In the middle of the Edo period (1603-1867), when a route around the Sea of Japan between Osaka and Hokkaido was established, merchant ships called “Kitamae-bune” appeared, taking advantage of regional price differences to sell and buy various goods at the ports they stopped at. From the upper regions (western Japan) came all kinds of daily commodities such as rice, salt, sugar, sake, and fabrics, and from Hokkaido came kelp, herring meal, salmon, etc. Various cultures were born, such as the kelp dashi seen in Kyoto and Osaka.

 

　In an era when overland routes were not developed, the Kitamae-bune was a “mobile general trading company” that transported many goods. As the main artery that supported the Japanese economy, Kitamae-bune brought great prosperity to various regions. Many shipowners dreamed of making a fortune and embarked on risky voyages, building fortunes as they saw the opportunity to succeed if they had the courage and business acumen to do so.

 

　In the Meiji era (1868-1912), the port of Otaru flourished as the gateway to the development of Hokkaido, and was crowded with Kitamae-bune ships. Otaru became a hub for many people who were involved with the Kitamae-bune, and the city developed.

 

　Many of the large stone warehouses built by shipowners during the heyday of the Kitamae-bune, restaurants that were busy social venues, and offerings to shrines and temples can still be seen today.