The site originally served as the center of the Hakodate magistrate's administration before the Meiji Restoration.
The park features a statue of Commodore Matthew Perry, honoring his arrival at the port in 1854.
The architecture of the surrounding buildings in the park reflects the influence of the diverse foreign merchant community from the 19th century.
The park acts as a literal transition zone between the bustling port area and the high-elevation historical residential district.
The fountain in the center is a reconstruction of the original fountain installed during the Meiji era to commemorate the visit of the Crown Prince.
Motomachi Park is a terraced hillside green space situated directly above the Hakodate Port, serving as the historical gateway to the Motomachi district. The site formerly housed the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office during the late Edo period. It features a prominent Victorian-style fountain and formal flower beds that follow the slope of the hill. The park is flanked by significant Western-style architecture, including the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward. Stone retaining walls and wide staircases provide tiered viewing platforms overlooking the harbor and the city grid below. It remains a key focal point for the annual Hakodate Port Festival held in early August. The grounds are maintained by the city and integrate historical monuments commemorating the opening of the port to international trade.
The upper terrace near the Old Public Hall, capturing the fountain in the foreground with the harbor and ocean in the background.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the park consists of multiple steep terraced levels.
Combine your visit with the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, which sits immediately adjacent to the park's upper boundary.
Visit during the early evening to view the harbor lights as they illuminate the city after sunset.
Attempting to climb the steep hills in high heels or restrictive footwear; the cobblestone and tiered stairs require stable shoes.
