2025 Esashi Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Esashi Town, a port town that flourished from the Edo to Meiji periods due to herring fishing, is known for its charming streets that retain the atmosphere of those times. Especially on "Inishie Street," you can experience a sense of time travel with its historic buildings and stone-paved roads. The town is dotted with historical structures such as the Former Nakamura Residence and the Former Hiyama District Office, allowing visitors to feel the history of Esashi while strolling around. Additionally, there are restaurants using local ingredients and souvenir shops that are popular among tourists. Access is convenient, with a roughly two-hour drive from Hakodate or by taking the Hakodate Bus bound for Esashi. The town is easy to explore on foot, and obtaining a map from the tourist information center is recommended.

#0yentravel "A hidden gem in Kaminokuni-cho. The set of fragrant stone-ground soba noodles, mountain vegetables, and tempura is popular. The restaurant has an old-style Japanese house look, and the relaxed atmosphere is also appealing. ▶Open: Lunchtime only, check beforehand ▶Limited quantities available, so be careful when they sell out"

#0 yen trip "The ramen is carefully made with local ingredients and is popular. The light salt and soy sauce base is perfectly balanced with chicken and kelp stock. The taste is easy on the stomach, and there are many repeat customers. ▶ Located in the center of Esashi Town ▶ Especially crowded at lunchtime"

#0yentravel "A replica of the Kaiyo Maru, a warship of the former Shogunate that sank off the coast of Esashi during the Boshin War. Inside, valuable documents and items salvaged from the seabed are on display, so even those who aren't history buffs can enjoy it. ▶Admission fee: 500 yen for adults ▶A stroll around Kaiyo Maru Park is recommended.

#0yentrip "A small island off the coast of Esashi-cho, Hokkaido. It is a land-tied island that can be reached on foot, and you can stroll among the strange rocks, cliffs, and pine forests. The seascape in the mornings and evenings is spectacular, and the beauty will make you forget time. ▶Access: 10 minutes on foot from the center of Esashi-cho ▶Free time to explore, takes about 1 hour"