投稿者: Ken_Travel_Japan

Imagine waking up to the calm waters of a beautiful bay, with small pine-covered islands floating outside your window.

Then imagine spending the day on a boat, visiting a 1,000-year-old temple, eating fresh oysters, and ending the evening in your own hot spring bath.

Welcome to Matsushima.

Located in Miyagi Prefecture in northern Japan, Matsushima Bay is one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Places. The bay is famous for its many small islands, pine trees, peaceful waters, and long history.

Matsushima is also an excellent choice for travelers who want to explore beyond Tokyo and Kyoto. It is easy to reach from Tokyo, yet the atmosphere feels much slower and more peaceful.

And now there is another reason to visit: YOKI MATSUSHIMA, a new luxury hotel opened in August 2026, offers ocean views and a private hot spring bath in every guest room.

Must-Visit Spots in Matsushima

1. Matsushima Bay Cruise

The best way to understand Matsushima is to see it from the water.

Matsushima Bay is filled with more than 260 islands, many covered with pine trees. Sightseeing boats take visitors around the bay and offer views that are difficult to enjoy from land.

Bring your camera and sit outside if the weather is good.

The changing shapes of the islands make the cruise feel different from every angle.

For many visitors, this is the highlight of Matsushima.

2. Zuiganji Temple

After enjoying the bay, walk to Zuiganji Temple.

This important Zen temple has more than 1,000 years of history. The present main structure was built in 1604 by Date Masamune, the powerful lord who ruled the Sendai area.

The temple is famous for its beautiful traditional architecture, gardens, and quiet atmosphere.

It is an excellent place to experience Japanese history without the crowds of Kyoto’s most famous temples.

3. Godaido Temple

Godaido is one of Matsushima’s most famous photo spots.

The small temple sits on an island connected to the mainland by a traditional red bridge.

The view from the island is beautiful, especially when the sea is calm.

It is also very easy to visit because it is close to the main sightseeing area.

4. Fukuura Island

Look for the long red bridge leading to Fukuura Island.

The bridge is about 252 meters long, and after crossing it, you can explore the forested island on foot. From the other side, you can enjoy another beautiful view of Matsushima Bay.

It is a good choice for travelers who want a short nature walk away from the main streets.

5. Oshima Island

For a quieter experience, visit Oshima.

This small island has temples and meditation caves carved into the rock by monks in the past. It is only a short walk from Matsushima-Kaigan Station along the coast.

The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place to slow down and enjoy the scenery.

6. Matsushima Fish Market

Food lovers should not skip the Matsushima Fish Market.

The market is about a 10-minute walk from Matsushima-Kaigan Station and offers a huge selection of seafood. You can find tuna, oysters, dried seafood, seaweed, canned foods, and local fish cakes.

You can also eat fresh seafood at the market before buying some packaged products as souvenirs.

7. Try Matsushima Oysters

Matsushima is famous for its oysters.

The bay is an important oyster-producing area, and visitors can enjoy fresh oysters in many forms, including grilled, steamed, fried, and in rice dishes.

Winter is an especially good season for oyster lovers.

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Stay at YOKI MATSUSHIMA: A New Kind of Japanese Luxury

For this trip, our hotel pick is YOKI MATSUSHIMA.

This is not an old ryokan with hundreds of years of history.

It is something different: a brand-new slow-luxury hotel designed to let guests enjoy the natural beauty of Matsushima at a relaxed pace.

YOKI MATSUSHIMA opened on August 10, 2026, with only 26 guest rooms. Every room has an ocean view and its own hot spring bath.

That makes it one of the most interesting new places to stay in Matsushima.

Wake Up to Matsushima Bay

Every guest room faces the sea.

Instead of opening your curtains to a city street, you can wake up to the calm scenery of Matsushima Bay.

This is especially attractive for travelers who want their hotel to be part of the destination, rather than simply a place to sleep.

Your Own Hot Spring Bath

Perhaps the biggest attraction is the private hot spring bath in every room.

The hotel has both rooms with open-air baths and rooms with semi-open-air baths.

