Japanese Public Bath - Tips for the Shy Foreigners
How come, Japanese people, who are generally identified as shy, can relax being naked in a public bath? This is a common question many of my foreign friends, who have never been to Japan or lived in Japan, asked me often. Interestingly, it seems most foreign friends living in Japan have already gotten used to the Onsen (Public Bath) culture and truly understand how it is worth trying. Japan has become an attractive destination for foreign travelers to explore the modernity and rich historical culture, eat a variety of foods, experience the color of nature in four different seasons, etc.
However, how many of them actually consider trying public baths during their stay? And for those who do, how many could perfectly relax and enjoy the new experience? I deeply understand people have reasons for not being able to be naked in public, such as religion, physical issues, and having tattoos, yet, if you are capable of taking the chance and just are afraid of making mistakes, or doing wrong, here are some tips that should help ease your worries and boost your confidence!
As a Japanese who grew up in a family that loved to go to public baths very often since I was little, I believe public baths should effectively help to relax. And now, I am living abroad and I find myself deeply missing it.
Onsen Day Trip or Stay in Ryokan?
Japan treasures a great number of Onsen, more than 27,000 hot spring sources across the county, and around 3000 sites are used. Whether natural hot springs or not, most Japanese-style hotels, well known as Ryokan(旅館), facilitate at least one public bath, and some hotels offer multiple baths in different styles, located in separate area.
Aside from the public bath facilitated in the hotel, there are many onsen places for one-day visitors, usually priced around 500-1000 yen.
Etiquette
Prepare right stuff
Don't forget to bring two sheets of face towel or hand towel, one for during the bath to cover up your body parts and one for after the bath to swipe your wet. You can also bring a bath towel but large size of towels are not recommended to take during the bath. Hotels of course offer free towels, and one-day trip onsen also usually sells towels at the entrance.
Shampoo and Soap (Option)
Normally basic soaps like shampoo, hair conditioner, and body soap are set at each shower stand, but if you have a particular brand you want to take, you can also bring your own.
Take off your shoes
First thing first, take off your shoes at the entrance and put them in the shoe case.
Find an available spot, rocker, or basket
To keep your staff, find an available space for yourself in the changing room. If it is a rocker, rock it and enter the bath with your key band on your whrist. What you need to get in the bath is only a piece of towel!
Wash your body before soaking into a bathtub
At the shower stand, wash your body showering off your sweat. No need to wash your hair at this point, people usually use the shower just to rinse off some sweat before getting in the bathtub, and after some point, get out of the tub and take adequate time to clean their body and hair with soap.
Japanese people use a piece of towel to cover body parts when they walk around, but please make sure not to drop it in the tub. As far as I know, these basic rules are applied to both baths for men and female.
Relax
Slowly lower yourself in the bath, and stay as long as you feel comfortable. You can also chat quietly with your friends and share a peaceful moment. No one is staring at you, keep in mind taking your fear or hesitation off from being naked.
Move around different onsen tubs
How long should you stay in the tub? It always depends on the person. In general, Japanese people spend 10-15 minutes or longer in one bathtub and move to another tub or get out for a shower. Some Onsen has open-air tubs that enable you to stay longer by enjoying nature and cooling your body with a cool temperature. Moreover, you can also try the sauna to boost your detox by sweating more.
The below picture is a foot bath called Ashi-yu(足湯) where you can put only your feet putting your clothes. Despite its small size, it also helps to warm your whole body and relax in nature.
Rinse off your body, wipe wet, and put your clothes on
Rinsing off your body is not recommended in some places because nutritious mineral covers your body and keep your skin moist and smooth, whereas it may cause the smell and stick on your clothes all day, thus, I personally feel better showering my body before putting on my clothes.
Food and Drink
You may find vending machines selling small-size binned milk, fruit juice, and coffee milk at the entrance. We always look forward to this moment with waiting in thirst. You can easily find beer as well if you like.
As mentioned above, Japan has more than 3000 Onsen spots from North to South and East and West. If you have the chance to travel across the country, I highly recommend visiting as many Onsen regions as possible to experience the diverse styles, unique characteristics, and relaxation exercises, health-boosting benefits they offer.
In Madrid, you don't need a plan. Just walk around, get lost, and you'll stumble upon something amazing!
