Hakkodamaru Ship

The Hakkodamaru Ship (八甲田丸, Hakkōdamaru) is a fascinating piece of history, now serving as a museum in Aomori Port. Before the opening of the Seikan Tunnel in 1988, ferries like the Hakkodamaru played a crucial role in connecting Honshu with Hokkaido. The ship was one of the vital ferries that made travel between the islands possible, especially for those transporting goods and vehicles. With the tunnel's completion, the importance of ferries diminished, but car ferries still link Aomori to Hakodate. Retiring in 1988, the Hakkodamaru now stands as a tribute to the era of ferry travel. Visitors can explore various parts of the ship, including the promenade deck, well-preserved cabins, and the engine room, offering a glimpse into life aboard a ferry from a bygone era.

A self-guided tour aboard the Hakkodamaru offers valuable insight into the history of Aomori Port and its connection to ferry travel. The ship is filled with photo displays, dioramas, and model ships that narrate the history of the region and its maritime heritage. One of the most striking features is the vehicle deck, which once carried up to 48 rail cars. Here, visitors can find historic trains on display, including an express car, mail car, and a diesel locomotive, all preserved to showcase the ship’s vital role in transportation. The Hakkodamaru, along with its sister ships, serves as a living monument to the maritime history of Aomori, offering a unique, hands-on experience of Japan's ferry travel legacy.