This means you can enjoy Japanese onsen culture in complete privacy.

After a day of walking around temples and islands, imagine relaxing in warm mineral-rich water while looking out toward Matsushima.

Modern Japanese Design

YOKI MATSUSHIMA uses a modern Japanese style.

The hotel combines simple design with natural views, creating a calm space where guests can slow down.

The largest corner suite is about 69 square meters and includes a Japanese-style living area, bedroom, private garden, and an open-air hot spring bath.

Local Food

The hotel also focuses on food from the surrounding region.

Its cuisine uses seafood and mountain ingredients from the Sanriku and wider Tohoku area, allowing guests to experience the flavors of northern Japan.

This makes the hotel more than a luxury room with a view.

It is designed as a complete Matsushima experience.

Special Experiences

YOKI MATSUSHIMA also offers experiences connected to the local area.

For example, the hotel announced special events in September and October 2026, including a night visit to Zuiganji Temple and a special dinner inspired by the autumn full moon.

These kinds of experiences are perfect for international travelers who want something they cannot easily find at a standard hotel.

Why Foreign Travelers Will Love YOKI MATSUSHIMA

Private hot spring: Enjoy an onsen without worrying about shared bathing.

Ocean views: Every room faces Matsushima Bay.

Modern Japanese design: Experience Japanese style with modern comfort.

Small scale: With only 26 rooms, the hotel has a more private atmosphere.

Great for couples: The private baths and beautiful scenery make it especially attractive for romantic trips.

New and different: For travelers who have already visited Japan, this is an exciting new reason to return to Matsushima.

Must-Buy Souvenirs from Matsushima

1. Matsushima Sasa-kamaboko

One of the most famous local foods is sasa-kamaboko, a grilled fish cake shaped like a bamboo leaf.

It is made from fish and has a soft, slightly springy texture.

Local producers have been making kamaboko in Matsushima for more than 90 years, and it is one of the area’s classic gifts.

It is a fun souvenir for visitors who want to try something very Japanese.

2. Matsushima Oysters

If you love seafood, look for packaged oyster products.

Fresh oysters are best enjoyed during your trip, but smoked, dried, or processed oyster products can make easier souvenirs.

The local tourism association also recommends oyster snacks among Matsushima’s popular gifts.

3. Local Seaweed

The coastal area around Matsushima is rich in seafood and marine products.

Nori seaweed is easy to pack and is useful at home, making it a practical Japanese souvenir.

You can find seaweed products at the fish market and other local shops.

4. Matsushima Kokeshi

For a souvenir that lasts much longer than food, look for a Matsushima kokeshi doll.

These traditional wooden dolls have simple, charming designs and are connected to the craft culture of the Tohoku region.

Some local shops also offer kokeshi painting experiences.

A small wooden doll is easy to pack and makes a memorable decoration at home.

5. Local Japanese Sweets

Matsushima also has many traditional sweets and local confectionery products.

The area offers everything from Japanese sweets to modern desserts, so you can easily find something suitable for friends, family, or coworkers.

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Travel Advice for Matsushima

Best Time to Visit

Spring: Cherry blossoms and fresh green scenery make spring a beautiful time to visit.

Summer: The long days are perfect for boat cruises and walking around the islands.

Autumn: The surrounding trees turn red and gold, creating beautiful views around the bay and nearby hills. The Ogidani area is especially known for autumn scenery.

Winter: This is the season for Matsushima oysters. The cold air also creates a beautiful contrast with hot springs and warm Japanese food.

For a first visit, autumn or winter can be especially rewarding.

How to Get There from Tokyo

Matsushima is surprisingly easy to reach.

Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Sendai. The journey takes about 90 minutes.

From Sendai, take the JR Senseki Line toward Matsushima. Get off at Matsushimakaigan Station, which is the convenient station for the main sightseeing area. The train journey from Sendai takes about 40 minutes.

Be careful: Matsushima Station and Matsushimakaigan Station are different stations.

For sightseeing, Matsushimakaigan Station is usually the one you want.

