Southern Hokkaido

Southern Hokkaido, which includes Hakodate, Matsumae, and Esashi, is a richly historical region. At one point in history, the area was the commercial and political center of the prefecture. Today, early western influences remain as monuments of progress. Hakodate makes a good jumping-off point to the region, and is easily accessible from the main island by bullet train. Visitors to the city can walk the historic streets of Motomachi, or take a trip to equally historic Esashi. The castle town of Matsumae turns pink with cherry blossoms in spring, and there is always fresh seafood to indulge in throughout the year.