Mojikō Retro Observation Room
The spacious, glass-walled Mojikō Retro Observation Room occupies the top floor of the 31-story Mojikō Retro High Mart skyscraper. It offers an expansive 270-degree view of the city and the maritime traffic of the Kanmon Strait below. Powerful digital telescopes, capable of up to 100-times magnification, can be used to spot landmarks on the opposite side of the strait. On clear days, it is possible to see directly across the strait to Karato Pier, Kanmon Wharf, and Akama Jingū Shrine. To their west are Shimonoseki Port and the island of Ganryūjima, where in 1612 an infamous duel took place between two famous swordsmen, Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojirō. To the north lie Dan no Ura Bay, Mt. Hinoyama, and Kanmon Bridge. The view includes several of Moji’s historic buildings, including the Former Moji Mitsui Club, the Former Osaka Shōsen Building, Mojikō Station, the Former Dalian Terminal Building, and the Former Kyushu Railway Head Office.
A Nighttime View of Moji
Just before sunset, the observation room’s lights are dimmed to a gentle orange. The spectacular and peaceful nighttime view has been designated “Night View Heritage of Japan.” Partially thanks to this view, the café on the top floor is well known as a perfect spot for a romantic date.
Kurokawa Kishō (1934–2007)
Mojikō Retro High Mart, which towers over Moji Port at a height of 103 meters, was completed in 1999. This glass skyscraper was designed by leading architect Kurokawa Kishō, who first achieved renown for the Nakagin Capsule Tower Building in Tokyo (completed 1972) and for participating in the establishment of the Metabolism Movement. Kurokawa’s fame later spread internationally, with award-winning works such as the Japanese-German Center Berlin, the Melbourne Central complex, and the new wing of the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.