Madrid is home to some of the world's finest art museums. The Prado Museum features masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, while the Reina Sofía Museum houses Picasso's iconic "Guernica" and works by Dalí and Miró. The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum completes the "Golden Triangle of Art" with its extensive collection spanning centuries and styles. Then, there is the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the largest palaces in Europe, offering a glimpse into Spain's royal history with its opulent rooms and grand architecture. The adjacent Almudena Cathedral adds to the historical allure with its neo-Gothic design and panoramic views. From the bustling Puerta del Sol and the grand Plaza Mayor to the ancient Egyptian Templo de Debod, Madrid's historic sites offer a journey through time and culture. Then, at night, Madrid's neighbourhoods, such as La Latina, Chueca, and Malasaña, each have unique charm and character. These areas are perfect for exploring local culture, enjoying tapas, and experiencing the city's vibrant nightlife.
Barcelona or Madrid?
While both Barcelona and Madrid are fantastic destinations with their own unique charms, I tend to favour Barcelona for its unique Modernisme architecture, particularly the works of Antoni Gaudí. Iconic landmarks such as the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló showcase Gaudí's distinctive, whimsical style. Numerous cultural festivals and events, such as La Mercè and the Gràcia Festival. The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), a maze of narrow medieval streets filled with historic buildings and charming squares.
However, choosing between Barcelona and Madrid often comes down to personal preference. Barcelona is known for its stunning Modernisme architecture by Gaudí, its beautiful beaches, and its cosmopolitan vibe. Madrid, on the other hand, offers a rich blend of royal history, world-class museums, and vibrant nightlife.
Is 3 Days Enough?
Three days is a perfect amount of time to get a taste of what Madrid and Toledo offer. From iconic landmarks and museums to local neighbourhoods and culinary delights, you'll leave with a well-rounded impression of Spanish culture and history.
Best Time to Visit Madrid
The best time to visit Madrid is spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. Summers can be pretty hot, while winters are relatively mild but can be chilly.
Getting from Madrid Airport to the City Center
Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) is well-connected to the city centre.
Metro
The Metro Line 8 (pink line) connects the airport to the city centre. It takes about 30 minutes and costs around €5.
Airport Express Bus
This bus runs 24/7 and takes about 40 minutes to reach the city centre, costing €5.
Taxi
A taxi ride to the city centre has a flat rate of €30 and takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Train
The Cercanías C1 train line connects the airport to Atocha Station in about 25 minutes, costing around €2.60.
Getting from Barcelona to Madrid
High-Speed Train (AVE)
- Duration: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Cost: Prices vary, typically ranging from €40 to €150 one-way, depending on the class and how far in advance you book.
- Frequency: Trains run frequently throughout the day, with departures roughly every half hour.
- Stations: Trains depart from Barcelona Sants Station and arrive at Madrid Atocha Station.
- Comfort: The AVE trains are modern and comfortable and offer amenities such as Wi-Fi and food services.
Zooming through from Barcelona to Madrid on the high-speed
Getting Around Madrid
Madrid has an efficient and extensive public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and trams. The Metro de Madrid is particularly convenient for getting around the city quickly. There is a Tourist Travel Pass for unlimited travel on all public transport for 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 days.
But as usual, walking is the excellent option. Many attractions are located close to each other.
Visa Application for Filipinos
A Schengen visa is needed to visit Spain.
Refer to this Schengen Visa link for requirements.
Top Places to Stay in Madrid
Must-Do Activities in Madrid
Is the Madrid Tourist Travel Pass Worth It?
The Madrid Tourist Travel Pass, also known as the "Abono Turístico," offers unlimited use of Madrid's public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and suburban trains (Cercanías) within a specified period. It can be of great value for travellers who plan to make extensive use of Madrid's public transportation system, especially for those staying for several days and intending to explore various parts of the city and beyond. For those who enjoy walking or have a more relaxed itinerary, the pass might not offer significant savings.
Benefits of the Madrid Tourist Travel Pass
The pass allows unlimited travel on all public transport within the zones covered, making it convenient if you plan to use public transport frequently.
If you plan to visit multiple attractions spread across the city, the pass can be more cost-effective than purchasing individual tickets.
