Visiting 旧函館区公会堂 (Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward) at the top of Motoi Zaka Slope during our summer road trip through southern Hokkaido was an absolute crown-jewel highlight and a breathtaking journey into Japan’s Meiji-era elegance. Perched gracefully on the Motomachi hillside, exploring the hall after parking our rental car near the bay area was easy and seamless, offering a grand rewarding destination after a short stroll through the historic district. Completed in 1910, this majestic Western-style wooden building immediately captivates with its striking appearance—a gorgeous color palette of pastel blue-grey walls contrasted by vibrant yellow window trims and balcony details under the clear summer sun. Stepping inside reveals a lavishly preserved world of history: ornate wooden staircases, sparkling crystal chandeliers, delicate velvet furnishings, and grand assembly halls where Japanese royalty once stayed during visits to Hakodate. The undisputed highlight of visiting the Old Public Hall is stepping out onto the second-floor grand balcony. Looking out over the balustrade provides a sweeping, panoramic view straight down Motoi Zaka Slope to the deep blue expanse of Hakodate Bay, framed by lush summer greenery and historic port buildings. The cool sea breeze sweeping up from the harbor makes standing on the balcony feel incredibly magical. For an extra memorable touch, the hall offers a popular costume rental experience (Haikarasan), allowing visitors to dress up in vintage Meiji-period gowns or traditional formal attire and pose throughout the elegant rooms! With its regal architecture, rich history, and unbeatable harbor views, visiting the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward is an absolute non-negotiable must-visit that perfectly captures the romantic spirit of Hakodate.

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Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward is one of Hakodate’s most iconic Western-style historic buildings. Completed in 1910 in the Motomachi district, it served as a venue for official ceremonies and receptions, reflecting the city’s role as an early international port. Its elegant wooden structure with a columned balcony overlooks Hakodate Port. The building was funded largely through donations from local residents, with major support from Teppei Soma, a prominent merchant and philanthropist, and it hosted members of the Japanese imperial family, including Emperor Taishō (then Crown Prince) and later Emperor Shōwa. For many decades before the latest renovation, the hall was painted pink and white, a look locals had grown used to. When the 2021 restoration restored the original blue-and-yellow color scheme, some residents were reportedly unhappy — not because it lacked historical accuracy, but because the pink façade had become part of local memory. Today, the Public Hall functions as a museum and cultural venue. Visitors can explore restored interiors, rent Meiji-era Western-style costumes, attend concerts and cultural events, and use a multilingual AR app explaining the rooms and furnishings. Practical information: Tickets are sold on site, with English-speaking staff available. You can buy a single ticket or combined passes for 2, 3, or 4 museums. We chose a 3-museum pass (720 yen), which also included the Former British Consulate and the Northern Peoples Museum — excellent value.

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The place is nice and the entrance fee is well priced. Not much to do, but i do recommend coming here if you're in Hakodate. There's a road near the hall with cafes and souvenir shops

If you are a history buff or love heritage buildings, this is a must visit. They offer special admission fees based on how many places you want to visit. The rooms are kept in its traditional style. The hall is beautiful with hardwood floors and is open for rentals and events. Make sure you visit the top floor where there’s a panoramic view of Hakodate harbor. There’s a small retail shop selling souvenirs and interesting gifts. You are expected to remove your shoes and wear plastic sandals inside.

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As tourist, probably won’t really mean a lot. The interior is quite interesting with old furniture and historical values to the local and across Japan.