Yamajou

30-5 Motomachi, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0054, Japan
$$$ Cafe
(26 Reviews)
Price Range ¥1–2,000

Welcome to Yamajou, a charming cafe nestled in the heart of Hakodate, Hokkaido. Located at 30-5 Motomachi, this delightful spot seamlessly blends local culture with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Step inside, and you'll find a cozy environment adorned with personal touches from the charismatic owner, who was actually born just upstairs from the bar, adding a special thread to the cafe's rich tapestry.

What sets Yamajou apart isn't just the inviting decor or the nostalgic ambiance filled with echoes of music and laughter, but the unique experiences it offers. The cafe serves as a vibrant memorial space for the late film director, Yoshimitsu Morita, making it a haven for film buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. Patrons can enjoy intimate talk shows that dive deep into the local narratives surrounding 1960s to 90s music, cinema, and literature—a treasure trove of stories you won't find anywhere else.

Your visit to Yamajou wouldn’t be complete without savoring some of the delightful offerings. Customers rave about the bar snacks, which pair perfectly with a selection of local beers, all at a very reasonable price—around 1500 yen for a couple of drinks and snacks. Imagine sitting back, the music playing softly in the background, sharing anecdotes with friends or making new ones with fellow patrons, all while soaking in the vibrant air of this local gem.

But don't just take our word for it; hear what others have to say! Customer 'PJK Japan' highlights the cafe's local feel amidst tourist attractions, noting that the talk show was both engaging and entertaining. Meanwhile, 'Zach Hanzawa' assures that if you're keen on local tales about Hakodate’s rich culture, you won’t be bored for a moment. And 'Allan Taylor' couldn't agree more, sharing his delight in the atmosphere, the charismatic owner, and the sheer joy of enjoying music and company.

With its blend of local history, engaging conversations, and a friendly environment, Yamajou is not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a cultural experience waiting to unfold. Make your way there and immerse yourself in the heart of Hakodate’s vibrant community!

Service options
Dine-in
Delivery
Takeaway
Highlights
Great coffee
Popular for
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Dining options
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Cosy
Quiet
Payments
Cash only
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Friday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

26 Reviews
PJK Japan

23 Aug 2025

観光地にあるがローカルな感じの店。トークショーが面白かった。冷房が早く直ればいいね(笑)

Zach Hanzawa

26 Jul 2025

映画監督森田芳光メモリアルスペース。1960〜90年代の音楽、映画、文学にまつわる函館、道南のこぼれ話を聞きたい人は退屈しないと思う。

Allan Taylor

21 Jul 2025

Wow, what a place! Charismatic owner who was literally born upstairs from the bar 72 years ago (as of 2024). Played his favorite music and some of mine. A couple beers and bar snacks came out to 1500 yen and an incredibly enjoyable hour or so. What a gem!

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