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Offered languages
- English
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!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
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.
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.
What to expect
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!
Additional info
- 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
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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