Tobetsu Trappist Monastery

Amid farmland and forest at the western end of Hakodate Bay, the monks of Tobetsu Trappist Monastery live a self-sufficient life of prayer and contemplation. The striking red-brick buildings date to the late 19th century and sit at the end of a tree-lined avenue that feels wonderfully removed from the modern world. Visitors can browse the small shop selling butter, cookies, and jam made by the monks, the butter toffee is particularly good. The monastery interior is closed to unscheduled visitors, but the grounds and the approach road are worth the trip alone.