Hakodate Bay Area
Historic red brick warehouses meet charming cafes and unique local eateries along the scenic Hakodate Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Hakodate Bay Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic red brick warehouses meet charming cafes and unique local eateries along the scenic Hakodate Bay.
"A lovely place with great atmosphere, friendly staff, and plenty of choices for a delightful experience."
☕ Komeda's Generous Portions
Be prepared for large servings at Komeda Coffee; their sandwiches and snacks are famously filling!
📸 Capture the Red Bricks
The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses are incredibly photogenic, especially during the day and when lit up at night.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses
Hakodate Bay Area
Iconic retro red brick buildings offering a glimpse into Hakodate's trading past. Perfect for photos and shopping.
+2
Lucky Pierrot
Various locations in Hakodate, including Bay Area
Hakodate's unique fast-food chain, famous for its creative burgers and local charm. A must-try for a quirky culinary experience.
Komeda Coffee
Multiple locations
A beloved Japanese coffee chain offering hearty breakfasts, delicious pastries, and a cozy, retro atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Retro Charm
+1Komeda Coffee: A Must-Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Komeda's Generous Portions
Be prepared for large servings at Komeda Coffee; their sandwiches and snacks are famously filling!
📸 Capture the Red Bricks
The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses are incredibly photogenic, especially during the day and when lit up at night.
🚶♀️ Explore Motomachi
Combine your Bay Area visit with a stroll through nearby Motomachi for historical churches and charming streets.
🍔 Try Lucky Pierrot
Don't miss this local fast-food gem; it's a Hakodate institution with a unique menu.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Komeda's Generous Portions
Be prepared for large servings at Komeda Coffee; their sandwiches and snacks are famously filling!
📸 Capture the Red Bricks
The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses are incredibly photogenic, especially during the day and when lit up at night.
🚶♀️ Explore Motomachi
Combine your Bay Area visit with a stroll through nearby Motomachi for historical churches and charming streets.
🍔 Try Lucky Pierrot
Don't miss this local fast-food gem; it's a Hakodate institution with a unique menu.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
The warehouses house various shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hakodate Bay Area for its charming retro atmosphere, particularly the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses, and the unique culinary experiences offered by local spots like Komeda Coffee and Lucky Pierrot. The friendly staff and scenic views, especially at night, are frequently highlighted as positives. Some find Japanese desserts very sweet, and portions can be surprisingly large.
"Great place to enjoy some coffee, snacks, or food if you wish to. Went to this place to have some coffee and try their local cakes with ice cream topping. Everything in Japan is very sweet 😆. Hence watch your sugar levels which trying all desserts and pastries. The atmosphere is superb at the edge of the nice sea view and staff is very friendly. There are two levels to sit and you may choose to be on top floor. Highly recommended place if you are in Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan."
Ravish M
"Cute little store where we had breakfast. Very friendly staff, great atmosphere, and plenty of choices for breakfast. Their bread was very nice, and their banana shake is worth recommending. If you're in Hakodate and looking for breakfast, this is the place for you."
Guy
"We initially planned to get takeout coffee to qualify for a parking discount, but we were tempted by a picture of fluffy bread. So, we decided to eat in and enjoy our coffee with a snack.
The coffee was nice, and the bread was super fluffy, toasted to perfection and so delicious. It came with butter and a big scoop of red bean paste, which immediately reminded me of kaya butter toast from my home country 😊
The service staff were friendly and patient."
Leh Ping
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hakodate Bay Area is easily accessible by tram from Hakodate Station. Take the #2 or #5 line towards Hakodate Dock and get off at the 'Jujigai' or 'Aoyagi-cho' stop. It's also a pleasant walk from the station if you prefer.
Yes, there are parking lots available near the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses. Some shops may offer parking discounts if you spend a certain amount.
Absolutely! The Bay Area is very walkable, with pedestrian-friendly paths connecting the warehouses and waterfront.
While trams are the most common public transport, local buses also serve the area. Check local bus routes for specific stops near the Bay Area.
A combination of walking and using the tram is ideal. Consider a leisurely stroll to fully appreciate the retro architecture and waterfront views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Hakodate Bay Area itself is a public space and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander among the warehouses and along the waterfront.
