■ What is Magari no Matsu Namiki? A Historical Landmark Proudly Presented by Kitakyushu City

Located in Kokura Minami Ward of Kitakyushu City, "Magari no Matsu Namiki" is an area that stretches approximately 2 kilometers, lined with beautiful historical scenery of pine trees. This pine avenue was developed as part of Nakayuki-juku, a post town that flourished during the Edo period, and it continues to convey the remnants of the comings and goings of people from that time.

This path, with around 500 pine trees planted along it, played an important role as part of the "Nagasaki Kaido," which once connected Kokura and Nagasaki. Today, it is preserved as a landscape of historical value, serving as a place of healing and learning for local residents and tourists alike.

Throughout the four seasons, visitors can enjoy the changing scenery of Magari no Matsu Namiki, making it a hidden gem in Kitakyushu City where one can simultaneously feel the presence of nature and history.

■ The History and Importance of Magari no Matsu Namiki

1. historical value dating back to the Edo period

Magari no Matsu Namiki are part of the Nagasaki Kaido, a road developed in the Edo period (1603-1867). This highway, also known as the “Sugar Road,” was an important logistics route for sugar and specialty products imported from the port of Nagasaki and transported to Kokura and Hakata, and then to Kyoto and Edo.

Magari no Matsu Namiki served as landmarks for travelers of the time and also provided shade from the sun. When Nagayoshi-juku was a bustling post town, many travelers and merchants passed along this road, making it a place of historical exchange.

2. efforts for preservation and revitalization

With the passage of time, the rows of pine trees faced the danger of partial loss. However, the local residents and the Kitakyushu Municipal Government have been involved in preservation efforts, and the trees are now managed as a valuable cultural asset of the community. Tree-planting activities and maintenance are underway to protect the rows of pine trees, and efforts are underway to preserve the historical landscape for future generations.

Through these efforts, Magari no Matsu Namiki have become a tourist attraction and a place that welcomes visitors as a source of pride for the community.

■ Points to enjoy at the Magari no Matsu Namiki

1. the healing power of nature when strolling along the rows of pine trees

The 2-km-long rows of pine trees are a perfect place to take a leisurely stroll. The path lined with tunnels of lush green pine trees is surrounded by a tranquility that makes you feel as if you have stepped back in time. In spring, the fresh greenery is beautiful, in summer you can feel cool under the shade of the trees, and in fall, the path is decorated with fallen leaves. And in winter, you can enjoy the dignified appearance of pine trees in the clear air.

On your way to the path, take your time to relax and think about the feelings of travelers in the past.

2. pine trees and Sugar Road history exhibit

In the neighborhood, there are exhibition facilities and information boards where visitors can learn about the history of Nagasaki Kaido and Sugar Road. Through this information, visitors can learn more about the logistics and people's lives in the past. This is an ideal place for history buffs as well as for children to learn.

3. attractive as a photo spot

The rows of pine trees in Kyokuri are popular as a photo spot because of their beautiful natural beauty in each of the four seasons. Especially in the soft morning light and at sunset, the rows of pine trees are fantastically illuminated, creating a scene that is irresistible to capture with a camera. It is also an ideal place for landscape and portrait photography.

■ Experience the charm of history and nature at Magari no Matsu Namiki

The rows of pine trees in Kyokuri are a special place in Kitakyushu City where history and nature are in harmony. Its beautiful scenery and historical value that allows visitors to feel the breath of travelers on the Nagasaki Kaido Road in the past move many people. It is also attractive in that each visitor can enjoy the area in his or her own way, whether strolling, taking pictures, or learning about the history.

When you visit Kitakyushu City, be sure to include Magari no Matsu Namiki in your travel plans. Enjoy the special time when the past and the present intersect, surrounded by tranquility and greenery. It will surely be an unforgettable memory.

Click here for a special page showing the attractions of Kitakyushu City.