I visited the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum with high expectations, hoping to feel immersed in the legacy of one of Japan’s most influential historical figures. Unfortunately, the experience didn’t quite live up to what I had hoped for. While the museum’s concept is meaningful, the overall presentation felt underwhelming. The exhibits lacked the depth and impact I expected, and I left feeling that Ryoma’s remarkable life and achievements weren’t showcased as powerfully as they deserve. I truly wanted to enjoy this visit, but the museum would benefit from improving both the quality of its exhibits and the standard of its merchandise to better honor Ryoma’s legacy.

In Hakodate, there is the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Hall. Sakamoto Ryoma was a Japanese samurai, a shishi and influential figure of the Bakumatsu, and establishment of the Empire of Japan in the late Edo period. I was confused, Sakamoto Ryoma was born in Shikoku and died in Kyoto, what does it have to do with #Hokkaido? I looked up Wikipedia and couldn't find the answer, so I paid 800 yen 💴 to go to the memorial hall to find out. Sakamoto Ryoma's involvement in Hokkaido colonization began in 1864, but he withdrew from the plan due to the impact of the Ikedaya Incident. After establishing Kaientai, he procured the ship "Wild Wave" for the journey, which tragically sank, taking 12 lives. His subsequent attempts with "Iroha-maru" and "Daigyokumaru" also failed due to unfortunate accidents and payment issues. This series of setbacks ended with Ryoma's assassination, leaving his dream of Hokkaido colonization unfulfilled. Despite these hardships, he retained his passion for Hokkaido's development till his last moments, as revealed in his letters.

Don't bother. This is clearly for locals only. Everything is in Japanese.

Since photos aren't allowed inside, here's a phone photo of the entrance, where photos are okay There aren't many exhibits, but it's worth seeing even for 1000円 Especially recommended for sword enthusiasts If you're not very interested, you'll probably find it expensive

You can easily learn about 坂本龍馬, from his early life to his great achievements. General admission is 1,000円. You can also learn how his descendants carried on 龍馬's wishes and developed 北海道, but that section wasn't as extensive as I expected. There are also many swords on display, so it's recommended for people who like those, too. I was surprised to see replicas of 龍馬's sword 『陸奥守吉行』 for sale!