Discover the ancient game in Hakodate! Guided by a certified 6-dan instructor—one of Japan’s highest amateur ranks—with decades of experience, this hands-on session teaches the basics of Japan’s legendary board game—easy to learn, yet profound in strategy. Enjoy a friendly match, explore Japanese culture through mindfulness, and savor seasonal wagashi with tea. Great for beginners, families, and curious minds. Whether new or familiar with Go, this unique experience offers more than memories.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your hotel lobby or in front of the major facility
- *Pick-up from areas other than JR Hakodate Station, Goryokaku, or Yunokawa may require an extra fee. Travel: approx. 10-15 minute walk (streetcar ride optional depending on location / ¥210–250 per person, not included)
90 Minutes to Master the Basics
Learn the essentials of Go, Japan’s legendary strategy game, in this immersive 90-minute session led by a certified 6-dan instructor—one of the highest amateur ranks in Japan. You'll begin with a hands-on introduction to the rules and key strategies, followed by guided play using real boards and stones. As your skills grow, enjoy a friendly match with the instructor or fellow participants. The session also includes a brief cultural talk on Go’s history and its role in Japanese society. Served with seasonal wagashi (traditional sweets) and tea, this experience blends play, culture, and hospitality—perfect for beginners and curious travelers alike.
*Departure time: 2:45 PM
Return to the meeting point: 10-15 minute walk
Ending Point
at the meeting point or the location of your choice
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
・Go board and stones rental
・Japanese tea or coffee & one traditional Japanese sweet (wagashi).
・Printed beginner’s guide to Go (take-home)
*Streetcar fare: ¥210–250 per person (optional)
Sessions are generally available in the afternoon from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM due to regular classes. Morning sessions may be available on weekends. Please note that bookings may not be possible on certain days depending on the instructor’s schedule. We appreciate your understanding.
I usually prefer at least seven days’ notice, but I may be able to accommodate shorter notice as well — so feel free to get in touch!
Welcome to Hakodate!
Hello! My name is Bobby, and I am an English-speaking guide based in the beautiful city of Hakodate, Japan. Born and raised here, I have a deep love and knowledge of this historic port city.
I spent 10 years living in Canada, where I worked in cafes, restaurants, and tailor shops, gaining valuable experience in hospitality and customer service. Now, I’m excited to share the charm of Hakodate with visitors from around the world.
Whether you want to explore historical sites, discover hidden local gems, or enjoy delicious Hakodate cuisine, I can provide a personalized and memorable experience. Let’s make your trip to Hakodate unforgettable!
Feel free to contact me for more details. I look forward to guiding you!
Heide K.
“Bobby is Exceptionally Amazing”
Bobby was very responsive with contact prior to our tour and meet us at the cruise port promptly as promised. She took us on an incredible walking tour, showing us some of the best highlights. She was very flexible in planning our day to match our interests. Bobby even purchased tickets for the places we visited prior to our arrival so we could avoid long lines and waiting, making every moment of our time together pleasant. Her English is very clear and easy to understand. She has so much knowledge about Hakodate that she easily answered all of questions. We had 5 ports during our 10 day cruise and we ranked this tour #1. If you are visiting Hakodate and Bobby is available you should consider yourself Lucky. We strongly suggest you book her services if you want to explore this city as a local and not a tourist. Thank you again Bobby for the most Amazing Day!
Bobby S.
Thank you so much for the amazing review Heide! It’s way beyond my expectations and you truly made my day!! Your family was so warm and full of wonderful smiles, and it became a truly unforgettable and special time for me too. I'm so grateful that you were looking forward to coming to Japan. Thanks to that, I had the chance to meet all of you. I feel deeply honored and happy to have been a part of those memories. I look forward to the day we meet again. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
$63/ per group