Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Nestled in Hakodate’s historic Motomachi district, Sabo Kikuizumi is a charming café that preserves the ambiance of a former sake wholesaler’s villa built during the Taisho era (1912–1926). The building’s elegant fusion of Japanese and Western architectural styles evokes the romance of a bygone era, offering visitors a nostalgic and authentic atmosphere. Inside, traditional irori hearths and antique furnishings add to the warm, retro charm.

One of the most talked-about offerings at Sabo Kikuizumi is the grill-your-own rice dumpling set. Using a small charcoal grill provided at your table, you can cook skewered dumplings to your preferred level of crispiness and enjoy them with a variety of sauces. This interactive experience is fun for all ages and adds a personal touch to your sweet indulgence.

The café also offers a wide range of traditional Japanese sweets. A highlight is the zenzai, made with flavorful red beans grown in Hokkaido. Another favorite is the nostalgic cream soda, served in a tall retro-style glass with a scoop of ice cream on top. These refreshing and photogenic treats are perfect for relaxing while soaking in the atmosphere of Taisho-era Hakodate.

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Hakodate, the Motomachi area is one of the city’s most iconic sightseeing spots, rich with history and atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely walk through streets lined with gently sloping hills and elegant historical buildings that reflect the blend of cultures unique to this port town.

Tea Salon Hishii is a charming café and antique shop housed in a former Taisho-era storage building. The warm, nostalgic atmosphere blends beautifully with modern touches, creating a cozy space where time seems to slow down.

One of the café’s most popular items is the Shiratama Matcha Cream Anmitsu, featuring house-made agar and rich brown sugar syrup in perfect harmony. You can also enjoy light meals such as sandwiches and pizza toast, ideal for a relaxing break during your sightseeing stroll.

Next to the café is a tastefully curated antique shop offering a variety of items, including remade kimono garments that evoke the elegance of the Taisho era, as well as a selection of Japanese and Western antiques. Each piece reflects the owner’s refined sense of style, making it a delightful spot for browsing or picking up a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Yunokawa Hot Spring, one of Hokkaido’s top three resorts, is a beloved Hakodate destination with centuries of history. Just 10 minutes from Hakodate Airport, it’s perfect for sightseeing.

Stay at inns serving fresh Hokkaido seafood and relax in open-air baths overlooking the Tsugaru Strait. From June to December, the glowing lights of squid-fishing boats create a magical night view. Free footbaths offer a casual spot to unwind with locals.

Experience history, ocean views, and soothing waters at Yunokawa Hot Spring—a place to warm both body and soul.

If you're looking to warm both your heart and your stomach during your visit to Hokkaido, stop by Teuchi Soba Nagomi, a local gem in Esashi known for its specialty Nishin Soba (herring soba), a beloved traditional dish in the region.

The herring is simmered for 5 days, then aged for about another 7 days to bring out its deep umami flavor. This sweet-simmered herring, crafted with great care, is the pride of the chef. The soba noodles are handmade with a classic nihachi (80% buckwheat) blend, and the soup broth contains no artificial additives—only carefully selected domestic and Hokkaido-sourced ingredients.

The pairing of savory, tender herring with fragrant handmade soba is a satisfying experience that highlights the spirit of local cuisine.

Note: There is a limit to the number of Nishin, so please check in advance.

Esashi once thrived on Kitamae-bune trade and herring fishing. Today, Inishie Kaido Street preserves that heritage with merchant houses and storehouses from the late Edo and early Meiji eras.

While the exteriors remain historic, many interiors have been stylishly renovated, creating a charming mix of old and new.

Take a walk, admire traditional architecture, and discover unique shops that blend history and modern flair—a must-see on your Hokkaido journey.

Located along the coast of Otobe Town, Kuguri Rock is a fascinating natural formation with a tunnel-like hole. It is said that the rock was manually carved during the heyday of herring fishing to allow passage through the cliff that juts out into the sea. The view from here at sunset, with the warm glow of fishing lights on the water, is nothing short of breathtaking.

Just a 10-minute walk from Kuguri Rock, you’ll find Takise Coast, a stunning stretch of coastline lined with white cliffs and panoramic ocean views. Both locations are perfect for photography lovers and anyone seeking serene natural scenery.