Yawata Steel Works

Yawata Steel Works (八幡製鐵所, Yahata Seitetsusho) is a historic industrial site in Kitakyushu, central to Japan’s industrial development. Established in the Meiji Period, its strategic location near a seaport and coal mine made it the ideal site for Japan's first modern steel mill. At its peak, the state-owned mill produced 90% of Japan’s steel, fueling the growth of the nation’s industries. Although it is now under private ownership, several Meiji-era buildings have been preserved, including the head office, forge, and repair shop, all of which received World Heritage status in 2015.

While visitors cannot approach the historic buildings directly due to ongoing operations, they can view them from a platform located 200 meters away. One of the most notable sights is the Higashida Daiichi Blast Furnace, an iconic structure from 1901, still standing in remarkable condition. This furnace, with multilingual explanations of the steel-making process, provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s industrial history. As an important landmark, it offers a unique opportunity to learn about Japan’s industrial past and its significant role in shaping the nation's development.