Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Moored in Hakodate Port, the Mashu-maru is a museum housed within an actual ferry that once linked Hokkaido with Japan’s main island.

Step inside to explore the restored bridge and radio room, where captains once commanded the seas. Through its detailed exhibits, you can dive deep into the vital role this vessel played in Japan’s maritime history.

More than just a mode of transport, these ferries supported countless lives and journeys through changing eras. Visiting the Mashu-maru allows you to touch the quiet memories of people connected by the sea. Against the backdrop of Hakodate Port, come experience a living chapter of Hokkaido’s modern history.

Housed in the majestic former Bank of Japan Hakodate branch, this museum showcases the rich heritage of the Ainu and other indigenous peoples of the North. Through unique exhibits, you can explore the history and daily lives of those who flourished in connection with Hokkaido’s rugged landscapes.

The collection features rare treasures, including "Ezo Nishiki" silk robes from continental trade and "Baidarka" skin boats used by the Aleut people. These artifacts reveal the ingenuity and spiritual resilience of cultures shaped by cold climates. It is a perfect place to deepen your understanding of Hokkaido’s origins while satisfying your intellectual curiosity.

Founded in 1879, Gotoken is a prestigious restaurant representing Hakodate with over 140 years of history. The interior, designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan, exudes a dignified atmosphere and a sense of timeless elegance refined over many decades.

The absolute must-try here is their signature "English-style Beef Curry," a dish that has been cherished since the restaurant's founding. This masterpiece features a profound depth of flavor and rich umami from careful simmering, followed by a gentle, lingering spice that leaves a lasting impression.

Taking the time for lunch here, while reflecting on the long history of Hakodate and enjoying flavors that have remained unchanged for generations, will surely become a serene and cherished memory of your journey.

Experience the dramatic history of the Kaiyo Maru, the flagship of the former Tokugawa Shogunate's navy that ran aground and sank off the coast of Esashi during a blizzard during the Hakodate War. Today, this legendary vessel has been reborn as a magnificent museum, reconstructed to its original size to preserve the stories of the Bakumatsu period.

Inside the museum, you can explore historical exhibits covering the era from the end of the Shogunate to the Boshin War. A highlight of the collection is the display of artifacts recovered from the seabed through underwater excavations. From weaponry to daily necessities, these items offer a rare glimpse into the actual lives of the crew and the conditions on board during that turbulent time.

With its faithfully recreated cabins, detailed models, and immersive video exhibits, the museum provides a powerful and vivid connection to the history of the Kaiyo Maru and its deep ties to the town of Esashi.

Tucked away in a mountain valley, Ginkonyu is a traditional Japanese inn where you can enjoy the classic elegance of a ryokan alongside the liberating beauty of nature. The inn’s name, meaning "Silver Wedding Anniversary," was inspired by the fortunate discovery of its hot spring source on the very day of Emperor Taisho’s 25th wedding anniversary.

The true highlight for guests is the five private open-air baths. Soaking in these secluded pools while listening to the gentle murmur of the river is a truly exceptional experience. This enchanting atmosphere draws repeat visitors from all over the country and has made the inn a beloved destination for couples celebrating their own 25 years of marriage.

The waters of Kaminoyu Onsen, which have been bubbling up for centuries, possess a storied history, having been frequented by the Ainu people and historical figures from the Bakumatsu period. Here, you can surrender yourself to the silence of the forest and enjoy a moment of profound healing for both body and soul.

Located on Nakajima Island, which floats almost exactly in the center of Lake Toya, this museum is a hidden gem for nature lovers. The museum is divided into three captivating areas: the "Geopark Information Zone," the "Nature of Lake Toya and Nakajima Zone," and the "Nakajima Exploration Information Zone." Through detailed specimens and lifelike dioramas, it offers an easy-to-understand introduction to the diverse flora and fauna that thrive around the lake.

By learning about the unique terrain formed by volcanic activity and the delicate ecosystem shared between the lake and the forest, you will find yourself appreciating the stunning scenery before you even more deeply. It is a perfect spot to drop by during a stroll after disembarking from the sightseeing boat, offering a refreshing intellectual break amidst your island adventure.

Located on the scenic shores of Lake Poroto and surrounded by lush nature, Upopoy (Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony) is Japan’s national center dedicated to deepening the understanding of the indigenous Ainu people's history and culture, while ensuring its legacy for future generations.

