AomoriTravel

Explore the yellow-hulled relay ship in its entirety; the vehicle deck is a must-see

About this spot

This museum ship, preserved and moored at the site, tells the story of the Seikan Relay Ship connecting Aomori and Hakodate. The Hakkodate Maru was one of the longest-serving ships on the Seikan Relay Route and still floats at Aomori Port's pier in its original yellow hull. Inside, you can visit the ship's vital areas including the wheelhouse, radio room, and engine room. The main highlight is the vehicle deck, with tracks running along the ship's bottom revealing that this vessel transported entire railway cars across the sea—a sight that is truly impressive. The exhibits narrating approximately 80 years of the Seikan Route and a diorama recreating Aomori in the 1950s are worth seeing, and the stack-work observation deck offers panoramic views of Mutsu Bay and the Bay Bridge. This location allows you to experience the complete maritime heritage of the harbor town of Aomori.

Tips

Just a short walk along the shore from Wa Rasse. Combined tickets with Wa Rasse and ASPAM are available, so check at the ticket window if visiting multiple facilities. The ship has many stairs, so comfortable sneakers are recommended. In winter, check ahead as there may be closed days or shortened hours.