2025.10.02
｜ TOURS
INSIDE THE MARKET | Early-Morning Auction & Breakfast Experience
Experience the Thrill of Hakodate’s Fishing Industry on an Early Morning Auction & Breakfast Tour
Get a rare, up-close look at the energetic early morning auction inside a wholesale fish market normally closed to the public. Hear directly from the professionals who sustain Hakodate’s fresh fish culture, learning about their expertise in selecting fish and the distribution systems behind the scenes. Observe techniques such as ikejime—a method for preserving fish freshness—and then savor a breakfast of incredibly fresh, freshly auctioned fish at a local market eatery. This is an immersive morning that connects you through all five senses to the relationship between Hakodate’s people and its seafood, and to the very origin of its food culture.
【Highlights of this Journey】
Exclusive Access to a Restricted Area: Enter the Hakodate Local Wholesale Fish Market, an area typically reserved for industry professionals.
Witness the Energetic Live Auction: Feel the excitement of the resounding calls and focused gazes of the pros who sustain Hakodate’s culinary scene up close.
Direct Commentary from a Head Wholesaler: Gain insider knowledge from a market professional on judging fish quality and learn about the characteristics of fishing grounds near Hakodate.
The Ultimate Market Breakfast: Enjoy the best possible breakfast: incredibly fresh fish, just purchased at the auction, prepared for you at an eatery right inside the market.
【Guide】
Kazuto Konishi, President & CEO, Konishi Fisheries
In addition to his skill in selecting the finest seasonal seafood, he continues to pursue the latest freshness-preservation techniques, including ikejime, and other advanced quality control methods. His mission is to maximize the value of each fish and convey that to guests, serving as a vital bridge connecting producers and consumers.
Official website: https://www.conisen.co.jp/
【Tour Venue | Hakodate Local Wholesale Fish Market】
Experience the vibrant professional hub that forms the very foundation of Hakodate’s seafood culture: the Hakodate Local Wholesale Fish Market. Fresh catches from the waters around Hakodate and across Southern Hokkaido converge here, making it a key center of North Pacific fisheries and the heart of Hakodate’s seafood trade.
From early morning, the market comes alive with the energetic calls of the auction, rows of freshly caught squid, crab, and sea urchin filling every corner. Under the guidance of wholesale experts, this exclusive experience grants guests special access to the sacred auction floor, normally restricted to industry professionals.
【Plan Details】
Duration： Approx. 2 hours / 2 days, 1 night (with accommodation)
Availability: Generally year-round, closed on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays (subject to irregular closures). Please inquire for details, as the schedule depends on the market’s operating calendar. Reservations accepted from 2 months to 1 week in advance.
Group Size： 2 to 6 guests
Tour Escort: Included
Attire: Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
【Price Guideline (per person, tax and service included)】
Breakfast Tour + Accommodation (based on double room occupancy, with dinner included)
Foreign-language plan (with interpreter): from ¥72,000
Japanese-language plan: from ¥71,000
Breakfast Tour Only
Foreign-language plan (with interpreter): from ¥9,000
Japanese-language plan: from ¥7,900
※Prices may vary depending on the season, group size, and specific arrangements.
【Sample Itinerary – Day 1】
【Sample Itinerary – Day 2】
【What’s Included】
Special market commentary from a head wholesaler.
Breakfast at an eatery inside the market.
Interpreter service (for foreign language plans only).
Transfers/Assistance: Between the hotel and the wholesale market
〈Included for Accommodation Plans Only〉
Seafood dinner at NIPPONIA HOTEL HAKODATE PORT TOWN.
※Cost of drinks is not included.
One night’s stay at NIPPONIA HOTEL HAKODATE PORT TOWN (based on double occupancy).
※A supplemental charge applies for single occupancy
【Accommodation】
NIPPONIA HOTEL HAKODATE PORT TOWN
Stay in a Red Brick Warehouse, a Symbol of Hakodate
Located within the Red Brick Warehouse district, an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, NIPPONIA HOTEL Hakodate Minatomachi is an intimate 9-room auberge housed in one of the city’s iconic restored warehouses.
Experience a truly refined stay while immersing yourself in the history and culture of Hakodate.
【How to Book】
Step 1: Choose Your Experience
Select your desired experience from our five unique plans. It is also possible to combine multiple experiences.
Step 2: Send an Inquiry
Using the inquiry form, please let us know your desired experience, preferred dates, number of guests, and any other requests.
《Book or Inquire Here》
Step 3: Receive a Proposal
Our dedicated concierge will create a customized travel plan and quote based on your request. (Please note that we may not be able to accommodate all requests due to the schedules of our producers and guides, facility maintenance, etc.)
Step 4: Confirm Your Booking
Once you are satisfied with the proposed plan, we will proceed with the official booking process.
【Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)】
Q. What is your cancellation policy?
A. A predetermined cancellation fee will be charged for any cancellations. For details, please refer to the “Travel Conditions / Before You Apply” section at the bottom of this page.
Q. Can you accommodate dietary allergies?
A. Yes. Please inform us of any food allergies at the time of booking, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Q. Is it okay if I don’t speak Japanese?
A. Absolutely. Many of our plans include an interpreter or licensed guide, allowing you to enjoy your experience with complete peace of mind.
[Travel Terms and Conditions: Please Read Carefully Before Booking]
This tour is an organized package tour planned and operated by Value Management Co., Ltd. Before booking, please be sure to read the following items and the “Travel Terms and Conditions (Full Text).”
<< Regarding the Contract >> The travel contract between the customer and our company shall be concluded when our company accepts the contract and receives the deposit.
<< Payment of Tour Fare >> Please pay the tour fare by the date specified by our company.
<< Cancellation Fees (Cancellation Policy) >> If you cancel your reservation, the following cancellation fees will apply. Please check the “Travel Terms andConditions” for details. (Note: The fees below are a standard example. Please revise this section based on your company’s official terms and conditions.)
- Up to 21 days prior (counting backward from the day before the tour start date): No charge
- 20 days to 8 days prior: 20% of the tour fare
- 7 days to 2 days prior: 30% of the tour fare
- The day before the tour start date: 40% of the tour fare
- On the day of the tour start date: 50% of the tour fare
- Cancellation after the tour has started or no-show (non-participation without notice): 100% of the tour fare