Discover Hakodate More Deeply
More than just facts and history.
A special guided experience connecting you with the people and the city
About Wajutsu Shirabesho
We are Wajutsu Shirabesho, a group of local walking guides dedicated to sharing the many charms and stories of Hakodate.
Our guides are mainly certified members of the Hakodate Kentei (Hakodate Certification Exam).
We value not only knowledge, but also the spirit of Japanese hospitality — omotenashi.
Our goal is to provide a warm and enjoyable experience tailored to each guest.
Why Choose Us
Local Expertise
Warm Hospitality
Flexible Tours
The Origin of Our Name
The name Wajutsu Shirabesho comes from the Shojutsu Shirabesho, an educational institution established in Hakodate by Ayasaburo Takeda, who was sometimes referred to as the “Leonardo da Vinci of the East.”
Inspired by this history, we continue to develop our wajutsu — the art of communication and storytelling — to share the history, culture, and unique charms of Hakodate with our guests.
Message from Our Representative
Every time you walk through Hakodate, there is something new to discover.
Beautiful views beyond the hills, historic buildings, and stories of the people who have shaped this city—learning about them makes your journey deeper and more meaningful.
At Wajutsu Shirabesho, we aim to do more than simply show you around Hakodate.
What matters most to us is helping you discover and fall in love with our city.
We invite you to experience the charms of Hakodate together with our local guides.
We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the stories of our city with you.
Katsuhiko Umemoto
Representative, Wajutsu Shirabesho
Our Activities
- Guided Walking Tours
- Educational Tours for School Groups
- Group Tours
- Local Events
Our Guide Team
- Approximately 26 local guides
- Guides who have passed the Hakodate Kentei (Hakodate Certification Exam)
- Tours for groups are available
- Assistance is available for guests with mobility needs:
9 certified Tourism Care Assistants (Beginner & Intermediate Levels)
1 certified Travel Care Assistant
Please contact us in advance if you require this servic
Recommended for
- First-time visitors to Hakodate
- Travelers who want to learn more about Hakodate’s history
- Organizers of group tours
The more you learn about Hakodate, the more fascinating the city becomes.
Let us help you discover its many charms.