American Commodore Matthew Perry opened Japan’s borders in 1853, following centuries of isolation. The following year, Hakodate became a port that was used exclusively by the American Navy. By the end of the decade, however, the port opened up to other international powers. For Hakodate and other treaty ports in Japan, that meant transforming the urban landscape. At the foot of Mount Hakodate, the Motomachi area became a residential and political heart of the foreign population in the city. Located in Motomachi, Hakodate’s Old Public Hall is a great place to learn more about this transformative time.
Old Public Hall
Photo by: PIXTA/ mono A Tangible Cultural Property of Hokkaido.
When a fire consumed the town hall that once stood on the spot of the Old Public Hall, the city’s elites gathered to determine the site’s future. Construction of this new hall began in 1909 and was completed the next year. The Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward embodied the blending of old and new, Japan and the Western world. The building was used for official functions, and the Japanese imperial family would often stay there on visits to the city. The blue and yellow building stands today in the same condition as it was over a century ago, thanks to impressive preservation efforts. In 1971, the building was designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Hokkaido. A few years later, it was honored as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
Touring the Building
Photo by: PIXTA/ 蝶（ファラージャ） The dining and game room.
Both floors of the building are accessible to visitors. On the first floor, you’ll find a large number of rooms. The Dining Hall and Game Room were where the upper crust of society would gather for social functions. Head down the hall to the left and you’ll come across a special experience: the rental costume room. For a fee, visitors can don contemporary costumes (Western or Japanese) and tour the grounds. From dresses and tuxedos to hakama (a type of traditional Japanese clothing), you’ll be able to walk the halls in style. Children’s costumes are also available for little ones to join in on the fun.
Heading Upstairs
Photo by: PIXTA/ y.uemura A view of Hakodate Bay.
Some of the most breathtaking rooms are upstairs. Marvel at the architecture of the Reception Hall, which has no columns or pillars supporting its ceiling. Instead, the walls curve into a gentle arch to give the space a sense of grandeur. Off of the Reception Hall is the balcony. The Old Hall’s balcony has a fantastic panoramic view of Hakodate Bay.
