Located on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, Hakodate is known for its lively markets, maritime history and regional food culture.
Shopping in Hakodate often revolves around the city’s famous markets and historic districts. The Hakodate Morning Market is a great place to browse seafood specialties, while the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses and Motomachi area feature boutiques and artisan shops.
If you're wondering what to buy in Hakodate, these top Hakodate souvenirs highlight the flavors, craftsmanship and cultural traditions that make this northern Japanese city unique.
1. Dried Hakodate Squid (Surume)
Dried squid, known as surume, is one of the most famous souvenirs to buy in Hakodate. The city is well known for its squid fishing industry, and squid dishes are a signature part of local cuisine.
Vendors at the Hakodate Morning Market sell dried squid snacks that are easy to bring home. These savory treats are a classic Hakodate souvenir and a flavorful reminder of the city’s coastal food culture.
2. Hokkaido Milk Cookies
Hokkaido is famous throughout Japan for its rich dairy products, and milk cookies are one of the most popular sweets to buy in Hakodate. These cookies are made with creamy Hokkaido butter and milk, giving them a smooth texture and rich flavor.
Many confectionery shops package milk cookies in decorative boxes designed for gifting. They are a popular edible souvenir that travelers bring home from Hokkaido.
3. Shiroi Koibito White Chocolate Cookies
Shiroi Koibito cookies are one of Hokkaido’s most famous desserts. These delicate cookies feature thin butter biscuits filled with smooth white chocolate.
Although they originated in Sapporo, they are widely sold throughout Hokkaido, including Hakodate. Their elegant packaging makes them one of the most recognizable Hokkaido souvenirs.
4. Hakodate Kombu (Hokkaido Kelp)
Kombu, a type of edible kelp, is an important ingredient in Japanese cooking (and one of Hokkaido’s most famous exports). It's commonly used to make broth for soups, ramen and many traditional dishes.
Shops in Hakodate sell dried kombu, seasoned kelp snacks and kombu tea. These products are authentic Hakodate souvenirs that reflect the region’s coastal food traditions.
5. Hokkaido Cheese Tarts
Hokkaido cheese tarts are a popular dessert made with creamy local cheese and a buttery pastry crust. These small tarts have a rich flavor and slightly gooey center.
Bakeries across Hakodate sell fresh and packaged versions that are easy to bring home. Cheese tarts are one of the tastiest sweets to buy in Hakodate.
6. Hakodate Glassware
Hakodate’s maritime history has inspired many local artisans to create beautiful glassware in ocean-inspired colors. Visitors can find handmade glass cups, bowls and decorative pieces in shops around the city.
Many of these items reflect the blue tones of the surrounding sea. Hakodate glassware makes a stylish and meaningful keepsake from your trip.
7. Ainu Crafts
The Ainu are the Indigenous people of Hokkaido, and their traditional crafts are an important part of the region’s cultural heritage. Many Ainu designs feature geometric patterns and nature-inspired motifs.
Visitors can find carved wooden items, embroidered textiles and accessories inspired by Ainu artistry. These crafts make meaningful Hakodate souvenirs that represent Hokkaido’s unique history.
8. Hokkaido Wooden Crafts
Woodworking is a long-standing tradition in Hokkaido, and handmade wooden items are widely available in local markets and craft shops. Carved boxes, kitchen tools and decorative pieces are common finds.
These simple but beautiful items showcase the natural materials of the region. Wooden crafts are thoughtful souvenirs that reflect local craftsmanship.
9. Lucky Pierrot Merchandise
Lucky Pierrot is a beloved local fast-food chain that originated in Hakodate and has become a city icon. The restaurant is famous for its colorful clown mascot and quirky restaurant themes.
Some locations sell fun merchandise such as T-shirts, mugs and keychains featuring the Lucky Pierrot character. These playful items are uniquely local Hakodate souvenirs.
10. Hokkaido Lavender Products
Lavender is one of Hokkaido’s most recognizable plants, especially during the summer blooming season. Many shops sell lavender-scented sachets, soaps and small gift items.
These fragrant souvenirs capture the scent of Hokkaido’s famous flower fields. Lavender products are simple but memorable souvenirs to bring home.
Shopping-Focused Shore Excursions in Hakodate
Some guided experiences combine sightseeing with opportunities to explore markets and local shops.
- Best of Hakodate – English Guide – Discover the city’s historic landmarks, scenic viewpoints and cultural highlights. Along the way, you’ll visit areas where local shops and markets offer regional specialties and souvenirs.
- Mt. Hakodate & Morning Market – English – Experience the lively Hakodate Morning Market before heading to the top of Mt. Hakodate for panoramic views. The market is one of the best places to browse seafood snacks, sweets and other Hakodate souvenirs.
Where To Go Shopping in Hakodate
Hakodate offers several excellent areas for finding souvenirs and regional specialties.
- Hakodate Morning Market
- Located near Hakodate Station, this bustling market is famous for fresh seafood, snacks and local food souvenirs.
- Motomachi District
- This historic neighborhood features charming streets, small boutiques and craft shops influenced by Hakodate’s international trading history.
- Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses
- These historic waterfront buildings have been converted into shops and restaurants where visitors can browse crafts, sweets and local goods.
Exploring these areas makes shopping in Hakodate a memorable part of visiting the city.
What To Buy in Hakodate
The best Hakodate souvenirs highlight the region’s seafood culture, dairy products and local craftsmanship. Popular items include dried squid snacks, Hokkaido milk sweets, kombu kelp products, handmade crafts and lavender goods.
Shopping in Hakodate offers visitors a chance to experience the flavors and traditions of Hokkaido. Whether you’re browsing the Morning Market or exploring historic waterfront shops, you’ll find plenty of memorable treasures to bring home from this coastal Japanese city.
Keep Exploring Hakodate
Want to learn more about this fascinating destination? Check out these guides to plan your next adventure:
- What Is Hakodate Known For – Learn about the city’s seafood culture, historic districts and famous night views from Mount Hakodate.
- Things To Do in Hakodate – Discover top attractions like the Hakodate Morning Market, scenic viewpoints and historic neighborhoods.
- Hakodate Shore Excursions – Explore cultural landmarks, coastal scenery and local markets through curated experiences across the city.