How Long Should You Stay?

Plan for 2 nights.

A day trip from Sendai is possible, but staying overnight makes the experience much better.

With two nights, you can:

• Cruise Matsushima Bay
• Visit Zuiganji Temple
• Walk across the bridges to the islands
• Eat fresh seafood and oysters
• Explore local shops
• Enjoy a private hot spring at YOKI MATSUSHIMA
• Watch the sunset and sunrise over the bay

If you have more time, combine Matsushima with Sendai and Akiu Onsen for a three-day Tohoku trip. JNTO itself recommends a three-day itinerary combining these destinations.

Final Thoughts

Japan has no shortage of famous destinations.

But sometimes the most memorable places are the ones where you can slow down.

Matsushima is special because it gives you many classic Japanese experiences in one compact destination: beautiful islands, ancient temples, seafood, traditional crafts, boat rides, and hot springs.

And now, YOKI MATSUSHIMA gives travelers a new way to experience this historic landscape.

You can spend the day exploring the bay and its temples, then return to a modern Japanese hotel and relax in your own private hot spring while looking at the sea.

For travelers who want to discover a more peaceful side of Japan — without giving up comfort or luxury — Matsushima may be the perfect next stop.

If you want to see a side of Japan that feels far away from Tokyo and Kyoto, Iya Valley in Tokushima should be on your travel list.

Deep in the mountains of Shikoku, Iya Valley is famous for dramatic green mountains, deep river gorges, traditional vine bridges, small villages, and relaxing hot springs. JNTO describes it as one of Japan’s most secluded and spectacular mountain areas.

This is the kind of place where you can walk across an ancient-looking bridge in the morning, explore a quiet mountain village in the afternoon, and soak in an outdoor hot spring while looking at the mountains in the evening.

And for your stay, Kazuraya offers an authentic Japanese ryokan experience with traditional rooms, local food, an onsen, and a location close to the famous vine bridge.

Must-Visit Spots in Iya Valley

1. Iya Kazurabashi Vine Bridge

The Iya Kazurabashi is the symbol of Iya Valley.

The 45-meter-long suspension bridge hangs about 14 meters above the river. Traditionally, these bridges were made from mountain vines and were once important lifelines for people living in this remote area.

Today, crossing the bridge is an exciting experience.

The wooden floor moves slightly under your feet, and you can see the river far below through the gaps.

It is not the best place for people who are afraid of heights, but for everyone else, it is one of the most memorable experiences in Shikoku.

2. Oboke Gorge

Next, visit Oboke Gorge, where the Yoshino River cuts through steep mountains.

The emerald-green water and dramatic rock walls create beautiful scenery.

You can take a sightseeing boat along the river and enjoy the landscape from the water. During warmer months, the area is also popular for rafting and other outdoor activities.

For travelers who love nature, Oboke is one of the best reasons to visit this part of Japan.

3. Ochiai Village

For a glimpse of traditional mountain life, visit Ochiai Village.

The village spreads across a steep mountainside and has traditional thatched-roof houses surrounded by forests and farmland.

It feels very different from the modern cities that most first-time visitors see in Japan.

Take your time here. Walk slowly, enjoy the mountain views, and imagine what life was like in a remote Japanese village hundreds of years ago.

4. Peeing Boy Statue

Yes, the name sounds funny!

The famous Peeing Boy Statue stands on a cliff high above the valley.

The statue was inspired by a local legend about young people testing their courage by standing at the edge of the cliff.

Today, it is one of Iya Valley’s most unusual photo spots. JNTO lists it among the area’s must-see attractions.

5. Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridges

If you want an even more remote experience, travel deeper into the valley to the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridges.

The two bridges are known as the “male” and “female” bridges and are often called the “husband and wife bridges.” They are surrounded by forests and feel even more isolated than the main Iya Kazurabashi.

Autumn is especially beautiful here, when the surrounding mountains turn red and gold.

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Stay at Kazuraya: A Real Japanese Ryokan Experience

For your Iya Valley stay, Kazuraya is an excellent choice.

