Discover the Enigmatic Beauty of Hakodate’s Trappistine Convent

The Trappistine Convent was a unique place to visit as we were not expecting to find a convent in Hakodate. We walked into the facility admiring the architectural magnificence. Japanese people often know about the products this convent produces such as cookies, butter, and jams. The Convent is about 6-minute tax ride from the Hakodate Airport and 14-minute ride from the Goryōkaku.

If you are planning to visit Hakodate, please check out our article, Two Perfect Days in Hakodate, which provides you with more places to go. We used both the Shinkansen and the plane to Hakodate. The Shinkansen ride was great as we could see different areas in the Tohoku region (northern Japan), but it took 4 hours to get to Tokyo. The Shinkansen station was pretty far out from the center of Hakodate city. The flight from the Haneda airport and Hakodate was painless, and the Hakodate airport is located very close to many attractions.

Established in 1898 by eight pioneering nuns from France, this Catholic convent, also revered as Our Lady of the Angels Trappistine Monastery, marks a significant chapter in Japan’s religious heritage. Its rich history is underscored by a tragic fire in 1925, leading to the construction of the current edifice in 1927, a structure that seamlessly blends Gothic and Romanesque elements to create an ambiance that transcends the ordinary.

The Convent, often referred to as Our Lady of the Lighthouse Trappist Monastery, is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Cistercian Sisters. Located approximately 9 km east of central Hakodate and a stone’s throw from the soothing waters of Yunokawa Onsen, the convent stands as Japan’s first Catholic nunnery. Its architectural splendor is characterized by a charming brick exterior and distinctive semicircular-arched windows, inviting comparisons to the quaint townscapes of Europe.

Visitors to this sacred site are greeted by the majestic sight of vaulted arched ceilings and stained glass accents that illuminate the interior with a divine glow. The Convent is enveloped by meticulously maintained gardens, where the change of seasons brings about a kaleidoscopic display of cherry blossoms in spring and a rich tapestry of autumn foliage. Statues of revered Catholic figures, including the iconic Jeanne d’Arc, add a layer of spiritual depth to the garden’s scenic beauty.

The current community of about 60 nuns continues to lead a life of devotion, with their daily routine commencing before dawn and concluding as the evening sets in. These nuns engage in seven prayer sessions a day, interspersed with contemplative study and laborious tasks. One of their most cherished endeavors is the creation of exquisite Madalena (Madeleine) cakes, butter candies, and rosaries, products that not only symbolize their dedication but also serve as a source of sustenance for the Trappistine Convent.

For those yearning to experience the tranquility of this holy place, the Goryokaku-Tower Trappistine Shuttle Bus offers convenient access, with regular services connecting Hakodate station to the Trappistine Convent. While the sacred confines of the convent proper are reserved for the nuns, visitors are welcome to explore the forecourt, museum, and on-site shop, where they can procure the famed confectioneries crafted with care by the nuns themselves.

Walking through the convent’s precincts, one is enveloped in an atmosphere of reverence and peace. It’s a place where the sacred and the secular merge, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of women who have chosen a path of devotion and service. The Convent is not just a site of architectural and historical significance; it’s a journey into the heart of spirituality and tradition, a must-visit for those seeking solace and inspiration in the serene landscapes of Hokkaido.