The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse is one of Hakodate's most iconic tourist attractions, with rows of historic red brick buildings lining the bay. Once used as warehouses, the buildings have now been revitalized into a mix of shopping, dining, and recreation, blending vintage charm with modern touches. The warehouse complex has many different kinds of stores, including shops selling Hakodate souvenirs, Japanese-style general stores, and places offering desserts and coffee, making it quite fun to explore. Besides shopping, you can enjoy views of the harbor and the red brick buildings while taking in Hakodate's unique historical atmosphere. If you want to browse each store carefully and take your time choosing souvenirs, I recommend allowing about 1–2 hours so you won't feel rushed.
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse Hakodate History Plaza | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
-
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse BAY Hakodate
This multi-purpose complex occupies part of Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, one of Hakodate’s most popular sightseeing spots. The facility repurposes red brick warehouses once owned by Nippon Yusen, with a canal-constructed around 1882 (Meiji 15)-flowing between two buildings connected by bridges, creating a striking and memorable scene.
When visiting Hakodate, Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse BAY HAKODATE is well worth adding to your itinerary. As you stroll along the bay, you can see historic red brick buildings whose vintage exteriors complement the scenery of Hakodate Port, creating the unique character of a port city. The Kanemori warehouses have many distinctive shops, desserts, and souvenirs, so you'll need some time to look around.
If you visit during the Christmas season in winter, there are also evening illuminations, making the entire neighborhood seem wrapped in a soft glow. The cold air, historic buildings, and sparkling lights come together to create a romantic, dreamlike atmosphere unique to winter.
-
-
Tea Culture Creation Museum, Oi Ocha Museum
In May 2024, Ito En, known for its tea beverages, opened this multi-purpose museum inside the Former Shimbashi Station building to mark its 60th anniversary. Made up of two museums with different themes, it lets you experience the appeal of tea, which has long been closely tied to everyday life in Japan.
At the tea culture museum created by Ito En, you can learn more about Japanese tea culture and feel that tea is not just a beverage, but also a delicate and warm part of everyday life.
I had also visited an Ito En tea house elsewhere before, and the ochazuke left a particularly strong impression on me. A lightly salty, savory tea broth was poured over steaming white rice. The tea aroma was delicate and not too heavy, and the dish was simple but never got tiring. A bowl in winter is especially soothing, with the warm tea broth warming you from the inside. You can also get a refill of the tea broth, which is a very thoughtful service〜
-
-
Former Osaka Shosen Building
Built in 1917 as the Moji branch of the shipping company Osaka Shosen, this Western-style building once served as a vital terminal when Moji Port was a key hub for continental routes during the Taisho era. The first floor functioned as a waiting room, while the second floor housed offices, making it an important gateway connecting the port with overseas destinations.
The Former Osaka Shosen Building is another beautiful Western-style building in the Mojiko area. Its exterior features brick walls with white decorative trim, and the vivid orange-red facade and octagonal tower are especially eye-catching. It has a strong European style and also reflects Mojiko's former prosperity as an international trading port. There is an exhibition space inside. Besides taking photos, I also recommend going in if you have time, as you can learn more about Mojiko's maritime history.
-
