It may be hard to imagine today, but Japan once isolated itself from the rest of the world… and this lasted 200 years. This essentially ended at the remote seaport of Hakodate, which led the reopening effort by being the first to welcome visitors from the west. And that’s still happening today! Hakodate offers a window into a unique culture as the traditional home of the Ainu people, whose dress, food and even looks place them a bit outside of mainstream Japanese culture. For example, they favor cooked fish over sushi… and on that note, Hakodate’s four-block long street... Read More

It may be hard to imagine today, but Japan once isolated itself from the rest of the world… and this lasted 200 years. This essentially ended at the remote seaport of Hakodate, which led the reopening effort by being the first to welcome visitors from the west. And that’s still happening today! Hakodate offers a window into a unique culture as the traditional home of the Ainu people, whose dress, food and even looks place them a bit outside of mainstream Japanese culture. For example, they favor cooked fish over sushi… and on that note, Hakodate’s four-block long street market is a strollable local source for fresh fish and shellfish. One historical mainstay is Goryokaku Park, a star-shaped island built in 1864 for the defense of the city, best viewed today from its own observation tower. More lofty views are available from Mt. Hakodate, but don’t worry if you’re not up for mountain climbing — cable cars will get you there. But back at ground level don’t miss dining, drinking and shopping at the lively Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse District, whose distinct industrial structures date back to 1909. Read Less