Motomachi neighborhood

Hakodate Harbor was one of the first ports to be opened to foreign trade in 1854 after the end of Japan's isolation. Therefore, many merchants from Russia, China and Western countries have moved to Hakodate to work and live. The Motomachi neighborhood, located at the foot of Mount Hakodate, was the first area that really flourished at the time, and the streetscapes influenced by Western design remain to this day.

You are sure to have a leisurely walking tour around the Motomachi area. With its picturesque look from the set, its steep streets overlooking the port and famous historic buildings still stand, among them the Russian Orthodox Church, the former British Consulate, the Memorial Hall, and the Russian Orthodox Church. Chinese concept, old Hakodate City Hall.

The path from the old City Hall of Hakodate Ward leads you to the Hachiman-Zaka Slope and various churches known as Minatogaoka Street. This place is better known as "Fresh Ice Cream Street" because of its numerous shops selling fresh ice cream made with premium Hokkaido milk. During the hike, stop to rest and enjoy Hokkaido's unique ice cream flavors like melon and squid on the menu.

The historic buildings in the Motomachi district are lit up at night, so visitors can also take a walk in the evening. They are illuminated from sunset until 22:00, creating a beautiful backdrop with brilliant lighting for each building. In winter (December to February), the trees along the steep streets are lit up as part of an event called "Hakodate Illumination", creating a truly romantic feel.