Miyawaka

Gazing across the landscape, can you sense the echoes of ancient Chikuzen Province? Here in Miyawaka, history whispers from every corner. Miyawaka, a city born from the union of Miyata and Wakamiya towns in 2006, holds a rich tapestry of stories. The Nihon Shoki, a chronicle from the Nara period, mentions this very land as part of the Munakata Shrine’s territory. Imagine the influence of this powerful shrine, shaping the lives of those who lived here centuries ago. Miyawaka’s history is intertwined with the rise and fall of industries. During the Meiji period, coal mining fueled the city’s growth, connecting it with the industrial powerhouse of Kitakyushu. The Kaijima Coal Mine, the largest in the Chikuho region, once stood proudly within Miyawaka’s boundaries. The energy revolution brought the era of coal to a close. The last mine closed in 1976, leaving a void in the city’s economy. But Miyawaka adapted. The Wakamiya Interchange on the Kyushu Expressway became a beacon for new industries. In 1991, Toyota Motor Kyushu chose Miyawaka as its home, breathing new life into the city and establishing it as a key player in the automotive industry. Today, Miyawaka thrives as a blend of history and modernity. Though the roar of the coal mines is gone, the spirit of innovation continues to drive the city forward. As you explore Miyawaka, remember the layers of history beneath your feet, from ancient shrines to industrial giants.