hakodate travel guide

Hakodate (����) is Hokkaido 's third largest city, located at the island's southern tip. Hakodate is best known for the spectacular views to be enjoyed from Mount Hakodate and its delicious, fresh seafood.

Hakodate was among the first Japanese port cities that were opened to international trade after the country's era of isolation . As a result, the city has experienced notable influence from overseas, and the foreign population's former residential district and a Western-style fort are among its main tourist attractions.

Onuma Park , a quasi national park with beautiful, island-dotted lakes, is located only half an hour north of Hakodate and makes a nice side trip or a stop along the journey between Hakodate and Sapporo .

Top attractions in Hakodate

Mount Hakodate •

Onuma Park •

Fort Goryokaku •

Morning Market

Red Brick Warehouses

Hakodate by interest

Getting there and around

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Hakodate city, hotels around hakodate.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Destinations

• Plan Your Trip

Hakodate Starts Here

Most Hokkaido-bound travelers are researching Sapporo , and don’t even bother looking at a Hakodate travel guide. This is unfortunate for a number of reasons, first among them that Hakodate, as a travel destination, is superior to Hokkaido in just about every way.

Of course, it’s not just Hakodate attractions like the famous (among Japanese) Hakodate Morning Market or iconic (again, largely among Japanese travelers) night view from atop the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway. Hakodate has that intangible something, one that’s at once bounded by the two bays its city center sits between and yet as high above it as the Goryokaku Tower.

Whether you’re looking for what to do in Hakodate or are simply deciding whether to include it in your Hokkaido itinerary (spoiler alert: The answer is yes!), you’ll definitely want to continue reading.

Where to Stay in Hakodate

The majority of Hakodate things to do radiate out from the area around JR Hakodate Station, so the majority of the hotels I recommend are going to be near there. However, as you browse my recommendations, I want you to keep in mind that Hakodate hotels do leave something to be desired, with a few exceptions. Apart from newer properties springing up around JR Hakodate Station (such as the fantastic Tokyu Stay), the quality of hotels hasn’t kept up with the surge in tourism.

These Hakodate hotels include La Jolie Motomachi , which is managed by popular Japanese brand WBF, and the posh Villa Concordia Resort and Spa , which sits near the ropeway for Mt. Hakodate. A third option, if you don’t mind being a bit outside the city center in tranquil Yunokawa Onsen, is Emi Hakodateya .

The Best Things to Do in Hakodate

Ascend mt. hakodate by night.

As I mentioned in the intro to this post, the Hakodate night view is primarily famous among Japanese travelers—most foreigners have never heard of it! Still, I can’t imagine feeling disappointed by the incredible site of a city sprawled out beneath you atop Mt. Hakodate , especially one with Hakodate’s geography. Sandwiches between two bays that are nearly symmetrical, it’s one of the most attractive cities in Japan , certainly from above.

Explore Unique History in Motomachi

If you’re interested in history, another of my favorite things to do in Hakodate is to explore the picturesque and charming Motomachi district, which sits roughly halfway between the station and Morning Market and the entrance to the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway. Several European-inspired structures exist here, but my favorites are the Russian-influenced Hakodate Orthodox Church as well as Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse , which houses a variety of shops and restaurants.

Eat the Famous “Dancing Squid”

Like Mt. Hakodate, the Hakodate Morning Market is a place that’s primarily famous among Japanese—or at least it was, before a certain viral video took over the internet several years back . Even if you don’t eat the so-called “Dancing Squid” (which is very much dead, and moves solely because of salt in soy sauce reacting with its neurons), the market is a feast for the eyes (and camera!) and offers delicious seafood of the non-zombie sort.

Look Down on Goryokaku’s Star Shape

The shape of Goryokaku , the famous Hakodate fort, isn’t evident until you look down on it from atop Goryokaku Tower . While you’re up there, however, you should also make sure to read up on the fort’s—and Hakodate’s—history. Although the city (and Hokkaido in general) have a much shorter and less eclectic history than Japan as a whole, the important military role Hakodate played in the not-too-distant past is fascinating to learn about.

Cross the Tsugaru Strait

Because Hokkaido’s trains are slower compared to other trains in Japan (at least until 2030, when the Shinkansen extension to Sapporo opens), options for day trips from Hakodate are somewhat limited. As a result, rather than traveling north to destinations in Hokkaido, your best course of action is to ride the bullet train under the Tsugaru Strait , whether you take a city trip to Aomori or visit Hirosaki Castle , which is especially stunning when the sakura are at full bloom.

How Many Days in Hakodate Do You Need?

Since the majority of travelers aren’t planning to visit the city in the first, the answer to how many days in Hakodate you should spend is usually a low number. While I generally recommend a minimum of about three days in each Japanese city, two days in Hakodate tends to be sufficient, especially since it’s relatively difficult to take day trips from Hakodate, compare to other destinations in Japan .

With this being said, there are enough things to do in Hakodate to justify staying 3-5 days, especially if you’re taking a longer trip to Japan (say, one month ), if you’re focusing on Hokkaido and Tohoku or if you’re simply at the phase of your Japan travel where you’re focusing on secondary and tertiary destinations.

The Best Time to Visit Hakodate

You might not have ever considered seeing Hakodate cherry blossoms , but the city is actually one of the best places in Hokkaido to enjoy the seasonal spectacle. This is especially true if you ascend Goryokaku Tower and look down on the star-shaped fort, which is literally bursting with pink and white during the first week of May every year.

On the other hand, I’m also a fan of Hakodate winter attractions, even though the city admittedly isn’t as favorable to winter travels as Sapporo and nearby destinations like Niseko and Otaru. There’s nothing like a warming seafood meal at Hakodate Morning Market on a cold winter day, or a snowstorm setting is as you walk through the churches of Motomachi.

Other FAQ About Things to Do in Hakodate

Is hakodate worth visiting.

Hakodate is one of my favorite cities in all of Japan—it is absolutely worth visiting! Whether you come in spring to see the sakura of Goryokaku Fort from above, wake at the crack of dawn to eat the controversial ika odori don at Hakodate Morning Market or simply make a weekend trip from Tokyo as an expat, Hakodate will seriously impress you.

How do you get from Tokyo to Hakodate?

Several flights to Hakodate depart Tokyo’s Haneda Airport each day, with an average travel time of 80 minutes—you should plan on a minimum of two hours door to door, depending on how far your Tokyo home or hotel is from HND. The Shinkansen Hayabusa , meanwhile, travels between Tokyo Station and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto in exactly four hours, as of May 2021.

How do I get from Sapporo to Hakodate?

Until the Hokkaido Shinkansen opens in 2030, getting from Sapporo to Hakodate is somewhat cumbersome. If you prefer to travel by train, limited express services between the city take over four hours—far from convenient. Alternatively, you can fly from one of Sapporo’s two airports (ANA flies to New Chitose, while JAL flies to Okadama), although the shock of the price (sometimes as much as ¥20,000 one-way) can often offset the short travel time of less than an hour.

The Bottom Line

Whether because of Hakodate things to do or because you’re crossing from Honshu to Hokkaido (or vice-versa) anyway, I can’t recommend highly enough that you visit Hokkaido. Even if you’re not impressed by Japan’s most famous night view, which is a relatively Japanese title anyway, I have a feeling the colors, flavors and rich history of the city will quickly wrap themselves around you. Planning a longer trip to Hokkaido or Japan as a whole? Commission a custom Japan itinerary —my Hakodate travel guide is only the beginning!

Plan Your Japan Trip

Subscribe to email updates!

Words, images and design ©2018-2024 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. Read Privacy Policy or view sitemap .

20 BEST Things to do in Hakodate, Japan [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: January 25, 2024

In this post, we’ll help you find the best things to do in Hakodate to make the most of your time here.

Hakodate, the charming Japanese city in Hokkaido, receives a lot of local and international tourists each year.

It is the first Japanese harbour city to have opened to international trade after the country’s isolation era. 

Claimed to be one of the most beautiful spots for starting your journey, the city is situated in the shadow of the impressive Mount Hakodate. 

The city includes everything from eye-catching sights, rich history, beautiful handicrafts to some of the most delicious food stalls in the world. 

Another great thing about Hakodate is the amazing countryside surrounding it. This means that you can always plan your trip to the lush parklands, national parks and local villages if you have enough time. 

Hakodate station is a popular train station in Japan as well, making it easy to travel around the city and take day trips. Hakodate Airport is also well connected to the city center by public transport if you are flying in.

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Japan with our comprehensive Japan Travel Guide.

Table of Contents

1. Explore Mount Hakodate and the Observation Deck

2. walk around tsugaru fort, 3. try the squid, 4. tour fort goryokaku, 5. shop at the hakodate meijikan, 6. attend the hakodate port festival, 7. visit the kanemori red brick warehouse, 8. day trip to the nakamura-ke residence, 9. explore motomachi, 10. visit the hakodate museum of northern people, 11. meander through onuma park, 12. visit matsumae castle, 13. stroll around hakodate bay, 14. experience autumn leaves at kosetsuen park, 15. learn history at old soma residence, 16. wander the hachiman-zaka slope, 17. take a hike at mt. esan, 18. bathe at a natural sea onsen, 19. shop at the hakodate morning market, 20. eat at daimon yokocho, best time to visit hakodate, hokkaido, toyoko inn hokkaido hakodate ekimae asaichi, hotel mystays hakodate goryokaku, hotel wbf hakodate ~ watatsumi  , budget-friendly, luxury , the best things to do in hakodate, hokkaido.

Here’s my guide to the top things to do in Hakodate, Hokkaido for your first trip here!

From eating local food at the Hakodate Morning Market, to visiting the summit of Mount Hakodate, to seeing the iconic Red Brick Warehouse and more, here are the best activities to try when visiting Hakodate.

Mount Hakodate is known for its night view and is a must-visit when visiting Hakodate. 

To get to Mount Hakodate, take a ropeway from the base of Mount Hakodate. It will help you reach the summit in around 3 minutes. 

The best time for the night view of the city is half an hour after the sunset. This is the time when the lights in the city are turned on and the sky turns to twilight colours.

Don’t miss Mount Hakodate at night as it makes for wonderful photographs and memories.

Enjoy the stunning night view and the sparkling city lights from the Mount Hakodate Observation Deck.

Tsugaru Fort, located right at the top of the stunning Mount Hakodate,  is the main highlight of Hakodate that you can’t miss when visiting. 

You can easily reach the fort via a ropeway to get to Mount Hakodate’s top.  Once you reach the top, walk past the west battery and hike towards the east and the south batteries.

You will also find a number of picnic tables just outside the fort to refresh yourself while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surroundings.

As odd as it might sound, squid is the main highlight of the seafood in Japan. Hakodate lies just next to the sea which is why it is famous for its seafood.

You will find it as the main ingredient of almost all the dishes in Hakodate – and I’m not exaggerating. 

The most renowned dish goes by the name of Hakodate shio ramen, which is ramen noodles cooked in a squid stock instead of the usual pork-based broth. 

Ika-Meshi is another famous dish to try during your tour to Hakodate. It is a dish that contains stuffed rice with the ubiquitous cephalopod.

Built in 1864, Fort Goryokaku is one of the first forts with a western-style design construction in Japan.

It has a star-shaped construction which you can explore only after climbing to the top of Goryokaku Tower and looking back over its structure.

The fort is not in the same condition as it was in the past old days. However, you can still enjoy it by going for a walk in the pretty cherry trees lined up along the Goryokaku park pathways during the sakura season.

Goryokaku Park becomes a wonderful sight during the spring season when the cherries blossom.

While it is equally mind-numbingly beautiful to wander around the blooming trees in Goryokaku Park, I highly recommend making a trip up to the top of Goryokaku Tower to admire the beauty of the fort from above!

Hakodate Meijikan is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs. You will find tasteful items from glassworks, art boxes and handicrafts to teddy bears, along with all the other items. 

Hakodate Seafood market is located nearby, where you can have fresh seafood as well as desserts. Among the desserts, Rusama-ya-Sweets is quite famous. 

If you’re wondering what to do in Hakodate and you happen to be here in August, you have to check out the Port Festival!

The Hakodate Port Festival extends over 6 days and is considered as one of the main town events. 

Unsurprisingly, squid dance is the highlight of this festival, along with Hakodate’s famous and best foodstuff. 

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse was once a storehouse. Now, it is turned into a shopping complex.

Visitors go there to shop for different items from fashion and household goods to the special Hokkaido souvenirs. 

You can also try out soft-serve ice cream made with fresh milk. A hot tip is to spend your evenings here.

The area is well lit at night and makes for a perfect photograph come night. The pictures look especially dreamy on the rainy days. 

The neighbouring Esashi lies just 70 kilometres from the city and is one of the best day trips from Hakodate.

This Japanese part was famous for its herring trade during the 18th and 19th centuries. It used to be an important central hub in the old days. 

To experience what this place looked like in those days, visit the Nakamura-ke Residence, a beautiful home constructed using cypress stone and wood.

It once belonged to a rich merchant and is quite well known since it was built with wood and stones without the use of any nails at all!

This makes it quite unique in construction and worth visiting for all the tourists that visit Hakodate.

Motomachi, which used to be a trading port city, is now a sightseeing area with various buildings. You can find the building’s design influenced by different cultures including American, Russian, and English. 

You can also find a Russian Orthodox Church by the name of Hakodate Orthodox Church depicting the influence of Russians in the region.

The Hakodate Orthodox Church bell rings at 7 am every Saturday and Sunday morning. Interestingly, it is also listed as one of the 100 Best Soundscapes in Japan. 

Other cool buildings to check out include the Motomachi Roman Catholic Church and the Old Public Hall of Hakodate. Both of these have impressive architecture and history. Motomachi Park is also a beautiful place for a walk.

Take your time to explore and stroll through the streets of Motomachi which are a unique fusion of the Eastern and the Western culture.

Hakodate Museum of Northern People is situated inside a building that was once the bank of Japan. The construction goes back to 1926.

The museum is an ode to the Ainu culture, providing a beautiful look at the native culture which is unknown outside of Japan. 

You’ll learn about interesting snippets of Japan’s past, including the primeval groups in Japan such as Sakhalin, belonging to an island located to the North of Hokkaido (currently part of Russia).

Anyone who loves to learn about history and culture should definitely visit the Hakodate Museum of Northern People.

READ MORE: Check out this list of the best places to visit in Japan to add to your itinerary!

Onuma Park, located just 20 km to the North of Hakodate, is a site worth visiting. It is known for its island-dotted lakes, picturesque volcano and the famous Mount Komagatake. 

You can plan a one day trip to Onuma park from Hakodate or stop by it on a journey between Hakodate and Sapporo.

Many trains pass between the two cities at the Onuma Koen Station, the central Hakodate station.

The most attractive point of the park is situated between the two lakes – Onuma (large lake) and Konuma (small lake). You can explore it easily by walking around it.

In fact, many walking tours are already available to help you explore the lakes’ islands and peninsulas, which are interconnected by small bridges in easy 15-60 minute walks.

You can also rent a bicycle at 500 yen/hour and 1000 yen/day. Going on cycling tours, you’ll be led around lake Onuma following the main road instead of the lakeshore for most of its distance. It still makes for a nice area to explore.

You can also enjoy sightseeing boating tours at 40 minutes intervals during summers. Each tour is about half an hour long and really adds a lot to this list of the top Hakodate attractions.

Other activities which you can enjoy in the Onuma park include tennis, fishing, canoeing and camping.

Matsumae is a former castle town located west of Cape Shirakami, the south part of Hokkaido. It lies only 20 kilometres across the Tsugaru Strait from Aomori, Matsumae.

This town was known for its shipping trade and was protected by a garrison at Matsumae Castle, the only Japanese style castle built on Hokkaido.

Matsumae Castle’s original keep has been compromised many times over the centuries. However, it is reconstructed each time.

The current structure displays a selection of artifacts of the local Matsumae clan, with some items belonging to Ainu.

You can also find a theme park by the name of Matsumaehan Yashiki. This depicts the Matsumae town of the Edo period with 14 buildings such as a shipping agent, a magistrate’s office, a merchant house and a guard station.

You would also find life-sized mannequins in the park. Period costumes are also available for rent while exploring the town.

Hakodate Bay is another amazing spot to visit in the city center. Located between the Morning Market and the Motomachi district, you will love strolling here.

The view is scenic during the day and turns extremely romantic at night due to the presence of red warehouses’ lights.

Visit Meijikan, for a special experience. You will find ninja outfits and other funny dresses inside this shop.

Also known as Miharashi Park , it is one of the most amazing places to visit in Hakodate during Autumn.

You can get to the park by bus in 40 minutes. Experience the autumn leaves which are lit up from Oct to mid-Nov.

This is the private residence of Soma Teppei , a wealthy merchant. The English audio guide will tell you about Japanese culture and Hakodate’s history and you can see an elegant garden.

It is located near Yunokawa Onsen and costs ¥540 (round-trip).

READ MORE: Add these great things to do in Japan to your itinerary !

Hachiman-zaka Slope connects a picturesque port via a hilly road.  This particular slope in Japan is quite famous throughout the country and is definitely worth visiting.

You will see roadside trees illuminated during the winter. Come night, the light from the trees and the port also gives it a romantic touch.

Mount Esan is a 618-meter-high active volcano. You can hike it for fun as it would only take an hour, making it one of the best free things to do in Hakodate.

It is part of Esan Prefectural Natural Park on the Kameda peninsula located far east of Hakodate. This is also one of the best sightseeing spots!

Mizunashi-Kaihin Onsen is a natural hot spring where tourists visit for a bath. Pack your swimming costume if you plan to have a bath here.

It is suitable for bathing in both the summer and the winter season, but only when the tide is low. Located near Mt. Esan, it is a little difficult to access.

Taking a trip to the Hakodate Morning Market is recommended for all shopping enthusiasts. 

This market is famous for local treats including fresh seafood. You can buy fresh and juicy crabs in addition to dining at some of the most amazing seafood restaurants situated right next to the Hakodate Morning Market.

I highly recommend reserving your lunch here as you cannot taste fresher Japanese seafood anywhere else.

One of the famous local specialties goes by the name of donburi , which is a rice bowl full of freshly caught seafood. The Hakodate Morning Market is the best place to try one.

Daimon Yokocho is an alley with 26 restaurants. It is more of a food street that lies near Hakodate station.

This is the best place for experiencing Japanese nightlife and experiencing Japanese paper and bamboo lanterns that are well lit up during the night.

If you’re a real foodie, you could also consider booking a ramen-making class at a local restaurant.

Hakodate Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Hakodate, we want to help you make your other plans as well by sharing the best time to visit Hakodate, Hokkaido as well as the best accommodations and places to eat in the city.

Wondering when is the best time to visit Hakodate?

June, July, August and September are the best months for planning your trip to this beautiful Japanese city. The weather is quite warm during these months. 

However, July and August are also the months when it receives heavy rains. The coldest months are in January and February. 

For swimming enthusiasts, the best time to visit Hakodate is during the month of August as it is considered the best month for swimming.

Best Places to Stay in Hakodate, Hokkaido

All these places are ideal options for budget accommodations in Hakodate, Hokkaido. The environment is clean and the food served at breakfast is typical of Japanese standards.

In other words, you won’t be disappointed!

With prices around $50 per night, this is a great value for the location. The hotel is located near the JR Hakodate station and the morning market.

And it offers excellent breakfast, parking facility, Wifi and air conditioning.

This is a great budget-friendly choice .

It is another great choice as it offers all the facilities you would want including breakfast, an in-house restaurant, wifi and air conditioning.

Conveniently located near the JR Hakodate train station and also has a market nearby. You can easily eat from many restaurants located nearby.

Best Places to Eat in Hakodate, Hokkaido

For grabbing the Yakitori lunch Hasegawa Store Bay Area is where to be. Everything here is in Japanese but thankfully, the instructions are in English.

The workers are more than happy to help you in ordering food. The food is highly raved and will certainly satisfy your hunger.

Asaichi Dining Store No. 2 is the best place for trying seafood at an affordable price. Located on the second floor of the morning market, it is conveniently located at a quick walking distance from Hakodate Station.

Shigechan Sushi is a small restaurant with a friendly environment and a delicious menu. This is one of the best sushi restaurants to try in Hakodate that promises an affordable price.

Rokkatei Goryokaku is one of the hidden gems in Hakodate. The cafe and the pastry shop are simply excellent.

Sushidokoro Kihara is an upscale restaurant that offers the best sushi in town. You can be sure of the freshness of the seafood.

L’oiseau par Matsunaga serves amazing food and top-notch service. One word to describe it – exquisite. An ideal place to bring somebody you’d want to impress.

Every dish is thoughtfully prepared at Ryotei Fumoto . They give meticulous attention to the presentation of their food and the ambience, service and food are highly raved about.

Isabel Leong

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

The Best Day Trips from Every City in Japan [2024]

18 Amazing Things to Do in Kyoto at Night (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

8 reasons why you should visit tohoku, japan on your next trip, 10 best day trips from kyoto, japan [2024 travel guide], 18 amazing things to do in nara, japan (2024 edition), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Itineraries
• Tours and Activities
• Travel Guides
• Best of Japan

JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Hakodate Travel Guide: How to Get There and What to Visit

Hakodate Travel Guide: How to Get There and What to Visit

June 15, 2022

Hakodate is on the southern tip of the Japanese island of Hokkaido. It is the third-largest city in the Hokkaido region .

The city is easily accessible from Tokyo and offers plenty to see and do. From a popular food market to stunning mountain views, there are many reasons to visit Hakodate.

This guide to Hakodate explains how to get there , what to do, and the best attractions nearby.

How to Get to Hakodate by Train

You can reach Hakodate easily by train using your Japan Rail Pass .

From Sapporo —The Super Hokuto Limited Express train connects Hakodate to Sapporo station in around 3.5 hours.

From Tokyo —The Hokkaido Shinkansen route connects Honshu to Hokkaido. The bullet train departs Tokyo station ( Tohoku Shinkansen ) and arrives at Shin-Hakodate Hokuto station. The journey takes around 4 hours. There is a 20-minute shuttle train service, the Hakodate Liner, between Shin-Hakodate Hokuto station and Hakodate Station.

Hakodate can also be reached by plane. There are direct flights from Tokyo to Hakodate Airport (HKD). There are also non-stop flights to Osaka, and Nagoya.

Getting around Hakodate: Public Transportation

The main mode of transport for sightseeing in Hakodate is the tram . Trams run all day, departing every 6 to 12 minutes, and stop at most main tourist stops . One-day tram passes can be purchased from the Tourist Information Center.

Bus services operate in Hakodate. Buses also provide direct access to tourist attractions in Hakodate. For example, there is a shuttle bus service from Hakodate Station to Mt. Hakodate Ropeway.

What to Do in Hakodate

There is plenty for tourists to see and do in Hakodate. Here are a few of the highlights when visiting this port city.

Start the day at Hakodate morning market

Hakodate Morning Market is one of the most well-known attractions for visitors to the city. You shouldn’t miss out on visiting the morning market during your stay in Hakodate.

The popular food market has around 250 stalls selling delicacies from Hakodate and Hokkaido. You’ll find fresh seafood, vegetables, fruits, and sweet treats.

It opens early in the morning. For the most memorable experience, tourists are recommended to eat breakfast at one of the fish restaurants.

The Morning Market is located close to Hakodate Station .

Views from the top of Mount Hakodate

Mt. Hakodate boasts incredible views across the city and bay. Most people use the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway , a cable car service that takes you up the mountain in 3 minutes. You could also hike.

Mt. Hakodate offers fantastic photo opportunities . Many tourists go in the evening to see lights illuminating the city.

Goryokaku fort and nature park

The site of Goryokaku Fort is open to visitors as a nature park. The fort is star-shaped , designed this way to avoid blind spots during an enemy invasion.

The park can be visited all year round. It is particularly beautiful during the spring when you can see the world-famous cherry blossoms . To view the fort from above, climb the 107-meter tall Goryokaku Tower next to the park.

Hakodate Bay Area and harbor

The Bay Area opposite Hakodate is a great place to enjoy views of the harbor , shop, and visit a café.

The Bay Area is characterized by its row of red-brick buildings. Once used as warehouses, they have been converted into a shopping mall where you can pick up some unique Hakodate souvenirs .

The Bay Area is also home to cafés and pâtisseries to try some typical Hakodate desserts.

Yunokawa Onsen hot spring resort

Yunokawa Onsen is about 30 minutes by car from Hakodate station. It is a well-known onsen in Japan .

It has a history stretching back more than a thousand years, and has retained a lot of the traditional culture.

