[spring][ Hokkaido Hokuto City] Trappist Monastery: Cherry Blossoms and Historical Walking
Founded in 1896, the Trappist Monastery is the first male Trappist monastery in Japan, and is a special place where you can feel history and culture in a tranquil environment surrounded by the rich nature of Hokkaido. The monastery belongs to the Strict Cistercian Order, and the monks live a life based on prayer and self-sufficiency, impressing visitors deeply. The monastery's architecture is made of beautiful bricks that incorporate Western monastic architectural styles, and its majestic appearance captivates visitors. In addition, the Trappist butter and cookies handmade by the monks are special souvenirs for visitors, and their high quality and simple taste are highly regarded worldwide. These products embody the traditions and beliefs of the monastery, and play a role in conveying a part of Christian culture in Japan to visitors. In addition, the monastery's gardens and chapel provide a space where visitors can spend time in peace of mind. In this way, the Trappist monastery has a special appeal not only as a place to learn about history and culture, but also as a place to feel peace of mind.
A special place to experience history and culture
Founded in 1896, the Trappist Monastery is the first male Trappist monastery in Japan, and is a special place where you can feel history and culture in a tranquil environment surrounded by the rich nature of Hokkaido. The monastery belongs to the Strict Cistercian Order, and the monks live a life based on prayer and self-sufficiency, impressing visitors deeply. The monastery's architecture is made of beautiful bricks that incorporate Western monastic architectural styles, and its majestic appearance captivates visitors. In addition, the Trappist butter and cookies handmade by the monks are special souvenirs for visitors, and their high quality and simple taste are highly regarded worldwide. These products embody the traditions and beliefs of the monastery, and play a role in conveying a part of Christian culture in Japan to visitors. In addition, the monastery's gardens and chapel provide a space where visitors can spend time in peace of mind. In this way, the Trappist monastery has a special appeal not only as a place to learn about history and culture, but also as a place to feel peace of mind.
spectacular spring view of cherry blossoms and a white monastery
In spring, the Trappist monastery welcomes visitors with a spectacular view of the cherry blossoms in full bloom and the white monastery buildings. Many cherry trees are planted around the monastery, and late-blooming varieties such as Nanden, Fugenzo, and Amayadokoro can be enjoyed, so the cherry blossoms can be enjoyed for a long period of time from early to late May each year. The harmonious scenery of the cherry blossoms in full bloom and the white buildings has a unique atmosphere that combines Japanese tradition and Western culture, and attracts visitors. Special light-up events are held during the cherry blossom season, and at night, a fantastic night view of the cherry blossoms unfolds. This light-up beautifully highlights the soft petals of the cherry blossoms and the shadows of the buildings, providing a different charm from the daytime. In addition, a "Cherry Blossom Festival" is sometimes held during the peak cherry blossom viewing season, and visitors can enjoy local food culture and music events. Visitors can fully enjoy the feeling of the spring season while experiencing the special experience of the history and culture unique to the Trappist monastery.
relaxing stroll through nature and silence
One of the attractions of visiting a Trappist monastery is a stroll in a tranquil environment in harmony with nature. Around the monastery, there are cedar and poplar tree-lined paths where you can enjoy the beauty of the four seasons. In spring, the scenery of fresh greenery and cherry blossoms attracts visitors, and in autumn, the autumn leaves create a beautiful landscape. In addition, the "Lourdes Grotto" behind the monastery is a hidden gem, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Tsugaru Strait and Tsugaru Peninsula. This cave is popular not only as a place of worship, but also as a place where visitors can find peace of mind. A stroll in a tranquil environment is perfect for refreshing the mind and body. The chirping of birds and the sound of the wind calm the mind, and combined with the solemn atmosphere of the monastery, you can spend a special time away from everyday life. Visitors can also have precious time to face themselves and experience a sense of inner fulfillment.
[ Flower viewing and nature appreciation]Other recommended spots
Cherry Blossom Viewing at Matsumae Park
Hokkaido Matsumae Town
Take the Hakodate Bus bound for Matsumae from JR Kikonai Station and get off at the "Matsushiro" bus stop after about 90 minutes. It is about a 3-minute walk from the bus stop to the park entrance.
Lake Mashu: Cherry blossoms and a stroll along the clear lake surface
Hokkaido Teshikaga Town
Bus from JR Mashu Station: Take the Akan Bus regular route bus to Lake Mashu, it takes about 20 minutes. Bus from JR Kawayu Onsen Station: Take the Akan Bus regular route bus to Lake Mashu, it takes about 40 minutes. Train from JR Kushiro Station: Take the JR Senmo Line, it takes about 90 minutes.
Cherry blossom viewing at the lakeside of Onuma Park
Hokkaido Nanae Town
From JR Hakodate Station: Hokuto Express: Approx. 20 minutes, Local train: Approx. 50 minutes
Goryokaku Park Cherry Blossom Illumination
Hokkaido Hakodate City
Streetcar: Take the train from "Hakodate Station" to "Goryokaku Park" (approximately 16 minutes, 230 yen). After getting off, walk for about 15 minutes. Bus: Take the train bound for "Goryokaku" or "Goryokaku Park Entrance" (approximately 20 minutes, 280 yen). After getting off, walk for about 5 to 10 minutes.
Spring Nature Walk at Shiretoko Five Lakes
Hokkaido Shari Town
Access from JR Shiretoko-Shari Station Bus: Take the "Shari Bus Shiretoko Line" and arrive at the "Shiretoko Goko" bus stop in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Car: About 40 km from Shiretoko-Shari Station (approximately 1 hour). Parking is available (paid, 100 spaces). Taxi: Available directly from the station, but the fare is more expensive than the bus.
Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden: Spring alpine plant viewing
Hokkaido Koshimizu Town
JR Gensei-kaen Station: A temporary station that operates for a limited time from May 1st to October 31st. It is about a 1-minute walk from the station to the Gensei-kaen. JR Hamakoshimizu Station: Accessible by walking for about 5 minutes. From Abashiri Station: About 32 minutes by bus.
Otaru Canal Spring cherry blossoms
Hokkaido Otaru City
About 10 to 15 minutes walk from JR Otaru Station.
Hakodateyama Observatory Cherry blossoms and night view
Hokkaido Hakodate City
Take the tram from Hakodate Station and get off at the "Jujigai" stop. From there, walk up Nanbuzaka for about 7 minutes to arrive at Mount Hakodate Ropeway Sanroku Station.
Trappist Monastery: Cherry Blossoms and Historical Walking
Hokkaido Hokuto City
Dounan Isaribi Railway Oshima Tobetsu Station: Approximately 20 minutes on foot. Leave the station and head straight towards the monastery to arrive. Local bus (from Hakodate city): Get off at the "Trappistine Iriguchi" bus stop and walk for about 5 minutes. From JR Hakodate Station: Approximately 40 minutes by car (you can also use a taxi or bus).