The pass eliminates the need to buy individual tickets for each journey.
The pass includes travel to and from Madrid-Barajas Airport.
Cost of the Madrid Tourist Travel Pass
1 Day: €8.40
2 Days: €14.20
3 Days: €18.40
5 Days: €26.80
7 Days: €35.40
When the Pass is Worth It
If you're in Madrid for a short period and plan to visit many attractions that require public transport, the pass can save you money and time.
If you plan to visit attractions outside the city centre, such as the Royal Palace of Aranjuez or El Escorial, the pass can be very beneficial.
If you prefer using public transport over walking, the pass offers the flexibility to hop on and off without worrying about the cost of each trip.
When the Pass Might Not Be Worth It
Central Madrid is quite walkable, and many major attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you prefer walking, you might not get full value out of the pass.
If you plan a more relaxed visit with minimal use of public transport, individual tickets might be more economical.
If your accommodation is centrally located and you only need to use public transport occasionally, purchasing single tickets or a 10-trip ticket (Metrobus) might be more cost-effective.
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Is Madrid Safe for Tourists?
While Madrid does experience some petty crime, particularly pickpocketing, it generally has a low rate of violent crime compared to other major cities worldwide. Tourists are unlikely to encounter serious safety issues. Additionally, a noticeable police presence in tourist areas helps deter crime and assist visitors. However, be cautious of individuals offering unsolicited assistance, as it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between genuine help and potential scams.
Itinerary
Day 1
Puerta del Sol
One of Madrid's most famous and bustling squares, often considered the heart of the city. It is a central hub for both locals and tourists, featuring iconic landmarks such as the clock tower of the old Post Office building (Casa de Correos) and the statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree (El Oso y el Madroño), the symbol of Madrid. Puerta del Sol is the location of the "Kilometer Zero" plaque, which marks the official starting point for Spain's six national roads. It is also the traditional site for New Year's Eve celebrations, where crowds gather to eat twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight for good luck in the coming year. Don't miss taking a photo with the Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue and the Kilometer Zero plaque. As a busy area, it's a hotspot for pickpockets. Keep an eye on your belongings.
Plaza Mayor
A grand, rectangular square in the heart of Madrid, surrounded by elegant three-story residential buildings with picturesque balconies. This historic square has been the site of markets, bullfights, and public executions, and today it is a popular spot for tourists and locals to relax and enjoy the ambiance. The statue of King Philip III on horseback, which stands in the centre of Plaza Mayor, was commissioned in 1616 but was not placed in the square until 1848. The square itself has undergone several reconstructions due to fires, with its current design dating back to 1790. The square is lined with cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to enjoy a meal or a drink while people-watching. However, prices can be higher than in other parts of the city. Check the local calendar for events and festivals that often take place in Plaza Mayor, such as the annual Christmas market.
the historic grandeur of Plaza Mayor, where every corner tells a story El Rastro
Madrid's most famous open-air flea market, held every Sunday and public holiday in the La Latina neighbourhood. It features a wide array of stalls selling antiques, clothes, accessories, and unique collectables. El Rastro has been a bustling market since the 15th century and is named after the "trail" (rastro) of blood left by cattle being transported from the slaughterhouse to the tanneries. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and get the best deals. Be mindful of your belongings, as the market can get quite crowded.
Mercado de San Miguel
A historic covered market located near Plaza Mayor. It offers a gourmet food experience with a variety of Spanish delicacies, including tapas, fresh seafood, and artisanal products. The market, built in 1916, is one of the few remaining iron structures in Madrid and has been beautifully restored to preserve its historic charm. Try the "croquetas" and "jamón ibérico" for an authentic taste of Spanish cuisine.
lively atmosphere at Mercado de San Miguel 
culinary wonders of Mercado de San Miguel—Madrid's gourmet paradise Real Basilica of Saint Francis the Great
A stunning neoclassical church known for its impressive dome, one of the largest in the world, and its beautiful frescoes and artworks. The basilica's dome is 33 meters in diameter, making it one of the largest domes in Christendom, comparable to those of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and the Pantheon. The church is less crowded than other major attractions.
