Motomachi, A Romantic Blend of Western and Japanese Styles

Hakodate Motomachi, Japan

Very good tourist spot

4.2

Introduction

About 150 years ago, when Hakodate had just become a port city, the Motomachi area also flourished. It has a concentration of various European-style buildings, including churches, consulates, and early offices of the Hokkaido government. Famous buildings include the former Hakodate Ward Assembly Hall, Hakodate Orthodox Church, Motomachi Catholic Church, Hakodate St. John Church, British Consulate, and the former branch of the Hokkaido government in Motomachi Park. These old buildings together make up the landscape of today's Motomachi historical district. It is worth mentioning that as most of the buildings are built along the mountainside, the streets here form "slopes" that lead to the seaside. The most famous Hachiman Slope extends to the seaside, lined with neat trees and European-style old buildings, while the distance is Hakodate Port and white ships anchored on the sea. This is one of the most romantic views in Hakodate. Starting from the former Hakodate Ward Assembly Hall, you can reach Hachiman Slope and the church group by passing through a small road called "Koukyutsu-dori". There are also many ice cream shops here where you can taste delicious ice cream made from Hokkaido dairy products.