What are the last order and closing times for Hakodate Beer?

Hakodate Beer takes its last orders at 8:00 PM and closes at 9:00 PM. I arrived at 7:58 PM, just before closing, and managed to place my order.

When ordering a sampler at Hakodate Beer, which do you recommend: the 3-type or 4-type?

If it's your first visit, I recommend the sampler. If you're a craft beer enthusiast, it's best to go for the 3-type sampler. The additional beer in the 4-type sampler has a standard lager taste.

Can I watch live performances at Hakodate Beer, and what's the atmosphere like in the evening?

Hakodate Beer offers live piano performances. When I arrived at 8:00 PM, it was quite crowded, but most customers left within 20 minutes after the live performance concluded at 8:00 PM.

Hakodate Beer Experience 2026: A Perfect First Stop

Hakodate Beer Experience 2026: A Perfect First Stop | TRVLOGUE

My adventure in Hakodate kicked off at Hakodate Beer, and it was the perfect introduction to this charming city!

From here, my plan for this quick one-night stay included the famous Hakodate night view (touted as one of the world's top three!) and a visit to Daimon Yokocho, a spot I'd been eager to check out in Hokkaido. Given the early closing times of many places here, I strategically arranged my itinerary to hit the spots that shut down earliest first.

Honestly, my recent trips to Tokyo and Sapporo hadn't quite clicked for me. I couldn't put my finger on why, but something just felt a bit off. However, the moment I arrived in Hakodate and took that short stroll to Hakodate Beer, I knew immediately. I was going to love this place, and I'd definitely be back. Why do all my favorite discoveries tend to be these wonderful, slightly off-the-beaten-path destinations?

The vibe itself was incredibly cozy and inviting. The tall building, the warm glow of the lights, and the soft blanket of snow surrounding everything just created a magical atmosphere. Hakodate Beer, along with other spots I visited during my short trip, truly captured my heart.

I wished I could have lingered outside a bit longer to soak it all in, but with a packed itinerary, I had to reluctantly head inside.

A quick heads-up for fellow travelers: last orders are at 8 PM, and they close their doors at 9 PM. I arrived just in the nick of time, at 7:58 PM!

Ordering is super convenient via tablet, but they also have traditional paper menus if you prefer. As it was my first time, I naturally opted for a beer sampler. They offer a 3-beer and a 4-beer option. The 4-beer sampler simply adds a standard lager, so if you're a true craft beer enthusiast, the 3-beer selection might be all you need to experience their unique brews. I quickly ordered my sampler and some delicious lamb skewers.

It seems they also host live music, with a piano performance. I just missed it, as the musician was taking their bow as I arrived. What a shame!

Thankfully, each sample glass was around 4 fluid ounces (120ml), so I could enjoy them relatively quickly. With other Hakodate attractions awaiting, I couldn't spend too long here!

These dried corn chips, which came as a snack, were surprisingly good! Crunchy and savory, they were a perfect accompaniment.

I'm still new to Hakodate, but if I were to stay longer, I'd envision a perfect evening here: enjoying the live music over dinner, taking a leisurely stroll nearby, then heading to a Yokocho for a final nightcap before returning to my accommodation. A true taste of local freedom!

I've seen some reviews online suggesting the beer might not be up to par for serious beer connoisseurs, and I'd agree there's a slight 'missing something' feeling. However, as someone who simply enjoys good craft beer without being a professional critic, I found it perfectly enjoyable and a great experience.

The live performance wrapped up around 8 PM, and I noticed most patrons started to trickle out after finishing their drinks and food. By 8:23 PM, only two other groups remained besides me. The place had been quite lively when I first arrived at 8 PM!

One downside to exploring areas in Hokkaido beyond Sapporo and Susukino is how early everything tends to close. I remember a solo Hokkaido rail pass trip years ago, and by 7 PM, there was literally nowhere open except 24-hour convenience stores. It was incredibly quiet and a bit lonely then, and seeing everyone leave brought back those memories.

By 8:25 PM, I had finished my snacks and sampler. Time to head out and catch the night view, explore Motomachi, and then hit up the Yokocho!

True to its name, a prominent brewing apparatus stood proudly in the center of the space. With only one other group left, I took a final look around, making a quick stop at the restroom before heading out.

They even had a small shop selling souvenirs like those dried corn chips I enjoyed and special beer cookies, similar to what you often find in places like Otaru. While it was a bit disappointing for a pub to close so early, wrapping up my first Hakodate stop here was essential for keeping my itinerary on track. (I definitely would have been in trouble if I hadn't left when I did!)