Kira, located on a hill overlooking the stunning Hakodate Bay, is a kaiseki restaurant that has quickly become one of our favorites. The tranquil setting, coupled with the exceptional food, makes for an unforgettable dining experience.

The restaurant is known for its exquisite kaiseki courses, which are carefully curated to showcase the best seasonal ingredients. One of the standout dishes for us was the tuna sashimi with yuba, which was incredibly fresh and expertly prepared. The yuba, or tofu skin, provided a wonderful textural contrast to the tender tuna.

Another dish that we thoroughly enjoyed was the fried ainame fish, which was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The flavor was enhanced by the accompanying dipping sauce, which had just the right amount of acidity and umami.

Of course, no visit to Kira would be complete without trying their famous red king crab (taraba-gani). The succulent meat was sweet and delicate, and the presentation was just as impressive.

Aside from the food, the view from Kira is truly breathtaking. The restaurant’s elevated location allows for panoramic views of the city and bay, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.