At the National Ainu Museum and the immersive National Ainu Park, you can experience the vibrant world of the Ainu through your five senses. The facility offers a wide range of activities, including insightful exhibits, traditional dance performances, ancient musical instrument demonstrations, and authentic culinary experiences.

With onsite shops and restaurants available, Upopoy is a perfect destination to spend a fulfilling time while taking in the serene views of the lake.

Located within the lush greenery of Nopporo Forest Park, the Hokkaido Museum is a comprehensive provincial museum that introduces the diverse origins and development of Hokkaido.

The main exhibition is organized into five themes centered on "Hokkaido within Northeast Asia" and "The Relationship Between Nature and People." The museum offers a wealth of highlights, including impressive life-size models of Mammoths and Naumann Elephants, fascinating archaeological artifacts, and extensive displays dedicated to Ainu culture.

Whether you are a history buff or traveling with family, this is a spot where visitors of all generations can enjoy a day of learning and discovery.

The Otaru City General Museum is a must-visit destination where about 50 historic railway vehicles, including the iconic steam locomotive "Shizuka," are preserved and displayed. Here, you can experience the true evolution of Hokkaido’s railways by getting up close to these magnificent, authentic machines.

In addition to permanent exhibits showcasing valuable railway documents, the museum hosts various themed special exhibitions. With a planetarium, a science exhibition room, and popular steam locomotive (SL) rides available during the summer, it is a spot that offers excitement and discovery for visitors of all generations.

UNWIND HOTEL & BAR OTARU is a stunning renovation of the former Etchuya Inn, which was originally built in 1931 as Hokkaido’s first hotel exclusively for foreign guests. Designated as a Historic Building by Otaru City, the structure harmonizes a dignified, classical atmosphere with modern sensibilities.

Having lived through a fascinating history—including roles as an officers' club and a facility requisitioned by the U.S. military—the hotel has been reborn to offer a stay experience unlike any traditional classic hotel.

We invite you to spend a special night enveloped in the unique stories and enduring legacy of Otaru.

The Kitaichi Venezia Museum is a faithful recreation of a medieval Venetian palace. Inside, the 18th-century Neo-Classical architecture creates an atmosphere of pure elegance, reminiscent of the lifestyle of Italian nobility.

In the exhibition halls, you can admire about 3,000 exquisite items, including world-renowned Venetian glass, period furniture, and intricate ornaments. It is a place where you can truly appreciate the shimmering artistry of glasswork and a highly refined sense of beauty.

A popular highlight is the commemorative photo experience, where you can dress in magnificent gowns or vibrant carnival costumes. This museum offers a unique chance to feel as though you have traveled to Venice while staying right here in Otaru.

Located within the historic Hokkaido University campus, the Hokkaido University Museum is housed in a grand building dating back to 1929. This academic institution preserves an incredible collection of over 3 million specimens and materials gathered over more than 140 years.

The museum offers a wealth of captivating displays, including powerful life-size models of the Nipponosaurus and Mammoths. In addition to these visual wonders, there are interactive exhibits where you can learn through touch, as well as sections that introduce the very latest research happening on the front lines of science.

With the added appeal of free admission, it is the perfect spot for visitors of all ages to enjoy a time filled with learning and discovery.

Housed in a magnificent red-brick building constructed in 1890, this is Japan’s only museum dedicated to beer. Through engaging exhibits and videos, it tells the story of Sapporo Beer’s history—which grew alongside the development of Hokkaido—and the evolution of the Japanese brewing industry. Visitors can explore the museum at their own pace, or join a guided Premium Tour to enjoy exclusive beer tastings.

After your tour, head to the adjacent Sapporo Beer Garden. Here, you can fully enjoy your lunch with Hokkaido’s soulful comfort food, Jingisukan. With its photogenic architecture and iconic chimneys scattered across the grounds, this is a quintessential spot where history and culinary delight meet.

Located in the Nibutani Kotan—a legendary heartland of Ainu heritage—this museum offers an immersive look into the lives and spiritual world of the Ainu people. The exhibits are organized into four captivating themes, featuring authentic clothing, hunting tools, and ritual artifacts that bring the history of this indigenous culture to life.

A major highlight is the presentation of "Yukara" (epic poems), a rich oral tradition that you can enjoy through vivid video displays. This is a place where you can experience the profound wisdom and worldview of a people who have lived in harmony with nature, engaging all your five senses.

As you journey through these museums, the connections between Hokkaido’s nature, history, and people come vividly to life. Each discovery serves as a piece of a larger puzzle —a journey that will stay with you long after you leave Hokkaido.