While most travelers flock to the famous “Mojiko Retro” district at the end of the line, a hidden industrial jewel awaits just one stop prior. “Moji Akarenga Place” is a stunning complex of red brick warehouses built in 1913, formerly the Sapporo Beer Kyushu Factory. Located just steps from JR Moji Station, it offers a quieter, more authentic “Taisho Roman” experience.
For the traveler in December 2025, this is a perfect winter stop. The warm hues of the century-old bricks provide a striking contrast to the grey winter sky, and the indoor history museum offers a cozy retreat from the sea breeze. It is a place where the history of Japanese brewing comes alive.
🍺 Unveiling the Essence: The Legend of “Sakura Beer”
The history of this site is the history of Japanese beer.
- The Origin: Built in 1913 (Taisho Year 2), this facility began as the Imperial Beer Company.
- The Legacy: It birthed “Sakura Beer,” a legendary brand that once rivaled Sapporo and Kirin. While the factory ceased brewing in 2000, the legacy lives on.
- The Architecture: The complex preserves the original brewing buildings. The red brickwork, steel frames, and high ceilings are preserved not as a ruin, but as a living commercial space, earning it a designation as a National Tangible Cultural Property.
🏛️ Your Insider Odyssey: Bricks, Brews, and Bites
The complex is divided into several key buildings. Here is how to navigate them.
1. Moji Beer Rengakan (The Museum)
Located in the former brewing laboratory, this museum is a steal at only 100 JPY.
- What to See: Vintage beer bottles, posters from the 1920s, and exhibits detailing the brewing process. It offers a fascinating look at how Western beer culture was imported and adapted in Kyushu.
- Winter Note: Please be aware the museum closes for New Year’s from Dec 29 to Jan 3.
2. The Gourmet Experience
The complex houses restaurants and cafes that utilize the high ceilings and brick aesthetics of the old factory.
- The Vibe: Dining inside a 100-year-old beer factory adds a flavor of nostalgia to the meal. Look for local dishes that pair well with beer.
3. The Photography Spot
For photographers, the open courtyard between the brick warehouses is the highlight. The symmetry of the arches and the texture of the aged bricks make for moody, cinematic portraits—distinctly different from the “European” feel of Mojiko Retro.
💎 The Elite Navigator’s Codex: Strategic Insights
- CRITICAL LOCATION WARNING: Do not confuse JR Moji Station with JR Mojiko Station.
- Mojiko Station: The terminus, home to the famous “Retro District.”
- JR Moji Station: One stop before Mojiko. Moji Akarenga Place is here, at the North Exit of JR Moji Station.
- The Route: It is a 3-minute walk from Moji Station. You can easily visit this site first, spend an hour, and then hop back on the train for 5 minutes to reach Mojiko Retro for the rest of the day.
- Parking: Unlike the crowded Mojiko area, this facility has its own parking lot (large buses allowed), making it a stress-free stop for those renting cars.
📊 Kyushu Codex: Instant Insights
| Aspect | Details | Expert Reference Tip |
| Name | Moji Akarenga Place | Moji Red Brick Place |
| Location | 3-6-1 Dairihonmachi, Moji-ku | Near JR Moji Station |
| Main Facility | Beer Museum (Rengakan) | 9:00 – 17:00 |
| Admission | Museum: ¥100 | Complex entry is Free |
| Closure | Dec 29 – Jan 3 | Plan accordingly! |
| Architecture | 1913 Red Brick | Former Sapporo Beer Factory |
| Access | JR Moji Station (North Exit) | 3 min walk |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this the same place as the Mojiko Retro district?
A: No. Moji Akarenga Place is near Moji Station. Mojiko Retro is near Mojiko Station. They are one train stop (about 5-6 km) apart. This location is quieter and less “touristy.”
Q: Can I drink beer there?
A: Yes, the restaurants within the complex serve beer. Historically, this was the home of “Sakura Beer,” and you can often find revived versions or local brews served here.
Q: Is it good for kids?
A: It is a relaxed, open space with no crowds, so it is safe for walking. However, the museum is small and history-focused. There is a “Red Brick Exchange Hall” nearby which sometimes hosts community events.
🌟 Synthesis
Moji Akarenga Place is a tribute to the industrial spirit of the Taisho era. It lacks the crowds of the main tourist hubs, offering instead a quiet, dignified beauty—and the ghost of a beer brand that once conquered Japan.