Entry into the shops within the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses is generally free. You only pay for any purchases you make.
The Bay Area is always accessible, but individual shops and restaurants within the warehouses have their own operating hours, typically from morning to evening. It's best to check specific store hours if you have a particular place in mind.
Taking photos in the public areas of the Hakodate Bay Area is free. However, some indoor shops might have restrictions on photography.
Yes, the Bay Area is beautiful at night, with the warehouses often illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The most famous local eatery is Lucky Pierrot, a unique fast-food chain with creative burgers. Komeda Coffee is also a popular spot for breakfast and snacks.
Komeda Coffee is known for its generous portions. Try their fluffy toast, sandwiches, and unique desserts like the 'Chrono' chocolate creations. +1
While the Bay Area is known for its warehouses and cafes, Hakodate as a whole is famous for its fresh seafood. You can find excellent seafood restaurants a short distance from the immediate Bay Area.
Options might be limited, but cafes like Komeda Coffee often have some lighter fare or sides that can be adapted. It's best to inquire directly with the establishment.
Lucky Pierrot is famous for its 'Lucky Burger,' but many visitors also rave about their other unique burger creations and side dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses themselves are prime photo spots, especially with their reflections in the water. The waterfront promenade also offers great views.
Yes, the Bay Area is stunning at night when the warehouses are illuminated, creating a romantic and picturesque scene.
Both daytime for clear shots of the architecture and evening for the atmospheric illuminations are excellent. Golden hour before sunset can also be magical.
Try capturing the full expanse of the warehouses, close-ups of the brickwork, and shots from across the water for a broader perspective.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the warehouses. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting Lucky Pierrot for a fun and quirky meal that kids might find amusing. The novelty of the unique burgers and the local atmosphere can be an adventure in itself. Remember that portions at Komeda can be large, so sharing is a good option for younger children.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
+3Don't miss the Hachiman-zaka Slope in the nearby Motomachi district for iconic views of the bay. The area around the warehouses also provides excellent opportunities for street photography, capturing the blend of history and modern life. Golden hour and twilight are particularly magical for capturing the warm glow of the lights.
+2☕ Coffee & Cafe Enthusiasts
Beyond Komeda, the Bay Area and its surroundings offer other cafes and eateries where you can enjoy a beverage and a treat. The overall atmosphere of the Bay Area lends itself to relaxed cafe hopping, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate a good brew and a pleasant ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses
+2Inside, you'll find a delightful array of boutiques selling local crafts, souvenirs, and fashion items. Several cafes and restaurants are also housed within these charming structures, offering a perfect spot to relax and refuel. The atmosphere is particularly enchanting during the evening when the warehouses are illuminated, casting a warm glow over the bay.
+1These warehouses are not just a shopping destination; they are a testament to Hakodate's rich history as a port city. Exploring them provides a tangible connection to the past, making the Hakodate Bay Area a must-visit for history buffs and photographers alike.
+1Komeda Coffee: A Japanese Cafe Experience
A key draw of Komeda Coffee is its generous portion sizes and signature menu items. Their 'Morning Service' offers free toast with any drink purchase during specific hours, a fantastic value. Popular choices include fluffy toast with various toppings, hearty sandwiches like the 'Ebi Katsu' (shrimp cutlet) and 'Miso Pork Katsu,' and decadent desserts. The 'Chrono' chocolate-themed items are a recent hit.
Beyond the food, the ambiance at Komeda is a significant part of its appeal. The comfortable seating, friendly service, and the distinctive glass used for some drinks contribute to a relaxed dining experience. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or an afternoon coffee break while exploring Hakodate.
Exploring Motomachi's Historic Streets
+1Key landmarks in Motomachi include the Hachiman-zaka Slope, famous for its picturesque view of the bay, and the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, a stunning example of Western architecture. The Motomachi Roman Catholic Church and the Hakodate Russian Orthodox Church are also significant historical and architectural sites.
+1Combining a visit to the Bay Area with a walk through Motomachi provides a comprehensive understanding of Hakodate's past as a crucial international port. The contrast between the industrial heritage of the warehouses and the elegant residences of Motomachi makes for a rich and varied exploration.
+1
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