The hot spring resort is visited by tourists and people from across the country and has been frequented by writers and artists for decades

When to Visit Hakodate

Hakodate is surrounded by water on 3 sides and, as a result, experiences mild, humid weather conditions .

Each season offers tourists a different experience. You can visit the city at any time of year, here is a brief guide to the weather you can expect in spring, summer, autumn, and winter in Hakodate:

Spring in Hakodate—March to May

This is the time of year to visit Hakodate if you want to see the cherry blossoms in bloom. Be sure to check the cherry blossom forecast for the region, so you don’t miss out.

The average temperature in Hakodate in spring is 46ºF (8ºC), long-sleeved clothing and a jacket are required.

Summer in Hakodate—June to August

Many people consider summer to be the best time to visit Hakodate . The weather is warm, with daily average temperatures of 68ºF (20ºC).

As this is a popular time to visit Hakodate, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance.

Autumn in Hakodate—September to November

Temperatures start dropping in Hakodate from September. The average daily temperature falls to around 55ºF (13ºC).

Parks in Hakodate look beautiful in autumn as the leaves turn golden. It is an enjoyable time to be in the city.

Winter in Hakodate—December to February

Winter weather in Hakodate is cold, with heavy snowfall throughout the season. Tourists visit Hakodate in the winter to take part in winter sports activities. The thick snow also makes Hakodate particularly scenic at this time of year.

You’ll need to pack warm clothing to visit Hakodate in December, January, or February.

How Many Days to Stay in Hakodate

Tourists are recommended to spend at least 2 days in Hakodate. A couple of days are required to visit all the top visitor attractions and enjoy the city.

It is worth spending the evening in Hakodate to have the chance to go up Mt. Hakodate as night falls.

You can combine a trip to Hakodate with visiting the rest of Hokkaido . Other places to visit on the island include Otaru, Noboribetsu, Sapporo , and Shiretoko.

Related posts

Related tours & activities.

• Tours & Experiences
• Tailor-made Trips
• Bahasa Indonesia

We are happy to see you again!

Continue with

Or use email.

No Account? Create one

Create account

Already have an account? Sign in

Quickly Sign up with

I agree to Japan Travel's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy . Terms of--> and acknowledge that Japan Travel's Privacy--> applies to me.-->

Email reset password link

Please check your inbox and click the link we will send to you.

Cruise ship port city in south Hokkaido

Things to do in hakodate.

Goryokaku Park

Mount Hakodate

Hakodate Delights

A Hokkaido Adventure: From Hakodate to Sapporo

About hakodate.

Hakodate is a harbour city in southern Hokkaido full of Western influences and a dazzling mountaintop view overlooking the city.

Hakodate Airport is the first touchdown spot for many visitors to Hokkaido. The airport is a great place for people who are hoping to see more of the surrounding areas of the city. Located less than eight kilometers from Hakodate Station, the city’s center, Hakodate Airport provides easy access to public transportation and is in close proximity to many famous sightseeing spots. There are plenty of sights to look forward to on your adventure in Hakodate.

Visit Goryokaku, the symbolic star-shaped fortress was built to protect the strategic Tsugaru Straight against any possible Russian invasion. In 1869, for an entire week, the fortress also became the site of the famous final battle of the Boshin War. While history buffs may love to visit for its historical importance, others can enjoy a spring-time viewing of the beautiful cherry blossoms.

For nature lovers and those looking for a wilder excursion, be sure to visit Mount Hakodate. Renowned for the views of the surrounding bay and Hakodate City, the mountain is accessible by hiking or even bicycle; and for those who don’t want to make the climb, there is also a cable car service available.

Further from Hakodate, visit Onuma in Mori Town, for fresh scallops and beautiful mountain vistas. It's also worth heading to Fukushima-cho, Hokkaido, which is home to a booming squid industry and the Edo-period castle in Matsumae City.

Hakodate is sure to impress no matter what you’re looking for. And Hakodate Airport is your gateway to a wealth of new experiences. Once you’ve finished exploring, return to the airport via the shuttle bus system or other bus lines. Thanks to its close proximity to the city center, you can even take a taxi without worrying about breaking the bank. 

Hokkaido Access Guide

Major Airports in Hokkaido

Hokkaido Top 10

• Recommended

Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry

Restaurant Mikaku

Ristorante Otto Sette

Sora Japanese Restaurant

Camaro Steak Diner

Niseko Features on 2024 Trending Destinations List

Hokkaido Named on Best of Travel 2024 List

Biratori Nibutani Ainu Museum

Hokkaido in Springtime

Altezza Italian Restaurant

Higashimokoto Shibazakura Festival

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival

Sapporo Access Guide

Hokkai Bon Odori

Hokuryu Sunflower Festival

Otaru Umeshu Festival

Asahikawa Winter Festival

Sapporo Ramen Show

Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival

Hokkaido: Top 10 Things to Do

First Time to Sapporo

When to Go to Sapporo

Where to eat in hakodate.

Hakodate Fish Market

If the thought of eating a still alive squid will make you squirm, there are other alternatives to get close to the freshest seafood..

Lucky Pierrot Hamburger

Only in Hakodate can you eat that this unique Japanese burger chain. Lucky Pierrot doesn't clown around!

Hakodate Eat Street

Hemmed between the Pacific Ocean and the cold currents from Siberia, one could imagine Daimon Yokocho being frequented by seafarers..

Places to stay in Hakodate

Hotel Grantia Hakodate Ekimae

A synopsis of my stay at the Hotel Grantia Hakodate Ekimae in Hakodate, Hokkaido

Latest Hakodate Reports

A four day itinerary touring Hakodate and its surrounding area, dining on local fish and visiting top attractions.

Savoring nature, food, and history from Hakodate to Sapporo.

Let us know how we can help.

Your Trip to Hakodate: The Complete Guide (Activities, Hotels, Savers & More)

Hakodate is a port town located in Japan's northern island of Hokkaido. Hakodate is famous for the night view from Mt. Hakodate , ramen , and a uniquely eclectic Japanese-Western culture. Here are our recommendations for first-time Hakodate sightseers, as well as info on hotels and transportation in Hakodate .

1. Quick facts about Hakodate

2. when is the best time to visit hakodate, 3. getting to hakodate from tokyo and transport within hakodate, 4. accommodations: where to stay in hakodate, 5. must-try foods in hakodate, 6. cultural things to see in hakodate, 7. recommended activities and things to do in hakodate, 8. shopping in hakodate, 9. other sightseeing hotspots around hakodate.

Hakodate is a port town in southwestern Hokkaido and is the hub city of the region. In addition to flights from Tokyo, the Shinkansen from Tokyo also reaches the city via the world’s longest undersea tunnel. Hakodate rests on a key-shaped peninsula, and the view of the harbor and the city from Mt. Hakodate at the end of the peninsula is superb! The night view in particular is said to be one of the three best in Japan, and attracts crowds of domestic and international tourists all year round. Historically, Japan held a policy of isolation for many years limiting trade with other countries, but once the country opened in the mid-19th century, Hakodate emerged as a leading trading center. With the opening of the port, Western culture quickly flowed into Hakodate from the latter half of the 19th century to the beginning of the 20th. This resulted in the construction of many unique, now historical buildings that are a mix of Japanese and Western architecture , and a food culture of international dishes prepared in a Japanese style. The scenery, night view , unique architecture , culture, and cuisine serve to make Hakodate an attractive tourist destination.

Sightseeing in Hakodate is fun no matter the season . Tourist traffic is constant throughout the year, but peaks in late April and early May when cherry blossoms at Goryokaku Park and Hakodate Park are in full bloom, and from July through September when the city’s famous squid is in season . Other notable times to visit are from the end of May to June when the vines at Goryokaku Park and Mt. Esan are in full bloom, in October when autumn leaves color the area, and in December when a huge Christmas tree is on display in the bay area.

When visiting Hakodate , in summer , you should wear clothes that you can put on quickly, while in winter , wear layers that are easy to remove.

Hakodate’s climate and what to wear

In summer , the daytime temperature is over 30°C, so it’s hot even with short sleeves. However, temperatures often drop below 20 degrees at night. Also, note that the temperature at the summit of Mt. Hakodate is about 5 degrees cooler than in the city, and the frequent winds make it feel even cooler. Even in mid- summer , bringing a jacket when taking in the mountaintop night view is a good idea. Snow usually begins falling in late October or early November. From mid-December to mid-March, there are many days when local roads remain covered in hard-packed snow. Compared to Sapporo , Hokkaido’s largest city, and Asahikawa , the second-largest city, Hakodate ’s amount of snowfall is small. Still, roads often freeze and become slippery, so walking with regular shoes can be dangerous. Winter shoes or boots with non-slip soles, or other non-slip attachments for regular shoes are appropriate safety precautions. Choosing the right shoes is very important when visiting Hokkaido in winter . Even local residents often slip and fall, resulting in broken bones or other injuries.

In winter , the temperature is often below freezing even during the day, but buildings are designed for cold weather so interiors are often quite warm, with the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors often reaching 20 degrees or more. It’s best to wear layers that are easy to put on and take off according to the temperature – wearing a scarf instead of a high-necked sweater, for example. Winter clothes and gloves, of course, are a must for Mt. Hakodate ’s night view .

Access from Tokyo to Hakodate

Flights to Hakodate It is common to fly or take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Hakodate , and flying is the fastest means of transportation. It takes about 80 minutes to fly from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport to Hakodate Airport , and then about 20 minutes by shuttle bus from the airport to downtown Hakodate . The airport is near Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen , so if you are staying at a hot spring hotel in that area, you can get there from the airport in just over 5 minutes by bus or taxi. Airfares vary considerably depending on the airline , point of origin, and time of year, with ticket prices ranging from 9,000 to 27,000 yen one way. One-way shuttle bus fare is 500 yen for adults and 250 yen for children.

For international travelers who want to take advantage of the JR Group’s unlimited ride Japan Rail Pass (JR line only), it is best to get to Hakodate by Shinkansen. From Tokyo Station , take the Tohoku-Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin- Hakodate Hokuto Station, which is the final stop, then change to the Hakodate Liner to reach Hakodate Station with only one transfer. The Shinkansen ride takes about 4 hours 10 minutes, and the Hakodate Liner is another 20 minutes. It takes longer than traveling by plane but is less complicated than flying. Also, if you are traveling from the suburbs of Tokyo like Ginza or Akihabara , the time required to travel to Haneda Airport makes the overall time required for air travel comparable to going by train.

Getting around Hakodate

If you are sightseeing within the city, you can fully enjoy Hakodate on foot, by tram and bus, and the ropeway to Mt. Hakodate . If your accommodations are near Hakodate Station, you can walk to the Hakodate Morning Market in front of the station and enjoy tasty seafood bowls and more. To get to the renovated red-brick Kanemori Warehouse shopping area and the Bay Area where you can enjoy the harbor scenery, take the tram to Jujigai tram stop, about 3 stations and 5 minutes away from Hakodate Station. It’s about a 5-minute walk from the tram stop or a 15-minute walk from Hakodate Station. The Motomachi district , where the Hachimanzaka Slope photo spot at the foot of Mt. Hakodate overlooking the harbor and the Russian Orthodox Church are located, is within a 10-minute walk from Jujigai or the next tram stop, Suehirocho. Goryokaku Tower , where you can see the star-shaped fortress moat from above, is located in Goryokaku Park , 15 minutes by tram then 10 minutes on foot from Hakodate Station.

You can reach Mt. Hakodate by ropeway, bus, or taxi. The ropeway platform is located in the Motomachi district, and is easy to reach when strolling through Motomachi and the Bay Area. It takes about 5 to 10 minutes to get there by taxi from Hakodate Station. The road leading to the summit of Mt. Hakodate is closed in winter (November 13, 2023 to April 8, 2024), but you can get there by bus or taxi from mid-April to early November. It is convenient since many buses depart from and arrive at the large hotels in front of Hakodate Station. You can also rent a car to get to the mountain , but, regardless of the season or weather, vehicles other than buses and taxis are prohibited from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM (4:00 PM to 9:00 PM after October), so if you rent a car, parking near the ropeway platform and taking the ropeway is necessary to see the night view .

In Hakodate , there are "One-day Streetcar Pass" (600 yen for adults, 300 yen for children) and "Campus" One-day Unlimited Bus Ticket (800 yen for adults, 400 yen for children) available for purchase. Since the fares for streetcars and buses range from 210 yen, it is convenient and cost-effective if you plan to ride multiple times, as it eliminates the need for individual payments each time.

Transportation for sightseeing outside Hakodate

If you want to visit Onuma Park , which home to Lake Onuma and Lake Konuma and their 126 islands, you can use the Japan Rail Pass and get there in about 25 to 30 minutes by JR limited express train from Hakodate Station to Onuma Koen Station, or about 10 minutes from Shin- Hakodate Hokuto Station. There are souvenir and bicycle rental shops in front of Onuma Koen Station, and the lakeside is a 5-minute walk from the station. If you want to go sightseeing at locations like Shirotai Ranch and Kijihiki Kogen on the way from Hakodate to Onuma Park , renting a car is your best option. If you are sightseeing only in the city, renting a car isn’t necessary, but if you plan to visit the suburbs or distant places like the azaleas and volcanic craters of Mt. Esan, you’ll need a car. Rentals are available at Hakodate Airport or in front of Hakodate Station.

Hakodate has four main areas in which many hotels can be found, and there are more places to stay in the suburbs.

Hakodate Station / Daimon Area

The Daimon district is near downtown Hakodate , Hakodate Station, and the Hakodate Morning Market. It’s convenient for transportation, and you won’t have to worry about finding places to eat. There are numerous accommodations, consisting mainly of reasonably-priced business hotels and middle-class hotels . If you’re visiting Hakodate for the first time and wondering where to stay, Daimon is a convenient starting point. Furthermore, on June 1, 2023, "Premier Hotel - Cabin President - Hakodate " opened just a 1-minute walk away from JR Hakodate Station.

• Address 14-10 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido, 040-0063 View Map
• Nearest Station Hakodate-Ekimae Station （Hakodate Tram Line 2 / Hakodate Tram Line 5 ）

Vacancy search, reservation

• from 9,900JPY 1room, 2adults View Deal
• from 11,600JPY 1room, 2adults View Deal

Check with our partner site as the latest rates, rate details, and guest room requirements may vary.

Bay area / Motomachi area

One of the Motomachi area’s advantages is that you can enjoy sightseeing day or night simply by walking from your hotel to Hakodate ’s main attractions. Although the number of hotels is rather small, there are middle and high-class hotels and B&Bs with a few guest rooms. Motomachi is home to many classic buildings and stylish accommodations; however, there aren’t many restaurants around the hotels that are open at night, so you’ll need to eat at your hotel or have dinner in Daimon. Additionally, in May 2023, the second building of "La Vista Hakodate Bay ANNEX" opened in the Hakodate Bay Area. It boasts a large communal bath on the upper floors with natural hot springs , offering a splendid view of Mount Hakodate from its elevated location.

• Address 5-23 Otemachi, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido, 040-0064 View Map
• Nearest Station Uoichibadori Station （Hakodate Tram Line 2 / Hakodate Tram Line 5 ）
• from 60,000JPY 1room, 2adults View Deal

Goryokaku area

There are a few reasonably priced middle-class hotels in the area around the Goryokaku Park tram stop, although the number is noticeably lower than what you’ll find near Hakodate Station. There’s a long-standing department in front of the tram stop, and the area has a stronger local flavor than the area surrounding Hakodate Station, so Goryokaku is recommended for those hoping to enjoy a more local, less touristy atmosphere.

Yunokawa area

The Yunokawa Onsen area is recommended for people who want to immerse themselves in Japanese hot spring culture. In the neighborhoods around Yunokawa Onsen , there are plenty of hot spring hotels of various sizes as well as purely Japanese-style hot spring inns. They range in grade from economical hotels to high-class hotels . The Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden , where you can see monkeys bathing in hot springs , is also within walking distance. Despite being from the city center, there are many direct buses to the summit of Mt. Hakodate , so you can enjoy the award-winning night view that’s the centerpiece of sightseeing in Hakodate without any problems.

Hakodate ’s signature dining consists of a variety of local foods that have evolved uniquely in Hakodate , including fresh seafood bowls, fresh squid sashimi , and Hakodate ramen . Seafood bowls and squid sashimi are usually eaten at the Hakodate Morning Market in front of Hakodate Station. Hakodate ’s specialty is squid, and you can enjoy the relatively light-tasting “ yari ika ” (spear squid) from winter to spring , and the slightly richer-tasting “ maika ” variety in summer and autumn . It’s not common throughout Japan, but one of Hakodate ’s most delicious squid dishes is “ ikagoro ,” made by combining squid offal , grated ginger, and soy sauce. Aside from sashimi , “ squid somen ,” which is squid served with soy sauce-based soup and eaten like noodles, is also popular. In addition to the Hakodate Morning Market, there are many izakaya and sushi restaurants in the city that serve squid sashimi , and the sight of freshly prepared squid moving on a plate makes for popular social media content.

Since Hakodate port opened in the late 19th century and consulates, churches, and monasteries from various countries were constructed, cultures and customs from outside Japan quickly impacted the city and food culture from all over the world took root in Hakodate . One example is Hakodate ramen . Hakodate ’s signature ramen is characterized by its light, transparent salty soup and thin noodles. According to one account, this style of ramen finds its origins in southern China’s salty tanmen noodles. It is said that Hakodate ’s earliest salt ramen was first served at Chinese restaurants in the city in the latter half of the 19th century before ramen shops became common in Japan. Nowadays, there are ramen shops all over the city, with a higher concentration around Hakodate Station and the Daimon area. Almost all shops sell salty Hakodate ramen .

In Hakodate , many restaurants serve Japanese-style Western food and sweets shops that mainly sell souffle and chocolate . One of the most well-known restaurants is Gotoken, founded by a cook who studied at the Hakodate Orthodox Church and started the restaurant shortly after the opening of Hakodate to serve Russian food and bread. It remains one of Hakodate ’s top Western restaurants, and these days, curry is one of its most popular menu items.

Local hamburger chain Lucky Pierrot is popular with locals and tourists alike. Their specialty is the “Chinese chicken burger,” incorporating Chinese-flavored fried chicken into an American-inspired hamburger. Along with Lucky Pierrot, another popular local food option is the “ Yakitori Bento ” sold at the Hasegawa Store supermarket . Yakitori is normally grilled chicken, but, for some reason, southern Hokkaido “ yakitori ” is typically grilled pork instead of chicken. This simple bento lunchbox is made by topping rice with seaweed, skewered pork, and grilled green onions. It’s a meal beloved by locals for many years. In August 2022, the former Hokkaido Government Hakodate Branch Office in Motomachi Park was repurposed as the restaurant "Jolly Jellyfish." It offers a delightful dining experience with popular dishes like the "Steak Pilaf (Stepi)," known as one of Hakodate 's signature foods. Enjoy Hakodate 's cuisine in this charming Motomachi location.

Hakodate ’s iconic sights are the oft-mentioned night view from Mt. Hakodate , the harbor view from Hachimanzaka, and the star-shaped Goryokaku fortress as seen from Goryokaku Tower . These are the must-see spots when visiting Hakodate . The Motomachi district, home to the Hachimanzaka slope, features a unique cityscape that fuses the cultures and religions of various countries. It’s a popular area for sightseeing on foot. Within a 5-minute walk from Hachimanzaka, you’ll find many different faiths represented: the Russian Orthodox Hakodate Hristos Church, Anglican Hakodate St. Johns Church , Roman Catholic Motomachi Church , churches from four different Protestant denominations, the Buddhist Shinshu Otani sect’s Higashi Honganji Hakodate Betsuin, and Shinto Funatama Shrine , which is thought to be the oldest shrine in Hokkaido.

The area is dotted with historical buildings, but the main attraction is the Western-style Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward , built in 1910. Not only is the exterior beautiful, but the interior’s gorgeous chandeliers, furnishings, walls, and doorknobs are all elegant as well. And the second-floor balcony offers a superb view of Hakodate Port! If you want to experience the history and culture of Japan, the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office in Goryokaku Park is a great place to visit. The wooden building is a restoration of a short-lived governmental office of the Edo Shogunate in the mid-19th century. The large tatami-matted hall is spectacular and you can enjoy the view of the star-shaped fortress ruins from Goryokaku Tower.

Experience the unique squid fishing activity in Hakodate , adding to the city's list of distinctive tourist attractions. At the "Live Squid Fishing Moat" in the Hakodate Morning Market, visitors can catch squid swimming in a tank using a fishing rod. The staff will then prepare the freshly caught squid as sashimi right before your eyes. Immerse yourself further in Hakodate 's culture by donning exquisite costumes reminiscent of the popular styles from over a century ago. Visit the Hakodate Hikara Costume Museum , located in the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, where you can transform into aristocrats of yesteryears and capture memorable pictures in the splendid hall.

For outdoor sports enthusiasts, Mt. Hakodate is an ideal destination for trekking. The ascent from the mountain 's base to the summit takes approximately 60 minutes and features a gentle climb without steep sections. While distinct from the famous night view , the daytime scenery is equally breathtaking. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of the shadow of Honshu, Japan's largest island, across the Tsugaru Straits. Located further away from downtown Hakodate , Onuma Park offers various activities throughout the seasons . Visitors can enjoy sightseeing boats, canoeing, and lakeside cycling during the summer , while winter brings opportunities for snowmobiling and smelt ice fishing on the frozen lake surface.

Shopping in Hakodate happens mainly around Hakodate Station, the bay area, Motomachi, and near Goryokaku Park .

Around Hakodate Station

You can buy souvenir sweets as well as take-out foods like ekiben (station lunch boxes) and deli items at the Hokkaido Shiki-Saikan and the Hakoviva and Kiraris Hakodate shopping centers in front of the station. Both fresh and processed seafood are on sale at the nearby Hakodate Morning Market ( Hakodate Asaichi). As the name suggests, the market is open from early morning, and since many shops are closed later on, it’s best to go before noon.

Kanemori Warehouse and Hakodate Meijikan are home to additional sweet shops and more. These retro brick buildings are picturesque and are perfect for taking photos while shopping.

Motomachi district

Small shops dot the area, including boutiques and galleries that sell handmade art, giving a “treasure hunt” feeling to your stroll through the city.

Goryokaku district

Hokkaido’s long-established Marui Imai Hakodate department store is an easy place to find the products locals usually buy, including original Hakodate sweets . You can also buy other desserts and souvenirs inside Goryokaku Tower.

Due to its peninsular location at the southern tip of Hokkaido, the possibility for day trips from Hakodate is somewhat limited. It’s best to think of Hakodate as the gateway to Hokkaido, enjoy sightseeing in the city and its suburbs, and make visits to other parts of Hokkaido as part of your full itinerary, rather than considering Hakodate as a “base” for your tour of the whole island. That being said, here are some typical spots you can reach on a day trip from Hakodate . Onuma Park

Onuma Park is about 25 to 30 minutes by limited express train from Hakodate and, except during the changing seasons in early winter , you can enjoy a variety of activities throughout the year, including lakeside walks and cycling. “Onuma Dango” sold in front of Onuma Koen Station, is a well-known Japanese sweet that has been around for over 100 years. Mt. Esan

About 1 hour by car from Hakodate , Mt. E, or Esan, is a volcano that rises from the beach and the azaleas that blanket the foot of the mountain are spectacular. You can rent a car to get midway up the mountain , and the volcanic crater is still visible up close. It takes about 70 minutes to reach the summit from the parking lot, and minimal climbing equipment is required to ascent the rocky mountain trail. Matsumae

About 1 hour and 50 minutes from Hakodate by car, you can visit Japan’s northernmost castle town and the restored Matsumae castle . The grounds around the castle are famous for their cherry blossoms, which bloom in late April and are visible for about a month as a variety of early to late bloomers, create a magnificent, photogenic landscape . Hakodate is a port town with a beautiful fusion of Japanese and international cultures. It harbors a landscape and food culture unlike any other in Japan. You can experience the charm of the city in only one night, but it’s best to stay for two or three nights if you want to experience the city at a more relaxed pace and take full advantage of the delights of local dining. It may also be a good idea to stay for a couple of nights in case there’s bad weather and ensure you don’t miss the night view . Plan well and enjoy a memorable trip to Hakodate ! Text by: Nobuka Kawashima *This article was originally published in October 2021 and updated in June 2023. English translation by Gabriel Wilkinson

• Area Hakodate
• Category Other Sightseeing
• How To: Sightseeing

Share this article.

Limited time offer: 10% discount coupons available now!

Recommended places for you.

