Hakodate Sights

  1. Foreigners' Cemetery

    Quite unusual, as it has the graves not only of well-known people of the time, but of sailors, clergy, and others as well, all of whom died far away from their homelands. Many of the graves have English, Russian, or French inscriptions and it is an interesting slice of Japan's colonial history. The walk there is a sight in itself: running parallel to the edge of the bay, it affords some beautiful views of the water.

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  2. Goryō-kaku fort

    Japan's first Western-style fort was built in 1864 in the shape of a five-pointed star ( goryō-kaku means 'five-sided fort') and was designed to trap attackers in deadly crossfire. Nothing remains of the actual fort structure, but the landscaped grounds and moat are picturesque, and one can actually climb around on them.

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  3. Old British Consulate

    English-style tea-time makes a relaxing afternoon here that much more enjoyable. British souvenirs and postcards add to the nostalgia. Marmite, anyone?

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  4. Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward

    This building has a great view of the bay and the outgoing squid boats.

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  5. Squid boats

    At the docks there are some interesting fishing vessels, particularly the squid boats. Lantern-light attracts the squid to the surface; few boats are as picturesque.

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