About the Hakodate Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, erected in 1909 in Hakodate, Hokkaido, embodies the city’s maritime legacy. Originally a bustling hub for trade, its red brick façade reflected Western influence and industrial progress. As trade patterns shifted, the warehouse fell into disuse, facing demolition threats until the 1980s. Recognizing its historical value, restoration efforts transformed it into a vibrant cultural center. Today, the warehouse hosts shops, eateries, and galleries, preserving Hakodate’s maritime heritage while offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.
Exploring the Hakodate Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse Area
This tourist attraction is split into four main areas: BAY Hakodate, Kanemori Yobutsukan, Hakodate History Plaza and Kanemori Hall. I reckon most people would spend their time in the BAY Hakodate and Kanemori Yobutsukan areas, where there are souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants. Strolling around the shops in the red warehouses is really something you don’t get to experience regularly. And nothing beats having some sweets in winter!
You can download the floor map from their official website here.
How Much Time to Spend Here?
We spent about 90 mins in the area. However, depending on the season, tourists would generally spend more time here during spring or autumn, when the skies are clearer and the red bricks are more prominent for photo taking. For us, because we came here right after visiting the Hakodate Seikan Ferry Memorial Ship “Mashu-maru”, we didn’t spend much time here because it was already 2pm by the time we reached.
Also, like I said, at least for us, photo-taking is a must. But because it was winter, everything is covered in snow. So at every angle, the area looks kinda similar. Besides, our asses were freezing so it isn’t a great idea to be walking around outside in the blizzard. Nevertheless, the trip here was worth it, and definitely a must for anyone visiting Hakodate!
Postcard from Bay Area, Hakodate
Old trading warehouses turned into shops and cafés by the bay. In winter it's more white than red, so come back in autumn for the photos.