Kitakyushu Manga Museum

The Kitakyushu Manga Museum, opened in 2012 in Kokura, the central district of Kitakyushu City in Fukuoka Prefecture. The museum was established to celebrate the city's deep connection to manga culture, as Kitakyushu is the birthplace of several influential manga artists, including Leiji Matsumoto, creator of Galaxy Express 999 and Space Battleship Yamato. The facility occupies floors 5 and 6 of the Aru Aru City complex in the Uomachi shopping arcade, making it easily accessible within the city's commercial heart.

The museum holds cultural significance as one of Japan's premier institutions dedicated to manga art and history. It houses approximately 50,000 manga volumes in its extensive reading corner, where visitors can freely browse works ranging from classic series to contemporary titles. The collection includes rare editions and works by local artists, providing insight into both the evolution of manga as an art form and Kitakyushu's contributions to the industry.

Visitors can explore permanent exhibits that trace manga's development from its earliest forms to modern digital manga. Interactive displays allow guests to try their hand at creating manga panels and learn about the artistic techniques used by professional manga artists. The museum's highlight is the Wall of Manga, a towering bookshelf containing thousands of manga volumes available for reading on-site.

The facility also includes a workshop space where regular events, drawing classes, and lectures take place, often featuring professional manga artists. A museum shop sells original merchandise, local manga-related souvenirs, and works by Kitakyushu-based creators.

The museum is located approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Kokura Station, Kitakyushu's main railway hub. Alternatively, visitors can take the Kitakyushu Monorail to Heiwadori Station, which is just 3 minutes away on foot. The museum is situated within the covered Uomachi shopping arcade, providing shelter from weather conditions.