Mt. Hakodate Observatory

Forests & Mountains

Sapporo / Chitose

Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike)

Rivers, Lakes & Canyons

Furano / Biei / Sounkyo

Rukku and Uohei

Farm Tomita

Other Nature

Otaru Canal

Travel Expert-Recommended! 5 Onsen Hot Spring Hotels & Inns in Otaru (Hokkaido)

4 Must-Visit Spots for Beautiful Pink Moss Phlox Carpets in Hokkaido: Monthlong 'Floor Sakura' Viewing

Your Trip to Obihiro (Hokkaido): The Complete Guide - Activities, Hotels, Savers & More

Expert-Recommended! 5 Sapporo Hotels with Great Breakfasts

Family-Friendly Accommodations: 5 Recommended Apartment Hotels in Sapporo (Hokkaido)

Complete Guide to Cherry Blossoms in Hakodate & Southern Hokkaido (Best in Early May)

(Video) Walking Tour along Narita Omotesando - Quaint Historical Village near Narita Airport!

Hokkaido Lavender Fields: 6 Best Places in Furano to See Japan's Dreamiest Purple Meadows

Travel Guide to Hokkaido: Popular Destinations, Activities, Hotels & More

Traffic Rules and Etiquette

Japan's Bath Culture: Tips You Should Know!

Transportation in Hokkaido: Travel Tips on Public Transport (Access, Cost, Distances)

• #best sushi hokkaido
• #things to do hokkaido
• #best ramen sapporo
• #what to bring to japan
• #new years in tokyo
• #what to buy in ameyoko
• #japanese nail trends
• #what to do in odaiba
• #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
• #best sweets otaru
• #japanese fashion culture
• #best nature furano
• #japanese convenience store snacks
• #best japanese soft drinks

Niigata's Murakami City: Enjoy Fun Events, Sightseeing, and Local Cuisine!

We use cookies to improve our contents. Check the detail and update your settings here .

We use cookies to improve our services.

For more details, please click here .

• Change setting
• Food & Drink
• Accommodation
• Things To Do
• All the categories

Transportation

• Weather & Seasons
• Long-Term Stay
• Travel Tips
• Event Tickets
• About MATCHA
• Company Profile
• Things To Do in Hokkaido
• Food & Drink in Hokkaido
• MATCHA Special Features

Hakodate Travel Guide: See The Sights In A Beautiful Hokkaido City

Hakodate in eastern Hokkaido is a lively, unique city that is fun both day and night. This article is a complete travel guide to a city with Mt. Hakodate, Goyrokaku, Japan's first western-style 5-sided fortification, as well as many other exciting sightseeing spots.

Traveling in Hakodate

Hakodate is the third most populated city in Hokkaido, falling after Sapporo and Asahikawa, respectively. It is located in the eastern part of the prefecture.

In 1859, together with Nagasaki and Yokohama, Hakodate opened its port to the world, and soon became a city with an international air to it, as numerous English and French moved into the area. For the sake of their new residents, churches and consulates were built, giving the city its characteristic look. And as these buildings are still standing, Hakodate, when compared to other Japanese cities, has a somewhat exotic look to it.

Hakodate is also known for having perhaps the most beautiful night views in all of Japan, incredibly fresh seafood caught daily off its coastline, and other fun travel destinations. Let's take a closer look at Hakodate.

Table of Contents:

1. Hakodate Area Guide 2. How to Reach and Navigate Around Hakodate 3. 20 Most Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Hakodate 4. A Two Day Model Itinerary for Hakodate 5. The Climate and What to Wear in Hakodate 6. Souvenirs from Hakodate

Hakodate Area Guide

If you divide Hakodate into its largest sections, then it splits into three main areas - Motomachi, Bay, and Yunokawa Onsen and the airport areas. Now let's take a closer look at the features and sightseeing spots of each of these areas.

Motomachi Area

Motomachi spreads out at the foothills of Mount Hakodate. The city streetcar route travels from Suehirocho Station to Jujigai Station and is dotted with sightseeing spots. It takes 7 minutes by train to travel from Suehirocho Station to Hakodate Station by streetcar, or it is a 20-minute walk.

With many different churches and Hachimanzaka (a famous hill known for its beautiful scenery), this area has a particularly exotic feel to it. From the summit of Mount Hakodate you can enjoy a jewel-box like night view, that has been aptly nicknamed, 'The Million Dollar Nightscape'.

This is the beach area that spreads out past Motomachi. The sight of the harbor and the red brick warehouses here makes for a beautiful view as well. With shopping halls, beer halls, foods you'll want to take photos of, and lovely places to stroll, there are many different ways to enjoy this area.

Yunokawa and the Airport Area

Yunokawa Onsen has been a hot spring area since the olden days, and here is where you will also find the centrally located Hakodate Airport as well. A trip to Yunokawa Onsen takes only 17 minutes from the airport by shuttle bus, while from Hakodate Station to Yunokawa Onsen it takes 15 minutes by bus or 30 minutes by streetcar.

At the Hakodate City Nettai Botanical Gardens from December to about the end of May, visitors can enjoy watching Japanese macaques playing in the hot spring waters.

How to Reach and Navigate Around Hakodate

The convenient Hakodate streetcar. Photo courtesy of Hakodate City Tourism Department

Traveling from Haneda Airport to Hakodate

Hakodate can be easily reached via airplane from Haneda Airport. Every day there are 10 direct flights to Hakodate run by airlines like JAL, ANA, AirDO, and others. A one-way trip will cost roughly 10,000 to 30,000 yen, and the flight takes about an hour and 20 minutes.

To reach Hakodate city from the airport, you can make use of the buses: there is a direct shuttle bus from the airport to Hakodate Station every 20-30 minutes. The route takes about 25 minutes and costs 410 yen.

Traveling from Tokyo Station to Hakodate

From JR Tokyo Station, you can take the Hayabusa Shinkansen, which will have you arriving at Shin-Hakodate Hokuto Station in 4 hours. The average price for a ticket on this train costs about 23,430 yen.

Take the JR Kaisoku Hakodate Liner from Shin-Hakodate Hokuto Station to Hakodate Station; it takes about 15 minutes and costs 360 yen.

Traveling from Sapporo to Hakodate

If you are traveling from Sapporo Station, take the Hokuto limited express to Hakodate Station. Transfer-free, it will take about 4 hours and cost 8,310 yen.

Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass): How to Buy and Use, Price, and Benefits

International Routes to Hakodate Airport

Hakodate Airport is the second largest airport in Hokkaido, after New Chitose Airport.

There are also international flight routes from China and Taiwan here. From China's Tianjin Binhai International Airport, Tianjin Airlines flies non-stop to Hakodate Airport. From Taipei's Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, EVA Air and Tigerair operate direct flights to Hakodate Airport.

The Best Ways to Get Around in Hakodate - The 1 Day Ride Ticket

In order to reach most of the sightseeing spots in the city, visitors should make use of the municipal railway (the streetcar).

The streetcar links Hakodate Station with Motomachi, the Bay area, Goryokaku, Yunokawa - all of the major sightseeing spots are connected, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. The ticket fare for each area ranges from 210-260 yen a ride. But there is also the very reasonable 1 Day Ride Ticket , which costs 600 yen for adults and 300 yen for children. The discount ticket is sold on the streetcars and at Hakodate Station's tourist information center.

There are also loop buses, taxis, rental cars, and even rental bicycles to round out the many means of transportation in the city.

20 Most Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Hakodate

1. mt. hakodate.

Hakodate is perhaps most famous for the "Million Dollar View" from Mt. Hakodate . To see this night view, take the 334-meter long ropeway from the foothills to the summit, which takes 3 minutes, and is located about 20 minutes away from Hakodate Station. The contrast of the twinkling city lights and the pitch blackness of the ocean is indescribably beautiful.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Motomachi 19-7 Website: Mt. Hakodate Ropeway

2. Hakodate Morning Market

The Hakodate Morning Market takes place close to Hakodate Station. This is where you will find amazing fresh seafood and marine products , along with street food, drinks, and in-season fruit.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Wakamatsucho 9-19 Website: Hakodate Morning Market

3. Yunokawa Onsen and Hakodate Nettai Botanical Gardens

Yunokawa Onsen is a hot spring area easily reached from the city of Hakodate. From Hakodate Station to Yunokawa Onsen Station, the gateway to this hot spring area, it only takes 35 minutes by streetcar. Around the station, there are many free foot baths and moderately priced bathhouses as well.

For those coming to Hakodate in the winter, the Hakodate Onsen Nettai Botanical Gardens are strongly recommended. Have you seen the videos online or on TV of monkeys enjoying a hot spring ? That idyllic scene can be viewed in person at Hakodate's Nettai Botanical Gardens.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Yunokawacho 3-1-15 Website: Nettai Botanical Gardens

4. Hachimanzaka

Hachimanzaka , the Hakodate slope that stretches straight onward and commands an amazing view of the port, is consistently ranked as the number one Japanese hill most tourists want to visit .

Hachimanzaka can be reached on foot from Hakodate Station (a 20-minute walk), or in 15 minutes on the streetcar (getting off at the Suehirocho stop). If you would like to see this area when it is less crowded, then we recommend visiting before 10:00.

Address: Hakodate, Suehirocho

5. Hakodate Harbor

Also located close to Hakodate Station, Hakodate Harbor has prospered as a fishing and trade port since long ago. Part of the appeal of the night view over Hakodate and the scenery from Hachimanzaka comes from the ship traffic and red brick warehouses of Hakodate Harbor. From March to December, a sightseeing ferry is also available here.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Minatocho

6. Kanemori Aka Renga Soko

A 15-minute walk from Hakodate Station, or a 13-minute ride via streetcar, the Kanemori Aka Renga Soko , or Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses , built in the Meiji era to be used as warehouses for clothiers. Now, these buildings are full of restaurants, beer halls, and general stores.

Within the warehouse shops, you can find cute music boxes being sold at the Hakodate Music Box Hall, and rich milk jam made from fresh Hokkaido milk at Le Confiture, while other buildings are home to the Hakodate Beer Hall, and many other fascinating shops. If you are looking for souvenirs, this is the perfect place to visit.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Suehirocho 14-12 Website: Kanemori Aka Renga Sogo

7. Onuma Quasi-National Park

Photo courtesy of Hakodate Tourism Department

For those who have some extra time in their schedules, a trip to the Onuma Quasi-National Park is a must. It is a 30-minute ride away from Hakodate Station via the Hokuto limited express.

Onuma Quasi-National Park is where you can enjoy beautiful reflections on the mirror-like surface of Komagadake Lake in summer and a snow-filled, frozen solid landscape in winter.

Depending on the season, you can canoe or go horseback riding or snowmobile here, making it a great leisure place all year round.

Address: Hokkaido, Kamedagun, Nanaecho, Onumacho 1023-1 Website: Onuma Quasi-National Park

8. Goryokaku Tower

Completed in 1864, Goryokaku was the nation's first Western-style five-sided fortification (goryokaku meaning "five-sided fortification"). A fantastic panoramic view can be had from Goryokaku Tower, which stands 107 meters tall. And as there are also some souvenir shops here, it is a great place to do a bit of shopping too.

Not only that, Goryokaku Koenmae Station and its surrounding area are well-known sakura spots in spring. It takes about 10 minutes by bus from Hakodate Station to reach this area.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Goryokakucho 43-9 Website: Goryokaku Tower

9. Former British Consulate of Hakodate

Built in 1859 and used for the next 75 years, the Former British Consulate of Hakodate is the ideal place to see what the city of Hakodate was like when the port was opened as it has been well-preserved and now serves as quite the elegant and popular museum. As it is quite close to Hachimanzaka, it is a good idea to come here after you have been to view the slope.

Though you will surely learn some history while here, it is also fun to take photos through the comic foregrounds (the panels you stick your face through depicting funny characters or poses), or of the giant world map carpet , and to enjoy some real English tea and sweets in the cafe.

In the courtyard there is an English rose garden where there are 139 plants of 60 different varieties of roses growing (as of July 2015); these roses are at their best from the end of June to mid-July.

Address: Hakodate, Motomachi 33-14 Website: Former British Consulate of Hakodate

10. Seikan Ferry Memorial Hall Mashuumaru

Right next to Hakodate Station you will find the Seikan Ferry Memorial Hall Mashuumaru - a museum dedicated to ferries. Inside this museum, you can see actual ferries that were placed directly into the museum, so ship and boat fans are sure to enjoy visiting this spot.

If you aren't able to try the actual ferry, how does a visit to a pilothouse and imagining oneself as the ship captain, or standing on the deck of a ship feeling the gentle sway of the waves sound?

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Wakamatsucho, #12 Website: Seikan Ferry Memorial Hall Mashuumaru

11. Yachigashira Onsen

This representative hot spring is located close to the foothills of Mt. Hakodate and to Tachimachisaki.

Well-loved by the locals, you can enjoy the waters of this onsen for very reasonable prices: 420 yen for adults, 140 yen for children from 6-12 years old, 70 yen for children from 3-6 years old, and free for children under 3.

Website: Yachigashira Onsen

Incidentally, there are some important manners that you should know before visiting a Japanese hot spring, such as that you must bathe outside of the tub first, and that long hair should be kept tied back - to learn more about the etiquette required at onsen, please read What You Should Know About Bath Culture In Japan .

Bath Culture In Japan: What Every Visitor Should Know Ahead Of Time

12. Hakodate Park

Selected as one of Japan's 100 Historical Parks and part of the Northern Landscape Gardening Heritage, this garden is living history. This park first took shape in 1879, as Hokkaido's first Western-style public park. Inside the park, you will find the Hakodate Municipal Museum, and an amusement park - making this a place that those traveling with children will find ideal to visit.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Aoyagicho 17 Website: Hakodate Park

13. Hokkaido Sakamoto Ryoma Museum

Exhibitions of materials related to the late Edo era samurai, Sakamoto Ryoma are displayed in this museum. Here you can see Sakamoto Ryoma's favorite sword, as well as his guns and other articles he imported from Holland and France on exhibition as well. Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Suehirocho 8−6 Website: Hokkaido Sakamoto Ryoma Museum

14. Cape Tachimachi-misaki

This is the cape on top of a cliff. From here you can enjoy an unbroken view of Tsugaru Strait, which is said to be one of the most picturesque areas in Hakodate.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Sumiyoshicho

15. Hakodate Hikari no Yatai Daimon Yokocho

Hakodate Hikari no Yatai Daimon Yokocho, a 5 minute walk from Hakodate Station, is a yatai or food stall street, where you can purchase ramen, sushi, Genghis Khan (a grilled mutton and vegetable dish), and various other delicious Hokkaido specialty dishes from over 20 different shops. If you want to try sushi and sashimi made from fresh Hakodate seafood, local specialty ramen, and other delicious dishes, then this is the place to visit.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Matsukazecho 7 Website: http://hakodate-yatai.com/

16. Inishie Kaido

The earliest port to open in Hokkaido belongs to Esashichou. Formerly a prosperous fishing and trading area, traces of the past townscape still remain and have been reproduced here on the Inishie Kaido. Here you can see reproductions of homes, restaurants, general stores, and even beauty parlors from bygone days, making it overflow with historical charm and into a popular tourist attraction.

It can be reached by train in about an hour from Hakodate Station.

Address: Hokkaido, Hiyamagun, Isashicho, Nakawacho, Ubagamicho Website: Inishie Kaido

17. Oniushi Park

This park is most famous for its sakura, or cherry blossoms. Come the spring, about 500 trees of 20 different varieties burst into bloom, coloring the park in shades of pink. This is the only place that you can view unusual sakura types, such as the Horiihi zakura and Komami sakura.

Address: Hokkaido, Kayabegun, Morimachi, Uwadaicho 326−1

18. Todohokke Mizunashi Kaihin Onsen

This is a natural hot spring on the beach. The time that you can enter the hot spring depends on the rising of the tides. As it is a mixed-gender bath, you should bring your swimsuit if you are wanting to visit this hot spring.

Address: Hokkaido, Hakodate, Esanmisakicho 100 Website: Todohokke Mizunashi Kaihin Onsen

19. Tobetsu Trappist Monestary

This is a Catholic monastery that began in 1894. The Trappist butter, butter candies, and Trappist cookies made by the monks here are exceptionally popular and make the perfect souvenir.

Address: Hokkaido, Hokutoshi, Mitsuishi 392 Website: Tobetsu Trappist Monestary

20. Matsumae Castle

This is the sole Japanese-style castle in Hokkaido, the current form of which comes from its reconstruction in 1959. Known as an excellent sakura viewing spot, there is Matsumae Castle Town Festival held here annually.

Address: Hokkaido, Matsumaegun, Matsumaecho, Azamatsushiro 144 Website: Matsumae Castle

A Two Day Model Itinerary for Hakodate

If you want to enjoy your fill of everything that Hakodate has to offer, then we recommend spending about 2-3 days sightseeing in the area. Here we will introduce our two day itinerary to see the sights.

Day 1: Hachimanzaka, Red Brick Warehouses, Nightview - Enjoy Romantic Hakodate!

For the first day, travel through the Motomachi and Bay area, then enjoy the night views that are synonymous with sightseeing in Hakodate.

10:00 Visit the Former British Consulate of Hakodate and take some fun pictures. 11:30 Travel along Hachimanzaka, and head to the Bay area; go to Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse for lunch and for some souvenirs! 15:00 Go to Goryokaku Tower 18:00 See the Million Dollar View! Take the ropeway up Mount Hakodate

Day 2: Morning Market, Onuma Quasi-National Park, Nettai Botanical Gardens - Take in Hakodate's Marine Products and Nature!

On the second day, it's time to enjoy the marine products and grand natural sights that make up Hakodate.

06:30 Go to the Hakodate Morning Market 08:00 See the scenery! Head to Onuma Quasi-National Park 13:00 Watch the monkeys soaking in the hot springs at Hakodate Nettai Botanical Gardens

Check out Enjoy Hakodate's Elegant Streets and Nature with This 2-Day Itinerary! for more.

The Climate and What to Wear in Hakodate

Hakodate is cool in the summer, but well-known for having harsh and cold winters.

From July to September the average temperature hovers around 18-22 degrees Celsius, making it a very comfortable place to visit. In the evenings, though, the temperature does drop a bit, which may leave some people feeling rather chilly, so it's a good idea to bring a shawl, light sweater, or a jacket with you, just in case.

In the winter however, Hakodate's average temperature stays at about 0 to -2 degrees Celsius, and from December to March there is quite a bit of snowfall, so if you are planning to visit at this time, make sure to bring proper winter coats, hats, scarves, gloves and even snow boots in order to be fully prepared for the conditions.

Souvenirs from Hakodate

Our most recommended souvenir from Hakodate would have to be the cheese omelet, a famous type of cheesecake. Having the thick, rich texture of a half-cooked omelet, both men and women, and the old and young all equally love this popular dessert. Completely additive-free, this cheesecake is also entirely made from ingredients produced in Hokkaido only.

Other popular souvenirs include the blended Western and Japanese snack "Hotate no Okoge" (crisp rice cakes made with scallops), as well as locally made wines, Trappist cookies made with Trappist butter from the monastery - all make for perfect Hakodate souvenirs.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Trip to Hakodate

Hakodate: a city with a unique atmosphere where Western-style Meiji era buildings can still be found lining the streets. This city is a sight to see not only in the day but at night as well.

When you visit, please make sure to savor the fresh, locally caught seafood and locally produced beers and wines - these are tastes that can't be had anywhere else.

Food Expenses for Travel in Japan: 1,000 Yen Meals and Budget Tips

Related topics

Top articles.

Hokkaido's Weather And What To Wear During Your Trip

Hakodate: Top 20 Things to Do in 2024, Access, and Travel Tips

Sapporo Travel Guide – Sightseeing, What To Wear, Local Food, And More!

Related article.

Hiroshima: 35 Things to Do and Travel Tips

Tokyo Travel Guide 2024: Top 35 Things to Do

Osaka: 52 Things to Do and Places to Visit

Kyoto: 50 Things to Do, Places to Visit, Hotels, and Travel Tips

Fukuoka: 30 Things to Do, Festivals, Hotels, and Travel Tips for 2024

Hokkaido: 40 Fun Things to Do, Places to Visit, Events, and More

Enjoy Hakodate's Elegant Streets and Nature with This 2-Day Itinerary!

Start planning your trip

Special Features

Popular Searches

Latest news.

Showa Kinen Park Flower Festival 2024: Enjoy Nemophila, Tulips, and More!

A Must for Nature Lovers! Win a Free Stay at Unzen Amakusa National Park

A World of Light and Color! Van Gogh Alive in Japan 2024

Cherry Blossom Light-up in Tokyo! Yomiuri Land's Jewellumination

Cherry Blossoms and Sky Lanterns! Aichi Hanami Lights 2024

Japan's Public Holidays and Long Weekends in 2024

Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom: A Shopping Mall Featuring a Resort Aura

Suica and Pasmo IC Cards: Prepaid Transportation Passes in Japan

Riding Taxis in Japan: The 6 Best Apps to Grab a Cab

How to Travel to Kyoto From Osaka: The Fastest and Cheapest Ways

New articles.

About the product [sample incense] sold at the shop

[Okinawa Yambaru]18 sightseeing spots and gourmet foods in Nago City! Enjoy play, nature, and food in Nago!

Room Introduction [Maisonette Suite Room with Barrel Sauna]

Nemophila field and yellow train

Golden Week 2024 in Japan: Dates, Events, and Travel Tips

• Czech Republic
• Budapest, Hungary
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Complete Japan Travel Guide
• Kanto Region (Tokyo, Hakone)
• Kansai Region (Osaka, Kyoto)
• Kansai Wide (Wakayama)
• Chugoku Region (Hiroshima)
• Chubu Japan
• Hokkaido Japan
• Kyushu Japan
• Jeju Island, South Korea
• KLOOK Promo Code & Voucher (2024 April)
• Agoda Promo Code

Hakodate Itinerary: Things To Do For 2-Days in Hakodate

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

A southern gateway to Hakodate, one of the port cities in Hokkaido. Read more on how to plan your one or two days Hakodate itinerary. My itinerary included!

Hakodate (函館市), one of Japan’s most underrated cities. This lovely city boasts a laid-back international atmosphere with mouth-watering fresh seafood. Spend one, two, or three days in Hakodate to wider your destination to southern Hokkaido. You’ll find Hakodate worth your visit.

Below two days Hakodate itinerary is highly recommended. It is ideal for those who love to get a good taste of Hakodate has to offer. My actual visit is one and half-day in Hakodate. After that, we were getting to Lake Toya at noon on the second day.

We have summarized our Hakodate trip with itinerary into this article. This Hakodate travel guide blog will include all the best things to do, food to eat, transportation guide, and money-saving tips. Hopefully, this Hakodate travel guide is helpful to plan on your coming Hakodate itinerary.

Table of Contents

My Visit: Two Days Hakodate Itinerary

Before this, my visit to Hakodate keeps debating. We will keep changing the plan ever since I start planned for my Hokkaido trip. Compared with Sapporo, Hakodate does not offering a massive amount of things to do. Added, this city is located at southern Hokkaido. It required about 4 hours of express train journey from Sapporo with expensive transportation costs.

However, I am glad that I finally make the right decision. It not a bad idea to explore Hakodate. Most importantly, plan your Hokkaido itinerary properly. It can greatly save you some money.

Here are the best things to do in my Hakodate itinerary:

• Arrived Hakodate. Check-in hotel and lunch with Lucky Pierrot Hamburger
• Goryoyaku Tower and Park
• Kanemori Red brick warehouses
• Wandering around in Motomachi Street
• Enjoy Night view in Mt Hakodate by Hakodateyama Ropeway
• Eat the Hakodate specialty shio (salt) ramen
• Next morning: Hakodate Morning Market. Have a seafood donburi (rice bowl) as breakfast.

Day 1: Japan’s Top Three Night View

Getting to Hakodate from Sapporo. Hakodate: Goryoyaku Tower and Park, Kanemori red brick warehouses, Mt. Hakodate

For long-distance travel, JR Pass is one of the important passes to save on the transportation fee. The most important thing to do when reached Sapporo is looked for JR Office.

To maximized on the 3 days JR Hokkaido Pass, we choose to depart from Sapporo in the morning. Thanks to the arrangement, we managed to arrived Hakodate before afternoon. Have a quick refresh after check-in to my accommodation in Hakodate. We are ready and excited exploring around.

Check out my stay in Smile Hotel Hakodate which strategic located nearby Hakodate station for easy moving around.

Lucky Pierrot Hamburger

The first thing to do is looked for my lunch. We choose Lucky Pierrot Hamburger as our first meal in Hakodate. This popular burger shop is Hakodate homegrown fast food chain restaurant, offers unique burger in their menu. Try their Chinese Chicken Burger, served with deep fried chicken with sweet and spicy sauce.

