Time Slip Experience in Hakodate with Custom Dress

Thinking of a way to add a splash of whimsy and nostalgia to your Hakodate trip? The Time Slip Experience offers just that—an opportunity to dress in historical costumes, feel like royalty, and explore some of Hakodate’s most photogenic locations. This experience is a blend of fashion, history, and fun, all wrapped into a well-organized 1.5-hour activity that leaves plenty of time for sightseeing, photos, and creating memories.

What we particularly love about this experience is how effortlessly it combines professional styling with accessible, authentic fun. The staff, described as “kind, courteous, and first-rate,” makes the dressing process smooth and enjoyable, especially if you’re traveling with children or want to indulge in a bit of playful elegance. That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers might find the activity more suited for those interested in photo opportunities and unique photos rather than a full historical tour or extensive sightseeing.

This experience is ideal for anyone who loves a good costume, wants to step back into a different era, or simply enjoys taking artsy, Instagram-worthy photos amid Hakodate’s charming streets. It’s particularly popular among families, solo travelers, or couples seeking a light-hearted adventure that stands out from traditional sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic and Professional Styling: First-rate beauticians ensure you look and feel beautiful in your chosen outfit.
• Wide Costume Selection: Over 400 gorgeous, high-quality costumes including Western dresses, kimonos, and more.
• Quick and Easy Dressing: Around 10 minutes for dressing and hair styling, making it a seamless part of your day.
• Ideal for Photos: Plenty of nearby scenic spots like the Kanamori Red Brick Warehouse and Hakodate Hachimangu Shrine perfect for memorable shots.
• Affordable for the Experience: The price of about $62.76 offers good value, considering the costume quality and the fun of dressing up.
• Family-Friendly: Especially popular with children, creating perfect photo souvenirs and joyful memories.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

The activity begins at the Hakodate Meijikan, a central and accessible meeting point. From there, you’ll be guided through a straightforward process: choosing your costume from a selection of over 400 options, having your hair styled with a hair accessory, and donning your outfit—all within about 10 minutes. The dressing staff, known for their professionalism and friendliness, make this quick change smooth and enjoyable. Many reviewers have highlighted how easy and quick the process is, which means you won’t spend too much time off your sightseeing schedule.

Once dressed, you’re free to explore Hakodate in your chosen costume. The package includes one hour of free roaming, which sounds flexible enough for a leisurely walk through the surrounding historic streets and iconic photo spots. The costumes are described as “gorgeous,” and this quality elevates the overall experience—these are not flimsy or costume-party style outfits but well-made garments that give you a real sense of stepping back in time.

The Photo Opportunities

Many of the feedback mentions how ideal the nearby locations are for Instagrammable shots. Just a stone’s throw from the start point, you’ll find the Kanamori Red Brick Warehouse, Hakodate Hachimangu Shrine, and the Hakodate Haristos Orthodox Church—each offering a distinct, picturesque vibe. The vintage dresses, combined with these historic backdrops, create a stunning contrast, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

One reviewer, Melody_M, shared that the experience was “a fun thing to do in Hakodate and a bit unusual for Japan and even for Hokkaido.” She noted that it was especially nice on a rainy day, providing a reason to stay indoors yet still enjoy a unique cultural activity. Her comment underscores how the experience can be a creative alternative to outdoor sightseeing when the weather isn’t cooperating.

The Value for Money

At $62.76 per person, this experience is quite reasonable, considering the quality of costumes and the expertise of the beauticians. For an activity that combines fashion, fun, and photo opportunities, many find it to be a good deal, especially as an add-on to a busy sightseeing day. The inclusion of a hair accessory, necklace or earrings, and a quick styling session adds to the perceived value.

Who Will Love It?

This tour appeals most to those who enjoy dressing up, love photography, or want to add a playful element to their trip. Families with children, or couples looking for a fun date idea, find it particularly appealing. If you’re someone who appreciates light-hearted activities that create share-worthy photos and memories, this is a perfect fit.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While the activity is quick and easy, it’s largely a photo-focused experience rather than a detailed historical tour. If your main goal is to explore Hakodate’s history or get a comprehensive city tour, this should be combined with other activities. Also, costumes are worn over your clothes, so dress comfortably if you plan to walk around afterward.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes total, with 10 minutes for dressing and hair styling.
• Location: Starts and ends at Hakodate Meijikan, conveniently near public transportation.
• Group Size: Up to 8 travelers, creating an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
• Extras: Shoes and makeup are optional add-ons, but not included in the base price.
• Language: English support available, making it accessible for international visitors.
• Booking and Availability: Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. Keep in mind that the experience is non-refundable once booked.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

The reviews reinforce what we anticipated: the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Melody_M notes how the staff made the dressing quick and enjoyable, and others appreciated the quality of costumes and the ability to freely explore afterward. The convenience of being able to wear a costume that’s “easy and quick” to put on is a real plus for travelers looking to fit this activity into their sightseeing schedule.

The Sum Up

The Time Slip Experience in Hakodate with Custom Dress offers a delightful blend of fashion, fun, and photo opportunities. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a memorable, light-hearted activity that produces stunning visual souvenirs. The professional styling, large costume selection, and picturesque nearby spots make it a worthwhile activity for families, couples, or solo travelers with a playful streak.

The experience is priced competitively, especially considering the high-quality costumes and friendly guides. It’s best suited for those who want to indulge in a bit of fantasy and capture that perfect, nostalgic shot in Hakodate.

If you’re in search of a fun, visually stunning activity that breaks away from traditional sightseeing and gives you a chance to look and feel like a character from a different era, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember, it’s more about creating great photos and memorable moments—so come with your camera fully charged!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The package includes costume dressing, hair arrangement, one hair accessory, and a choice of necklace or earrings.

How long does the dressing take?
The dressing process, including hair styling, takes around 10 minutes, making it quick and convenient.

Can I wear my own shoes?
Shoes are not included but can be optional add-ons, so you might want to bring comfortable footwear to walk around after dressing.

Is makeup included?
No, makeup is optional and not included in the standard package.

Where do I meet for the activity?
The activity begins at Hakodate Meijikan, a central location near public transportation.

How long do I get to wear the costume?
You can enjoy wearing your costume for approximately one hour, enough for sightseeing and photos.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, it’s particularly popular among children, especially for adorable photo opportunities.

What kind of costumes are available?
There are over 400 costumes, including Western dresses, kimonos, and other historical outfits, all of superior quality.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
No, the tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Whether you’re a history buff, a fashion enthusiast, or simply someone eager to stand out in your photos, this costume experience in Hakodate promises smiles, selfies, and stories to tell.