The Kitakyushu Monorail, which uses straddle-beam monorail technology, provides a high level of convenience, comfort and reliability for commuters and tourists in the city of Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. This monorail system, developed by Hitachi, is uniquely designed with passenger cabins positioned above the bogies (the frame supporting the wheels), which promotes ease of movement and enhances passenger comfort.
The system is designed to operate smoothly in all extreme weather conditions, reducing the possibility of accidents and ensuring uninterrupted service for users. As a major transport link in the region, it connects to both Kitakyushu and Fukuoka airports and is an important tool in alleviating traffic congestion in the city.
The system is also known as the Monorail. Unfortunately, no information is available on the number of daily passengers or fares. The system does not operate 24 hours a day and has no air conditioning. However, it is possible to walk between platforms and the trains are not driverless.
There are no screen doors on the platforms. The system is operated by Kitakyushu Urban Monorail Co. Ltd. Operating hours are 6:00 to 24:20 from Monday to Friday, and 5:00 to 0:20 on Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Fares range from ¥90 to ¥310.
Metro map of Kitakyushu
Map of Kitakyushu Metro showing different lines. Click on the map to enlarge it or download the Kitakyushu Metro map in PDF format.
Historical Background
The need for a reliable and efficient transport system in Kitakyushu, a bustling city in Fukuoka Prefecture, led to the development of the monorail system. With a population of over one million and a constant flow of visitors, the city was facing severe road traffic problems. In order to streamline traffic, a north-south monorail system was conceived to connect the main areas of the city.
The Kitakyushu Monorail began operation on 9 January 1985, starting with the line between Kikugaoka Station in the south and Heiwadori Station in the north. The system was later extended north to Kokura Station on 1 April 1985, reaching its current operating length.
Despite initial losses incurred by the city authorities, the monorail system eventually became profitable after the extension between Kokura Station and Heiwadori Station was opened. However, the extension met with opposition from shop owners in the Uomachi shopping district, who feared a potential reduction in customer traffic due to the extended monorail system.
Hours of Operation
The Kitakyushu Monorail operates from 6am to around midnight. Trains arrive every 13 to 20 minutes, with more frequent trains arriving every 10 minutes during rush hour. Timetables may vary during weekends and festivals. For full Monorail timetables, please visit the official monorail schedule webpage.
Lines and Stations
The Kitakyushu Monorail runs along a single line, with 13 stations scattered along its length. Some of these stations have island platforms, while others have side platforms. The line is served by 4-car trains, and a full journey on the line typically takes around 18 minutes. Passengers can transfer to other lines at the terminus stations.
The stations on this line are as follows:
- Kikugaoka Station
Near this station are the Kitakyushu Monorail Headquarters, Adventure Pool, Shiikoen and Tokiwa High School.
- Shii Station
Shii Station is the closest station to Kitakyushu National College of Technology.
- Tokuriki-Arashiyamaguchi Station
This station is the closest to Akiyoshisha Arashiyama’s funeral.
- Tokuriki Kodanmae Station
Points of interest around this station include the Sanre Tokuriki Shiunkaku field and the Kokuraminami martial arts centre.
- Moritsune Station
Near Moritsune Station you’ll find the Sanribu Moritsune shop, the Ion Tokuriki shop, the Towa Hospital and the Murasaki River Bath.
- Keibajomae Station
Kitakyushu University and Kokura Racecourse are accessible from this station.
- Kitagata Station
This station is surrounded by several high schools, the Kokuraminami police and fire departments, and a number of medical centres.
- Jono Station
Jono Station offers ground level access, with the remainder of the line elevated, offering scenic views of local neighbourhoods and the surrounding mountains. Nearby are two high schools, Nakamuragumi Funeral Home and Fujimi Hall.
- Katano Station
This station serves Bell Classic Ogura and Mihagino Girls’ High School.
- Kawaraguchi-Mihagino Station
Around this station you’ll find Kitakyushu Central Hospital, Kitakyushu Municipal Stadium, Gold Market, Kitakyushu Media Dome and Kitakyushu Central Post Office.
- Tanga Station
This station provides access to major government offices such as the Kitakyushu Second Government Building and the Kokura Ward Office. Nearby healthcare facilities include the Kitakyushu Municipal Medical Center and the General Health and Welfare Center. There are also several hotels and markets in the area.
- Heiwadori Station
Tourists frequent this station due to its proximity to major attractions such as Kokura Castle, Riverwalk Kitakyushu, Water Environment Museum, and Kitakyushu Arts Theatre.
- Kokura Station
The newest addition to the system, this station is a large complex with hotels, shops and a bus station. Nearby attractions include the Asia-Pacific Ocean Import Mart, the West Japan General Exhibition Center and the Kokura Memorial Hospital.
As the main station for Kitakyushu City, Kokura Station also serves as a transfer station for JR Kyushu lines and the Sanyo Shinkansen. The monorail and railway stations are combined into a single complex, with the monorail trains operating one level above the main hall.
Future Expansions
Currently, the Kitakyushu Urban Monorail Co. Ltd. has not made any plans for future expansion of the system public.
Fare and Ticket
Fares for the Kitakyushu Monorail are calculated according to the number of sections travelled. In addition to regular tickets, the system also offers travel passes. Discounts on regular fares are available for children and the disabled.
Three types of tickets are available: single, return and group tickets. There are also various types of passes that can provide benefits for frequent travellers, schoolchildren and the elderly.
Recently, Kitakyushu Urban Monorail Co. Ltd. recently introduced new ticketing technology from Allied Telesis, including rechargeable smart cards and Quick Response (QR) tickets. Smart card users need to scan their cards at the entrance gate, while QR ticket holders need to scan the printed code at the entrance.
For detailed information on tickets, fares, and discounts, please click here.
Facilities and Services
The Monorail Authority offers various facilities and services to make your journey more enjoyable:
- Once a year, the Monorail Authority organises beer and wine parties for passengers on the trains. On Christmas Eve, Santa Claus boards the train to distribute gifts to children.
- Each station has a large display of the monorail map.
- All stations have lifts, escalators and toilets.
- A ramp is available at one of the train gates to allow wheelchair users to board independently.
- Announcements in English are provided at selected stations near universities and tourist attractions.
Rules
Before riding the monorail, it is important to be familiar with the Kitakyushu Monorail Rules to avoid penalties.
- The platforms have no gates, only fences. Passengers must keep a reasonable distance from the tracks when the train is approaching.
- Smoking and alcohol consumption are prohibited in stations and on trains.
Tips
- Here are some tips to help you get the most out of the Kitakyushu Monorail:
- All stations are staffed. If you are confused or have a problem, don’t hesitate to ask them for help.
If you lose something on the train or at the stations, report it to the Kitakyushu Monorail lost and found centre as soon as possible.