What other travelers are saying about Trappistine Monastery
Historic and very traditional convent in Hakodate. One of the few that still maintains the old traditions. You are not allowed to visit inside, which could be disappointing if you are traveling a long distance. If you are driving or on a tour, it is a good stop.
Visit 25 desember 2023
The French style is very elegant and a must visit, there is also a small shop of works by the sisters. there are parts that should not be entered because after all this building is still functioning. Behind the wall there is a farm, a residence where women who serve their God choose to live forever without leaving the fence... I think it evokes a mysterious feeling every time I look at the beautiful building and walls.
Most people just go here for the softee ice cream, lovingly handemade cookies and a selection of jams.
Unfortunately, there is no access to any of the buildings and it's not possible to attend any of the services because Trappists are a closed order. Not a nun to be seen anywhere.
This is sad--one of the most spiritual experiences I've had was attending early morning Laudes at St. Gervais in Paris. The nuns and monks appear out of the dark before the service, sit or prostate in meditation.
OK, Japan is not a Christian country, but still...
The lovely architecture of the convent is offset by the beautiful scenery and the proximity to the ocean and the cliffs in the distance. This is a lovely setting for a walk and some cookie shopping at its source. The gift shop also has some lovely illustration of Christian bible verses in Japanese and some interesting exhibits in the mini museum of Trappist history next to the information and gifts section. This is a lovely little stop that allows you to take in the serene environment of the convent and the nearby park grounds which seem to flow seamlessly one into the other.
Certainly did not expect to find a Trappist Monastery in Hakodate. It was founded in 1898 by a group of French nuns from the Abbey of Notre-Dame de la Trappe in Soligny-la-Trappe, France. The monastery is situated on a hill overlooking the city of Hakodate and the Uchiura Bay. As you would expect is very quiet peaceful and pretty much self sufficient. We decided not to join.
