Japan’s Heiseikan Kaiyotei | A Warm Encounter Along the Journey
During my trip to Hokkaido, I stayed at Heiseikan Kaiyotei in Hakodate. As soon as I entered the hotel lobby, I was drawn to the calm and elegant space before me. The wooden eaves, Japanese-style latticework, and dark stone complement one another, creating a distinctly Japanese aesthetic. What impressed me most was the towering stone water feature in the center of the lobby. Sunlight streamed through the large floor-to-ceiling windows, blending with the lush green garden outside to create a tranquil scene.
Looking up, delicate golden floral chandeliers sparkled in the light and shadows. Paired with comfortable circular seating, they offered travelers a place to sit back, relax, and slow down after a long day. Through the large glass windows, the blue sky, green trees, and garden scenery were all in full view, creating just the right balance between the warmth indoors and the nature outside.
There is none of the noise of excessive luxury here. Instead, the thoughtful Japanese design creates a sense of calm and comfort. To me, Heiseikan Kaiyotei was more than just a place to stay during my journey. It felt like a warm rest stop where both body and mind could recharge, leaving me with a pleasant and unforgettable memory of this trip to Hokkaido.
Hakodate Kokusai Hotel | Review by 陳泰任
Other Reviews by 陳泰任
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Mt. Showa-Shinzan
Showa Shinzan, in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, was once a wheat field that was uplifted by Mount Usu's volcanic eruption in 1943. Showa Shinzan is a volcano that has received worldwide attention for its status as a national special natural monument, one of Japan's top 100 geological sites, a Japanese Geopark, and a UNESCO World Geopark, among other things.
Japan Showa-Shinzan Bear Park | Hokkaido Travel Notes
When I arrived at Showa-Shinzan Bear Park in Hokkaido, before I even entered the park, I was drawn to the eye-catching wooden “WELCOME HOKKAIDO” sign at the entrance. The cute bear statues and large brown bear sign immediately created a strong Hokkaido travel atmosphere.
What I looked forward to most, of course, was seeing Hokkaido brown bears up close. Through the secure fences and feeding windows, I could clearly see the bears leisurely moving around and waiting for food. A few even came right up to the fence and curiously interacted with visitors. When they looked up at us, the feeling of both excitement and nervousness made me keep reaching for my camera to capture the moment.
Sunlight poured over the park, and the bears against Hokkaido’s natural scenery created an interesting travel scene. This visit to Showa-Shinzan Bear Park wasn’t just about seeing bears; it also became a Hokkaido memory filled with surprises, laughter, and childlike fun. -
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Mt. Hakodate Ropeway
The “Hakodate Ropeway” boasts a 125-seat giant gondola built with domestic and international technology and craftsmanship. It connects the base and summit of Mt. Hakodate at a speed of 7m/s, only a 3 minute ride to the summit. The current gondola is in its 5th generation. Originally it seated 30 seats, but became the way it is now after various refurbishments.
Mt. Hakodate on a Rainy Night, a Different Kind of Romance
What I looked forward to most on this trip to Hakodate, Hokkaido, was going up Mt. Hakodate to admire its famous night view. Mt. Hakodate is 334 meters above sea level, and the city is embraced by Hakodate Bay and the Tsugaru Strait. After nightfall, countless lights spread along the coastline, creating a distinctive fan-shaped display of light.
Unfortunately, a light rain was falling that evening, and clouds and mist shrouded the mountaintop. The city nightscape, which should have been clear and dazzling, took on a hazy quality. As the ropeway slowly ascended, the lights outside the window flickered in and out through the rain and mist. After arriving at the observation deck, we looked out through the glass. Downtown Hakodate was still brightly lit, while the sea was immersed in the deep blue of the night.
Although we didn't get the clearest view of Hakodate at night, we unexpectedly experienced the unique tranquility and romance of a rainy evening. Perhaps a wonderful trip doesn't always require perfect weather. Sometimes a light rain and a veil of mist make the memory even more profound. Hakodate was a little less clear that night, but a little more poetic. -
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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.
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse・A Distant View of Mt. Hakodate
While strolling through Hakodate's Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, the setting sun quietly broke through the clouds, bathing the old brick walls in a warm golden glow. Looking along the canal, the red brick buildings and the sightseeing boats resting peacefully on the water complemented each other, creating a strong sense of this port city's character.
Looking up toward Mt. Hakodate in the distance, the radio towers at the summit appeared and disappeared in the twilight, while the mountains were outlined softly by the evening glow. Tall evergreen trees resembling Christmas trees stood among them, adding an extra touch of tranquility and romance.
At that moment, there was no rush to get to the next destination. I just wanted to stand quietly beside the red brick warehouses, watching the sunset, Mt. Hakodate, and the city slowly dress itself in nightfall. This sense of leisure is what made Hakodate such a captivating travel memory. -