This traditional Japanese inn is located close to the famous Iya Kazurabashi and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Recent international guests have given the property very strong reviews. Booking.com currently shows a 9.4 review score, with particularly high scores for staff, location, cleanliness, and comfort.

Stay in a Traditional Japanese Room

At Kazuraya, you can experience a traditional Japanese-style room rather than staying in a standard Western hotel.

After a day of exploring the mountains, returning to a quiet Japanese room can feel like part of the travel experience itself.

Relax in the Onsen

One of the biggest reasons to stay at a ryokan is the onsen, or Japanese hot spring.

Kazuraya has its own hot spring bath, including an outdoor area where you can relax while enjoying the mountain surroundings.

Recent guests from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and other countries repeatedly praised the onsen and the peaceful setting.

Enjoy Local Japanese Food

Dinner is another highlight.

Kazuraya serves meals using local ingredients, giving visitors a chance to taste food connected to the region.

Recent international guests frequently mention the quality of both dinner and breakfast. One recent US traveler described the food as excellent, while guests from the UK, Australia, Canada, and Singapore also praised the meals.

Warm Japanese Hospitality

Perhaps the most impressive part of Kazuraya is the staff.

Recent reviews repeatedly describe the staff as friendly, helpful, kind, and welcoming.

One UK traveler called the staff some of the nicest people they had met during their trip, while other international guests praised the staff for helping with reservations and making their stay comfortable.

This is exactly the kind of personal hospitality that makes a ryokan different from an ordinary hotel.

Why Foreign Travelers Will Love Kazuraya

Authentic: Experience a traditional Japanese inn in a mountain setting.

Beautiful: Enjoy views of the Iya Valley from the property.

Relaxing: Soak in an outdoor hot spring after a day of sightseeing.

Local: Enjoy Japanese meals made with regional ingredients.

Convenient: The famous Iya Kazurabashi is within walking distance, according to recent guest reviews.

If you want your Japan trip to include one truly memorable rural experience, Kazuraya is an excellent choice.

Must-Buy Souvenirs from Iya Valley

1. Iya Soba

One of the best souvenirs to bring home is Iya soba, the region’s traditional buckwheat noodles.

Iya has a long food culture connected to its mountain environment, and packaged soba is easy to carry home.

It also makes a great gift for friends who want to try Japanese food.

2. Yuzu Products

The mountains of Tokushima are famous for yuzu, a fragrant Japanese citrus fruit.

Look for yuzu juice, yuzu kosho, sauces, sweets, or other local products.

Yuzu has a fresh and distinctive flavor, making it an easy way to bring home a taste of rural Japan.

3. Local Honey and Mountain Foods

Small shops and roadside markets around the valley sell local foods and products.

Look for honey, pickles, dried foods, sauces, and other mountain products.

These are often more interesting than generic souvenirs because they connect directly to the local lifestyle.

4. Japanese Craft Goods

If you want something that lasts longer than food, look for handmade Japanese crafts.

Small wooden objects, handmade pottery, and traditional household items can make beautiful souvenirs.

The best souvenir does not have to be expensive. A small handmade object can remind you of the quiet mountain scenery long after your trip.

5. A Small Omiyage from the Ryokan

Before leaving Kazuraya, check whether the inn has local products or packaged foods available for guests.

A small item connected to your stay can be more meaningful than a souvenir bought at a major airport.

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Travel Advice for Iya Valley

Best Time to Visit

Spring: Fresh green mountains and comfortable temperatures make this a beautiful season for hiking and sightseeing.

Summer: The mountains offer a cooler escape from the hot cities. Rafting and other outdoor activities are popular during the warmer months.

Autumn: This may be the most beautiful season for photographers. The mountains turn red, orange, and gold. The Oku-Iya area usually begins its autumn colors around late October to early November, depending on the weather.

Winter: Snow can create a magical mountain landscape, but some attractions and transportation options may be limited. Check conditions before traveling.

How to Get There

Iya Valley is remote, but that is part of its charm.

