CityBuddy
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses
Best time to visit
Early evening in summer offers magical lantern-lit views and cooler strolls, while autumn presents crisp air and colorful leaves to admire.
Budget tips
Entry is generally free to wander the area, with occasional fees for special museum exhibits; visiting on weekdays can avoid crowds, saving time and energy.
Recommended for
Food lovers, Culture seekers, Photography enthusiasts
Plan your visit
2-3 hours
About
Quick facts: A cluster of vermilion brick buildings stands as a nostalgic reminder of historic trade and shipping days along the waterfront. Hundreds of shops, cafes, and museums fill the warehouses, blending history with modern local culture.
Highlights: The warehouses light up with vibrant lanterns during summer festivals, transforming the entire area into a fairy-tale scene against the harbor backdrop. Shoppers can find handcrafted Hakodate glass and seafood delicacies, engaging senses beyond sight with taste and touch.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven cobblestone paths.
- Visit the rooftop terraces for panoramic harbor views and photo opportunities.
- Skip lunch rush hours around noon to enjoy quieter cafes and shops.
- Check the local event calendar to catch seasonal markets or festivals.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Hakodate, Japan, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
