Hello from Kazu, your friendly guide to Japan’s nightlife!

Welcome to Hakodate – Let’s Raise a Glass! 🍻

I recently visited Hakodate to explore whether we could offer an exciting snack bar tour in this historic port city. And let me tell you—it was an incredible experience!

What’s Hakodate Like?

Have you ever been to Hakodate? This charming port town blends history, romance, and a lively nightlife scene. It’s famous for its breathtaking night views, exotic mix of Western and Japanese architecture, and fresh seafood at Hakodate Morning Market. You can stroll through the historic Goryokaku district or enjoy the nostalgic ambiance of Motomachi, a neighborhood filled with old Western-style buildings. And of course, the vibrant snack bar culture is something you won’t want to miss!

One of the best places for food and drinks is Daimon Yokocho, a cozy alleyway packed with tiny bars and restaurants. With its lively and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to grab a drink and make new friends—even if you’re traveling solo!

My Snack Bar Adventure in Hakodate

Just a short walk from Hakodate Station, I discovered over 20 snack bars in the area!

One of my favorites was Mama-san Club—how great is that name? Inside, I was greeted by friendly regulars and a nostalgic Showa-era atmosphere. The bar had a surprisingly spacious layout with counter seats, two private booths, and four massive karaoke screens! The guests were mostly female regulars, making for a warm and welcoming experience.

On my way to the next bar, I stumbled upon a hidden gem—Kikusui Alley. This historic lane, named after an old sushi restaurant from the Showa era, is packed with old-school izakayas and snack bars. One standout spot was Toritatsu, a yakitori restaurant that’s a must-visit if you love grilled skewers!

Exploring Hakodate’s Snack Bars

In Matsukaze-cho, one street is lined with countless snack bars, each with its own unique charm. Some of the most intriguing names I found were:

• Counter Peak
• Snack Tomarigi
• Snack Sugao

The snack bars in Hakodate have a distinct retro feel, with spacious interiors and warm hospitality.

I even found a snack bar hidden inside a guesthouse—how cool is that?

However, note that many snack bars in Hakodate are closed on Mondays and have shorter operating hours. The upside? You can enjoy a few drinks without overdoing it, and the prices are incredibly reasonable!

By the end of the night, I had visited six different bars, and at every single one, the locals welcomed me with open arms. Hakodate’s snack bars aren’t just about drinking—they’re about connecting with people and experiencing the heart of the city.

Want to Experience a Snack Bar?

Good news—you can join a Snack Bar Tour and experience the magic for yourself!

With this tour, you’ll get to visit two different snack bars in one night, making it an easy and fun way to dive into Japan’s unique nightlife culture. If you’re curious about snack bars but don’t know where to start, this is your perfect opportunity!

I’ll personally guide you to my top snack bar recommendations, share insider stories, and help you navigate the world of Japanese snack bars like a pro.

So, what do you say? Let’s explore the hidden gems of Hakodate together on a Snack Bar Tour!

Cheers! 🍾