Getting to Lucky Pierrot Hamburger : There are several restaurants in Hakodate. You can find at front of Hakodate station, Goryoukaku Park, nearby Kanemori red brick warehouse and more. Get the one suitable for your itinerary.

Goryokaku Fort: The Star Shaped Vista

Next, heading to Goryokaku Fort after the filling lunch. The old Goryakaku Fort is well known for its western star-shaped fort surrounded by a giant moat for defense. This fortress is built in the 1860s as a military installation.

Goryokaku Fort is now one of the best places to chill out in Hakodate. Moreover, it is also one of the best places for cherry blossom in Hokkaido with 1600 cherry trees surrounded during early of May.

It’s nice to take a stroll around Goryokaku Park. Fresh atmosphere, beautiful trees for green natural. Many locals bring their family or friends gathering at the park.

Hakodate Magistrate Office is the official government office of the Edo Shogunate. It has lots of interesting and informative exhibits on the magistrate and how this building was reconstructed.

Required to pay for ¥500 for the entrance. We did not enter this historical building and choose to wandering around in the park.

For the best view, go to Goryokaku Tower Observatory for the entire perfect star-shaped Goryakaku Park from above. The view of the park is stunningly beautiful. It gives a great view of the fort and surrounding Hakodate.

Admission cost about ¥900 for the access to 98 meters high of bird’s eye view. You can get the Goryokaku Tower Admission Ticket from Klook at cheaper price.

Getting to Goryokaku Fort : Many buses and trams can get you to the Goryokaku Fort. Access to Goryokaku Park from Hakodate station to Goryokaku Koen-mae stop. From there, walk another 10 minutes will get you to Goryoyaku Tower.

Kanemori Red brick Warehouse

Next, we were ready to explore the city center. Hakodate was one of the first ports open to foreign trade. So this explained the western-influenced facade of Kanemori red brick warehouse. It also one of the best places in Hakodate for a leisure visit.

Enjoy strolling along the Hakodate bay with a breathtaking view. Hopped on one of the shops selling souvenirs, fashion apparel, restaurants, and cafe. The famous Pastry Snaffle’s and Petite Merveille can be found at here.

Getting to Kanemori Redbrick Warehouse : From Jujigai tram station and walk for 5 minutes.

Motomachi: Historical Western Neighborhood

If you have time, consider include the visit to the historical Motomachi area. Several historical churches and western buildings are awaiting you to explore. The Russian Orthodox Church, Motomachi Roman Catholic Church, Hakodate Episcopal Church, Old British Consulate represents the Western Historical in Hakodate.

Getting to Motomachi : Take the tram and get off at Jujigai. Walk for 15 minutes uphill walk. 

Mount Hakodate: Million Dolar Night View

We proceeded to Mt Hakodate for the unobstructed view of Hakodate. The Hakodate night view is voted as one of the world’s top three-night views. Celebrate your first night in Hakodate with the jewel-like nigh view on top of Mount Hakodate.

Make your way up to Mt Hakodate by the Hakodateyama Ropeway for 1780 yen. It is the most scenic way of getting up the peak at 334 meters. This attraction is extremely popular, so please arrive before the sunset and expected for the queuing time from 30 minutes to 1 hour.

See the breathtaking million-dollar night view of Hakodate from Mt. Hakodate Observation deck. Definitely worth the visit.

Getting to Mt. Hakodate : Access to Jujigai tram stop and walk for 10 minutes to the ropeway station. Take the 3 minutes ropeway ride to summit at ¥1280 for round trip. Alternative, Take the (#4) bus from Hakodate JR station directly to the summit at ¥400 with 30 minutes. 

Hakodate Shio Ramen From Ichimonji

Hakodate is famous for shio (salt) ramen. One of the must-try food when visiting Hakodate.

Our first day of Hakodate itinerary ended with one bowl shio ramen with home grow noodles. We went to Ichimonji Hakodate Ramen which specialty is shio ramen for our late dinner. The clear soup made from the chicken is very flavoury delicious. What a wonderful day!

Day 2: Hakodate Morning Market

Hakodate: Morning Market. Next, getting to Lake Toya from Hakodate  

Begin your second day with seafood donburi (rice bowl) as breakfast. A visit to Hakodate Morning Market is a must-do when visiting Hakodate. The night view at Mt. Hakodate and the morning market are the major attraction for staying one night in Hakodate.

Hakodate Morning Market is located nearby Hakodate station with merely 5 minutes of walking distance. It starts opens as early as 5 a.m. and welcomes millions of locals and visitors every year.

Local produce and seafood such as scallop, sea urchins, salmon eggs, squids, crabs are fill up the whole market. Grab the famous Hokkaido scallop as souvenir. The price is very cheap compare to outside with a similar size and weight.

Squid Catching Challenge

You can try the squid catching challenge from the fishing pond. The chef will prepare the fresh sashimi from your catch.

Don’t miss the chance to try the local specialties at Donburi Yokocho Ichiba. It is a food alley arcade nearby the Hakodate morning market. Try the best donburi in Hokkaido at one of the seafood specialty shops here.

We choose the Ebisuya Sushi Shokudo at Donburi street. It offers over wide varieties of seafood donburi up to 50 types. The seafood is so fresh and delicious. I start missing my Hakodate trip.

Getting to Hakodate Morning market : 5 minutes walk from JR Hakodate Station

After the filling breakfast, we packed our luggage and proceed for our next destination to Lake Toya. Consider the 4 hours JR train ride from Sapporo to Hakodate, spending one day in Hakodate without overnight maybe too rush. Try to allocate your itinerary by staying one night in Hakodate. Don’t miss the best night view in Mt Hakodate and visit on Hakodate Morning Market at the next day.

Our two days Hakodate itinerary is just nice and cover most of the must-visit attraction in Hakodate. We enjoy the food and attraction in Hakodate.

Where To Stay

Four Points by Sheraton Hakodate : One of the best sellers in Hakodate. Thanks to its strategic location and classic interior design. Friendly and professional staff are ready to help with any problem.

FAV Hotel Hakodate : Newly open and brand clean with good access to the Hakodate Station and morning market. Spacious and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.

Hakodate Kokusai Hotel : Mid-range accommodation stays in Hakodate which strategic located nearby JR Hakodate station. Spacious rooms are available for triple or four-person stay. Very suitable for a group of families.

HakoBA Hakodate  is highly recommended for mid-budget travelers when looking for where to stay in Hakodate on a budget. It is a historical building that transformed into an affordable accommodation with a sleek design.

More Hakodate accommodation options: Where To Stay in Hakodate: Best Hotels Pick

Transportation Guide: How To Get To Hakodate

First of all, traveling in Japan is not cheap especially for transportation. However, Japan offering a wide range of transportation pass to ease for foreign visitors for traveling around.

Depending on where is your departure city and itinerary planning. The transportation cost to Hakodate is not cheap. The single way from Sapporo to Hakodate already cost about ¥8630. Therefore, it is best to get the JR pass to save on transportation expenses.

From Tokyo To Hakodate

By Shinkansen : Get the JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass at ¥26,000 for 6 days flexible usage within the 14 days. This pass allows the Shinkansen usage between Tokyo to Hakodate which greatly saves a lot of money. Added, take the unlimited on the JR Hokkaido Lines (Southern Hokkaido) and JR East Lines (Kanto and Tohoku areas). If Hokkaido is part of your whole Japan visit, it is worth to consider the Whole Japan JR Pass .

The 4-hour bullet train journey from Tokyo Station will get you to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto. Lastly, change to Hakodate station on Hakodate Liner or Super Hokoto Limited Express with 20 minutes.

From Sapporo To Hakodate

By JR train : For long-distance travel, consider get the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass which valid 3, 5, 7 consecutive days or flexible 4 days. This pass included unlimited rides on JR trains (excluding Hokkaido Shinkansen) and JR buses. A single journey of JR train from Sapporo to Hakodate already costs about ¥8630. So this pass will pay off if you plan to travel for long distances and access to major famous attractions in Hokkaido.

Hokuto and Super Hokuto train depart hourly from Sapporo Station to Hakodate Station, with approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes of the train journey.

By Highway Bus : The journey took about 5 and a half hours for the bus journey between Sapporo and Hakodate.

Rental Car : Most of the Hokkaido’s attractions are spreading around. Renting a car and getting around Hokkaido by self-driving is another great option when visiting Hokkaido. Drive at your own pace and exploring the beauty of Hokkaido freely. Visit RentalCars.com for car rental information at Hokkaido.

Getting Around in Hakodate

One day or two-day transportation pass is available for visiting Hakodate. A one day pass for trams is only ¥600. While one or two days pass for both trams and buses will cost you ¥1000/¥1700. Most of the attractions in Hakdote can be reach by walking. We will recommended buy the one-day trams pass if you take tram more than 3 times. We were getting the one-day tram pass for the first day during my two days Hakodate itinerary

Alternative, biking is extremely popular among locals and tourists without spending too much on transportation. Do check with your hotel for free bicycle usage.

Overall: Two days in Hakodate

A day trip to Hakodate is too rush as you might miss the Hakodate morning market and night view at Mt. Hakodate. These two attractions are the must-go when visiting Hakodate.

While Hakodate is not the last stop for our Hokkaido trip after this two days Hakodate itinerary. Keep reading for our next adventure at Mt. Usu and amazing stay at Lake Toya.

Lastly, this 2 days Hakodate itinerary is part of our travel blog post to Hokkaido. If you are interested, please continue to read on for more detail on the best place to visit in Hokkaido.

How To Plan Your Hokkaido Trip On Budget: Travel Guide, Itinerary & Money Saving Tips!

• Best Hokkaido itinerary in Summer
• Hakodate, the historical city in Hokkaido
• Lake Toya Itinerary: Mt Usu, Onsen, Firework And More
• Noboribetsu itinerary: The Best Therapeutic Onsen in Japan
• Day trip to Otaru and Nikka Whisky Distillery
• Things to do in Sapporo by 2-Days
• Furano-Biei Cycling Trip ,  visit to Blue Pond by public bus

You Might Interested:

Soup Curry Garaku Sapporo: Food Review on Best Food in Hokkaido

Soup Curry is known as must try food in Hokkaido. We tasted the Soup Curry...

2 Days Sapporo Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

Making your trip to Hokkaido? There are many things to do in Sapporo. This 1-Day...

Takikawa Canola Flower Festival: Hokkaido Flower Trip

Read more on how to get to Takikawa Canola Flower Festival during blooming season. One...

Driving in Japan: Tips For Renting A Car For Japan Trip

Last updated on April 27th, 2024 Renting a car for self-driving in Japan is the...

Driving in Hokkaido: Tips For Renting Car in Hokkaido

Planning for self driving in Hokkaido? Be sure to read on our Hokkaido self driving...

Hokkaido Budget Guide: Save With JR Hokkaido Rail Pass

JR Hokkaido Rail Pass is great money saving pass if you are planning on traveling...

• 1.1 Tourist information site
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2.1 Seishun 18 Ticket
• 2.3 By boat
• 3 Get around
• 6.1.1 Department stores
• 6.1.2 Convenience stores
• 6.1.3 Drug stores
• 10 Stay safe

Hakodate (函館) is a port city in Southern Hokkaidō , Japan . Separated by the 20-km long Tsugaru Strait (津軽海峡) from Honshu , Japan's main island, the city has naturally been seen as an entrance to Hokkaido. Like Kanazawa and Nagasaki , Hakodate is one of the hidden gems of Japanese tourism. Everyone should see Kyoto and Tokyo , because they're amazing cities. But Japanese domestic tourists, having done those cities before, come in droves to some places that international tourists may not have heard of and appreciate the fabulous food, culture and history of some of Japan's lesser known cities. Hakodate should not be missed on a trip to Hokkaido.

Understand [ edit ]

Hakodate is located on the south coast of the Southern Circuit in Hokkaido , the northernmost major island of Japan. As one of the first cities in Japan to be opened to trade, like Yokohama and Kobe , there are numerous signs of foreign influence in Hakodate, notably in architecture.

Hakodate used to be the largest settlement of explorers in Hokkaido Island through and after the Meiji era, following the few years of the Republic of Ezo since 1868 (see box). The city-wide fire in 1934 significantly reduced its influence and population with many moving north. Despite continued depopulation, as of 2023, it is still the third largest city on the island with a population of roughly 240,000 people, surpassed only by Sapporo and Asahikawa .

Tourist information site [ edit ]

The local tourist association has a Japanese-only guide site .

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Hakodate Airport is connected to notable spots in the city by buses through these stops:

• Bus Stop 1: Line 7A, 7B, 7E, and 7F to Goryokaku Park.
• Bus Stop 2: Line 5 to Trappistine Convent and Goryokaku Tower, Line 96 to Yunokawa Onsen.
• Bus Stop 3: Shuttle buses to Hakodate Station and Onuma Quasi-National Park .

Otherwise, National Route 278 follows the south coast towards Hakodate Station while Prefectural Route 100 goes through the northern edges of the city proper towards Hokuto . Taxis are plentiful, if relatively expensive. Price estimates are as follows (20% surcharge added between 10 PM and 5 AM):

• Airport Area (Trappistine Convent, Hakodate Arena, Yunokawa Onsen): ¥1,500 - ¥2,000.
• Central Area (Goryokaku Park, Goryokaku Tower, Central Library, Hakodate Museum): ¥2,500 - ¥3,500.
• Station Area (Hakodate Station, Morning Market, Red Brick Warehouses, Old Town, Mount Hakodate): ¥3,000 - ¥3,500.
• Ferry Area (Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry Terminal): ¥4,000 - ¥5,000.
• Hokuto Area (Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, Trappist Convent): ¥8,500 - ¥11,000.
• Onuma Area ( Onuma Quasi-National Park ): ¥10,000 - ¥13,000.

By train [ edit ]

Hakodate has three train stations of note:

• Hakodate Station (函館駅) is downtown and served by conventional trains.
• Goryōkaku Station (五稜郭駅) is northwest of the city and connects with the Isaribi Line towards Kikonai. Not to be confused with Goryōkaku Park or Goryōkaku Tower several kilometers east.
• Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station (新函館北斗駅) is 18 km north of Hakodate Station and is the northernmost terminal for the bullet train.

Hakodate Liner (はこだてライナー) shuttle trains connect these stations, timed to match the bullet train schedule. Hokuto limited express train connect these stations northbound to Onuma Quasi-National Park , Toyako , Noboribetsu , and Sapporo .

It takes approximately 4½ hours to reach Hakodate from Tokyo using the Hayabusa bullet train and the Hakodate Liner . A one-way trip costs ¥23,500 in standard class, and is fully covered by the national Japan Rail Pass . With the bullet train expanding north to Otaru and Sapporo , the new mayor of Hakodate is considering a plan to connect Hakodate Station directly to the network. If enacted, it will be available around 2030. If you are just traveling between Tokyo and Hokkaido , consider the JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass , which is slightly cheaper than the national pass (¥35,000). This pass covers bullet train travel between Tokyo and Hakodate as well as the Hokuto between Hakodate and Sapporo . It can be used on a consecutive 6-day period. Unlike the national pass, however, the JR East-South Hokkaido Pass only comes in one version for standard class travel.

Seishun 18 Ticket [ edit ]

While not recommended due to the lack of connection, Seishun 18 ticket users who want to go to Hakodate from Honshu must purchase a separate ticket for ¥2,500. This includes bullet train travel between Okutsugaru-Imabetsu (the last stop in Honshu ) and Kikonai (the first stop in Hokkaido ), as well as travel on the Isaribi Line between Kikonai and Goryokaku Station.

By boat [ edit ]

Hakodate's main ferry terminal is roughly halfway between Hakodate Station and Goryokaku Station, and some 20 minute walk from Nanae-hama Station on the Isaribi line. Line 16 and 16A buses connect it to Goryokaku Park, while shuttle buses timed to match ferry arrivals connect it directly to Hakodate Station. National Route 227 follows the west coast connecting it to Hakodate Station, while taxis around the ferry terminal are best booked in advance for cheaper set prices.

Seikan Ferry and Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry operate ferry services from Hakodate to Aomori with multiple departures daily. Trips take 3 hours and 40 minutes. One-way fares are cheaper on the Seikan; ¥2,200 - ¥2,700 depending on the travel season. Tsugaru offers several classes of service, from standard carpet space (similar to Seikan, ¥2,900 - ¥3,900) up to a suite with two beds and an in-room shower and toilet (¥5,700 - ¥7,900). Tsugaru also sails to Ōma on the remote Shimokita Peninsula , with two daily round-trips. Fares range from ¥2,400 to ¥4,100 for the 1 hour and 30 minute ride. Vehicles can be brought to these ferries for ¥12,000 - ¥30,000.

Get around [ edit ]

Hakodate is connected by two (practically one that branches to the SW of the city) streetcar lines and roughly two-hundred bus lines. Take a ticket or tap the IC card reader when boarding, then drop the ticket in the ticket box or tap again when getting off.

Nationwide IC cards can be used in Hakodate, but using the local ICAS nimoca cuts ¥160 off bus-bus/bus-streetcar transfers, though it's probably not worth the hassle for travelers to create a card for this discount alone.

Pay exact amounts in cash, and use the 両替 machine next to the ticket box to exchange coins or ¥1000 bills to smaller denominations if needed. Larger bills and the new (silver core with gold ring) ¥500 coins can only be exchanged with the driver.

Day passes costs ¥600 for the streetcar, ¥800 for the bus, or ¥1,000 for both. Most passes can only be purchased from the DohNa!!! website , but streetcar-only paper passes can still be purchased from the driver when delighting. The two streetcar lines are Route 2 (Y, red), and Route 5 (D, blue). Both lines run from 湯の川 ( Yunokawa ) until it branches in 十字街 ( Jūjigai ). Stops on these lines are as follows:

1 Some cars terminate here later in the day. Avoid these cars when traveling westward.

2 Nearest stop to Goryōkaku Park and Goryōkaku Tower. Not to be confused with Goryōkaku Station (五稜郭駅)

3 Adjacent to Hakodate Station (函館駅)

4 Not to be confused with the ferry terminal.

See [ edit ]

• 41.75923 140.70442 1 Mount Hakodate ( 函館山 hakodate-yama , 334m ) ( A ropeway will take you up for ¥780/1280 one-way/return. There are also buses (by Hakodate Bus) from platform 4 of the main bus station in front of Hakodate Station in summer season (mid-April to mid-November). A trip back and forth will cost ¥400 each, however, the Day Pass is valid, making it a great deal! The bus frequently stops at stunning points along its venture up - this can be important as the top station is often covered in clouds. ). Offers spectacular views of the city of Hakodate in clear weather and offers, according to locals, one of the three best night views of not merely Japan but the entire world (the other claimants being Naples and Hong Kong ). The busiest time is during sunset, so if you plan to take a sunset photograph, be ready to arrive early and claim your spot... and be prepared for a 40-minute waiting queue to catch the cable car back from the summit. Ropeway: ¥780/1280 one-way/return; Bus: ¥400 return or included in Day Pass .  
• Fort Hakodate Ruins ( 函館要塞跡 ). Fort Hakodate, also known as Tsugaru Fort (津軽要塞), is located on Mount Hakodate. This was a World War II battery (though it predates World War II as a fort) which now has been recreated with camping tables where the air batteries used to be. From the upper ropeway station, use the lower exit on the left of the arrival/departure deck and follow the stairs downward to a second parking lot. There you'll see a sign of the west battery, just follow the path. For the east and south battery you have to hike or take a car there.  
• 41.7971 140.75684 2 Fort Goryōkaku ( 五稜郭 ) ( Streetcar Goryōkaku-kōen-mae (五稜郭公園前) stop ). A star-shaped fort, a symbolic site to the city itself. Completed in 1864, this was Japan's first Western-style fortress and finished just in time for it to be occupied by the Ezo Republic as their headquarters. It never saw any action though, as the rebels surrendered peacefully. Most of the fort was consequently demolished and this is now a large park and popular cherry-blossom spot in spring. The fort also houses a small museum with exhibits on local history (rotating each year). (JR Goryōkaku station is not near to Goryōkaku. Tram or bus are recommended.)  
• 41.79461 140.75385 3 Goryōkaku Tower ( 五稜郭タワー ) ( Streetcar Goryōkaku-kōen-mae (五稜郭公園前) stop nearby Fort Goryōkaku (五稜郭) ). From the 90-meter viewing platform you can get a striking view of the star-shaped fort. Neat dioramas tell the story of the Enomoto and Ezo Republic (see sidebox), and the role of the fort in Hakodate's history; an English pamphlet is available. The views from Goryōkaku Tower is different on each season. In spring, you can enjoy seeing 1,600 cherry blossoms and the view from the tower is a best place to see them. However, it takes at least 3 hours to go up the tower in cherry blossom season because of the crowds. In summer, you can enjoy full green trees, and in fall you can enjoy the changing leaves. In winter, Goryōkaku is covered with snow and is illuminated at night. Adults ¥900, child & group discounts .  

