Hakodate: Rickshaw Ride with Local Guide & Photo Stops

Summary

Discover Hakodate’s history on a rickshaw tour with stories photos

You’ll ride through Hakodate’s historic streets in a traditional rickshaw, guided by a local who shares stories and takes photos along the way. Expect friendly conversation, unique views above street level, and glimpses into daily life you might miss on foot. It’s an experience that feels personal—and lingers long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the rickshaw driver—Kenji, I think he said—smiled at us before we even climbed in. He wiped the seat with this little towel, almost like he was welcoming us into his own living room. Once we sat down, I realized how much higher up you feel compared to walking. The city looked different from up there; rooftops and lanterns suddenly at eye level, and the breeze (it was cool but not cold) made my hair flutter around my ears. Kenji pointed out an old wooden sign above a noodle shop and told us it had survived two fires—he laughed when I tried to read it out loud. Probably butchered it.

We rolled past narrow streets where locals were setting out crates of vegetables for the morning market. There was this faint smell of soy sauce and seaweed drifting from somewhere—I couldn’t quite place it but it made me hungry. Our guide stopped every so often for photos (he insisted on taking them himself), and honestly, those are some of my favorite pictures from the trip. At one point he showed us a spot where samurai once stood guard; I remember thinking how strange it felt to be sitting in a rickshaw while imagining all that history right under our feet.

I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed—maybe it was the gentle sway of the ride or just watching people wave as we passed by. There were moments when Kenji would slow down so we could hear temple bells or catch a glimpse of someone tending their tiny garden behind a gate. It wasn’t rushed at all, which I really appreciated. We talked about sumo wrestling (his favorite sport) and he tried teaching me a word in Hakodate dialect—I still can’t pronounce it right.

By the end, I felt oddly connected to Hakodate—not just as a tourist ticking off sights but as someone who’d shared small moments with people who live here every day. That view from the rickshaw, with sunlight flickering through old maple trees… I still think about that sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Hakodate by rickshaw

• Ride traditional Japanese rickshaw
• Enjoy comfortable wind and views
• Receive guided history explanations
• Take photos with town guides

Top questions

Is this Hakodate rickshaw tour suitable for children?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Are service animals allowed on the Hakodate rickshaw ride?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Does the tour include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is included; public transportation options are available nearby.

Is this rickshaw tour recommended for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

How long does the Hakodate rickshaw experience last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but includes several stops for photos and stories along historic routes.

What’s included

Your day includes an experienced local guide who leads you through Hakodate’s historic areas by rickshaw and takes photos at scenic spots along the way—so you can just relax and enjoy without worrying about missing anything special.