The Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward is a Western-style building more than a century old, perched on a small hill. Its elegant, ornate exterior, accented with bright yellow and gold trim, looks especially striking in the sunlight. It is also designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Inside, the original design and layout have been well preserved. The grand hall on the second floor was once used to receive foreign guests and now serves as a venue for exhibitions and performances. You can also look out over Hakodate Bay from inside, where the ocean view and classical architecture complement each other, creating a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. While visiting, I also recommend browsing the gift shop, which carries many exquisite handicrafts. I was most impressed by the candleholders decorated with dried flowers. After the candle burns down, the natural hollow it leaves behind can be reused to hold a small potted plant, perfectly showcasing the meticulous and creative nature of Japanese design.
Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi)
Cat Alley, or Neko no Hosomichi, is the 200-meter narrow road that stretches from Ushitora Shrine in Nagae, an area of Onomichi City (Hiroshima). The road was started in 1998 when artist Shunji Sonoyama painted the “fukuishineko” lucky stone cats found along the road.
Cat lovers should definitely take a stroll along Cat Alley and enjoy looking for cats along the way!
Most of the cats here are friendly and aren't camera-shy, but remember to tread lightly, keep your voice down, and avoid sudden movements that might scare them.
As you slowly follow the winding path, keep a close eye on your surroundings and you'll discover many cat-themed creations, such as cute little cat stones and stone paintings, scattered throughout the alleys and tucked into corners. You may find a new surprise every few steps that brings a smile to your face. -
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Cruise Ferry / Super Jet
From Hiroshima, Kure and Hatsukaichi Cities in Hiroshima Prefecture to Matsuyama in Ehime Prefecture. Step into four different destinations steeped in history and local food delights across the Seto Inland Sea with two vessels, the Cruise Ferry and Super Jet, connecting Hiroshima and Matsuyama Ports.
This time, I chose to take the SEA PASEO cruise ferry from Matsuyama in Ehime Prefecture to Kure in Hiroshima Prefecture for sightseeing. Compared with regular transportation, traveling by boat felt more leisurely and relaxing, and I could enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea along the way.
The SEA PASEO is quite new, with an overall calm color scheme and very comfortable seats. There is also a small shop on board where you can buy drinks and snacks. The counter seats even have power outlets, making them convenient whether you want to relax, enjoy the scenery, or get some work done.
The boat was very steady throughout the trip, with hardly any noticeable rocking. Even people who usually worry about seasickness can enjoy the journey without concern. -
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Ningyocho Imahan, Ningyocho Honten / Kisentei, Ningyocho Honten
This restaurant stands at the former Kisentei location, a comedy theater from Meiji to Showa Periods. Ningyocho Imahan is known for the cuisine using Japanese Kuroge Wagyu beef. The 1st floor is Kisentei, serving steak on the iron grill cooked before your eyes. The 2nd floor is Ningyocho Imahan, offering Japanese food such as sukiyaki and shabu shabu.
Ningyocho Imahan is a long-established upscale sukiyaki and shabu-shabu restaurant founded in 1895, with a history spanning more than a century. This time, I visited the location in Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro, ready to enjoy a delicious wagyu meal.
The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented. The slices of wagyu from Kagoshima had evenly distributed marbling and an especially tempting pink color. Just seeing them brought to the table was enough to whet my appetite.
Since it's an upscale restaurant, attentive tableside service is usually provided. Guests only need to sit back comfortably and watch the staff skillfully cook the ingredients. Once the meat and other ingredients are cooked to perfection, you can elegantly dig in! -