• 41.76241 140.71555 4 Motomachi ( 元町 ) ( Near the foot of Mount Hakodate, all the way up to Kōryūjimae (高龍寺前) ). This is the historical district. One popular attraction is the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward (旧函館区公会堂 Kyū-hakodateku-kōkai-dō ), a European-style building which housed Hakodate's government in the early 1900s. The various churches and consulates in the area, dating to the early days of foreign trade with Japan, are also frequented by tourists. There is a pleasant walk up going from the Higashi Honganji Temple (東本願寺函館別院 higashi-honganji-hakodate-betsuin ) all the way up to the Foreign Cemetery (外国人墓地 gaikokujin-bochi ). On your way you will pass the Russian Orthodox Church , the Our Lady Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church (worth a look inside; the door on the side of the main front door isn't locked, it's just heavy and visitors are welcome), the Episcopal Church as well as the old British Consulate , the Old Public Hall , the Old Russian Consulate , as well as other temples in the vicinity of the cemetery. There is also the Gokoku Shrine which houses the remains of the imperial dead following the Battle of Hakodate, as well as the remains of the Choshu rebels that died in the Satsuma Rebellion, although their memorials are not open to the public.  
• Kōzen Temple ( 興禅寺 ), Kameo . This "Soto Zen" temple was built in 1954. The temple is a popular place for locals to honor their ancestors. This is also a nice place to feel seasons - see colored leaves in various hues from yellow to red in autumn, and snow covered scenery in winter. They are very beautiful. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• Ooyamazumi shrine ( 大山祇神社 ), Kameo . This shrine is surrounded by trees with Shiodome River behind. Its main festival is held on the 13th and 14th August every year, which people in Kameo are looking forward to. In this festival, traditional Japanese drums ( taiko ) are played. Though the festival is very small, you can see Japanese traditional things.  
• 41.76614 140.71757 5 Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses ( 金森赤レンガ倉庫 Kanemori Akarenga Sōko ) ( Streetcar Jūjigai (十字街) stop ). These warehouses built at the end of the Meiji era now house a variety of commercial facilities, as well as restaurants serving seafood. There is also the first concrete electricity pole of Japan located near there, which seems to attract the interest of Japanese tourists. A night view of Hakodate can be seen from The Blue Moon bay cruise, located at the vicinity of the red brick warehouses. The area is especially nice for a night time walk as the buildings are lit up and the area is very atmospheric, especially in winter.  
• 41.767031 140.712072 6 Hakodate Museum of Northern Peoples ( 函館市北方民族資料館 ), 21-7 Suehiro-cho ( On the main road, along the streetcar line, towards Motomachi. Its in a building on the corner that looks like an old bank. ), ☏ +81 138 22 4128 , [email protected] . Apr-Oct 9:00-17:00, Nov-Mar 9:00-17:00 . Worth a look to gain an understanding of the Ainu, the indigenous people of northern Japan. Ainu culture is rich and fascinating but has historically been forgotten in Japan. A fair number of signs and labels are translated to English and an English pamphlet is available. Adults ¥300, combination ticket with other museums available . ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 41.773491 140.78836 7 Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden ( 函館市熱帯植物園 ), 3 Chome-1-15 Yunokawacho ( take the streetcar to Yunokawa-Onsen station and follow the Same river to the shore ), ☏ +810138 57 7833 . Apr-Oct 9:30-18:00, Nov-Mar 9:30-16:30 . An English pamphlet is available, but most plant labels are in Japanese only. All plants are located in a greenhouse; various banana palms, coffee, hibiscus (lovely flower in autumn) and cacti grow here amongst many others. Even though this is a botanical garden, they have monkeys with a hot tub, parakeets, beetles and turtles. Especially the monkeys seem to attract a lot of Japanese fans, though their cage looks a bit dull. It's possible to buy monkey food pellets for ¥100. Additionally, there's a playground, small track with bumper cars and a shallow pool for kids in the back. And as if that's not enough already, a foot bath is located on the right side just after the entry gate. adults ¥300, school children ¥100 . ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 41.77295 140.72191 8 Seikan Ferry Memorial Museum Mashu-maru ( 函館市青函連絡船記念館摩周丸 ), 12, Wakamatsucho ( from JR Hakodate station, walk past the morning market and you will see the ship on the shore ), ☏ +81 138 27 2500 . Apr-Oct 8:30-18:00, Nov-Mar 9:00-17:00 . Museum telling the history of the Aomori-Hakodate ferry, on an old ferry itself. Signs are only partially translated to English, but some parts of the exhibition are surprisingly interactive. Go up to the bridge and feel like a captain! ¥500 . ( updated Sep 2023 )

Do [ edit ]

• Port Festival ( 函館港まつり Hakodate Minato Matsuri ). annually from August 1st to 5th . This is Hakodate's biggest carnival and known for very unique Hakodate Squid Dance (函館いか踊り Hakodate Ika-odori ) in its parade Wassyoi Hakodate (ワッショイはこだて Wasshoi Hakodate ). The parade is normally in the 2nd and 3rd day (2nd day: Jujigai to Matsukaze-cho, 3rd day: Horikawa-cho to Goryokaku). Also there are a fireworks event in 1st day. (Please note that this schedule may be changed because of the weather.)  
• Hakodate Christmas Fantasy , ☏ +81-138-27-3535 . annually December 1 to 25 . A giant Christmas tree is displayed floating on the sea in the red-brick warehouses (金森赤レンガ倉庫群) area during the festival each year. Lighting-up events with fireworks are held every night. This Christmas trees are presented by Halifax, Canada every year.  
• Kameo Agriculture Village ( 亀尾ふれあいの里 Kameo Fureai no Sato ), Kameo . Here you can experience agriculture. Everyone can enjoy this place. You can sow seeds and plant vegetables. For example, you can grow strawberries, rice, buckwheat and sweet potato. After the food developed, you can harvest it. You can also pick cherries there. The adult rate is ¥400, and the rate for children is ¥200.  
• Hakodate Nanae Snowpark ( 函館七飯スノーパーク hakodate nanae sunōpāku ), Kameo . A mid-sized ski resort adjacent to Lake Onuma and accessible by bus from Onuma Station. Features 2 chairlifts and a gondola as well as a rental shop.  
• 41.7517 140.7142 1 Yachigashira Hot Springs ( 谷地頭温泉 ), 20-7 Yachigashira-cho (谷地頭町20-7) ( 5 minute walk from the Yachigashira (谷地頭) tram stop. This is stop is only on route 2. ). 06:00-22:00, last entry at 21:00; closed every second Tuesday of the month and occasionally on the fourth too . A hot spring near Mount Hakodate. This is muddy hot spring as opposed to the clear hot spring at the Yunokawa Hot Springs on the other end of the tram line. Most users are local residents of Hakodate. A cafeteria is on site. Soap and towels are available for an extra fee. Free parking available. ¥420 for an adult, additional charge for other services . ( updated Jan 2019 )
• 41.77956 140.7857 2 Yunokawa Onsen Footbath ( 湯の川温泉 足湯 ), 1 Chome-16 Yunokawacho ( close to Yunokawa-Onsen tram station ). 9:00-21:00 . A free foot bath with multi-lingual information signs about the history of the place. The water temperature is pretty hot, it takes a little time to get used to it. Bring a towel to dry off your feet after the bath, or just let them air-cool otherwise. free . ( updated Sep 2023 )

Buy [ edit ]

• 41.77255 140.72493 1 Morning Market ( 朝市 asa-ichi ) ( Near the JR Station and the streetcar Hakodate Eki-mae (函館駅前) stop. ). Crammed into a couple of bayfront buildings, rows of vendors sell a variety of seafood, but the main attraction is the huge selection of Hokkaidō's famous crabs. Open 5:00 (6:00 in the winter) until noon. Next to the market are a number of restaurants, most of which specialize in seafood-topped donburi (rice bowl).  
• Glasswares and musicboxes can be bought at the old Meijikan Post Office (明治館 meiji-kan ). Meijikan is near the vicinity of the red brick warehouses ( akarenga ) and the Hakodate Beer Hall. Get off at the streetcar's jujigai (十字街) stop.

Retail [ edit ]

Department stores [ edit ].

Two department stores sandwiching the 五稜郭公園前 ( Goryōkaku-kōen-mae ) streetcar stop are available in Hakodate:

• Marui Imai (丸井今井) is the oldest and most popular chain in Hokkaido. They are also available in Sapporo.
• Share Star (シエスタ) hosts rotating small local businesses, Starbucks, JINS, MUJI, as well as a public community space on the fourth floor.

Convenience stores [ edit ]

• Seicomart (セイコーマート) is a convenience store chain that is almost exclusively available in Hokkaido. It sells many Hokkaido-specific foods and knick-knacks. 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson are also available in decreasing order.
• Hasegawa Store (ハセガワストア) is a convenience store chain only available in the Hakodate area. They are well known for やきとり弁当 ( yakitori-bentō ). It is a grilled pork skewer lunch set despite やきとり ( yakitori ) in the name, though grilled chicken skewers are also available.

Drug stores [ edit ]

• Tsuruha Drug (ツルハドラッグ) is a nationwide chain with duty-free shopping available.
• Sapporo Drug Store (サッポロドラッグストアー) is a local chain exclusively available on the island.

Eat [ edit ]

Hakodate's signature fish is squid and its signature dish is Hakodate shio rāmen (noodle with salty soup. not to be confused with shoyu ramen), a version of the ubiquitous noodle dish prepared with — you guessed it — squid stock instead of the usual pork. Nearby Mori-machi is also reputed to have Japan's finest ika-meshi , rice-stuffed squid. If you dare, eat the odori-don or ike ika-don dish, where a live squid is caught from the fish tank, its head removed, sliced and served as a side dish, and the rest placed on top of a rice bowl. The squid is so fresh that you can still see it change colours and move its tentacles on the plate as you pour the soy sauce!

• 41.77276 140.72569 1 Restaurants and food stalls at the Morning Market ( 朝市 asa-ichi ) ( next to the train station ). Explore this lively market and its stalls. In and around the market are there many small restaurants where you can eat all kinds of preparations of squid and other fishes, including the "odori-don" dish.  
• Asian Bar Ramai ( アジアンバー ラマイ ), Goryokakucho 31-10 (五稜郭町31-10) ( across the street from the Hasegawa convenience store near to the Hakodate Shimbun Building ), ☏ +81 138-83-7461 . 11:30–21:30, last order 21:00 . A small chain of Indonesian-style soup curry restaurants found in many locations across Hokkaido. Has an unusually large scale for spiciness (up to infinity!) and also features several difference house specials, of which the spiciest is 'Dewi Fujin.' There are two other locations in the city (see website) but are not as easy to access without use of an automobile.  
• 41.76801 140.72186 2 Hakodate Beer Hall ( 函館ビヤホール hakodate-biahōru ), Suehiromachi 14-12 (末広町14番12) ( across the street from the Starbucks in the akarenga district, the restaurant is the first on the left when you enter the building ), ☏ +81 138-27-1010 , fax : +81 138-27-1256 . 11:30–22:30 . This food-and-beer restaurant, located in a red brick warehouse in the akarenga district, combines a German bierhalle atmosphere into its interior design. The large food menu includes a good selection of seafood dishes, western specialties such as pizza and spaghetti, and there are a couple of locally-brewed beers on tap, although quite pricey (¥870 for a pint). English menu with pictures available.  
• Lucky Pierrot ( ラッキーピエロ ) ( next to Goryokaku tower and in twelve other locations across the city ). This hamburger restaurant chain is exclusive to Hakodate, popular among citizens and known for reasonable prices. Each franchise is decked out in its own unique kitsch including one in art deco and another in year-round Christmas themes. They made international news when they offered a “whale burger”, which one blogger called more poetically a “whale whopper”. ラッピー (rappi), as called by locals, does indeed have a menu as eccentric as its’ décor. The most popular item is called “Chinese Chicken”. This hamburger contains chicken, lettuce and mayonnaise and is very delicious. Following that is the mountainous "Mount Hakodate" burger, measuring a lofty 1800 kcal and stacked to the brim with every other burger on their menu. Other items include pizzas, cakes, hamburgers and fried rice omelets. ( updated May 2023 )
• Rabbit Farm . M-Sa 10:00–17:00 . This is a bakery. There are many delicious sweet rolls and cakes. There are apple pies, chocolate sticks, cream puffs and bread as well. This bakery often staffs disabled people, which gives them work opportunities they may not have otherwise.  
• 41.788086 140.76072 3 Teuchi Soba Kitawase ( 手打ち蕎麦 きたわせ ), 32-9 Honcho (本町32-9) , ☏ +81 138-87-0605 . 12:00-15:30, 18:00-23:30 . A small but very charming soba restaurant hidden along the main tram line running east. The staff and atmosphere are very inviting and the multitude of soba lunch and dinner sets are sure to satisfy. Make sure to try some of their soba-flavored soft-serve ice cream for dessert. ¥1000-2000 .  
• 41.766437 140.695313 4 Tea Shop Yūhi ( ティーショップ夕日 ), 25-18 Funamichō ( a few minutes from the Foreign Cemetery ), ☏ +81 138-85-8824 . F-W 10:00-17:00 . A delightful place to relax after seeing the main sights. This cozy wooden building serves delicious teas, along with light snacks. The window seats offer a great view of the bay and the staff is very friendly. English menu available. ( updated Nov 2018 )
• 41.775252 140.788044 5 Hokkai Ramen ( 北海ラーメン ), 2 Chome-4-31 Yunokawacho . 11:00-00:00, closed on Wednesdays . Ramen shop solely run by an old lady. No English menu, but a bit of Ramen lingo gets you far. Especially the char siu is spectacular. ¥500-1000 . ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 41.802932 140.736685 6 King Bake ( キングベーク ), 7-8 Kamedahoncho ( follow the road exiting eastwards from JR Goryōkaku station for 400m ), ☏ +81 138 45 0963 . 7:00-19:00 . If you search for pastries that are comparable to what you'd get in central Europe, King Bake is your destination. You can find the western classics (croissants, etc.) as well as the Japanese counterparts (e.g. curry-bun). They have sandwiches and also serve breakfast and meals. In addition to the main branch, pastries to go are sold in a little shop located in the entry hall of JR Hakodate station. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

There are two main drinking districts in Hakodate, Daimon, which is close to the station, and Goryōkaku, in particular Hon-Cho. Foreigners seem to be more catered to in the Goryōkaku area.

• Bagus . A surfer-style bar open 'til morning.  
• Bar Big Job ( バービッグジョブ ), Hakodate, Honcho, 7-7 ( behind Hokuyo-Ginko bank in Goryokaku ), ☏ +81 138 54 3003 . An English-style standing room only bar featuring a selection of bottled Belgian beers. Chairs are often set up outside in front of the bar during the warmer months of the year.  
• Eiley's Irish Pub ( アイリッシュパブエイリーズ ), Hakodate-shi, Honchō, 9-5 3F , ☏ +81 138 54 4771 . A spacious Irish pub on the 3rd floor of a building in Goryokaku. Several beer options from around the globe including Guinness on tap.  
• Ramaru ラメール , honcho 2-3 Alpha Building . 21:00-4:00 . Small drinking place 2nd floor. "Nomi-ho Dai" All you can drink for 1½ hours, ¥3000. Look for a "Blue Ship's Anchor" on the sign next to the Boss coffee machine. This street has many bars so it is a little confuzing to find. But if you find it- it's well worth a chat with Osho-san. the owner.  
• Kingyo ( 金魚 ), Honcho 9-3 Honcho Building 2nd Floor . Elegantly styled drinking establishment. "Nomi-ho Dai" more than 3 people; All you can drink 1½ hours- ¥3500 p/p.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• 41.77459 140.72859 1 Oyado Aozora Inn ( おやど青空 ), 22-4 Wakamatsuchō . A 2-minute walk from the Hakodate station. It is a cozy inn with clean tatami rooms run by an English speaking Japanese lady. Laundry available and the internet in the lounge area is free.  
• 41.770228 140.734017 2 Minshuku Sumitomo ( 民宿住友 ). Five blocks (or street lights) straight on from Hakodate station, or take the bus to Omori-cho. Rooms are typical Japanese 15-tatami Spartan minshuku-style, bathroom included. In 2007, management did not speak English.  
• 41.771293 140.724749 3 Tōyoko Inn ( There are two of these hotels in Hakodate (Asaichi, Japanese for 'Morning Market' and Ekimae Daimon, Japanese for 'front of the station, large gate) and both are within easy walking distance of Hakodate station, Asaichi to the right as you exit the station, and Ekimae Daimon to the left as you exit the station. Both are visible on the skyline from the front of the station. ), ☏ +81 138 23 1045 (Asaichi) . Check-in: 16:00 , check-out: 10:00 . All Toyoko Inns are pretty much the same though the Asaichi one is a little bit more in amongst the action with the Morning Market nearby than the Ekimae Daimon. They offer very convenient and cheap rooms and free breakfast but lack the 'Japanese experience' you may get from other options. Rooms can be reserved online through an English website. ¥5000 - 6000 .  
• 41.77225 140.72815 4 Comfort Hotel Hakodate ( コンフォートホテル函館 ) ( Across the square in front of the train station ). A business hotel conveniently located next to the train station. Rooms are small but clean, and the price includes breakfast. ¥5000 for a double room .  
• 41.772772 140.726753 5 Premier Hotel Cabin President Hakodate ( プレミアホテル-CABIN PRESIDENT-函館 ) ( Opposite the train station ), ☏ +81 138 22 0111 . Formerly "Four Points by Sheraton". The rooms are small but the location is excellent. The bar on the 13th floor has nice views and can do you a decent martini.  
• 41.769833 140.722517 6 Hakodate Kokusai Hotel ( 函館国際ホテル (Hakodate International Hotel) ) ( Turn right at the first set of traffic lights in front of the station, past the Morning Market and about a ten minute walk ), ☏ +81 138 23 0591 . Pricey, but worth it if you can get a room with a view of the bay. Nice location not far from the station and near the red brick warehouse area and not far from the old part of town. Called the "Kokusai" (international) hotel, but nothing particularly international about it apart from the name. ¥6,000-45,000 . ( updated Apr 2020 )
• 41.766 140.71431 7 HakoBA Hakodate , 23-9 Suehiro-cho (末広町23-9) ( 3 minute walk from the Suehiro-cho (末広町) tram stop. Also within walking distance to the Jugigai (十字街) tram stop. The Suehiro-cho stop is exclusively on route 5. ), ☏ +81 138-27-5858 . Check-in: From 15:00 , check-out: Until 10:00 . A hotel that is south of the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse. Offers a range of different accommodations from hostel style shared dormitories to individual rooms in a historic bank building. Family rooms that sleep up to 6 are also available. Within walking distance to many attractions near Motomachi, including the ropeway station. Good for travelers on a budget or those traveling in a large group. From ¥2000 up to ¥12,000 a night . ( updated Jan 2019 )
• 41.775903 140.728765 8 Pension Puppy Tail ( ペンション パピィーテール ), 30-16 Wakamatsucho ( from JR Hakodate station, walk a few minutes along route 5, it's just before ENEOS gas station ), ☏ +81 138 23 5858 . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 10:00 . When entering, you might feel like time stood still for the last 50 years. The furniture apart from the TV, AC and smart toilet seat looks old, but is still in good shape and functional. They offer Japanese- and Western-style rooms, many with a shared bathroom, for a reasonable price. English is spoken pretty well. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Visitors unused to icy conditions should be careful in winter of the icy conditions, particularly of black ice. Cars may skid in the streets and pedestrians can fall victim to it on the sidewalks. Do as the Japanese do: simply stand up and keep walking like nothing happened.

As elsewhere in Japan, Hakodate is comparatively very safe when it comes to petty crime. One exception that seems to happen in Hokkaido, albeit rarely even then, is being approached by a foreigner claiming to be in distress and needing cash. They will tell you that an ATM swallowed their card or some other sob story and that they cannot speak Japanese but strangely are not interested in being accompanied to the police so you can translate for them. This will likely occur in a touristy area and they don't pose any danger. Simply direct them to the nearest police box, there is one near the station.

Go next [ edit ]

• Lake Onuma (大沼 ōnuma ), a "quasi-national park" that's about half an hour to the north by express train, offers a pleasant quick gateway. If you wish to go to Lake Ōnuma by local train, make sure to check the train schedule since local trains only come every 2 hours or so.
• Matsumae (松前), 1½ hour drive from Hakodate along the coast, has the only castle in Hokkaidō, which is in Matsumae park, famed in southern Hokkaidō (南北海道 minami hokkaidō or 道南 dōnan ) for excellent cherry blossom viewing in late April/early May.
• Esan (恵山), known for its Tsutsuji (Azalea) festival in late May/early June, it's about a 45-minute car ride east of Hakodate city proper (but still within the city limits). The drive will take you mostly along the coast with scenic views of northern Aomori on clear days.

• Has custom banner
• Has map markers
• Airport listing
• Has mapframe
• See listing with no coordinates
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Drink listing with no coordinates
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• Has routebox
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Southern Circuit
• All destination articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

Hakodate 函館市

• Published on : 17/10/2020
• by : R.A / O.F.
• Add to favorites

Vue de la ville de Hakodate la nuit

zhuoqian yang for unsplash

Hakodate, Hokkaido

Mitsuo Komoriya on Unsplash

Zhuoqian Yang on Unsplash

Local Time 01:08

Symbol : cloudy

Temp : 9.2°C

Date : Today

Symbol : sunny_cloudy

Temp : 14.1°C

Date : Tomorrow

Symbol : cloudy_rainy

Temp : 10°C

Date : Tuesday

Temp : 10.4°C

Date : Wednesday

Cold but warm

Hakodate is one of Japan's most famous cityscapes. It is also a place known for its unique atmosphere. The winters are freezing, but the summer offers one of the most pleasant climates in the country...

Everything there is to know about Hakodate

Hakodate is the third-largest island city in Hokkaido and is located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, just across the Tsugaru Strait from the main Japanese island of Honshu . The city of Hakodate lies just behind Mount Hakodate , which occupies the eastern tip of Hakodate Bay.

Hakodate has a recent history as it developed in the 19th century as a port open to foreigners. It was the refuge of the last supporters of the shogun, who proclaimed the brief Ezo Republic .

The city's landscape is strongly marked by this era. The city has developed its old red brick warehouses, which are now a favorite meeting place for young people because of their many restaurants. There is also an old district of western houses and wooden churches. The place smells of the Meiji era . Many of Hakodate's famous places are housed in old western-style buildings built during the time when foreigners settled and practiced commerce in the city.

The place is also famous for its super-fresh sushi , especially salmon sushi, and for its local version of ramen : shio-ramen .

• Read also:  Hokkaido's culinary specialties

Hakodate is also famous for its scenic views from Mount Hakodate , which overlooks the city, connected by cable cars. The flowery landscape of the park surrounding Goryokaku Fortress - Japan's only western citadel - is beautiful in spring.

© Hakodate International Tourism and Convention Association/© JNTO

Festivals in Hakodate

The city's two major festivals are the Hakodate Goryokaku Matsuri , held on the third weekend of May, with costumed participants celebrating the final battle of the Boshin War in 1868, and the Hakodate Minato Matsuri , held at the beginning of August, with a performance of a squid dance in the shape of waves are enacted by enthusiastic participants in the city streets.

What to do and see in Hakodate? 

• Hakodate Morning Market - The morning market ( Asa-ichi ) opens at six in the morning and is divided into dozens of vendors.  The area around the market is filled with small shops and restaurants with seafood stalls. In contrast to the hushed atmosphere inside, hawkers here shout the virtues of their wares to all who pass by in the morning sun. Some shops have signage in Japanese and English saying, "You can eat here!" Virtually all have one or more tables in the back where you can enjoy a seafood donburi (a bowl of white rice topped with one or more kinds of seafood).
• The Motomachi district in the city center has several architecturally renowned  churches of foreign denominations . The largest and best known is the Russian Orthodox Church, which was established in 1859 to accompany the Russian Consulate in Hakodate. A Catholic church and an Anglican church are located in the same area.
• For those interested in Hakodate's early history as a treaty port, the Foreigners' Cemetery houses the graves of British, Russian and French expatriates who died in Hakodate.
• The town's old brick warehouses date back to the days when Hakodate was a center of trade to the Western world . Inside, they dazzle with their modern emporium, ranging from a music box "museum" to a teddy bear shop, from jewelry shops to quirky souvenir shops. There are restaurants of different cultures and it's a good place to try some of Hokkaido's culinary specialties, such as curry soup and limited-brew Sapporo beers, available only in the prefecture. The warehouses, of course, face the sea and provide a view of embarkation points for cruises in the bay .

Things to do near Hakodate

• The Abbey of Our Lady of the Angels is a Trappist monastery in the northeast of the city. You can get there by car or bus. Access is limited; you can only enter the square, the chapel, and the souvenir shop. The latter offers Trappist butter, jam and butter biscuits at the lowest prices in the archipelago.
• To the north, Goryokaku, a pentagonal western-style fort , is accessible by bus or tram. (There is no parking.) Goryokaku was built between 1857 and 1864 by the Tokugawa shogunate, and briefly served as the governmental, diplomatic and defensive center of the region. The beginning of Japan's restoration to imperial rule was marked by the final battle between the loyal Tokugawa and Meiji forces at this site in 1869. The restored fortress is now a park filled with cherry trees. At its entrance, a 107-meter observation tower houses historical exhibits, a small café, and a gift shop. The tower offers a panoramic view of the city, watched over by its namesake mountain from the south.
• Mount Hakodate and its panorama - The sunset is the city's other most famous experience. Get to the top of Mount Hakodate by hiking trails, car or cable car and you'll find an observatory. From the top, Tsugaru Strait and Hakodate Bay appear to be an hourglass filled with twinkling lights.
• Twenty kilometers north of Hakodate is the (quasi) Onuma National Park with its mountain lakes. It is easily reached by car or by train via a direct JR line offering a great hike, bike ride, canoeing, or fishing amongst the various lakes. 

Let yourself be tempted by one of the best onsen in Hokkaido

Goryokaku, un fort pentagonal de style occidental

© Y.Shimizu/© JNTO

How to get to Hakodate?

• By train - Hakodate is easily accessible from Sapporo , 260km to the northwest. Hokuto and Super Hokuto trains run approximately every hour from Sapporo Station to Hakodate Station , taking 3 hours and 20 minutes. Trains to the Tomakomai ferry port to connect with ferries to Nagoya and Sendai take 3 hours. There are trains to Aomori , Morioka, and to Tokyo through the Seikan tunnel.
• By Shinkansen train - The Hokkaido Shinkansen runs from Shin-Aomori Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto . From Shin-Aomori Station, the Tohoku Shinkansen is connected to Tokyo. The total travel time from Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto is 4 hours and 2 minutes. From Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to Hakodate Station, the journey takes about 20 minutes on the Hakodate Liner or Super Hokuto Limited Express.
• By air - Hakodate Airport is located 8 km north of downtown Hakodate. Buses take about 20-30 minutes to reach the city center. There are flights from Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Itami and Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka, Nagoya Chubu International Airport , Okushiri Island, and Okadama and Shin-Chitose airports in Sapporo. There are also flights from Hakodate to Taipei in Taiwan and Seoul in South Korea. Teisan buses from Hakodate run to Hakodate Airport in 30 minutes (280 yen).
• By bus - There are regular road buses from Hakodate to Sapporo (travel time about 5.5 hours) operated by Donan Bus Hokkaido Chuo Bus and Hokkaido Kotsu . Buses to Esashi take about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
• By night bus - The night bus from Sapporo Bus Terminal leaves at 11:35 pm and stops at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, Nanaecho-narukawa, Kikyo, Showa 4-chome, Goryokaku, Hakodate Ferry Terminal, Hakodate Bus Terminal (5:15 am), Yumoto Takubokutei, and Yunokawa Onsen (5:32 am the next day).
• By ferry - There are regular ferries between Aomori and Hakodate, operated by Seikan Ferry and Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry , which take between 3 hours, 40 minutes, and 4 hours. Each company operates 8 departures per day with two crossings on the luxury Blue Dolphin operated by Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry. Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry also operates a ferry from Oma on the Shimokita Peninsula to Hakodate (1 hour 30 minutes).

How to get around Hakodate?

