Before the Seikan Tunnel (a tunnel between Honshu and Hokkaido) opened, ferries like the Hakkōda-maru carried passengers and trains between Honshu and Hokkaido. Today, the ship has been preserved as a museum where visitors can explore the decks, engine rooms, and even the railway car deck that once transported entire trains across the Tsugaru Strait.

Even if you’re not particularly interested in ships or railways, it’s a surprisingly interesting look at a part of Japan’s transportation history that most visitors never think about. The vessel is also much larger inside than it appears from the outside, so it’s worth allowing more time than you might initially expect.

That said, this attraction won’t be for everyone. The museum definitely feels a bit dated in places, and much of the appeal comes from the ship itself. If you enjoy transportation history, engineering, or exploring unusual museums, it’s well worth a visit. Otherwise, it may be easier to skip.