A lot of history in Hakodate, Hokkaido! A walk in Motomachi Park and the surrounding area.

  • Hokkaido
  • Sightseeing
Commodore Perry's Monument

The year 2024 marks the 170th anniversary of Perry's arrival in Hakodate

Matthew Perry, commander-in-chief of the East India Squadron known for his arrival of black ships in Uraga, arrived in Hakodate (present-day Hakodate) with five black ships in May 1854, about a year after the ships arrived in Uraga. The purpose of the visit was to survey the condition of the port of Hakodate, which had been selected as a port of call following the conclusion of the Treaty of Amity between Japan and the United States. Perry stayed in Hakodate for 18 days and visited Hakodate, including climbing Mount Hakodate and visiting shrines and temples.
The monument commemorating Commodore Perry's arrival in Hakodate, erected on the site of the former Hakodate Hospital under Motomachi Park, was built in 2004 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the black ships.
Mount Hakodate and the former Hakodate Public Hall

About the Statue of the Four Heavenly Kings in Hakodate

Have you ever heard of the term "Hakodate Shitenno"? The term refers to four businessmen who devoted their private fortunes to the economic, educational, and medical development of Hakodate during the Meiji period: Ichiemon Imai, Bun'emon Hirata, Kumashiro Watanabe, and Tokizo Hiratsuka.
The bronze statues were installed at the opening of Motomachi Park in October 1982 to pass on the achievements of the four men to future generations. The monument next to the bronze statue was placed in the park in October 1982 to commemorate the achievements of the four men.
The stone monument next to the bronze statues is inscribed with the achievements of each of the four men, so why not pause for a moment to reflect on their contributions to the development of Hakodate?
Statue of the Four Heavenly Kings of Hakodate in Motomachi Park

Excellent position overlooking Hakodate Harbor

The red brick library adjacent to the former branch office building in Motomachi Park is the Hakodate Branch Office of the Japanese Red Cross Society for the Development of Japan. The bricks used were made in Mohechi, near Hakodate.
Former Hakodate Branch Office of the Japanese Red Cross Society for the Development of Japan
Motomachi Park and the surrounding area are also home to many other buildings that remind visitors of Hakodate's history, including the former Hokkaido Government Hakodate Branch Office Building, which is now the Jolly Jellyfish Motomachi Park Store, and the former British Consulate in Hakodate (Port Opening Memorial Hall).
Former Hokkaido Government Hakodate Branch Office Building (Jolly Jellyfish Motomachi Park Store)
Motomachi Park commands a panoramic view of Hakodate Harbor. There are also many cafes and take-out stores in the area, so please enjoy a relaxing day out.
Motomachi Park is at the end of Motomachi Slope

Let's combine your favorite train and lodging to save money!

You can make your own original trip!

JR East View Dynamic Rail Package is a variable-price individual travel product available only on the web, allowing you to choose your train and accommodations freely and make a reservation at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your reservation, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.

Click here for details

For reservations for train + accommodations in Hakodate/Onuma Area, please see the JR East View Dynamic Rail Package.
Tags related to this article
Previous post Back to list Next
related articles