Hakodate is in the south of Hokkaido near mainland Japan. At the end of the Edo period, Hijikata Toshizo from Shinsengumi, Edo-period police and military force, escaped from Honshu to Hakodate. Currently, Toshizo Hijikata is often seen in museums and anime as a character in Hakodate, and Toshizo Hijikata is more famous than other historical figures from Hakodate. Initially, the Ainu people lived in Hakodate, and they had a unique culture, such as clothes and folk beliefs. Furthermore, the Ainu language and Japanese are completely different, so they can’t communicate with people in mainland Japan.
Many people say that Hokkaido food is delicious. Dairy products and seafood are delicious, so local dishes using them are also delicious. As for ramen, Sapporo is miso, Asahikawa is soy sauce, Hakodate is salt, and Tomakomai is curry. Still, I like the seafood miso ramen I eat in Hakodate. The seafood is fresh, and the soup has a crab flavor.
函Goryokaku is probably the most popular sightseeing spot in Hakodate. Goryokaku Tower will not open in COVID-19, but I think you can fully enjoy only the Hakodateyama Ropeway and the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse. The night view of Mt. Hakodate is the most beautiful night view of Japan that can be seen without driving. Not only is the observatory of Mt. Hakodate fashionable, but it also has affordable drinks and cakes.
The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse is larger than Yokohama and has several warehouses. It’s fun to walk around the red brick warehouses lined up on the beach, visit stores, buy souvenirs, and take pictures. The “Kanamori Shrine” that floats on the sea will be available during the winter. The shrine is small and cute.