One option is to fly from Tokyo to Takamatsu Airport in Kagawa and then take a direct bus toward the valley. JNTO lists this as one of the main ways to reach Iya.

You can also travel by train.

From Okayama, take the JR train toward Oboke. From Oboke Station, buses connect to the Iya area and the famous Kazurabashi. JNTO notes that the main Iya Kazurabashi can be reached by bus from both JR Awa Ikeda and JR Oboke stations.

Should You Rent a Car?

A rental car can be very useful.

Iya Valley is large, mountainous, and spread out. Some of the more remote attractions are much easier to reach by car.

However, mountain roads can be narrow and winding. If you are not comfortable driving in the mountains, buses and organized tours are safer and less stressful.

How Long Should You Stay?

Plan for 2–3 nights.

One night is possible, but it can feel rushed.

With two nights, you can visit the main vine bridge, Oboke Gorge, and a traditional village while still having enough time to enjoy your ryokan.

Three nights gives you more time to explore the deeper parts of the valley and simply relax.

Final Thoughts

Tokyo shows you the modern side of Japan.

Kyoto shows you famous temples and traditional culture.

But Iya Valley shows you Japan’s wild and peaceful side.

Here, green mountains rise above narrow rivers, old vine bridges cross deep valleys, traditional houses sit on steep hillsides, and hot springs offer a quiet place to rest.

And at Kazuraya, the journey becomes even more special.

You can sleep in a traditional Japanese inn, eat local food, soak in an outdoor hot spring, and experience the warm hospitality that many international guests have praised in recent reviews.

If you are looking for a Japan experience that feels authentic, peaceful, and far away from the crowds, put Iya Valley on your itinerary.

You may arrive looking for a hidden destination.

You may leave feeling like you discovered one of the most beautiful parts of Japan.

If you want to experience a quieter and more traditional side of Japan, Kaga in Ishikawa Prefecture should be on your travel list.

Kaga is known for beautiful hot spring towns, mountain scenery, traditional crafts, fresh seafood, and excellent Japanese inns. It is located between the Sea of Japan and the mountains, making it easy to enjoy both nature and culture in one trip. The area is also beginning to attract more international visitors who want experiences beyond busy Tokyo and Kyoto.

The best part? You can stay at Beniya Mukayu, a luxury Japanese inn famous for its design, hospitality, wellness experience, and private open-air baths.

If you want to slow down, relax, and experience authentic Japan, Kaga is a wonderful choice.

Must-Visit Spots in Kaga

1. Yamanaka Onsen

Yamanaka Onsen is one of Kaga’s most beautiful hot spring towns.

The town sits in a green mountain valley beside the Daishoji River. Its most famous natural attraction is Kakusenkei Gorge, where a walking path follows the river through the forest.

It is a wonderful place for a peaceful walk, especially in spring, summer, and autumn.

Yamanaka is also famous for Yamanaka lacquerware, a traditional craft with a history of hundreds of years. Visitors can explore shops and workshops and see local craftsmen at work.

2. Kiku no Yu Public Bathhouse

For a traditional Japanese experience, visit Kiku no Yu in Yamanaka Onsen.

The public bathhouse has been associated with the town’s hot spring tradition for around 1,300 years. You can also find an outdoor footbath nearby and experience the local onsen culture without staying overnight.

Even if you stay at a luxury ryokan, visiting a public bathhouse gives you another way to understand Japanese hot spring culture.

3. Kutani-yaki Kiln Museum

Kaga is also a great destination for people who love Japanese art.

Kutani-yaki is a famous style of Japanese porcelain known for its rich colors and detailed designs. At the Kutani-yaki Kiln Museum, visitors can learn about the history of this local craft and even try making or painting ceramics.

A handmade piece of Kutani-yaki can also become a very special souvenir.

4. Daishoji

Daishoji is a peaceful former castle town with temples, traditional streets, and a slower atmosphere.

It is a good place to visit if you want to see a side of Japan that feels far removed from the crowds of Tokyo or Kyoto.

