In the midst of Kitakyushu’s elegant red-brick architecture and Taisho-era romance, a pair of eccentric, bright yellow figures stand guard. Meet the “Banana Man” statues—the humorous, unmissable icons that symbolize the vibrant soul of Mojiko Port.
The Curious Case of the Banana Head
For the discerning traveler wandering the nostalgic promenade of the Mojiko Retro district, the sight is jarring in the most delightful way. Flanking the entrance to the Kaikyo Plaza shopping complex are life-sized statues of men with bananas for heads. One is bright yellow, radiating manic energy; the other is sleek black, exuding a cool mystery. These are not random mascots; they are historical monuments disguised as pop art.
While Mojiko is revered for its “Taisho Modern” aesthetic—characterized by the majestic Mojiko Station and the Former Moji Customs House—the Banana Man statues represent the port’s commercial heartbeat. They are a tribute to the chaotic, energetic spirit of the tekya (street vendors) who once filled these docks. To take a photo here is to participate in a ritual of joy that connects you to the city’s golden age of trade.
The Origins: Why Bananas?
To understand the statues, one must understand the “Banana Rush” of the early 20th century. Mojiko was the geographic gateway for bananas imported from Taiwan (then under Japanese rule).
- The Logistics of Ripening: Bananas arrived green but often ripened or bruised during the long sea voyage. To save the cargo from spoiling before it could reach Tokyo or Osaka, local merchants had to sell them immediately.
- The Birth of an Art Form: This necessity gave birth to “Banana no Tatakiuri” (The Banana Auction). Vendors would set up impromptu stages on the docks, using rhythmic, song-like sales pitches (kōjō) and a wooden stick to drum up excitement and drop prices until the crates were empty.
- The Legacy: Today, this unique auction style is preserved as a traditional performing art, and the “Banana Man” stands as its eternal guardian.
Your Insider Odyssey: Meeting the Duo
The statues are located strategically in front of Kaikyo Plaza, the central hub for shopping and dining.
1. The Original Banana Man (Yellow)
Dressed in a bright yellow suit with a smile that defies gravity, the original Banana Man is the embodiment of “Love and Justice.” His pose is welcoming, inviting tourists to link arms or mimic his goofy stance. He represents the sunny disposition of the port city and its hospitality.
2. Banana Man Black (The Dark Hero)
Installed later in 2019, “Banana Man Black” offers a stark contrast. With a sleek black finish and a cooler, more reserved demeanor, he represents the chic, modern evolution of the Retro District. Some lore suggests he is an “Eco-Warrior,” symbolizing the reuse of resources (like the banana auctions themselves).
Elite Navigator’s Codex: The Perfect Shot
- The Framing: Do not just stand next to them. The best angle captures the red-brick buildings or the harbor in the background, contrasting the silly statue with the serious architecture.
- The Pose: It is customary to mimic the “Banana Pose” (hands on hips, big smile) when photographing with the yellow statue. For the black statue, adopt a “cool,” folded-arms stance.
- Timing: The statues are accessible 24/7. However, visiting at sunset (the “Golden Hour”) aligns perfectly with the yellow theme, while the illuminated harbor at night gives “Banana Man Black” a cinematic vibe.
Kyushu Codex: Instant Insights
| Aspect | Details | Expert Reference Tip |
| Name | Banana Man Statues (Banana-man) | Look for the “Yellow” and “Black” duo. |
| Location | In front of Kaikyo Plaza | 5-1 Minatomachi, Moji-ku, Kitakyushu. |
| Historical Root | Birthplace of Banana Auctions | Mojiko was the primary port for Taiwanese bananas. |
| Access | 2 min walk from JR Mojiko Stn | Walk towards the sea; you cannot miss the yellow. |
| Nearby | Blue Wing Moji (Drawbridge) | Cross the bridge for a view of the statues from across the water. |
| Souvenir | Banana Sweets | Kaikyo Plaza sells banana castella, banana mochi, and banana curry. |
FAQ Nexus: Navigating the Details
Q1: Is there a fee to take photos?
No, the statues are public art installations and are completely free to enjoy.
Q2: Can I see a real “Banana Auction”?
Yes! Preservation societies often perform the traditional “Banana no Tatakiuri” on weekends and holidays in the Mojiko Retro area (often near the station or the custom house). Check the local event schedule upon arrival.
Q3: Is it accessible for wheelchairs?
Absolutely. The area around Kaikyo Plaza is flat, paved, and fully accessible.
Q4: What is inside Kaikyo Plaza?
Directly behind the statues, Kaikyo Plaza houses souvenir shops selling local crafts, glassworks, and a music box museum, as well as restaurants serving the famous “Yaki Curry” (Baked Curry).
Q5: How far is it from the station?
It is a pleasant 2-10 minute stroll from JR Mojiko Station, depending on how often you stop to admire the harbor views along the way.
Coda: A Smile in the Port
The Banana Man statues are more than just a photo opportunity; they are a reminder that history doesn’t always have to be serious. In a district famous for its preserved heritage, these yellow guardians inject a dose of pure, unadulterated fun, ensuring that every visitor leaves Mojiko with a smile as bright as a ripe banana.