Catedral de la Almudena
A neo-Gothic church located next to the Royal Palace. It features a blend of architectural styles and offers panoramic views of Madrid from its dome. The cathedral took over 100 years to complete, with construction starting in 1879 and finishing in 1993. It was consecrated by Pope John Paul II. Visit the crypt, which has a high chance of being overlooked but contains beautiful chapels and stained glass windows. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city.
Marvel the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena Royal Palace of Madrid
The official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, although it is now used primarily for state ceremonies. It is one of the largest palaces in Europe, with over 3,000 rooms. The palace's grand staircase, designed by Sabatini, features 70 steps and is made from a single piece of San Agustín marble. Purchase tickets online to skip the lines. Don't miss the Royal Armory and the Royal Pharmacy, which are included in the tour and offer fascinating insights into royal life.
the opulent Royal Palace of Madrid, a true symbol of Spain's regal heritage Temple of Debod
An ancient Egyptian temple that was gifted to Spain in 1968 and reconstructed in Madrid's Parque del Oeste. It is dedicated to the gods Amun and Isis. The temple was originally built in the 2nd century BC near Aswan in southern Egypt and was dismantled and transported to Madrid to save it from flooding caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Visit at sunset for breathtaking views and photo opportunities. The temple is free to enter, but it can get crowded.
Malasaña
A trendy neighbourhood in Madrid known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic shops, and bohemian atmosphere. It played a central role in the "Movida Madrileña" countercultural movement of the 1980s. The neighborhood is named after Manuela Malasaña, a heroine of the Spanish resistance against Napoleon's troops in 1808. Explore the area on foot to discover its hidden gems, including vintage shops, quirky cafes, and street art. Plaza del Dos de Mayo is a great spot to relax and people-watch.
the bohemian charm of Malasaña, Madrid's hip and vibrant neighbourhood Calle Gran Vía
One of Madrid's most famous streets, often referred to as the "Spanish Broadway." It is lined with theatres, cinemas, shopping centres, and historic buildings. The street was constructed in the early 20th century to modernise the city and improve traffic flow, and it took over 20 years to complete. Walk the length of Gran Vía to appreciate its architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the rooftop terrace of the Circulo de Bellas Artes for a panoramic view of the city.
vibrant energy of Plaza del Callao, where the heart of Madrid beats
Enjoying a healthy and refreshing avocado salad—packed with nutrients and flavour! Day 2
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is part of Madrid's "Golden Triangle of Art," featuring an extensive collection of European paintings from the 13th to the 20th centuries. It includes works by masters such as Caravaggio, Van Gogh, and Picasso. The museum was originally a private collection belonging to the Thyssen-Bornemisza family and is considered one of the most important private art collections in the world. Purchase a combined ticket for the Thyssen-Bornemisza, Prado, and Reina Sofía museums to save money. Allocate at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate the diverse collection.
Spain is a romantic destination with countless activities for couples, from strolling through historic streets to enjoying sunset views and intimate dinners Prado Museum
One of the most prestigious art museums in the world, housing an extensive collection of European art from the 12th to the early 20th century. Highlights include works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. The Prado Museum's collection includes over 8,000 drawings, 7,600 paintings, 4,800 prints, and 1,000 sculptures, although only a fraction is on display at any given time. Visit during the museum's free entry hours (usually in the last two hours of the day) to save on admission fees.
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
The Reina Sofía Museum is dedicated to modern and contemporary art, featuring works by Picasso, Dalí, and Miró. Its centrepiece is Picasso's iconic "Guernica." The museum is housed in a former hospital building, which was extensively renovated and expanded with a modern glass and steel structure designed by architect Jean Nouvel. Don't miss the opportunity to see "Guernica" in person; it's a powerful and moving experience. The museum is free to enter on certain days and times.
