When I was looking for a good souvenir from Hakodate, a friend suggested Carl Raymon. After some research, I learned about the brand’s history and decided to buy some products from souvenir shops near Hakodate Station.
However, I found out that there’s a Carl Raymon House Hakodate Motomachi (カール・レイモン函館元町店) in Motomachi area. The store not only sells Carl Raymon products but also has a small museum showcasing the history and equipment related to the brand. Plus, there’s an eat-in area inside! Intrigued, I decided to visit the shop in Motomachi.
The shop is conveniently located near popular spots like Daisanzaka and Hachimanzaka slopes, as well as Western-style houses and churches. So, if you’re exploring the area, it’s worth stopping by.
The first floor greets visitors with a display of sausages and hams in refrigerators. The product lineup isn’t extensive, but the focus is clearly on quality. There’s also an eating area where you can enjoy freshly prepared sausages, hot dogs, and even hamburgers, paired with local Onuma Beer.
Also they have valuable lunch set from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
I ordered the Thüringer, which is exclusively available at the Motomachi shop. It was grilled fresh after I ordered, and the aroma of herbs like marjoram was incredible. Each bite was juicy and flavorful—truly a highlight of my visit. Sauerkraut was included, adding a nice tangy touch.
This long sausage (coarsely ground) was juicy and tasty. However, I wouldn’t recommend pairing it with the Thüringer. The Thüringer was extremely good, with a rich flavor that outshone the long sausage.
If you’re a beer lover, try pairing the food with Onuma Beer, a local specialty. I had the Kölsch (700 yen), which came with a plastic cup—a simple yet satisfying combination with the sausage.
At the back of the shop, stairs lead to a small museum on the second floor. Admission is free, and the exhibition tells the story of Carl Raymon.
When I went upstairs, Carl Raymon welcomed me. His full name is Carl Weidl-Raymon. He was born in Austria-Hungary and spent his life working with authentic German ham and sausages in Hakodate.
The space isn’t large. There are tools related to ham and sausage making, as well as many personal items from his private home, such as a piano, dining table, and more.
There’s a ham boiler, which seems to still be functional.
A hand-operated mincer!
Raymon was born in the former Austria-Hungary and witnessed significant changes both inside and outside of his country. His words are very valuable. He once said, “People can live easily if they have abundant food, a comfortable house, and a peaceful nation.”
The factory tour also looks fun, but it takes about an hour to get there by bus from the center of Hakodate, so it’s a bit far.
Next to the shop is Carl Raymon’s former residence. It’s a two-story wooden house. The simplicity of the house made me feel Raymon’s presence—he truly lived there. The house is managed by Hakodate Carl Raymon Co. Ltd., and it has been designated an Important Cultural Property by the city of Hakodate. We can only view the exterior, as the inside is not open to the public.
Visiting the Carl Raymon House in Motomachi is a unique experience, combining history, culture, and delicious food. Whether you’re enjoying a freshly grilled sausage, sipping local beer, or learning about Carl Raymon’s legacy, it’s a spot that offers something special for everyone.
If you’re exploring the picturesque slopes and historic buildings in Motomachi, be sure to add this stop to your itinerary!
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Name Carl Raymon House Hakodate Motomachi (カール・レイモン函館元町店)
Open Morning through evening
Reservation Unavailable
Credit card Available
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