Historical Motomachi District by Tram (Wakamatsu Pier)
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Port
Hakodate, Japan
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Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$200
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Exploring Hakodate on foot is a delightful way to encounter its history-rich atmosphere. A guided walk through the Old Town introduces you to a fresh seafood market and the old Motomachi neighborhood.
Set out from the pier to appreciate Hakodate's fusion blend of tradition and modernity. At the bustling Hakodate Morning Market, roughly 280 stores brim with fish fresh from the bay and a wealth of briny seafood. Local produce and kitschy souvenirs round out the colorful offerings.
A short ride up the Mt Hakodate Ropeway* (cable car) lands you at the summit amid lovely woodlands. From 1,200 feet asl, the end of the peninsula offers a panoramic view over the city.
Your walking tour continues to the Motomachi neighborhood with curiosities such as the Gothic-style Motomachi Roman Catholic Church, whose altar was presented by Pope Benedict XV. Hakodate was one of the earliest ports in Japan to open its post-Isolationism doors to foreign trade; its various architectural styles reflect this outside influence.
Ride a city tram toward the pier and walk back to the ship.
Please note:
* For Seabourn Quests calls on 14 Oct & 3 Nov 2025- The Mt Hakodate Ropeway will be closed for maintenance at this time and a motorcoach will be used to reach the Mt Hakodate observation deck. The shops, restaurant and restroom facilities will still be available.
Please realistically assess your physical fitness and ability prior to booking. Terrain includes paved and unpaved surfaces, uneven ground and many steps. Wear comfortable walking shoes. A wait for the tram may be required. The tram may be crowded; availability of seats is not guaranteed. Bring a jacket or sweater. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Modest attire is required for visiting churches or cathedrals; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered; shorts and capri-length pants are not allowed. On Sunday mornings, religious holidays and during weddings, tour groups are not allowed inside churches during services. Bring local currency, as many vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered with regard to visibility or views on any particular day. Traffic can be unpredictable; your patience is greatly appreciated if a delay extends the tour duration. Tour sequence may vary. The Mt Hakodate ropeway operates weather permitting. In case of inclement weather preventing the operation of the ropeway, we will extend the stay at one of the scheduled facilities to accommodate the change in itinerary.
Parts of some churches may be covered due to ongoing long-term construction.