El Retiro Park
One of Madrid's largest and most popular parks, offering a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens, a large lake, and historic monuments like the Crystal Palace. The park was originally created as a royal retreat for King Philip IV in the 17th century and was opened to the public in the late 19th century. Rent a rowboat on the park's lake for a relaxing experience. Visit the Crystal Palace, which often hosts contemporary art exhibitions. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Puerta de Alcalá
A grand neoclassical monument and one of Madrid's most iconic landmarks. It was commissioned by King Charles III in the 18th century as a gate to the city. The Puerta de Alcalá predates other famous triumphal arches like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. The monument is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a great spot for evening photography. Combine the visit with a walkthrough of nearby El Retiro Park.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
The home of Real Madrid, one of the most successful football clubs in the world. The stadium offers guided tours that include the trophy room, locker rooms, and pitchside access. The stadium is named after Santiago Bernabéu, a former Real Madrid player and president who significantly contributed to the club's success and development. Book your tour tickets online to avoid long queues. If you're a football fan, try to catch a match to experience the electric atmosphere. The stadium also has a museum dedicated to the club's history.
Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo
Visit to this link for Toledo Trip.
Culinary Delights
Madrid is a paradise for food lovers. The city's tapas culture is legendary, and markets like Mercado de San Miguel offer a wide array of Spanish delicacies, from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses and cured meats.
Enjoy traditional dishes such as "cocido madrileño" (a hearty stew), "bocadillo de calamares" (calamari sandwich), and "churros con chocolate" (fried dough with chocolate sauce) at local eateries.
Madrid can be extremely hot during the summer months, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). This intense heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and limit your ability to fully enjoy the city's attractions. Additionally, its popularity as a tourist destination means that some areas, particularly around major attractions like the Prado Museum and Puerta del Sol, can be very crowded. This can detract from the overall experience and make it harder to appreciate the city's charm.
However, Madrid's rich cultural heritage makes it a compelling destination. The city is home to some of the world's most renowned museums, including the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. These institutions house masterpieces by artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and Picasso, offering a deep dive into Spain's artistic legacy.
Madrid also boasts a stunning array of architectural styles, from the grandeur of the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral to the modernist buildings along Gran Vía. The city's parks, such as El Retiro and Casa de Campo, provide beautiful green spaces for relaxation and recreation, offering a respite from the urban hustle.
The city's food scene is a gastronomic delight, featuring everything from traditional tapas to avant-garde cuisine. Markets like Mercado de San Miguel and Mercado de San Antón are excellent places to sample local delicacies. Don't miss the chance to try classic dishes like cocido madrileño, churros with chocolate, and the city's famous jamón ibérico.
Madrid is a city of contrasts, offering a rich cultural experience, vibrant nightlife, and culinary delights that make it a must-visit destination for many travellers. If you appreciate art, history, and a lively atmosphere, Madrid is likely to captivate you. However, if you prefer quieter, more nature-oriented destinations, you might find other cities that are more to your liking.
Maps
Where would you recommend a trip to Japan in winter? I was asked this question many times, but I could not give the best answer until I went to Hakodate, Hokkaido island. I now want to suggest that all my friends experience the breathtaking night views, snow activities, and variety of delicious foods in Hakodate!
I visited Hakodate from Tokyo at the end of December and stayed for 3 nights. Here is the perfect itinerary you can follow.
How to get Hakodate from Tokyo?
Flight
There are three airlines ANA, JAL, and Air Do operating direct flights from Tokyo for approximately 10 flights every day. Most flights depart from the Haneda airport, and it takes around 1h20min. The cost is around 10,000 yen ~ 30,000 yen per way depending on the season and package.
Shinkansen
Bullet trains also can be a good option if you would like to stop over somewhere in the Tohoku area between Tokyo and Hokkaido. It takes 4h30min, and the ticket is usually 25,000yen.
Top Places to Stay in Hakodate
Must-Do Activities in Hakodate
Day 1
Goryokaku, the star-shaped historical governmental fort (五稜郭)
This symbolic historical fort was built in 1864, in the Edo era also known as Tokugawa shogunate. In the 19th century, the Japanese government closed the country's border to support the isolationist foreign policy, except for the trade between the Netherlands and China. However, in 1958, Japan reopened the border to foster international relationships with some countries such as the UK, the US, and Russia. Following the year, Hakodate emerged as an important role as a trade port and the government established this Goryokaku as a government office managed as a center of politics and economics in northern Japan.
Now, this fort has become one of the tourist spots in Hakodate, which also has access to the observation deck to see all around the city.