The area also has beautiful riverside scenery and historic sites.

5. Hashitate Fishing Village

For a taste of Kaga’s connection with the sea, head to Hashitate.

This small coastal area was once home to wealthy merchants who operated Kitamaebune ships across the Sea of Japan. Today, visitors can enjoy the quiet fishing village atmosphere and fresh seafood.

Kaga’s location between mountains and sea is one of the things that makes the region special.

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Stay at Beniya Mukayu: A Luxury Ryokan Surrounded by Japanese Culture

For an unforgettable stay, choose Beniya Mukayu in Yamashiro Onsen.

Beniya Mukayu is a luxury Japanese inn and a member of Relais & Châteaux. It is also highlighted by the Japan National Tourism Organization as one of Kaga Onsen’s highly praised luxury ryokan.

This is not simply a place to sleep.

It is a place to slow down and enjoy the Japanese idea of relaxation.

A Modern Take on the Traditional Ryokan

Beniya Mukayu combines traditional Japanese ideas with modern architecture and design.

The atmosphere is calm and simple. Instead of feeling like a large international hotel, the property is designed around peace, space, nature, and personal service.

For international travelers, this makes it a great introduction to the Japanese ryokan experience without giving up luxury and comfort.

Enjoy Your Own Open-Air Bath

One of the biggest attractions is the private open-air bath available in each room, according to JNTO.

Imagine ending your sightseeing day by stepping into a warm Japanese bath in the privacy of your own room.

It is the kind of experience that turns an ordinary vacation into a memorable Japanese journey.

Experience Japanese Onsen Culture

Kaga has a long history of hot spring bathing.

The region is home to several famous onsen towns, including Yamashiro, Yamanaka, Katayamazu, and Awazu. The natural hot spring water and peaceful surroundings make Kaga an ideal destination for travelers who want to relax.

At Beniya Mukayu, you can enjoy this traditional culture in a refined and comfortable setting.

Why Foreign Travelers Will Love It

Authentic Japanese hospitality: Experience the careful service associated with a traditional Japanese inn.

Private bathing: Relax in your own open-air bath without worrying about crowds.

Beautiful design: The hotel offers a modern interpretation of Japanese aesthetics.

Wellness and relaxation: Kaga’s hot springs make it easy to slow down after a busy sightseeing trip.

Perfect for couples: The quiet atmosphere makes it especially attractive for couples looking for a romantic Japan experience.

If your Japan itinerary already includes Tokyo and Kyoto, spending a night or two at Beniya Mukayu can give you a completely different impression of the country.

Must-Buy Souvenirs from Kaga

1. Kutani-yaki Porcelain

This is probably the best souvenir for art lovers.

Look for a small Kutani-yaki plate, cup, bowl, or decorative item. The colorful designs are strongly connected to the culture of Ishikawa.

You can also visit local workshops and experience the craft yourself.

2. Yamanaka Lacquerware

Yamanaka lacquerware is another excellent choice.

Wooden bowls, cups, trays, and other objects are beautifully made and easy to use at home.

Unlike a mass-produced souvenir, a piece of local lacquerware can remind you of your trip every time you use it.

3. Japanese Sweets

Kaga has a long food and tea culture, so traditional Japanese sweets are another good gift.

Look for beautifully packaged wagashi and other local sweets in the onsen towns.

They are small, attractive, and easy to share with friends and family.

4. Local Sake

If you enjoy Japanese sake, look for bottles made by breweries in Ishikawa.

The region’s traditional food culture and clean natural environment make local sake an interesting souvenir for adults who want to bring home something distinctly Japanese.

5. A Small Craft You Make Yourself

Why simply buy a souvenir when you can make one?

Kaga offers opportunities to experience traditional crafts, including Kutani-yaki pottery and Yamanaka lacquerware.

A handmade item has one major advantage: nobody else has exactly the same one.

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Travel Advice for Kaga

Best Time to Visit

Spring: Enjoy fresh green scenery and comfortable temperatures.

Summer: A good time for walks through the mountains and visits to the coast.

