The building was designed by Kisho Kurokawa, a world-renowned Japanese architect known for his metabolic architectural style.
The observation floor is situated 103 meters above ground level.
From this height, visitors can clearly see the Kanmon Bridge, which connects the islands of Honshu and Kyushu.
The observation deck provides a unique perspective on the shipping lanes of the Kanmon Straits, one of the busiest maritime routes in Japan.
The building is part of the Mojiko Retro area, a district preserved for its early 20th-century Western-style architecture.
The floor-to-ceiling windows provide a nearly 360-degree view of the surrounding coastal geography.
The gallery is specifically positioned to overlook the historic Mojiko Station, a site recognized for its Neo-Renaissance design.
The Mojiko Retro Observation Gallery is located on the 31st floor of the High Mart building, a skyscraper designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa. It provides a panoramic view of the Kanmon Straits, connecting the Sea of Japan to the Seto Inland Sea. The facility features glass walls that offer views of the historic Mojiko Retro district and the city of Shimonoseki across the water. A cafe is situated within the observation area, allowing visitors to dine while viewing the shipping traffic in the straits. The height of the vantage point allows for a clear sightline of the Kanmon Bridge and the industrial landscape of the Kitakyushu region. The structure itself is a prominent landmark in the Moji Ward skyline.
The glass corners of the observation room, which provide a wide-angle perspective of the Kanmon Bridge and the coastline.
Visit during the late afternoon to see the transition from daylight views to the illuminated night skyline.
Use the provided binoculars, often available for a small fee, to get a closer look at the ferry traffic crossing between Moji and Shimonoseki.
Check the weather conditions beforehand as heavy mist or rain can significantly obscure the visibility of the straits.
Avoid visiting on days with heavy fog or low cloud cover, as visibility of the straits and the bridge will be severely limited.
Occasionally closed for maintenance or building-wide inspections; check local listings for irregular holidays.
