Hakodate Motomachi: Old Government Office & British Consulate

By Sue Ryan @sue__ryan

✅ Explore a vibrant collection of Western-style historic buildings

✅ Step back in time inside former government offices and consulates

✅ Enjoy stunning city and harbor views from Motomachi Park

✅ Plan to visit before 5:00 PM to fully experience all attractions

1. The Former Hokkaido Government Office, Hakodate Branch

Despite its modest size, Hakodate truly packs a punch with an abundance of captivating sights. This makes it an ideal spot to maximize the value of a Hakodate City Pass!

After soaking in the grandeur of the Old Public Hall, our next stop was the Former Hokkaido Government Office.

Conveniently situated just below the Public Hall, this building immediately catches the eye with its distinctive mint-green facade.

📍 Former Hokkaido Government Office, Hakodate Branch

12-18 Motomachi, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0054 Japan

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)

It's worth noting that while the Public Hall, Government Office, and British Consulate are all close to one another, their closing times can vary between summer and winter seasons. To ensure you have plenty of time to explore each, I highly recommend allocating a generous amount of time for your visit.

There's also a lovely park nestled between these historical sites, so take your time, relax, and enjoy a peaceful break amidst your sightseeing.

The buildings here are so uniquely colorful and beautiful that even just admiring their exteriors is a truly satisfying experience.

2. Motomachi Park, Hakodate

After visiting the Public Hall and the Former Government Office, you'll encounter a lovely park on your way to the British Consulate. Motomachi Park is absolutely stunning, whether it's adorned with cherry blossoms in spring or blooming roses later in the season.

The view of the Old Public Hall from the park is quite magnificent as well.

📍 Motomachi Park

12-12 Motomachi, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0054 Japan

This is one of those must-visit spots, especially when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and it's generally not too crowded, offering a serene escape.

I really wished I had brought a picnic mat to truly savor the tranquility and spend more time here!

3. The Former British Consulate, Hakodate

Finally, we arrived at the Former British Consulate, which I affectionately consider the last of Hakodate's "old series" of buildings. This charming structure stands out with its distinctive ivory walls accented by vibrant blue window frames.

📍 Former British Consulate

33-14 Motomachi, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0054 Japan

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Unfortunately, I couldn't explore the interior fully due to a timing mismatch with the closing hours. However, you can gain admission to the Former British Consulate for approximately ~$3 (or ¥500 JPY) when purchased as a combined ticket with the Old Public Hall. If you plan to go inside, buying the bundled ticket or utilizing a Hakodate City Pass is a great option, just like I did!

✅ Book Your Hakodate Sightseeing City Pass Here!

When you visit Hakodate, these historic "old series" buildings, along with Goryokaku Tower, are absolute must-sees.

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Hakodate Travel: Goryokaku Tower (Star-Shaped Fortress) Opening Hours, Price, Booking & Review

Even if you only admire their exteriors, these spots are beautiful enough to make your visit worthwhile. Be sure to set aside some time to explore them!

Supypy (@sue__ryan) • Instagram Photos and Videos