HAKOVIVA | Review by WANG

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HAKOVIVA

Travel back in time to the Showa Era at a commercial facility in front of Hakodate Station.

9 Sep 2026 See More

In front of the plaza, the most eye-catching feature is the pavilion with a large lantern prominently displaying the character “誠.” Together with the surrounding buildings that blend traditional Japanese and modern styles, it instantly evokes a strong sense of the late Edo period.

Once inside the shopping area, which has a “Showa retro” theme, you’ll find all kinds of local food, souvenir shops, and hot spring facilities. Every corner is filled with details that are fun to explore and photograph.

Standing in the illuminated stone-paved plaza, you can look up and see a unique scene where modern hotels intertwine with traditional Japanese streetscapes. The atmosphere is very charming.

I highly recommend making HAKOVIVA either the first or last stop on your Hakodate itinerary. Whether you’ve just gotten off the train and want some local food to fill you up, or you want to stroll around and experience Taisho-era romance and the historical atmosphere of the Shinsengumi, it will add a rich experience to your trip!

Other Reviews by WANG

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 and Matsumae
- Stations & Roadside Stations & Tourist Information Centers
9 Sep 2026 See More

In front of the spacious, bright welcome plaza outside the station, you can look up and see the prominent three-dimensional “JR Hakodate Station” sign and the thoroughly modern building exterior. The clean, orderly streets around it give the city a comfortable rhythm.

Inside the station's high-ceilinged concourse, there are well-planned ticket counters and a tourist information center, as well as a variety of souvenir shops and convenient facilities. The layout is very easy to navigate.

From the platforms or around the station, you can often see the bustle of trains arriving and crowds coming and going. Together with the gradually changing evening sky, it creates a distinctive urban port-city atmosphere.

I highly recommend making Hakodate Station an important landmark on your itinerary. Whether you've just arrived and are ready to begin an exciting exploration or your trip is over and you're preparing to board a train and leave, you can enjoy a perfectly efficient and convenient experience here!
Hachimanzaka Slope

Hachimanzaka, named after the Hakodate Hachiman Shrine that once stood at the top of the hill. The beautiful cobblestone street stretches straight out to sea, lined on both sides by neatly maintained roadside trees, and offers a view of Hakodate Bay and the Mashu Maru, the memorial to the Seikan-Hakodate Liaison Ship, both of which are moored and on display.
- Hakodate and Matsumae
- Tourist Attractions
9 Sep 2026 See More

For one of the most iconic romantic street views, Hachimanzaka Slope, which stretches straight toward the harbor, is definitely the top place to visit.

As soon as you reach the top of this famous slope and look down, you’ll see a straight stone-paved road lined with lush green trees. The view extends all the way to the end, where it perfectly meets the deep blue waters of Hakodate Bay and the blue sky.

This uniquely magnificent composition of a straight street leading directly to the sea is not only visually striking, but also a popular filming location for many classic movies and commercials.

Standing on the slope in the sea breeze and looking at the beautiful scene created by the ships in the distant harbor, blue sky, and white clouds makes you want to slow down and take it all in.

I highly recommend including Hachimanzaka Slope in your walking itinerary around Motomachi. Whether you’re admiring the classic view of the seaside slope or capturing the beauty of its straight, far-reaching perspective, it will add a captivating visual experience to your trip!
Hakodate Orthodox Church

Nestled in a residential area, the Hakodate Orthodox Church, following the Russian Orthodox tradition, stands out with its exquisite appearance.
- Hakodate and Matsumae
- Tourist Attractions
9 Sep 2026 See More

Up close, the building’s intricate lines and distinctive cross-topped dome give off a sacred yet romantic atmosphere. Surrounded by greenery, it naturally makes you slow down.

Listening to the clear sound of bells carried on the breeze and looking down from the nearby higher ground, you can not only feel the strong international atmosphere but also enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding streets.

I highly recommend including the Hakodate Orthodox Church in your walking route around Motomachi. Whether you’re admiring the beautiful Russian-style Western architecture or enjoying a leisurely historical walk, it will add an elegant visual experience to your trip!