The Hakodate tram service consists of two lines numbered 2 and 5. The two lines run from the onsen (hot springs) town of Yunokaw a and Jujigai to Motomachi , and then split with tram No. 2 running to Yachigashira in the east of Hakodate-yama and No. 5 to the Dokku-mae stop in Hakodate. One-day and two-day passes can be purchased for the trams and buses.

Mount Hakodate - There are buses from Hakodate station to the peak of Mount Hakodate (30 minutes) or you can take the cable car, which is a short walk from the Jujigai tram stop. The hiking trail is open from May through the end of October.

Port d'Hakodate

Rent a car to explore the surroundings of Hakodate

Our tours in Hakodate

City break - Osaka tour Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 8 days
• Locations : Osaka
• Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels, Non-flight transportation, Guided activity, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Tokyo, Mount Fuji & Kyoto Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 10 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Kyoto
• Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Non-flight transportation, Guided activity, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Japanese Immersion Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 13 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Hiroshima, Osaka, Koyasan, Kyoto
• Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Non-flight transportation, Guided activities, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Romantic tour in Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Okayama, Miyajima, Kyoto
• Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Japan Experience house, Non-flight transportation, Guided activities, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Tohoku: Traditional Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 18 days
• Locations : Kyoto, Tokyo, Nikko, Sendai, Tohoku, Aomori
• Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Japan Experience house, Non-flight transportation, Guided activity, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Slow Travel Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 21 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Okayama
• Included : 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Airport Transfers, Non-flight transportation, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance, Activities

Shikoku pilgrimage: 15 temples to enlightenment Our excursions in Japan

• Duration : 4 days
• Locations : Shikoku
• Included : Temple lodgings, Trekking, Spiritual retreat, Nature, Rural landscape

Kumano Kodo: beginner's trail Our excursions in Japan

• Locations : Kii Peninsula, Wakayama Prefecture
• Included : Traditional accommodations, Trekking, Hot springs

All the themes of the city

Markets in Japan

Onsen, Hot Springs and Public Baths

Family Travel

Nightlife in Japan: Going out, exploring and drinking

Temples and Shrines

Parks and Gardens

Outdoor Activities

Museums and Galleries

Restaurants and Cafes

Shopping and souvenirs

Japanese Pop Culture

Events and Festivals

Interested by Hakodate

Discover other cities to explore

Fujikawaguchiko

Miyajima Island

Oki Islands

Please select your country on the list below:

• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Other countries

Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Alfredo Bartholomaus

My wife and I had a wonderful time in Japan, we love the people and the places we visit, but all of this would not have been possible without the great job...

If you travel to Hokkaidō by train, the first major city you’ll come to after emerging from the Seikan Tunnel is Hakodate (函館), 260km southwest of Sapporo. This attractive port was one of the first to open to foreign traders following the Japan–US amity treaty of 1854. Over the next few years, ten countries including Britain, Russia and the US established consulates in Hakodate, with both foreigners and rich Japanese building fancy wooden homes and elaborate churches on the steep hillsides. Many of these late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century buildings have been preserved, particularly in the Motomachi area, which is Hakodate’s highlight.

Ōnuma Quasi National Park

Among the city’s other draws are the lively fish and fresh produce market Asa-ichi; an outstanding exhibition on Ainu culture at the Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples; and the night view from the top of Hakodate-yama. The Ōnuma Quasi National Park, a beautiful lakeland and mountain area with good hiking trails, is an easy day-trip. Try and time your visit for the Hakodate Port Festival (Aug 1–5), when 20,000 people parade through town performing the “squid dance”, an entertaining jig where hands are flapped and clapped in time to rhythmic drumming.

Lording it over Hakodate is the 334m Hakodate-yama (函館山). On a clear day the view from the summit is spectacular, but best of all is the night-time panorama, when the twinkling lights of the port and the boats fishing for squid just off the coast create a magical scene – though be prepared to share it with hordes of tourists. The energetic can climb to the summit along various trails (May–Oct), but most people opt for the cable car (函館山ロープウェイ), a seven-minute uphill walk from the Jūjigai tram stop. There’s also a direct bus from Hakodate Station. The serpentine road up the mountain is closed to private vehicles between 5pm and 10pm.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Japan, created by local experts

13 days  / from 3535 USD

Small Group Tour: Splendours of Japan

Discover the allure of Japan on our small group tour (max 16 guests). Unveil Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Okayama through guided explorations. Immerse in tea ceremonies and relish in the captivating beauty of these iconic destinations. Regular departures ensure an unforgettable journey.

14 days  / from 4070 USD

Small Group Tour: Secrets of Japan

Embark on an exceptional small-group tour, available monthly, unveiling Tokyo, Hakone, Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, and beyond. Uncover Japan's hidden gems, from serene shrines to bustling cities, and immerse in enchanting forests.

10 days  / from 2795 USD

Small Group Tour: Highlights of Japan

Exciting small-group tour with monthly departures. Immerse in Japanese culture, challenge a pro in a sumo suit, wander Arashiyama's bamboo groves in Kyoto, and relish a kaiseki feast with Maiko entertainment - all included in this fascinating small group tour.

No visit to Hakodate is complete without dropping by the atmospheric Asa-ichi (朝市), the morning market immediately to the west of the train station. Even if you arrive at the relatively late hour of 9am, there’s still plenty to see at the hundreds of tightly packed stalls in this waterside location. Old ladies in headscarves squat amid piles of vegetables and flowers in the central hall, and huge, alien-like red crabs, squid, sea urchin and musk melons are the local specialities. Sample the seafood atop a bowl of ramen or rice before leaving: Aji-no-ichiban (味の一番), at the back of the market, is a good choice – they serve a donburi topped with creamy sea urchin, salmon roe and fresh crab, as well as delicious, freshly squeezed melon juice (May–Oct).

The remains of Goryōkaku (五稜郭), a late nineteenth-century Western-style fort, lie some 3km northeast of the station and around ten minutes’ walk north of the Goryōkaku-kōen-mae tram stop. The star-shaped fort was built to protect Hokkaidō against attack from Russia. In the event, however, it was used by Tokugawa Yoshinobu’s naval forces in a last-ditch battle to uphold the shogun against the emperor in the short-lived civil war that ushered in the Meiji Restoration of 1869. The Emperor’s victory is celebrated each year in mid-May with a period costume parade.

What’s left of the fort today – a leafy park planted with 1600 cherry trees, the moat and outer walls – looks best ninety metres up from the inelegant viewing tower by the main entrance. On weekend evenings from late July to mid-August, open-air plays about Hakodate’s history are performed enthusiastically by five hundred amateurs; check with the tourist office for details.

Heading downhill from the mountain, you’ll find yourself in Motomachi (元町), with its Western-style, late nineteenth-century architecture; combined with the steeply raked streets, it’s easy when you’re here to see why Hakodate is known as the San Francisco of Japan. The best thing to do is simply wander about, stopping to explore some of the churches, which are free (few of the other buildings merit their entrance charges). The most striking is the white Russian Orthodox Church of 1919, seven minutes uphill from Jūjigai tram stop, complete with green copper-clad onion domes and spires. Inside, there’s an impressive icon-festooned carved-wood altarpiece, and piped Russian choral music adds to the atmosphere. Nearby, the Episcopal Church, with its unusual modern architecture, is more interesting from the outside than in, while, slightly downhill, the Gothic-style Motomachi Roman Catholic Church is worth a look for its decoration, which is based on the Stations of the Cross.

Walking west for a couple of hundred metres across the hillside streets will bring you to the extraordinary Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, a sky-blue and lemon confection with pillars, verandas and fancy wrought-iron and plaster decoration. This replacement was completed in 1910 after a fire destroyed the original hall. In front of the hall is small Motomachi Park, beneath which is the Old British Consulate, from where the Empire’s affairs in Hokkaidō were looked after from 1859 to 1934. The cream-and-blue building now houses a ho-hum museum, the twee Victorian Rose Tea Restaurant and a giftshop.

Far more interesting is the Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples (北方民族資料館), in an old bank down Motoi-zaka, which leads away from the consulate. The museum’s superb collection of artefacts relating to the Ainu and other races across Eastern Siberia and the Alaskan islands has clear, English captioning and is well worth the entrance fee. Some of the clothes on display are amazing – look out for the Chinese silk robe embroidered with dragons, an example of the types of items traded between China, the islanders of Sakhalin and the Ainu.

Across the street is one more building worth a look before leaving Motomachi – the handsome Kanemori Yōbutsukan (金森洋物館), a former haberdashery shop dating from 1880 which has been faithfully restored to something of its original condition and is now a branch of the local history museum. Upstairs you’ll see some interesting photos and a diorama of turn-of-the-century Hakodate.

Just 29km north of the city, the serene Ōnuma Quasi National Park (大沼国定公園) can easily be visited in a day but is worth considering as an overnight stop. Of the park’s three lakes, the largest and most beautiful is Ōnuma, carpeted with water lilies and containing more than one hundred tiny islands, many linked by humpback bridges. The view from the lake towards the 1133m jagged peak of the dormant volcano of Komaga-take (駒ヶ岳) is rightly considered to be one of the most breathtaking in Japan.

Ōnuma is popular with tour groups, but they are usually herded into sightseeing boats, leaving the walking paths around the lake and islands quiet for strolls. Cycling is another good way of exploring; bikes can be rented from numerous shops around the station. Hikers can also tackle the volcano, which has two main routes, both taking around two and a half hours to complete.

Discover more places in Japan

• Travel Guide Morocco
• Travel Guide Namibia
• Travel Guide South Africa
• Travel Guide China
• Travel Guide India
• Travel Guide Indonesia
• Travel Guide Japan
• Travel Guide Laos
• Travel Guide Malaysia
• Travel Guide Myanmar (Burma)
• Travel Guide Nepal
• Travel Guide Philippines
• Travel Guide Singapore
• Travel Guide South Korea
• Travel Guide Sri Lanka
• Travel Guide Taiwan
• Travel Guide Thailand
• Travel Guide Australia
• Travel Guide Fiji
• Travel Guide New Zealand
• Travel Guide Belize
• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• Travel Guide Cuba
• Travel Guide Guatemala
• Travel Guide Honduras
• Travel Guide Jamaica
• Travel Guide Nicaragua
• Travel Guide Panama
• Travel Guide Puerto Rico
• Travel Guide Trinidad and Tobago
• Travel Guide Albania
• Travel Guide Austria
• Travel Guide Belgium
• Travel Guide Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Travel Guide Bulgaria
• Travel Guide Cyprus
• Travel Guide Czechia (Czech Republic)
• Travel Guide Denmark
• Travel Guide England
• Travel Guide Estonia
• Travel Guide Finland
• Travel Guide France
• Travel Guide Germany
• Travel Guide Greece
• Travel Guide Hungary
• Iceland Travel Guide

The Rough Guides to Japan and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Japan?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, hakodate travel guide: japan’s first international trade port.

Hakodate is an important city in Japan’s history. It was one of the first ports that opened for foreign trade in 1854, which ended Japan’s 200-year-long isolation from the rest of the world. It was also the site of the last civil war that marks the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate reign in Japan.

Nowadays, Hakodate is famous for its fresh seafood and beautiful night view. Many visitors flock to Hakodate to enjoy the day’s freshest catch while relaxing in Hokkaido.

How to get to Hakodate

Hakodate remains one of the major cities in Hokkaido. Because of that, it can be easily reached from other parts of Japan. Here are a few ways you can get here:

1. Hokuto Limited Express Train from Sapporo

If you’re coming from Sapporo , there is a direct limited express train that takes you to Hakodate Station from Sapporo station.

🚝 Purchase the train ticket online: Book your train ticket with Klook for easy redemption at the station! Simply head to any vending machine in front of the station gate and follow Klook’s instructions.

The train journey from Sapporo <> Hakodate took about 3 hours and 45 minutes . This train line is called Hokuto and costs 8,910 yen one way per adult for the unreserved seat. You can reserve a seat for an additional 500 yen. Children under 6 can travel for free, but they will not have any seats and will need to sit on your lap.

This was the option we went with, as we were spending 10 days in Hokkaido and were coming from Sapporo. Hakodate was at the tail end of our itinerary.

Just to set expectations, if you’ve taken a Shinkansen (bullet train) in Japan, don’t expect this express train to be at the same level as Shinkansen. It is much slower (of course), and does not have any amenities. It is also much smaller than Shinkansen train. But at the end of the day, it still gets the job done!

2. Fly to Hakodate Airport

There is a small airport in Hakodate, serving mostly domestic flights by ANA and JAL going to Tokyo and some international flights from Taiwan. Hakodate Airport is not too far from the central Hakodate area, where you would want to be as a tourist. It is only about 20 minutes drive away.

If you decide to fly in or out of Hakodate Airport, here are a few ways to get to and from the airport to the central area:

• 4-seater Taxi – Around 4,500 yen one way from JR Hakodate Station area to the airport.
• Airport Express Shuttle Bus – 500 yen per adult. This is a convenient way to get to the airport. But please take note, the bus is popular and you might need to line up ahead of time. We lined up at 15:05 for the 15:20 bus and just barely made the cut. We were the last passengers allowed to board the first bus. However, it does seem like they have a second overflow bus coming shortly after. Check the shuttle schedule here .

We flew out of Hakodate Airport at the end of our journey back to Tokyo with JAL. The flight was very easy, it took only 1 hour and 10 minutes .

How long should I stay in Hakodate?

Hakodate is quite a compact city, and all of the things I mentioned below can easily be explored in 1.5 to 2 days . I do think it still warrants an overnight stay in Hakodate, but I would not stay more than 2 days.

Where to Stay in Hakodate

You’d want to stay in the Port Hakodate Bay area near Hakodate Station. We stayed at Hakodate Kokusai Hotel . I loved our stay at the hotel, so I am recommending everyone to stay here too!

I booked my stay using Trip.com after comparing prices across different booking platforms. I would suggest you do the same! Here are the links to book Hakodate Kokusai across different platforms:

• Hakodate Kokusai via Trip.com
• Hakodate Kokusai via Booking.com
• Hakodate Kokusai via Klook.com

The hotel is nice and modern. We booked the Premium King Room, which was relatively big for Japanese hotel. The hotel is about an 8-minute walk from the Hakodate Station, which also makes it an easy walkable distance to some of Hakodate’s best sights.

But the best part is, they have their own onsen on the rooftop (13th floor) so you can take a dip every night after exploring Hakodate. The onsen has a nice view of Hakodate as well, and free popsicles you can enjoy after your visit.

I also appreciate that kids get to stay for free here. Some hotels in Japan would charge extra based on the number of occupants, which is a bummer. Hakodate Kokusai did charge a 300 yen onsen tax fee per person, but I’ll gladly pay that since we had unlimited access to their private onsen.

How to get around in Hakodate

Hakodate is a compact city and very doable on foot or by public transportation.

But of course, one of the most convenient ways to explore is to hail a Taxi . I did have to use the taxi a few times in Hakodate as we arrived during a snowstorm.

The good thing about Hakodate is that there are plenty of metered taxis around the Hakodate area. Taxi fare starts at 600 yen and goes up based on distance (100 yen per 302m). If you’re just going within 3-4km, your fare would be around 1,300 yen. You can find out more about Hakodate taxi fares here .

Another way to get around is of course via public transportation, which in Hakodate consists of the City Tram and Bus . Fares are around 210-280 yen per adult.

Lockers in Hakodate

Like the rest of Japan, there are plenty of lockers around Hakodate. It costs 400 yen for the small locker and 700 yen for the big locker.

The lockers made it easy for us to check out things on our last day in Hakodate before our flight at 7 pm. We checked out from our hotel in the morning and stored our luggage at Hakodate Station before going about our day.

There are also lockers at tourist spots like Goryokaku Tower and the Hakodate Airport, but keep in mind that lockers are on a “first come first serve” basis.

What to do in Hakodate

And without further ado, here is what you can do while you’re in Hakodate:

1. Go up the Goryokaku Tower Observatory

One of the most famous things to do in Hakodate is to visit Goryokaku Tower , which allows you a full 360 view of Hakodate from 107 meters above.

🎟 Purchase your ticket online: Get your Goryokaku Tower Ticket online for easy redemption via Klook!

Goryokaku Tower is open from 9 AM to 6 PM. It costs 1,000 yen per adult to visit. Kids under 6 can go for free. From Hakodate Station, there are a few direct bus that takes you near the Goryokaku Fort Park entrance.

From the top of Goryokaku tower, you’ll get a nice full view of the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort.

If the day is clear, you’ll be able to see Mount Hakodate and the bay area from the tower too.

Aside from the view, there is a small exhibit that will tell you the history of Goryokaku Fort. Goryokaku Fort was the site of Japan’s last civil war. For nearly three centuries, Tokugawa Shogunate ruled Japan. When they began to lose power, many fled to Hokkaido. Goryokaku became the base for the deserters from the Japan mainland. It is where the last battle between the deserters and the new Meiji government forces happened.

In 1868, the Meiji government forces won the battle and modernized Hakodate. I do wonder, if the battle had a different outcome, could Hokkaido be a separate country from Japan? 🤔

Anyway, at the tower there is a glass floor section that allows you to see the streets directly below the tower – not for the faint of heart, I suppose.

After you’re done with the tower, you could walk around the fort itself. Or, across the street from Goryokaku Tower is Hakodate Museum of Art . It is a small museum, so please check out the current exhibit before you go and see if it is of interest to you.

2. Enjoy the Famous Hakodate Night View

In Japan, there are three cities that are popular for their night views. Known as the Three Major Night Views of Japan (Nihon Sandai Yakei), the three cities are Nagasaki, Kobe, and yes, Hakodate.

Mount Hakodate Observatory: For more information about visiting the Mount Hakodate Observatory, please read my post here .

They are also often called the “ten million dollar” night view. However, this specific view from Mount Hakodate Observatory is the only one that has been awarded as a 3-star experience by Michelin.

3. Breakfast at Hakodate’s Morning Markets (Hakodate Asaichi)

If you’ve gone up the Mount Hakodate Observatory, you’ll notice that Hakodate is pretty much surrounded by the ocean. And yes, that means they have easy access to fresh seafood!

Right by the Hakodate Station, there are plenty of morning markets that you can visit. Starting from as early as 5 AM, each of the markets offers the day’s freshest catch – think fresh ika (squid – one of Hakodate’s specialties), various crabs (hairy crab and king crab), uni (sea urchin), and ikura (salmon eggs).

Even if you’re not a fan of seafood, I still think it’s worth a visit. Another unexpected famous non-seafood item to get in the morning markets is… Yubari Melon . You could get a slice of this sweet, juicy melon for 400 – 500 yen per slice.

One market that I recommend is Ekini Market , an indoor market that is literally across the street from the Hakodate Station. If you prefer to go to a sit-down restaurant, check out Donburi Yokocho next door where there are plenty of restaurants with ingredients that are fresh from the market.

What to eat at the morning markets: I will elaborate more on what to eat in the morning market in the “What to Eat” section below!

4. Shop at Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse

This red brick warehouse was built in 1868, to sustain trading operations when Hakodate became Japan’s first international port. Nowadays, it has been converted into a commercial space where you can enjoy restaurants and shop for dessert and souvenirs to bring back.

5. Explore the Motomachi District of Hakodate

Motomachi district is located at the foot of Mount Hakodate. When Hakodate became the first Japanese fort to open to international trade, Motomachi became the residential site for the early foreign traders.

There are a few sites to visit here, and you can get a bundle ticket for the attractions. We paid 720 yen per person for 3 attractions.

Here are the three that I visited:

1. Learn about the Native People of Northern Japan

Before people from mainland Japan came to the area, Hokkaido was occupied by the native people of Northern Japan. One of the ethnic groups is called Ainu , and you can learn about their culture and way of life at the Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples.

2. Sip some tea at the Former British Consulate of Hakodate

The Former British Consulate of Hakodate is where you can learn about the history of foreign influences on Hakodate. When the foreigners first arrived in Hakodate, they had issues pronouncing the name and would say “ Hakodadi ” instead. You can also learn about the ambassador who lived in this building and their contributions to Hakodate.

At the first floor of the former consulate, you can enjoy a British afternoon tea for 2,800 yen per person, or some tea and cakes from 1,200 to 1,500 yen. I read reviews that the afternoon tea was not worth it, so I got the scones with jam and the burnt cheesecake instead.

I’m happy to report that these two were worth it, especially the cheesecake! It was served with french salt which was a new way to have cheesecake for me.

3. Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward

This building is where the Imperial family stayed when they visited Hakodate. You’ll get to view all the bedrooms, the dining room, and the reception hall. I also think the exterior of the building is very beautiful!

6. Tour Onboard the Mashu Maru Ferry

Mashu Maru was the ferry that operated between Hokkaido and Honshu, Japan’s main island. When a tunnel was built to connect the two islands, demands for the ferry decreased and it ceased operation in 1988.

The ferry has since been converted into a museum and permanently docked near Hakodate Station. It costs 500 yen per person to enter the museum. Inside, you can see the history of the ferry during its heyday. Although most of the exhibit is in Japanese, I still found it interesting to see.

7. Take a dip at an Onsen

If you’re visiting during the colder months, you’ll want to check out an onsen, Japan’s famous hot spring. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day full of traveling.

Onsen Tips: Visiting an onsen could be intimidating, so be sure to check out my onsen etiquette guide !

In Hakodate, there are a few onsens worth visiting. Here are my picks:

• Yachigashira Hot Spring – Located at the foot of Mount Hakodate, it is very convenient to visit from Hakodate. Costs 460 yen to enter.
• Yunokawa Onsen Town – An onsen town located closer to the Hakodate airport, famous for its clear and odorless water. There are about 20 onsens in the town nowadays.

8. See Japanese Macaque Bathe in an Onsen

Right by Yunokawa Onsen Town is the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden. But most people did not come here for the plants – they came for the monkey onsen!

Admission to the garden is 300 yen, and you can buy food for the monkeys for 100 yen.

Take note these are not wild monkeys. They’re actually in an enclosure that has an onsen in it. The monkey enclosure is located outdoors at the entrance of the garden. The onsen is only active during winter and spring time. When one of the monkeys has a baby, they will drain the water and deactivate the onsen.

I’ll be honest, I would not come to this botanical garden on its own if it were not for their monkey onsen. The garden itself is quite small, and coming from Singapore, it features types of plants that I already see every day at home.

However, since it’s located close to the airport, we decided to visit before our flight. It costs 1,200 yen one way via taxi to get here from the airport.

There is also an ashi-no-yu aka onsen footbath which you can enjoy in the garden. You’ll be able to buy towels for 100 yen at the ticket office.

What and Where to eat in Hakodate

Hakodate is known as a gourmet town. Many Japanese domestic tourist come to Hakodate to eat!

1. Hakodate Shio Ramen

Hakodate is known for Shio (salt) ramen. It is part of the “three great ramen of Hokkaido”, with the other two being miso (fermented soybean paste) ramen in Sapporo and shoyu (soy) ramen in Ashikawa.

I personally am a huge fan of Shio ramen, so I was delighted to learn that Hakodate is known for shio ramen. I love shio ramen because the broth is clear and light, and leaves you feeling full but not “heavy” after eating a bowl of it.

I’m also happy to report that all the ramen shops in Hokkaido serves smaller half portion or 2/3rd portion of their noodles. Comes in handy in case you’re not feeling too hungry or you want to go on a ramen marathon.

Where to have Shio Ramen in Hakodate

In Hakodate, I tried two ramen shops and I enjoyed both of them:

• Enjin 炎陣 Hakodate Noodles (near Hakodate Station)
• Menchuubo Ajisai Ramen (3 branches in Hakodate)

2. Fresh Seafood at the Morning Markets

As I mentioned before, the area near Hakodate station are full of morning markets with the freshest seafood catch of the day.

One such market that I recommend is Ekini Market , an indoor market that is literally across the street from the Hakodate Station.

You can pick a crab and have them cook the crab for you on the spot, and you can eat it right away at one of the communal tables in the market. If you live in Japan, you could also have the crabs sent to your homes. The price of the crab depends on its weight.

One stall I recommend is Daruma Sushi . For 3,240 yen, you get a 10-piece set of nigiri sushi and everything was very fresh.

Also worth noting is the female chef that mans the stall at Daruma Sushi. It’s an unusual sight to see, as sushi chef is usually a job held by males in Japan.

They open from 7:30 AM and close at 1:30 PM or until stocks last.

