 Kitakyushu's Urban Employment Area forms part of the Fukuoka-Kitakyushu Greater Metropolitan Region, which, with a population of 5,738,977 (2005-2006), is the largest metropolitan area in Japan west of the Keihanshin region.Kokura Prefecture was founded separately from Fukuoka Prefecture in 1871 when the clan system was abolished.The old wooden-built Kokura Prefectural Office is still standing and is being restored.