Hakodate is not only a city of history and breathtaking scenery but also a culinary capital shaped by its role as one of Japan’s earliest international ports. The cold waters of Hakodate Bay and the Tsugaru Strait provide an abundance of seafood, making the city famous for its fresh squid, crab, and scallops served in countless local eateries. Morning markets bustle with vendors offering sashimi, grilled specialties, and seafood bowls, giving visitors a taste of daily life in a port town. At night, Hakodate’s izakayas and retro-style bars reflect both its maritime roots and international influences, serving Hokkaido beers, sake, and inventive dishes that mix Japanese traditions with Western touches. This unique blend of flavors tells the story of a city that has always welcomed outside cultures while celebrating its own local bounty, making Hakodate a destination where food is as much a part of the journey as the sights themselves.