Where to eat at Ekini Morning Market

• Daruma Sushi at Ekini Market
• Hakodate Uni Murakami
• Chamu Seafood Restaurant at Donburi Yokocho
• Ikura-tei at Donburi Yokocho

3. Lucky Pierrot Burger

Lucky Pierrot is Hakodate’s famous fast food chain. Each of their branches has a unique retro vibe with a different theme. Their most popular dish is the Chinese Chicken Burger and the Lucky beef burgers. Aside from the burgers they also have local Japanese food such as curry rice or rice bowls.

But if you ask me, I would give it a skip . I find the food to be below average. I tried the chicken burger and the lucky cheeseburger and I was very disappointed, especially when there are so many other good foods you can have in Hakodate.

However, you could still visit one of their branches and take photos. I do think they have a very unique concept for their stores that reminded me of the retro diners by the pier at Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles .

4. Wagyu Sukiyaki at Asari Honten

My friend Sam recommended Asari Honten to us. When we first arrived in Hakodate, we wanted to have dinner here but they were already fully booked. We tried our luck and managed to get a reservation for 5:30 PM early dinner the next day. So, lesson learned – book ahead if you want to come here!

The menu at Asari Honten is not extensive. They only serve sukiyaki of various wagyu cuts, from grade A4 to A5. The cost of the dinner sets ranges from 3,500 to 5,000 yen, and only for 100 grams of meat, so it is not exactly a cheap or big meal. You could top up more meat if you’d like though. The dinner set comes with a range of vegetables, a choice of rice or udon, and a dessert.

What also made the meal special is that the restaurant is located in a traditional house. Each group of guests will be assigned to a private tatami dining room, so you likely won’t see other guests here. It also means you’ll be sitting on the floor, Japanese-style!

If you manage to secure a lunch appointment, they have a 1,500 yen lunch set which is more value for money!

2 Days Itinerary in Hakodate

With all the things you can do in Hakodate, here is how you can put it together into a 2-day itinerary

• Breakfast at Morning Market
• Explore Motomachi District
• Shio Ramen for Lunch
• Shop at Kanemori Brickhouse
• Mount Hakodate Observatory
• Goryokaku Tower
• Goryokaku Fort
• Yunokawa Onsen
• Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden

And, that’s all I know about visiting Hakodate. Let me know in the comments if this is helpful for you, or if you have any questions.

More on Hokkaido:  If you find this post useful, don’t forget to check out  my other posts about Hokkaido !

See you later!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Hakodate - Japan Travel Guide - Japanspecialist

Authentic harbour town with beautiful views and delicious food.

Hakodate Magistrate's Office at Goryokaku Park

View from Mount Hakodate observation deck

Snow monkeys enjoying Yunokawa’s onsen

Goryokaku Park

The historic Red Brick Warehouse district

About Hakodate Hakodate is a cosy port city on the southern tip of the northern island of Hokkaido. It is Hokkaido's third-largest city. The city is not so well known by foreign tourists, yet it boasts one of Japan's most beautiful sights.

Cosy city atmosphere and stunning mountain views This was one of the first Japanese cities to allow foreign trade, and the international element can still be seen in the architecture - especially the former foreign neighbourhood and the city's old fort, which looks very much like many European forts. If you are in the city in early May during cherry blossoms season, visit the fort – seeing it turned into a pink star is a marvellous sight! A must-see any time of the year is Mount Hakodate - a 334 metres high mountain that you can reach by either car or ropeway. The view from here is officially one of Japan's three most beautiful and it is especially recommended after dark when all the city lights sparkle like jewels. At the top of the mountain is also a modest cafeteria.

Other attractions in Hakodate While in town, make sure to taste some of the city’s famous fresh seafood. To try it as fresh as possible, visit the city's Morning Market (Asaichi), which is open every morning from 5 am till noon. It is located just off JR Hakodate Station, and in the immediate vicinity are many restaurants serving food made with fish fresh from the market.

Visit this destination as part of your tailor-made trip

We believe that every trip to Japan should be unique and full of memories that last a lifetime. Our experts will help combine your favourite destinations into a single itinerary, making sure you don’t miss any of your personal highlights during your visit.

The price of this service starts at EUR 50,- and is fully reimbursable if you book your tour with us.

What is covered during the consultation?

Experience Japan your way with our experts

We are part of JTB, the largest travel company in Japan and one of the biggest in the world, with over 100 years of experience. We are passionate about this wonderful country, having spent decades designing adventurous itineraries for our clients.

Your tailor-made holiday in four simple steps

Featured in tours:.

Meet beautiful Hokkaido, Japan's second-largest island, with undeniable seasonal charm.

Discover the untouched nature of Japan's northernmost main island.

• Bahasa Melayu
• Bahasa Indonesia

Keyword Search

• Transportation
• Mt. Hakodate
• Information Center
• Accommodation
• Tax-Free Shopping
• Currency Exchange

Hakodate Goodwill Guide Association

It is a volunteer association that guides you around Hakodate in English, Korean, and Chinese.

Tabiyaku “Trip Interpreter”

Tabiyaku offers an interpreter service in the Hakodate Morning Market. They will not only help you shop in Hakodate Morning Market, but also accompany you to sightseeing spots and restaurants in Hakodate city.

Jomon Culture Guide

Jomon Culture Guide introduces you to the Jomon archaeological sites, which are registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and museums in Hakodate.

Hakodate Travel Guide: Things to Do in Hakodate, Japan

Welcome to Hakodate, a charming city located in the southern part of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. With its intriguing mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and delicious culinary offerings, Hakodate is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique experience.

As you step foot in Hakodate, you’ll be greeted by the city’s picturesque waterfront, where the historic red-brick warehouses of the Motomachi district stand in harmony with modern architecture. Take a stroll along the scenic Bay Area, where you can admire the panoramic views of the sea, Hakodate Port, and the iconic Goryokaku Tower.

Speaking of Goryokaku, this star-shaped fort is a prominent symbol of Hakodate’s past. Explore its grounds, which transform into a beautiful cherry blossom wonderland in spring, or visit the nearby Goryokaku Tower for a breathtaking aerial view of the fort and surrounding gardens.

Hakodate Local Culture

For a taste of local culture, make your way to the lively morning market, where you can browse through a vibrant array of seafood, fresh produce, and local handicrafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor some of Hakodate’s specialties, such as savory seafood bowls and delectable squid ink soup.

As the sun sets, Hakodate unveils its famous night views, considered among the best in Japan. Head to Mount Hakodate via the ropeway or by car to witness the city’s glittering lights spreading beneath you like a sea of stars. The panoramic vistas from the mountaintop observation deck are truly awe-inspiring and offer an unforgettable experience.

History and Nature

Immerse yourself in Hakodate’s history by visiting the historic district of Motomachi, where you’ll find elegant Western-style buildings dating back to the Meiji era. Explore the charming streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, and visit the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, a beautifully preserved European-style building.

Nature lovers will be enchanted by the nearby Onuma Quasi-National Park, known for its tranquil lakes, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. Take a leisurely boat ride on Lake Onuma, marvel at the volcanic Mount Komagatake, or simply immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this natural wonderland.

With its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, Hakodate offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re exploring its historical sites, savoring its delicious cuisine, or taking in its breathtaking views, Hakodate promises to captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories of your visit. Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery in this delightful city.

Hakodate City Guide: A Brief History Of Hakodate, Japan

Hakodate has a rich and fascinating history that adds depth and character to the city. As a traveler, understanding the historical background of Hakodate will enhance your experience and appreciation of its landmarks and cultural heritage.

Hakodate’s history dates back centuries, with its roots as a small fishing village inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people. However, its modern history began in the 19th century when Japan opened its doors to international trade.

In 1854, Hakodate became one of the first ports in Japan to open to foreign trade following the signing of the Treaty of Kanagawa with the United States. This led to an influx of foreign traders and diplomats, contributing to Hakodate’s development as an international trading hub.

During the late 19th century, Hakodate played a significant role in Japan’s political landscape. In 1868, it became the center of the short-lived Republic of Ezo, which sought to resist the central government’s rule during the Meiji Restoration. The conflict resulted in the Battle of Hakodate, where the imperial forces emerged victorious, marking a turning point in Japan’s modernization.

The historical district of Motomachi showcases the remnants of Hakodate’s foreign influences. It features Western-style buildings dating back to the Meiji era, including churches, consulates, and former foreign residences. Exploring Motomachi allows you to step back in time and witness the architectural legacy left by traders and diplomats from various countries.

Another iconic landmark steeped in history is Goryokaku, a star-shaped fort built in the mid-19th century. Originally constructed as a Western-style fortress, it served as the battleground during the Battle of Hakodate. Today, Goryokaku is a popular destination where visitors can explore the fort’s grounds, enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, and learn about its historical significance.

Hakodate’s historical legacy extends to its role in Japan’s modernization and industrialization. The city became an important center for trade, commerce, and transportation, contributing to its economic growth and urban development. The red-brick warehouses in the Bay Area are a testament to Hakodate’s past as a bustling trading port.

By delving into Hakodate’s history, you gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural heritage, architectural landmarks, and the resilience of its people. Take the time to explore the historical sites, visit museums, and engage with the local community to uncover the stories and influences that have shaped Hakodate into the captivating city it is today.

Hakodate Top Attractions and Best Places to Visit in Japan

Those entering Hokkaido via ferry will arrive at the historic city of Hakodate.

Boasting a magnificent fortress , an attractive foreigner district, and great museums, it will prove to be a worthy introduction to this massive island.

Come check out our Hakodate travel guide as we cover the best things to do in Hakodate, Japan.

Often throughout its history, Japan has closed itself off from the world. By the 19th century, though, they could not afford to ignore the massive growth and influence of Western powers. While Hakodate was one of a handful of cities they opened up to foreign traders, they also correctly realized this opened them up to an attack by the countries from which they were from.

To defend against this, the Japanese built Fort Goryokaku to guard the essential port city of Hakodate. Constructed in a classic star formation, it never was involved in a war against a foreign aggressor, but it did see action in a civil war, where the shogunate mounted a last-gasp offensive against the Meiji government by attempting to take this fortress.

By the early 20th century, it became obsolete from a military perspective, so it was converted into a public park. Come by if you here in early May, as it is usually at this time when the cherry trees planted here burst out into full blossom.

As mentioned previously, Hakodate has been open to the West since 1854. Soon after considerable numbers of foreigners began to move to the city, they took a liking to the district of Motomachi . In little time, they began to erect structures that reminded them of home, injecting some foreign flavour into this distinctly Japanese city .

As you stroll its streets, you’ll find signs of British, Chinese, and Russian residency, among other countries. As you climb higher up the hill in this neighbourhood, be sure to look back and take in the view of Hakodate Bay, as it is particularly majestic on a clear day.

While you are still in Motomachi, fans of architecture will want to make room in their schedule to stop by the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward . A prime example of the European influence that swept this city soon after its opening to foreign traders and dignitaries, it has long been a residence of choice for members of the Japanese Royal Family whenever they visit the city of Hakodate.

Check with tourism officials to see if musical events are on the schedule during your visit, as the main hall of this building often hosts concerts by artists from across the country and around the world. Also, the balcony offers excellent views of the foreign quarter of Hakodate, so make sure you get a few shots from it as you wander around this grand building.

Finally, make sure to take a second to visit Hakodate Orthodox Church before leaving Motomachi to visit other parts of Hakodate. Built in 1859, it was constructed in tandem with the establishment of the Russian Consulate, as Orthodox Christianity was the state religion at the time.

Designed in the Russian Byzantine style (aka the typical onion bulb domes many associate with Russian churches), it is known by locals as the ‘ding dong temple’ due to the clarity of the church bells which ring out to announce the imminent start of mass.

Other Cultural Attractions: Trip to Hakodate, Japan

Those wanting to witness authentic street life in this city will want to set their alarms early so they can get up in time to check out the Hakodate Morning Market . Opening its doors at 5 am (6 am in winter), you’ll get to see a dizzying array of seafood hauled in fresh from the ocean, along with fresh produce in season.

Nearby, there are numerous restaurants that draw on this reliable supply of excellent seafood to produce excellent cuisine – stop by after your market tour to have one of the better breakfasts you have had in your life.

Learn more about the indigenous tribes which called Hokkaido home before the arrival of the Japanese at the Hakodate Museum of Northern Peoples . While its collection is a bit on the small side, its low admission fee and the opportunity to learn about this resourceful First Nations tribe will add an element of enrichment to your Hokkaido holiday that you may not have expected.

As mentioned above, the opening of Hakodate to foreigners opened the door to different religions as well. The enduring legacy of this decision can be seen in the present day by visiting the Trappistine Monastery .

A peaceful compound featuring buildings built in the Gothic and Romanesque styles, you will feel like you have walked through a portal straight to Europe. Indeed, the only reminder you are in Japan will be the Japanese nuns you will get to meet during your visit. Be sure to try their ice cream, as it gets rave reviews from local and travellers alike!

Before moving on to your next destination in Hokkaido , head up to the top of Mount Hakodate via tram. The views of the city below are spectacular, especially at night. Those feeling a bit peckish will have a cafeteria-style restaurant at their disposal – while it is not five-star fare, it will pair perfectly with your time here.

Top 33 Things To Do in Hakodate, Japan For Visitors

Here are 33 top things to do in Hakodate, Japan:

• Visit the Goryokaku Fort: Explore the star-shaped fort, built in the 19th century, and take a stroll through its beautiful park. In spring, the cherry blossoms create a stunning sight.
• Take in the panoramic view from Mount Hakodate: Ride the ropeway or drive up to the summit for breathtaking views of the city, bay, and surrounding mountains. The night views are particularly famous and offer a magical experience.
• Explore the historic district of Motomachi: Wander through the streets lined with Western-style buildings dating back to the Meiji era. Visit the old churches, consulates, and former foreign residences, which reflect Hakodate’s international past.
• Wander through the Hakodate Morning Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of one of Hokkaido’s largest morning markets. Sample fresh seafood, local produce, and other regional specialties.
• Visit the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse: Explore this waterfront area with its restored red brick warehouses. Browse through unique shops, dine in waterfront restaurants, and enjoy live performances and events.
• Stroll along the Bay Area: Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque waterfront, lined with shops, cafes, and stunning views of Hakodate Bay. Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and relax in one of the parks along the way.
• Discover the history of the Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples: Learn about the indigenous Ainu people, their culture, and the history of Hokkaido through interactive exhibits and displays.
• Visit the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward: Step into the beautifully preserved European-style building, which now houses a museum showcasing Hakodate’s history and cultural heritage.
• Take a boat cruise around Hakodate Bay: Experience the city from a different perspective by taking a sightseeing boat cruise. Enjoy the views of the city skyline, mountains, and the vast sea.
• Explore the Hakodate City Museum: Delve deeper into Hakodate’s history, art, and culture at this museum, which offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts and artworks.
• Wander through the Fort Goryokaku Park: Discover the remains of the star-shaped fortress and enjoy the park’s serene atmosphere. Visit during cherry blossom season for a truly picturesque experience.
• Enjoy panoramic views from the Goryokaku Tower: Ascend the observation deck of the Goryokaku Tower for an elevated view of the fort, surrounding park, and the city skyline. The tower provides a fantastic vantage point for photography.
• Visit the Hakodate Orthodox Church: Admire the unique architecture of this Russian-inspired church, built in 1916. The interior features beautiful icons and intricate artwork.
• Take a dip in the Yunokawa Onsen: Experience the healing properties of hot springs at one of Hakodate’s renowned onsen resorts. Relax in the therapeutic waters and indulge in traditional Japanese hospitality.
• Explore the Tropical Botanical Garden Hakodate: Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and vibrant colors of this botanical garden. Marvel at the wide variety of tropical plants, flowers, and exotic species.
• Visit the Hachiman-zaka Slope: Take a leisurely stroll up this historic slope, known for its charming atmosphere and preserved buildings. The cobblestone streets and old-fashioned lampposts add to its nostalgic charm.
• Sample Hakodate’s local cuisine: Indulge in a culinary adventure by trying local delicacies like kaisendon (a bowl of fresh seafood over rice), ikameshi (squid stuffed with rice), and Hokkaido’s famous dairy products.
• Experience Hakodate’s nightlife at the Donburi Yokocho: Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of this lively food alley, where you can savor a variety of local street food and enjoy the energetic ambiance.
• Discover the history of Hakodate’s Trappist Monastery: Visit the Trappist Monastery, founded in 1898, and learn about the lives of the monks who have been producing beer and cheese using traditional methods.
• Explore the Hakodate Museum of Art: Admire an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks by Japanese and international artists. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions as well, providing a dynamic art experience.
• Take a scenic drive along the Hokkaido coastline: Rent a car and enjoy a picturesque drive along the coast, with stunning views of the Sea of Japan and the rugged shoreline of Hokkaido.
• Visit the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden: Step into a tropical oasis filled with lush vegetation, exotic flowers, and a wide array of tropical plants. Take a leisurely walk through the garden’s trails and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
• Discover the history of the Kanemori Soko Warehouses: Explore the historic warehouses along the waterfront, now repurposed as shopping and dining complexes. Learn about their role in Hakodate’s trading history and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
• Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony: Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by participating in a traditional tea ceremony. Experience the grace and tranquility of this ancient ritual and savor the delicate flavors of matcha tea.
• Explore the Hakodate City Museum of Literature: Discover the works of famous writers associated with Hakodate and learn about the city’s literary heritage. The museum features exhibits and artifacts related to local literary figures.
• Take a scenic hike in the Onuma Quasi-National Park: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the picturesque trails of this national park. Admire the serene lakes, volcanic mountains, and diverse flora and fauna along the way.
• Visit the Hakodate Velodrome: Experience the excitement of keirin racing, a popular Japanese cycling sport, at the Hakodate Velodrome. Watch the cyclists speed around the track and feel the electrifying energy of the races.
• Take a leisurely bike ride around Lake Onuma: Rent a bicycle and pedal your way around the tranquil Lake Onuma. Enjoy the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and the opportunity to explore the lakeside paths at your own pace.
• Discover the history of the Hakodate City Museum of Science: Engage in interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the wonders of science and technology. Learn about Hokkaido’s natural environment, space exploration, and more.
• Explore the Hakodate Museum of Northern Peoples: Gain insights into the unique cultures of the indigenous peoples of northern Japan and other northern regions of the world. The museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits.
• Take a scenic boat tour to Tsugaru Strait: Embark on a boat excursion to Tsugaru Strait, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the chance to spot marine wildlife such as dolphins and seabirds.
• Attend a traditional Japanese festival: Check the local calendar and participate in a traditional festival such as Hakodate Port Festival or the Hakodate Minato Matsuri. Experience the lively atmosphere, traditional performances, and fireworks displays.
• Relax in one of Hakodate’s parks and gardens: Unwind in tranquil green spaces like Hakodate Park, where you can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, or Tachimachi Cape Park, offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.

With these 33 activities and attractions, your time in Hakodate will be filled with enriching experiences, cultural

exploration, and unforgettable memories. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, culinary delights to cultural experiences, Hakodate offers a diverse range of activities to suit every traveler’s interests.

Remember to plan your itinerary based on your preferences and allocate enough time to fully immerse yourself in each experience. Whether you’re admiring the panoramic views from Mount Hakodate, indulging in local cuisine at the Hakodate Morning Market, or exploring the historic district of Motomachi, Hakodate is sure to captivate you with its unique blend of history, nature, and culture.

Don’t forget to check the opening hours and any necessary reservations for specific attractions or events. With proper planning and an open mind, your visit to Hakodate is bound to be a memorable and enriching journey.

Embrace the city’s captivating charm, soak up its rich history, and engage with the warm and welcoming local community. Hakodate awaits you with its fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, promising a truly remarkable travel experience.

What To Eat and Drink in Hakodate, Japan

When it comes to culinary delights, Hakodate is a haven for food lovers. With its coastal location and rich agricultural resources, the city offers a diverse array of fresh seafood, local specialties, and unique flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages to savor during your visit to Hakodate:

• Hakodate Ramen: Indulge in a bowl of Hakodate-style ramen, known for its rich, savory broth and thin, curly noodles. The broth is typically made with a combination of seafood and pork, creating a unique and flavorful taste.
• Kaisendon (Seafood Rice Bowl): Hakodate’s proximity to the sea makes it a prime destination for fresh seafood. Enjoy a kaisendon, a bowl of rice topped with a variety of sashimi-grade seafood such as salmon, tuna, scallops, and sea urchin. It’s a true seafood lover’s delight.
• Ikameshi: This Hakodate specialty features squid stuffed with seasoned rice and simmered to perfection. The combination of tender squid and flavorful rice makes for a unique and delicious dish.
• Jingisukan: Experience a Hokkaido-style barbecue with Jingisukan, a grilled lamb dish. Thinly sliced lamb is seasoned and cooked on a special dome-shaped grill, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
• Hokkaido Dairy Products: Hokkaido is famous for its dairy products, and Hakodate is no exception. Enjoy creamy soft-serve ice cream, rich milk, and a variety of cheese products, all made with the finest Hokkaido milk.
• Uni (Sea Urchin): For seafood enthusiasts, Hakodate is a paradise for fresh uni. Savor the delicate, buttery taste of sea urchin, which is often served on sushi or enjoyed as sashimi.
• Hokkaido Soba: Sample the local variation of soba noodles, made with buckwheat flour sourced from Hokkaido. Enjoy the unique nutty flavor and a satisfying texture as you slurp the noodles.
• Genghis Khan: Embrace the local culinary culture with Genghis Khan, a grilled mutton dish named after the famous Mongolian conqueror. Enjoy the tender and juicy meat, seasoned with a variety of sauces and spices.
• Hakodate Cheese Tart: Treat your taste buds to a Hakodate specialty, the cheese tart. These delightful pastries feature a flaky crust filled with a creamy cheese filling, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
• Sake: Discover the world of Japanese sake by sampling the local varieties produced in Hokkaido. Visit a sake brewery or enjoy a tasting at a sake bar to experience the rich flavors and craftsmanship of this traditional Japanese beverage.
• Shio Ramen: If you prefer a lighter ramen option, try Hakodate’s shio ramen, which features a clear, salty broth made from seafood and chicken. The delicate flavors allow the natural taste of the ingredients to shine.
• Ishikari Nabe: A traditional hot pot dish originating from Hokkaido, Ishikari Nabe features salmon, vegetables, and tofu cooked in a miso-based broth. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for colder days.
• Yubari Melon: Indulge in the renowned Yubari melon, a sweet and juicy cantaloupe-like fruit cultivated in Hokkaido. Known for its exceptional quality, Yubari melon is a true delicacy.

While exploring Hakodate, be sure to visit local restaurants, izakayas (Japanese pubs), and street food stalls to fully experience the city’s culinary scene . Hakodate’s rich gastronomic offerings are a testament to Hokkaido’s bountiful natural resources and culinary traditions. From savoring Hakodate ramen and kaisendon to indulging in ikameshi and Jingisukan, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don’t forget to pair your meals with local sake or explore the diverse range of Hokkaido dairy products.

As you embark on your culinary journey through Hakodate, be sure to venture beyond the popular tourist areas and explore local eateries favored by the residents. Hakodate’s vibrant food scene will not disappoint, offering a delightful blend of traditional flavors, fresh ingredients, and innovative culinary creations.

Whether you’re a seafood lover, a ramen aficionado, or a dessert enthusiast, Hakodate has something to satisfy every palate. Embrace the local cuisine, engage with the warm and welcoming locals, and create unforgettable food memories during your visit to this charming city.