Autumn: One of the best seasons for Kaga. The forests around Yamanaka Onsen become beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Winter: Snow-covered scenery and hot springs create a classic Japanese winter experience.

Kaga works particularly well as a destination for travelers who want to combine nature, hot springs, crafts, and food in one trip.

How to Get There

The easiest train gateway is Kaga Onsen Station.

From Tokyo, the journey takes about three hours by Hokuriku Shinkansen.

From Osaka or Kyoto, take the Limited Express Thunderbird to Tsuruga and transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The total journey is about two hours.

Once you arrive, local buses and rental cars can help you explore the different onsen towns and coastal areas.

How Long Should You Stay?

Plan for 2–3 nights if possible.

One night is enough to enjoy a luxury ryokan, but two or three nights allow you to explore Yamanaka Onsen, Yamashiro Onsen, local craft workshops, Daishoji, and the coast without rushing.

A good plan is to spend one day exploring the area and another day enjoying your ryokan and onsen.

Final Thoughts

Japan is famous for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Mount Fuji.

But if you want to discover a quieter Japan, Kaga is worth the journey.

Here you can walk through a peaceful mountain hot spring town, explore traditional Japanese crafts, eat fresh seafood, relax in an onsen, and stay at a luxury ryokan surrounded by Japanese culture.

And at Beniya Mukayu, the journey becomes even more special.

This is Japan at a slower pace — quiet mornings, hot springs, beautiful craftsmanship, thoughtful hospitality, and time to simply enjoy where you are.

For travelers looking for an authentic Japanese experience away from the biggest tourist crowds, Kaga may be one of the country’s most rewarding discoveries.

If you want to see a different side of Japan, Hakodate in southern Hokkaido is an excellent choice. This historic port city combines beautiful sea views, Western-style buildings, fresh seafood, hot springs, and traditional Japanese culture.

Hakodate is already a popular destination, but it still feels more relaxed than some of Japan’s biggest tourist cities. Hokkaido is also seeing strong growth in international tourism, with foreign visitors to the prefecture increasing sharply in recent years.

For travelers who want something special, Hakodate offers a great mix of food, history, nature, and Japanese hospitality.

Must-Visit Spots in Hakodate

1. Mount Hakodate

Start with the most famous view in the city.

From the top of Mount Hakodate, you can see the city stretching between Hakodate Bay and the Tsugaru Strait. At night, thousands of lights create a beautiful view that is one of Hakodate’s best-known attractions.

It is currently ranked as Hakodate’s top attraction on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews, ratings, page views, and other data.

Tip: Visit around sunset and stay until after dark. You can enjoy both the daytime scenery and the famous night view.

2. Goryokaku Park

Goryokaku is a huge star-shaped fortress built in the 19th century.

Today, the former fortress is a peaceful park surrounded by trees. From nearby Goryokaku Tower, you can clearly see its unusual star shape from above.

Spring is especially beautiful when the park’s cherry trees are in bloom.

3. Hakodate Morning Market

For food lovers, this is a must.

Located just about one minute from Hakodate Station, the market has around 250 shops selling seafood and local food.

Try a seafood rice bowl topped with fresh crab, salmon, or sea urchin. You can also experience live squid fishing and have the squid prepared as sashimi right in front of you.

It is a fun way to experience Hakodate’s local food culture rather than simply eating at a restaurant.

4. Motomachi Historic District

Take a slow walk through Motomachi and you will see a very different side of Japan.

Hakodate opened its port to international trade in the 19th century, and the area still has historic Western-style buildings and churches. This mixture of Japanese and Western architecture gives Hakodate a special atmosphere.

5. Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse

The old red-brick buildings near the harbor are now home to shops, restaurants, cafes, and souvenir stores.

It is a great place to take photos, enjoy the waterfront, and look for gifts before returning home.

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Stay at Wakamatsu Hot Spring Resort

For an authentic Japanese experience, Wakamatsu Hot Spring Resort is an excellent choice.

