A must-visit for stationery lovers: Tsutaya Books opens its second store in Hakodate, Hokkaido

Text and photos byAnnie

Everyone knows about the Daikanyama Tsutaya Books in Tokyo, one of the world’s 20 most beautiful bookstores, but I only had half a day in Tokyo and didn’t have time to visit it before heading to the newly opened Tsutaya Books in Hakodate. This branch in Hakodate just opened last year and has a very modern look overall. Its location is somewhat suburban, and transportation isn't very convenient. I imagine most residents of Hokkaido probably drive here. It takes about thirty minutes on foot from the nearest JR Ginkgo Station, or ten minutes if you take a Hakodate bus and then walk from the stop.

The transportation option I chose was the Hakodate bus. There are buses available right in front of Hakodate Station that will take you to the bus stop near Tsutaya Books—Showa Bus Stop. From there, it’s a ten-minute walk to the bookstore.

Buses 103, 132, and 94 all pass by Showa Bus Stop, but the service isn’t very frequent.

After getting off the bus, following the directions on Google Maps, I was relieved to see the Tsutaya Books sign from quite far away.

In front of the bookstore, there’s a large parking lot—and it was half full even though it was a weekday. Don’t people in Hakodate work?!

Since photography is not allowed inside the store, I took a few extra photos outside. The entire bookstore has two floors, and there are plenty of seats for readers inside, making it a very reader-friendly space. Aside from books, the store also has a lifestyle goods section, a stationery area, and even cosmetics.
http://www.hakodate-t.com/

That day, I picked up some washi tape and pens from the stationery section to write postcards.