Guide
The Trappist Monastery is a male monastery belonging to the strict Cistercian order, located in Hokuto City, Hokkaido. Since its founding in 1896, it has preserved the traditions of faith and labor in the Hokkaido landscape. The heavy, reddish-brown brick architecture incorporates Gothic design elements, inviting visitors into a deep sense of history. Here, you can feel the breath of the monks' lives dedicated to silent prayer, while also enjoying the cultural charm of their culinary specialties, such as the renowned Trappist butter and creamy soft-serve ice cream.
The monastery's history dates back to the establishment of the Diocese of Hakodate in 1891. In 1896, the founding monastery opened and was named the "Madonna of the Lighthouse." The early years were marked by great hardship, beginning with land reclamation in a rocky wilderness and surviving a devastating fire in 1903. The site also holds significant literary value; the famous poet Mikki Rofū, known for works like "Akatombo" (Red Dragonfly), resided here at the request of the first abbot, Priest Purie Okada. This makes the monastery a profound intersection of religious spirituality and modern Japanese literary history.
One of the most breathtaking features is the "Tobetsu Rita Church," which houses precious medieval French stained glass. The light streaming through the arched windows creates a mesmerizing display of color and light that deeply moves visitors. Additionally, the monastery grounds feature beautiful tree-lined paths of tall conifers and meticulously maintained gardens. The combination of these natural elements with the historic brick buildings provides a highly photogenic landscape. The solemn and majestic architectural beauty, rooted in the traditional lifestyle of the monks, is a must-see.
Please note that the operating hours for the shop and soft-serve ice cream vary by season. From March 1 to December 24, the shop is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. From October 16 onwards, the hours change to 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. You can enjoy seasonal flavors amidst the changing natural scenery. Furthermore, Mass is held every Sunday starting at 8:45 AM at the Tobetsu Rita Church. This offers a rare opportunity to experience a traditional religious ceremony presided over by the monastery's priest.
Visitors can enjoy culinary experiences rooted in monastic tradition. The