In central Sapporo, it's hard not to notice this historic red-brick building.
Built in 1888, the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building has a strong European Baroque style and was constructed with about 2.5 million red bricks. The entire building is very distinctive and has become one of Sapporo's most iconic landmarks.
It served as the administrative center of the Hokkaido government for 80 years. Inside, you can take your time learning about the history of Hokkaido's development. It feels like traveling back to the Meiji era and experiencing Sapporo as it was then through the architecture and exhibits.
Admission is also **free**, and its central Sapporo location makes it very convenient to get to. It's well worth adding as a stop while visiting Sapporo.
During cherry blossom season, the red-brick building looks even more beautiful with the blossoms in full bloom. Unfortunately, my visit wasn't during cherry blossom season, but the building itself was still well worth seeing.
Former Hokkaido Government Office Building | Review by 楊雅雯
Other Reviews by 楊雅雯
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Hakodate Station
Hakodate Station's commercial zone was renovated in 2016 with the opening of the Hokkaido Shinkansen. On the first floor is the "Hokkaido Shikisaikan JR Hakodate Store" offering a variety of local specialties and products, while the second floor features restaurants and an observation deck called the "Rotunda Deck" where visitors can take pictures of trains arriving and departing on the platforms.
Hakodate Station is a major transportation hub in Hakodate, and for many people visiting Hokkaido, Hakodate is their first stop. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants near the station, making the area very convenient. The famous Hakodate Morning Market is right next door, so after getting off the train, it's just a short walk to enjoy seafood and browse the market. There are also quite a few souvenir shops inside and outside the station, making it easy to buy Hokkaido snacks and local specialties.
You can also take the streetcar to the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses, Motomachi, or Mount Hakodate, so transportation is quite convenient.
Overall, Hakodate Station isn't just a place to catch a train; it's also a convenient starting point for exploring Hakodate. -
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Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse features 4 warehouses and is a landmark of the Hakodate Bay Area. It is a romantic, and scenic spot featuring an array of red brick warehouses. It is popular among locals, tourists, and couples.
One of Hakodate's most iconic attractions is the historic Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse complex. A row of red brick warehouses lines the bay, and the red brick buildings against the blue sky and ocean create the romantic atmosphere of a Hokkaido port city. It's just a short walk from the streetcar stop, so it's very convenient to get to.
There are many unique little shops, souvenir shops, and gift shops inside the warehouses. The products are all thoughtfully designed, and it's easy to lose track of time while browsing. This is a great place to slow down, take pictures of the red brick buildings, look out at the ocean, and browse the shops, then stop somewhere for a bite when you get tired. If you visit Hakodate, I highly recommend setting aside an afternoon here. Without the pressure of a packed schedule, you can take your time walking around and enjoy Hakodate's unique waterfront charm. -
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Hakodate Port (Tsugaru Strait Ferry Hakodate Terminal)
Hakodate Port has been at the center of Hakodate's development since it opened in 1859 (Ansei 6). As one of the first ports to open in Japan, it has greatly contributed to the development of Hakodate as a tourist city. The dynamic landscape of the deep bay and Mount Hakodate, combined with the modern atmosphere and exotic streetscape of the 19th century, make the area 360-degree photogenic!
Hakodate has a lot of character. Strolling slowly along the harbor, you can see the red brick warehouses, the port, and historic streetscapes. The strong international atmosphere makes it hard to stop taking pictures.
The best places to shop in the bay area are Bay Hakodate and Kanemori Yobutsukan. They have everything from local gifts and fragrances to sundries and cute little items, as well as a Sapporo Drug Store. You really do end up buying more and more, so it's very convenient if you're looking for Hokkaido souvenirs! Don't miss Hakodate's popular food spots either, such as Lucky Pierrot burgers and Hasegawa Store's yakitori bento. Lucky Pierrot can get pretty crowded, so you may have to wait for a table. As for the taste, that depends on your personal preference!
The Hakodate Bay Area isn't just for sightseeing. You can shop, eat, and buy souvenirs all in one place. It's perfect for spending half a day walking around and browsing at a relaxed pace. If you like retro streetscapes and little shops, you really shouldn't miss this area. -
