Play the Ancient Japanese Game of Go in Hakodate

5.0 (2 reviews) 1 h 30 min Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

2 reviews

5.0

Play the Ancient Japanese Game of Go in Hakodate — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Play the Ancient Japanese Game of Go in Hakodate, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Discover the Ancient Strategy Game of Go in the Heart of Hakodate!

Step into the fascinating world of Go — Japan’s legendary board game that’s easy to learn but takes a lifetime to master.

In this hands-on experience, you’ll be guided by a certified 6-dan Go instructor (one of the highest amateur levels in Japan) with decades of teaching and competition experience.

What makes this activity special?

✅ Learn the basics of Go in a traditional setting

✅ Enjoy a friendly match with the instructor or fellow participants

✅ Experience authentic Japanese culture through strategy and mindfulness

✅ Includes a seasonal wagashi (traditional sweet) and tea

✅ Perfect for beginners, families, or curious minds of all ages

Whether you’ve never touched a Go board or you’ve seen it in movies or anime, this experience offers a rare chance to dive into a true Japanese cultural tradition — and bring home more than just memories.

Reserve now and unlock the secrets of Go!

Language Classes New Product Short term availability Weather Dependent - Weather-Proof

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 30 min
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Bobby

Ages: Adults (6–100 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Go board and stones rental
Included: Printed beginner’s guide to Go (take-home)
Included: Guide
Included: Tea and coffee: Japanese tea or coffee & one traditional Japanese sweet (wagashi).

Itinerary

Join a truly authentic Japanese Go experience guided by a professional instructor and an English-speaking local guide. In this 90-minute session, you'll learn how to play the ancient strategy game of Go (囲碁), which has been part of Japanese culture for centuries. The session is led by a skilled Japanese Go teacher, and your English-speaking guide (that’s me!) will support you throughout — explaining rules, translating, and helping you understand the deeper cultural meanings of the game. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just curious about Japanese traditions, this experience offers a warm and accessible way to learn something new. ・All instruction is beginner-friendly. ・English support throughout the session. ・Learn not only how to play, but why Go is important in Japanese history. ・Perfect for curious travelers and families. ・Take home a simple Go guide to remember your experience!

Stop 1

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

If you prefer to come directly to the meeting point, I will be waiting with a name board in front of the Culture Center Gagyukan, a white four-story building with its name written in large vertical Japanese letters on the exterior wall.

End point

If you prefer to come directly to the meeting point, I will be waiting with a name board in front of the Culture Center Gagyukan, a white four-story building with its name written in large vertical Japanese letters on the exterior wall.

Pickup points

Hakodate Danshaku Club
Hotel Kikuya
Hotel Resol Hakodate
Four Points Flex by Sheraton Hakodate Station
APA Hotel Hakodate Ekimae
Century Marina Hakodate
Hotel Promote Hakodate
Toyoko Inn Hokkaido Hakodate Ekimae Daimon
Super Hotel Hakodate
Henmi Ryokan
Hotel Heart Inn
Toyoko Inn Hakodate-ekimae Asaichi

and 20 more pickup points

Pickup is on foot only, with no vehicle service, and limited to hotels and cruise terminals in the central area.

There are two cruise terminals in Hakodate. If your cruise ship arrives in the central area, I will wait for you there. For other arrivals, please let me know in advance whether you will come directly to the venue or meet at JR Hakodate Station.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

Good to know

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Options

Play the Ancient Japanese Game of Go in Hakodate

Walking pickup only

weekends: We may be available on weekends depending on the time. Please feel free to contact us.

Pickup included
3-Hour Mini Walking City Tour

The choice of 1–2 sightseeing : Choose 1–2 spots from Hakodate highlights: Mt. Hakodate, Motomachi, Goryokaku etc. Transportation and entry fees not included

Duration: 3 hours: The schedule can be adjusted depending on the location and time.

Walking pickup only

weekends: We may be available on weekends depending on the time. Please feel free to contact us.