【Entrance fee 】 1000yen (it will be 1200yen from April 2025)
【Opening hours 】 9:00~18:00
Kanemori Red Bricks Warehouses (金森赤レンガ倉庫)
Hakodate Redbricks was built in the Meiji era and is now used as a market selling such as grass masterpieces, accessories, souvenirs, and even sweets. The most unique thing about this place is the wonderful ocean view that you would see hundreds of yats in the port.
In this Kanemori area, besides the warehouses, there is a huge souvenir shop where you can buy everything including Hokkaido chocolates, drinking snacks, instant noodles, frozen seafood, and even frozen cheesecakes. I spent hours and hours there enjoying shopping!
Day 2
Hakodate Morning Market (函館朝市)
Start your day with Donburi with fresh seafood! Despite its name, it opens until 3 PM, so you don't have to worry about waking up very early morning. We didn't buy and eat anything there as our hotel offered breakfast, but walking along the market lining up 260 stores was already enjoyable, and the kind greetings from the shop staff at each shop attracted us to try their fresh club, scallops, salmon row, squid, although we were not hungry.
【Fee】Free
【Opening hours】6:00~15:00
Former Hakodate Public Hall (旧函館区公会堂)
Take a tram and stop at the Suehiro-cho (末広町) station, walk 7 minutes and you will find a gorgeous golden-blue construction towering over on the top of the hill. The construction started in 1909 after the massive fire damage in Hakodate, and its colonial style was completed in 1910 by mixing the American and Japanese architectural designs. Taisho and Showa emperor welcomed many VIP guests for hosting some international events.
【Opening hours】
<April to October> Tuesday to Friday 9:00~18:00, Saturday to Monday 9:00~19:00
<November to March> 9:00~17:00
【Fee】300yen
Hakodate Russian Orthodox Church (函館ロシア正教会)
As it mentioned above, Hakodate was one of the leading ports in opening to Western trade, and following that, missionary work was also actively conducted in the early 19th century. This Hakodate Russian Orthodox Church was built in 1859 - just one year after Japan and Russia contracted a diplomatic relationship - is recognized as the oldest Russian Orthodox Church in Japan. The massive fire also destroyed this church, and it was rebuilt in 1916.
Hakodate Mountain, Night View(函館山ロープウェイ)
Watching a stunning night view from the top of the Hakodate mountain was our main target. We walked up to the ropeway station and bought a ticket around 7 pm after dinner. A long line awaited the ropeway to ride up to the top. As soon as get to the top at the height of 334m, the breathtaking night view with pieces of stunning orange lights and twinkling starlights awaits you in the clear sky. Be sure to wear proper winter clothes, jackets, and boots to get yourself warm, because the outside is extremely cold at the temperature of -10℃.
【Opening hours】10:00~21:00
【Fee】1,800yen
Food Recommendation!
Lucky Pierrot
Lucky Pierrot is a local chain hamburger shop, which only exists in Hokkaido. The first shop opened in the 1980s, and their business has been expanding to the 17 locations across southern Hokkaido. We ordered the most popular item, Chinese Chicken Burger. With a lively atmosphere with attractive decorations, eye-catching posters, and toys everywhere in the restaurant, many customers enjoyed their meals while taking pictures. The Chinese Chicken Burger, with its sweet-sour flavor, paired with crispy fries, was absolutely delicious. I could easily see why it's beloved by people of all generations.
Hakodate Ramen
Hokkaido has three Ramen categories in the different areas, Miso Ramen in Sapporo, Shoyu(Soy sauce) in Asahikawa, and SHIO(salt) ramen in Hakodate. Shio Ramen has typically clear soup and a more delicate and less intense flavor compared to the former two types of ramen. There are more than 300 ramen shops in Hakodate, so try as many shops as you can and find the best one for yourself!
Soup Curry (Yoshida shoten 吉田商店)
Honestly, I was not a big fan of soup curry until I have met the best soup curry shop in Hakodate. Ramen, Sushi, and Seafood would be chosen as the most popular local foods in Hakodate by many people, but I want to highly recommend trying Soup Curry! Unlike the typical thick-paste Japanese curry, this has light soup but with spiced with a blend of curry powder, herbs, and seasonings. zone of the things that sets it apart is the variety of toppings and vegetables, usually served in large chunks, which add to its uniqueness. It's the perfect meal to warm you up after a chilly walk in the snowy weather.
