Hello everyone! Now that June has arrived, Hakodate is officially entering its peak travel season.

Standing at the hotel front desk every day, there is one question I get asked by our international guests more than almost any other: “Where can I get the absolute best, freshest crab and squid for dinner tonight?”

Whenever I hear this, there is one place I confidently recommend right away: “Kaikobo” (海光房).

Located just a 3-minute walk from Hakodate Station, this seafood Izakaya offers not just an incredible meal, but a dining entertainment experience that perfectly captures the spirit of Hokkaido. Let’s look at what makes it so special!

1. Step Into a Seafood Wonderland with a Massive Live Fish Tank!

With its massive, eye-catching sign right near the station, Kaikobo stands out immediately. Because it is directly managed by a seafood wholesaler, the absolute freshness of every single item on the menu is guaranteed.

The moment you step inside, you are greeted by a lively, high-energy atmosphere. If you look up at the ceiling, you will notice beautiful, round glass lights hanging down. These are actually modeled after the fish-aggregating lights (集魚灯) used on local Hakodate squid fishing boats! It immediately immerses you in the vibe of a local fishing town.

But the real showstopper is the massive network of live fish tanks (Ikesu / 生簀) running right through the center of the restaurant. It feels less like an Izakaya and more like a mini-aquarium!

Inside, you will find giant King Crabs (Taraba-gani), hairy crabs, live scallops, oysters, and Hakodate’s famous live squid swimming right before your eyes. Our international guests are always thrilled by this scale! You can actually point out exactly what you want from the tanks and ask the chefs to prepare it fresh for you on the spot—whether you want it as sashimi or charcoal-grilled.

2. Must-Try Dishes: From Vibrant Sashimi to Sizzling Fusion

Here is a look at the spectacular dishes I enjoyed during my visit:

• Premium Sashimi Platter (刺身盛り合わせ): Look at these vibrant colors! From sweet shrimp and rich salmon to perfectly sliced local fish and roe, this platter is the absolute definition of Hokkaido’s ocean bounty. Every single bite melts in your mouth.

• Mentaiko & Seafood Ahijo (明太子と海鮮のアヒージョ): If you are looking for a hot, savory dish or prefer cooked seafood, I highly recommend this one. A sizzling hot clay pot filled with local seafood, topped with a generous, prominent portion of Mentaiko (spicy cod roe). Dipping the crispy toasted bread into the flavorful, umami-rich oil is absolutely addictive!

• Grilled Hakodate Squid (イカ焼き): You simply cannot leave Hakodate without trying the squid. Coated in a savory soy-sauce glaze and grilled to perfection, the squid is incredibly tender and makes the perfect appetizer when paired with a touch of grated ginger and mayonnaise.

3. Three Reasons Why International Travelers Love Kaikobo

As a hotel front desk worker, I always feel incredibly confident sending our global guests to Kaikobo for three main reasons:

1. English & Chinese Menus Available: You don’t need to worry about any language barriers. They provide comprehensive menus with clear pictures, making it very easy to order simply by pointing.
2. Smooth Cashless Payments: They accept all major international credit cards, as well as overseas smartphone payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay.
3. Luggage-Friendly: Because it is right next to the station, many travelers visit on their very first or last day in the city. The restaurant will happily take care of your large suitcases while you enjoy your meal.

⚠️ Local Pro-Tip: Making a Reservation is an Absolute Must!

During the busy June travel season and on weekend nights, Kaikobo is packed to capacity almost every single day. Walking in without a booking often leads to incredibly long wait times, or worse, being completely turned away.

My Advice: As soon as you arrive in Hakodate, make a reservation online, or ask your hotel’s front desk staff to call and book a table on your behalf. To ensure you don’t miss out on an unforgettable dinner, securing a spot early is highly recommended!

Conclusion

For a dining experience that combines Hokkaido’s finest, freshest flavors with a fun, high-energy aquarium atmosphere, Kaikobo is a must-visit. If you are looking for the perfect dinner near Hakodate Station, this is the place to be!

Enjoy every moment of your Hakodate journey, and travel safe!