This traditional ryokan was founded in 1922 in Yunokawa, Hakodate. It has nearly a century of history and was once the designated ryokan for the Showa Emperor when he visited Hakodate. The property has also been featured in the Michelin Guide to Hokkaido.

But the biggest attraction may be the location.

The ryokan sits directly beside the sea, giving guests beautiful views of the Tsugaru Strait. Its natural hot spring is fed by its own source, and the outdoor bath offers ocean views.

Why foreign travelers will love it

Experience a real ryokan

Sleep on traditional Japanese futon bedding in a tatami room and experience the quiet atmosphere of a classic Japanese inn.

Relax in an ocean-view onsen

Imagine sitting in a hot spring bath while looking toward the sea. In summer, you may see fishing lights on the water, while winter brings a completely different snowy landscape.

Enjoy Japanese cuisine

Wakamatsu focuses strongly on traditional Japanese cuisine, using seasonal ingredients and fresh seafood. Dinner can include a Japanese course meal, while breakfast is also served in a traditional style.

Friendly service

The ryokan emphasizes personal Japanese hospitality. Recent Booking.com reviews also highlight the ocean views, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent service.

For a first-time visitor to Japan, staying here is more than simply booking a hotel. It is an opportunity to experience Japanese hospitality, food, bathing culture, and traditional architecture in one place.

Must-Buy Souvenirs from Hakodate

🧀 Snaffle’s Cheese Omelette

This soft, bite-sized cheesecake is one of Hakodate’s famous sweets.

It is made with Hokkaido milk and cheese and has a light texture that almost melts in your mouth. It is an easy gift for friends and family.

🦑 Squid Products

Hakodate is famous for squid, so squid-based souvenirs are a natural choice.

Look for dried squid, shredded squid, and other packaged seafood snacks. They are easy to carry and give visitors a taste of Hakodate even after they leave Japan.

🍚 Ikameshi

Ikameshi is squid stuffed with rice and cooked in a sweet-savory sauce.

You can find packaged versions that are suitable for taking home, making this a fun souvenir for travelers who want to try something very local.

👜 Handmade Leather Goods

Hakodate also has local leather brands and handmade products.

For a non-food souvenir, consider a handmade leather bag or small accessory. These can be a more useful and long-lasting reminder of your trip.

🍵 Wakamatsu Original Matcha Cakes

If you stay at Wakamatsu, look for its original Japanese matcha cakes as a special souvenir from the ryokan itself.

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Travel Tips for Hakodate

Best Time to Visit

Spring: Cherry blossoms and comfortable weather make this a beautiful season.

Summer: Mild temperatures are ideal for walking around the city and enjoying the harbor.

Autumn: Fall colors add another layer of beauty to parks and mountain views.

Winter: Snow, hot springs, and seafood create a classic Hokkaido experience.

Hokkaido is attractive throughout the year because each season offers a different type of nature and outdoor experience.

How to Get There

Hakodate can be reached by air or train.

If you fly, Hakodate Airport is very convenient. Wakamatsu is only about a 7-minute drive from the airport. From JR Hakodate Station, the ryokan is about a 13–15 minute drive.

You can also arrive by the Hokkaido Shinkansen and continue to Hakodate by local train.

How Long Should You Stay?

2–3 nights is a good starting point.

This gives you enough time to see Mount Hakodate, Goryokaku, Motomachi, the Morning Market, and the harbor area without rushing. Staying at Wakamatsu for at least one night also lets you enjoy the ryokan experience properly.

Final Thoughts

Hakodate is a wonderful choice for travelers who want to experience Japan beyond Tokyo and Kyoto.

Here, you can eat incredibly fresh seafood in the morning, walk through a historic port district in the afternoon, watch the city lights from a mountain at night, and finish the day relaxing in an ocean-view hot spring.

And at Wakamatsu Hot Spring Resort, you can experience one of the most memorable parts of Japanese travel: staying at a traditional ryokan where food, nature, bathing, and hospitality come together.

If you are looking for a Japanese destination that feels both beautiful and authentic, Hakodate deserves a place on your itinerary.