .
