It may be hard to imagine today, but Japan once isolated itself from the rest of the world for 200 years. This isolation essentially ended at the remote seaport of Hakodate, which led the reopening effort by being the first to welcome visitors from the west. Hakodate continues this tradition today, offering a window into a unique culture as the traditional home of the Ainu people, whose dress, food, and even appearance place them slightly outside mainstream Japanese culture. For instance, they favor cooked fish over sushi. Hakodate’s four-block-long street market is a local source for fresh fish and shellfish and is perfect for a stroll. A historical mainstay is Goryokaku Park, a star-shaped island built in 1864 for the city’s defense, best viewed today from its observation tower. More lofty views are available from Mt. Hakodate, accessible by cable cars for those who prefer not to climb. At ground level, dining, drinking, and shopping at the lively Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse District, with its distinct industrial structures dating back to 1909, should not be missed.