Top Restaurants In Hakodate, Japan

Hakodate is renowned for its culinary scene, offering a plethora of top-notch restaurants that showcase the city’s diverse flavors and culinary traditions. Here are some of the top restaurants in Hakodate that you should consider trying during your visit:

• Hakodate Asariya: Known for its delectable seafood dishes, including clam-based ramen and donburi bowls, Hakodate Asariya is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
• Lucky Pierrot: A local fast-food chain that has gained cult status in Hakodate, Lucky Pierrot offers a variety of unique and tasty burgers, including their signature “Chinese Chicken Burger.”
• Wakadori Jidoriya: This izakaya-style restaurant specializes in yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) made from locally sourced ingredients. The cozy atmosphere and delicious skewers make it a favorite among locals.
• Ebiya: Located in the Hakodate Morning Market, Ebiya is famous for its mouthwatering seafood bowls and fresh seafood dishes. Indulge in a bowl of kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) while enjoying the vibrant market atmosphere.
• Yunokawa Kaisen Ichiba: Situated in the Yunokawa Onsen area, this seafood market and restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh seafood. Choose from a variety of dishes such as sashimi, grilled fish, and seafood hot pot.
• Ajisai Sushi: For sushi lovers, Ajisai Sushi is a must-visit. Enjoy a wide range of sushi and sashimi prepared with the freshest seafood sourced from the local markets.
• Bar Le Refuge: This cozy French-style bistro offers a fusion of French and Japanese cuisine . Sample their innovative dishes and pair them with a selection of fine wines.
• Masazushi: Known for its traditional Edomae-style sushi, Masazushi is a highly regarded sushi restaurant in Hakodate. Experience the art of sushi-making and savor the exquisite flavors of their carefully crafted sushi.
• Kanimeshi Yosakoi: Specializing in Kanimeshi, a dish featuring snow crab served on a bed of rice, this restaurant is a paradise for crab lovers. Indulge in the sweet and succulent flavors of this local delicacy.
• Hakodate Daruma: Offering a variety of Hokkaido-inspired dishes, Hakodate Daruma is a popular restaurant that showcases the region’s unique ingredients and flavors. Try their local specialties like Jingisukan (grilled lamb) and Hokkaido seafood dishes.
• Shikisai: Experience traditional kaiseki cuisine at Shikisai, where you can savor a multi-course meal featuring seasonal ingredients meticulously prepared and beautifully presented.
• Ichinisan: A traditional Japanese restaurant with a warm and inviting atmosphere, Ichinisan specializes in sukiyaki, a hot pot dish with thinly sliced beef and vegetables cooked in a flavorful broth.
• Kikuyo Shokudo: This local eatery is known for its hearty Hokkaido-style dishes, including jingisukan, ramen, and teishoku (set meals). Enjoy a satisfying meal at affordable prices.
• Kantaro: Famous for its Jingisukan, Kantaro offers a wide variety of grilled meat options, including lamb, beef, and seafood. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere adds to the dining experience.
• Hakodate Ryotei Matsuo Gawa: Indulge in exquisite Japanese haute cuisine, including seasonal delicacies and meticulously crafted dishes. The elegant setting and attentive service make it a memorable dining experience.

Remember to make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants, as they can get busy, especially during peak travel seasons.

Tours For Visitors To Hakodate, Japan

Hakodate, Japan, offers a range of tours and activities that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. Here are some recommended tours for visitors to Hakodate:

• Hakodate Morning Market Tour: Join a guided tour of the Hakodate Morning Market, where you can discover an abundance of fresh seafood, local produce, and unique culinary delights. Learn about the market’s history and enjoy tastings of Hokkaido’s famous seafood.
• Mount Hakodate Night View Tour: Embark on a tour to Mount Hakodate to witness the spectacular night views for which the city is famous. Enjoy a scenic drive or take the ropeway to the summit, where you can marvel at the panoramic vistas of the city lights below.
• Historical Hakodate Walking Tour: Explore the historic district of Motomachi with a knowledgeable guide who will share stories and insights into the area’s Western-influenced architecture and cultural heritage. Visit landmarks such as the Old Public Hall and the Hakodate Orthodox Church.
• Goryokaku Park and Hakodate City Tour: Discover the history and beauty of Goryokaku Park, a star-shaped fort and one of Hakodate’s iconic landmarks. Visit the Goryokaku Tower for a panoramic view, explore the surrounding park, and learn about the fort’s historical significance.
• Hakodate Bay Cruise: Embark on a leisurely boat cruise around Hakodate Bay, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, the surrounding mountains, and the picturesque bay itself. Learn about the area’s maritime history and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
• Hakodate City Tram Tour: Hop aboard the Hakodate City Tram for a nostalgic journey through the city’s streets. Take in the sights and sounds as you ride along the tram lines, passing by landmarks and local neighborhoods.
• Onuma Quasi-National Park Tour: Join a guided tour to the picturesque Onuma Quasi-National Park, located just outside of Hakodate. Explore the park’s scenic trails, take a boat ride on the tranquil lakes, and enjoy the natural beauty of the volcanic landscape.
• Hakodate Sake Brewery Tour: Immerse yourself in the world of sake by visiting local breweries in Hakodate. Learn about the traditional sake-making process, sample a variety of sake flavors, and gain insights into this beloved Japanese beverage.
• Hakodate Ropeway and Yunokawa Onsen Tour: Experience a combination of natural beauty and relaxation on a tour that includes a ride on the Hakodate Ropeway to Mount Hakodate for stunning views, followed by a visit to Yunokawa Onsen, a hot spring resort known for its therapeutic waters.
• Hakodate Rickshaw Tour: Embark on a charming rickshaw ride through the streets of Hakodate, guided by a knowledgeable local runner who will share interesting facts and stories about the city’s history and culture.

These tours offer a range of experiences, from historical and cultural explorations to scenic adventures and culinary delights. Whether you’re interested in the city’s heritage, natural landscapes, or local traditions, there’s a tour in Hakodate to suit every interest.

Hakodate Accommodations Guide: Hotels, Guesthouses and Hostels

When it comes to accommodations, Hakodate offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, here is a guide to help you find the perfect place to stay in Hakodate:

• Luxury Hotels: Hakodate boasts several upscale hotels that provide top-notch amenities and services. These hotels often feature spacious rooms, elegant décor, on-site restaurants, spa facilities, and stunning views of the city or the sea.
• Mid-Range Hotels: There are numerous mid-range hotels in Hakodate that offer comfortable rooms and a range of amenities at more affordable prices. These hotels are often conveniently located near major attractions, making it easy to explore the city.
• Ryokans (Traditional Inns): For a unique cultural experience, consider staying in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Ryokans provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese hospitality and customs, with tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, and communal baths.
• Minshukus (Guesthouses): If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider staying in a minshuku, a Japanese-style guesthouse. Minshukus offer comfortable rooms with shared facilities, giving you a chance to interact with fellow travelers and experience local hospitality.
• Business Hotels: Hakodate has a range of business hotels that cater to business travelers and offer convenient amenities such as workspaces, Wi-Fi, and meeting rooms. These hotels are often centrally located, making them a practical choice for both business and leisure travelers.
• Western-Style Hotels: Alongside traditional Japanese accommodations, Hakodate also has Western-style hotels that cater to international travelers. These hotels provide a familiar and comfortable stay, with rooms designed in a more Western fashion.
• Airbnb and Vacation Rentals: If you prefer a more independent and home-like experience, consider booking an Airbnb or vacation rental in Hakodate. This option allows you to have your own space and flexibility, with a variety of apartments and houses available throughout the city.

When choosing your accommodation, consider factors such as location, proximity to public transportation, amenities, and the type of experience you want to have. It’s also advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred choice.

Whether you’re seeking luxury, traditional charm, or a budget-friendly stay, Hakodate offers a range of accommodations to cater to every traveler’s needs.

Day Trips From Hakodate, Japan

Hakodate, Japan, is a great base for exploring the surrounding area and taking day trips to nearby attractions. Here are some recommended day trips you can take from Hakodate:

• Onuma Quasi-National Park: Located just outside of Hakodate, Onuma Quasi-National Park is a picturesque destination known for its stunning lakes and volcanic landscapes. Take a boat ride on Lake Onuma, hike the scenic trails, and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.
• Matsumae Castle: Travel to Matsumae, a town about 2 hours from Hakodate, and visit Matsumae Castle. This historic castle, built in the Edo period, is surrounded by cherry blossom trees and is particularly beautiful during sakura season.
• Mount Esan: Take a trip to Mount Esan, an active volcano located approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Hakodate. You can hike to the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the Pacific Ocean.
• Esashi Town: Visit Esashi, a charming coastal town known for its well-preserved historical district. Explore the traditional buildings, visit the Esashi Oiwake Museum to learn about the town’s folk songs, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
• Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival: If you’re visiting Hakodate during the cherry blossom season (late April to early May), consider taking a day trip to Matsumae to witness the Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival. The town’s parks and castle grounds are adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque setting.
• Otaru: Travel to the nearby city of Otaru, known for its romantic canal area and preserved historical buildings. Explore the charming streets lined with shops, visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, and enjoy fresh seafood from the local markets.
• Lake Toya: Take a scenic drive or a bus tour to Lake Toya, a volcanic caldera lake located about 90 kilometers southwest of Hakodate. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake, visit the Usuzan Ropeway for panoramic vistas, and relax in the lakeside hot springs.
• Niseko: If you’re a fan of winter sports, consider a day trip to Niseko, a renowned ski resort about 2 hours from Hakodate. Enjoy skiing or snowboarding on the powdery slopes and indulge in après-ski activities.
• Goryokaku Tower: Explore the city of Hakodate further by visiting Goryokaku Tower, located within the Goryokaku Park area. Climb to the top of the tower for a bird’s-eye view of the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort, which is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage.
• Lake Shikotsu: Travel to Lake Shikotsu, a volcanic caldera lake located about 2.5 hours from Hakodate. Take a leisurely walk around the lake, relax in the hot springs, and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.

These day trips from Hakodate offer diverse experiences, from exploring nature to immersing yourself in history and culture. Consider your interests and the time available to plan your day trips accordingly, and be sure to check transportation options and schedules in advance.

Hakodate Transportation Guide

Hakodate has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy to navigate the city and explore the surrounding areas. Here is a transportation guide to help you get around Hakodate:

• Hakodate Airport: Hakodate Airport is the main gateway to the city. It offers domestic flights from major cities in Japan , making it convenient for travelers arriving by air. From the airport, you can take a taxi, limousine bus, or local bus to reach your accommodation or other destinations in the city.
• Trains: Hakodate is well-connected to other cities in Japan by train. The Hakodate Shinkansen (bullet train) provides high-speed rail service, allowing easy access to Hakodate from major cities such as Tokyo and Sapporo. The Hakodate Station is centrally located and serves as a transportation hub for local trains and buses.
• Tram (Streetcar): Hakodate has a convenient tram network that operates within the city. The trams are an affordable and efficient way to get around and explore various attractions. The three tram lines cover major areas of the city, including Motomachi, Yunokawa Onsen, and Goryokaku Park.
• Buses: Hakodate has a comprehensive bus system that serves both within the city and the surrounding areas. Local buses are an excellent option for reaching specific destinations that are not covered by the tram network. Bus schedules and routes are readily available at bus stops and tourist information centers.
• Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Hakodate and can be hailed from designated taxi stands or called by phone. Taxis are a convenient mode of transportation for reaching specific destinations or for more personalized travel experiences. Be sure to check the fare rates and have your destination address written down in Japanese for the driver.
• Rental Cars: If you prefer more flexibility and independence, renting a car is an option for exploring Hakodate and its surrounding areas. Hakodate has several car rental companies that offer a range of vehicle options. However, keep in mind that driving in Japan requires an international driving permit and knowledge of local traffic rules.
• Bicycles: Hakodate is a bicycle-friendly city, with designated cycling paths and rental services available. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the city at a leisurely pace, especially around the scenic areas and waterfront.
• Walking: Many of Hakodate’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Walking is a pleasant way to discover the city’s charm and immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere. Hakodate’s streets are well-maintained and pedestrian-friendly.

When planning your transportation in Hakodate, consider the distance between your accommodation and the attractions you wish to visit. Hakodate’s compact size makes it convenient to explore on foot, but public transportation options are also readily available for longer distances or when venturing to areas outside the city center.

Hakodate 1 Day Travel Itinerary

If you have just one day to explore Hakodate, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

• Start your day at the lively Hakodate Morning Market, filled with stalls offering a variety of fresh seafood. Sample local delicacies like seafood rice bowls (kaisendon) or grilled seafood skewers.
• After breakfast, take the Mount Hakodate Ropeway to the summit and marvel at the panoramic views of the city and coastline. Sunrise or sunset are especially breathtaking times to visit.
• Descend from Mount Hakodate and wander through the historic Motomachi district. Admire the well-preserved Western-style buildings, including the Old Public Hall and the Hakodate Orthodox Church.
• Stroll along the scenic Hakodate Bay area, where red-brick warehouses and picturesque waterfront views await. Explore the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse complex, housing charming shops, cafes, and galleries.
• Enjoy a delectable lunch at one of the local eateries in the Bay area, savoring Hakodate’s diverse culinary offerings. Don’t miss out on regional specialties such as squid ink ramen or Hokkaido seafood dishes.
• Head to Goryokaku Park, a star-shaped fort and an emblem of Hakodate. Explore the park’s beautiful grounds, visit the Goryokaku Tower for a panoramic view, and delve into its historical significance at the Goryokaku History Museum.
• If time permits, visit the Hakodate City Tropical Botanical Garden, where you can immerse yourself in a lush oasis of exotic plants and tranquil surroundings.
• Return to the enchanting Hakodate Bay area in the evening. Take a leisurely walk along the illuminated waterfront, soaking in the romantic atmosphere created by the city lights.
• Indulge in a delightful dinner at one of the many dining establishments in the Bay area, offering an array of culinary choices, from fresh seafood to Japanese and international cuisines.
• Conclude your day with a soothing onsen experience in Hakodate. Yunokawa Onsen is a popular choice, providing various hot spring facilities where you can relax and rejuvenate.

Remember to plan your day accordingly, considering the opening hours of attractions and dining establishments. Hakodate is a compact city, and most of the suggested places are within walking distance. However, you can also utilize convenient transportation options such as trams or taxis if desired. Enjoy your day exploring the charming city of Hakodate!

Hakodate 3-4 Days Travel Itinerary

Hakodate offers a wealth of attractions and experiences to enjoy over a 3-4 day visit. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Hakodate:

• Morning: Start your day at the Hakodate Morning Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies for breakfast.
• After breakfast, take the Mount Hakodate Ropeway to the summit and admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Motomachi district, strolling along its charming streets lined with Western-style buildings. Visit landmarks like the Old Public Hall and the Hakodate Orthodox Church.
• In the evening, head to the Bay area and enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, soaking in the illuminated cityscape.
• Morning: Visit Goryokaku Park, a star-shaped fort known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Explore the park’s grounds and enjoy a peaceful stroll around the Goryokaku Tower.
• Afternoon: Discover the history and maritime heritage of Hakodate at the Hakodate Museum of Northern Peoples or the Hakodate City Museum of Northern History. Both museums offer fascinating insights into the region’s cultural heritage.
• In the evening, explore the vibrant Bay area and sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants, enjoying the fresh seafood and regional specialties.
• Morning: Take a day trip to the nearby Onuma Quasi-National Park, known for its scenic lakes and volcanic landscapes. Rent a bicycle and explore the park’s picturesque trails, or take a boat ride on Lake Onuma for a unique perspective.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hakodate City Tropical Botanical Garden, where you can escape into a tropical paradise and admire a diverse collection of exotic plants and flowers.
• In the evening, relax and unwind in one of Hakodate’s renowned onsen (hot springs), such as Yunokawa Onsen or Nishiki Onsen, and experience the rejuvenating effects of these natural thermal baths.
• Morning: Explore the Hakodate Bay area further by visiting the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse complex. Discover local shops, boutiques, and galleries, and enjoy a cup of coffee while overlooking the bay.
• Afternoon: Take a scenic drive or bus ride to the charming coastal town of Esashi, known for its preserved historical district. Stroll through the streets lined with traditional buildings and visit attractions like the Esashi Oiwake Museum.
• Return to Hakodate in the evening and savor a farewell dinner at one of the city’s notable restaurants, trying Hokkaido specialties like Jingisukan (grilled lamb) or Hakodate-style sushi.

Remember to check the opening hours and schedules of attractions, and consider using public transportation, such as trams or buses, to get around Hakodate. This itinerary allows you to experience the city’s historical landmarks, natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural heritage, ensuring a memorable visit to Hakodate.

Hakodate 1 Week Travel Itinerary

If you have a week to explore Hakodate, Japan, you can dive deeper into the city’s attractions and also venture beyond to discover the surrounding areas. Here’s a suggested 1-week itinerary for Hakodate:

• Start your trip by exploring the city center. Visit the Hakodate Morning Market for a taste of fresh seafood, then take the Mount Hakodate Ropeway to enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline. Spend the rest of the day exploring the historic Motomachi district and the Bay area.
• Take a day trip to Onuma Quasi-National Park, where you can rent a bicycle and explore the scenic lakes and volcanic landscapes. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Onuma and discover the park’s hiking trails.
• Visit Goryokaku Park, a star-shaped fort famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. Explore the park and climb the Goryokaku Tower for panoramic views. Learn about the park’s history at the Goryokaku History Museum.
• Explore the Hakodate Bay area in more detail. Visit the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse complex, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Take a relaxing walk along the waterfront and appreciate the city lights at night.
• Take a day trip to the nearby city of Otaru, known for its picturesque canal area and preserved historical buildings. Explore the charming streets, visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, and sample local delicacies.
• Embark on a day trip to Lake Toya, a volcanic caldera lake surrounded by stunning scenery. Visit the Usuzan Ropeway for panoramic views, relax in hot springs, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or boating.
• Visit the Hakodate City Tropical Botanical Garden and immerse yourself in the lush greenery and exotic plants. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
• In the evening, unwind in one of Hakodate’s renowned onsen (hot springs) like Yunokawa Onsen or Nishiki Onsen, and experience traditional Japanese relaxation.

During your week in Hakodate, make sure to try local cuisine, including fresh seafood, Hokkaido specialties, and regional delicacies. Don’t forget to explore the city’s vibrant dining scene and sample Hakodate-style sushi.

Remember to check the opening hours and schedules of attractions, and consider using public transportation, such as trams or buses, for convenience. This itinerary allows you to delve into the city’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and nearby destinations, creating a memorable week-long experience in Hakodate.

Is Hakodate A Safe City To Visit?

Hakodate is generally considered a safe city for visitors. Japan, as a whole, has a reputation for being one of the safest countries in the world, and Hakodate is no exception. The city has a low crime rate, and you can feel relatively secure during your visit. However, it’s always essential to exercise caution and follow standard safety practices while traveling, regardless of the destination. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Hakodate:

• Keep an eye on your belongings: Like in any other city, it’s advisable to be mindful of your belongings and keep them secure. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and take necessary precautions to prevent theft or loss of personal items.
• Follow traffic rules: When crossing roads or walking along the streets, obey traffic signals and use designated pedestrian crossings. Japanese drivers are generally respectful and law-abiding, but it’s essential to remain vigilant and prioritize your safety.
• Take care of your personal belongings: Japan has a culture of honesty, and lost items are often returned to their owners. However, it’s still important to take care of your belongings and not leave them unattended in public areas. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of your personal space, particularly in crowded places or public transportation.
• Be aware of natural hazards: Hakodate is located in a seismically active region of Japan. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety guidelines and follow instructions provided by local authorities if an earthquake occurs during your visit. Additionally, pay attention to weather conditions and heed any warnings or advisories related to typhoons or other natural phenomena.
• Use licensed transportation services: When using taxis or other modes of transportation, ensure that you choose licensed and reputable services. Licensed taxis are typically safe and reliable options for getting around the city.
• Stay informed: Stay updated on local news, advisories, and any travel alerts issued by your embassy or consulate. Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, including those for the police, ambulance, and fire department.

While Hakodate is generally safe, it’s always wise to practice common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to ensure your personal safety. By doing so, you can fully enjoy your visit to this beautiful city without major concerns.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Hakodate?

The best time to visit Hakodate depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons to help you decide:

Spring (April to May): Spring in Hakodate brings pleasant weather, cherry blossoms, and a sense of renewal. The cherry blossoms typically bloom in late April, creating a beautiful pink spectacle in parks and along streets. This is a popular time for visitors, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation rates. If you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and mild temperatures, spring is an excellent time to visit Hakodate.

Summer (June to August): Summers in Hakodate are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The city comes alive with festivals, including the Hakodate Port Festival in July and the Hakodate Minato Festival in August. Summer is a great time to explore Hakodate’s outdoor attractions, such as the beautiful coastline and nearby nature parks. However, be prepared for higher tourist numbers and book accommodations well in advance.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Hakodate is characterized by mild temperatures, cooler evenings, and stunning foliage. The changing colors of the leaves in parks and gardens create a picturesque backdrop. The autumn foliage typically peaks in late October to early November, attracting visitors seeking natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. It’s a great time for hiking, exploring parks, and enjoying the seasonal cuisine of Hokkaido.

Winter (December to February): Winter in Hakodate brings cold temperatures, occasional snowfall, and a unique charm. The city is known for its winter illuminations, including the famous Hakodate Christmas Fantasy. The cold weather also makes it an ideal time to indulge in hot springs (onsen) and enjoy winter sports in nearby ski resorts. Winter in Hakodate offers a quieter and more serene atmosphere compared to other seasons.

Considerations:

• The weather in Hakodate can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Keep in mind that cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season are popular and can attract larger crowds, so plan and book in advance if you prefer a quieter experience.
• If you’re interested in seafood, summer and winter are excellent seasons for enjoying fresh and seasonal catches in Hakodate.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Hakodate depends on your personal preferences and interests. Each season offers its own unique experiences and attractions, so choose the time that aligns with the activities and atmosphere you desire.

Top Festivals and Events in Hakodate

Hakodate is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As a result, it hosts a variety of festivals and events that capture the essence of its heritage and natural wonders. Let’s explore some of the top festivals and events you can enjoy in Hakodate.

• When : Early May
• Where : Goryokaku Park
• Details : Celebrating the historical event of the last battle of the Boshin War in 1869, the Hakodate Goryokaku Festival showcases a reenactment of the war, complete with participants in period costumes. The Goryokaku fort turns vibrant with hundreds of cherry blossoms during this period, making it a beautiful backdrop for the festival.
• When : Late July to Early August
• Where : Throughout the city, especially around the port area.
• Details : The festival is a testament to Hakodate’s history as a port city. With a variety of events, including squid fishing, parade of ships, and a grand fireworks display, it offers both locals and tourists an insight into the city’s maritime heritage.
• When : December
• Where : Hakodate Bay area.
• Details : As winter sets in, Hakodate turns into a winter wonderland with the Christmas Fantasy event. A large Christmas tree, sent from Halifax, Canada as a symbol of friendship, is lit up alongside a spectacular fireworks display, creating a mesmerizing sight against the snowy backdrop.
• Where : Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden
• Details : This event offers a unique blend of tropical warmth in the chilly winter season. The garden is adorned with over 300,000 lights, illuminating the tropical plants and making it a magical experience for visitors.
• When : Various times throughout the year
• Where : At different Lucky Pierrot branches
• Details : Lucky Pierrot is a famous local fast-food chain in Hakodate. They occasionally host carnivals featuring their mascot, games, and of course, their signature dishes.
• When : During the summer months
• Where : Mount Hakodate
• Details : While not a festival in the traditional sense, the midnight service offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty of Hakodate at night. From atop Mount Hakodate, one can view the iconic “million-dollar nighttime view” of the city.
• When : Summer
• Where : Throughout the city.
• Details : Given Hakodate’s reputation for delicious squid, it’s no surprise there’s a festival celebrating it. Visitors can witness the lively squid dance parade and enjoy various squid dishes.
• When : June
• Details : Engaging both local and international participants, the Hakodate Marathon routes through some of the most scenic spots of the city. It’s not just a race but also a celebration of health, fitness, and community spirit.
• When : Winter months
• Details : Various areas of Hakodate light up with stunning illuminations, creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere. Popular spots include the Hachiman-zaka Slope and the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward.
• When : September
• Where : Hakodate Morning Market.
• Details : A festival that revolves around the city’s bustling morning market. Enjoy fresh seafood, participate in tuna cutting demonstrations, and experience the lively atmosphere of local trade.

These are just a selection of the festivals and events in Hakodate. Each offers a unique window into the city’s culture, history, and way of life. Whether you’re there to immerse yourself in its historic charm, culinary delights, or natural beauty, Hakodate has something special to offer for everyone.

Hakodate Shopping Guide and Souvenir List

Hakodate, as one of the main cities in Hokkaido, offers a shopping experience that combines its rich history with modern trends. The city is known for its fresh seafood, local crafts, and sweets. Here’s a comprehensive guide to shopping in Hakodate and a list of souvenirs to bring back home.

Shopping Areas

Hakodate Morning Market (朝市)

• Location : Just a few minutes from Hakodate Station.
• Description : A bustling market open from early morning till noon, it’s the best place to purchase fresh seafood like crabs, sea urchins, and, of course, squids. You can also find fresh produce and local snacks here.

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse (金森赤レンガ倉庫)

• Location : Along the waterfront.
• Description : A historic shopping area where old red brick warehouses have been transformed into chic shops, restaurants, and boutiques. The atmosphere here is romantic, especially during the evening.

Hakodate Bay Area

• Location : Close to the Red Brick Warehouse.
• Description : This is a modern shopping area with a range of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It offers a beautiful view of the harbor and is a great place for both shopping and relaxation.

Goryokaku Tower Shops

• Location : Goryokaku area.
• Description : After enjoying the panoramic view from the tower, you can shop for souvenirs, especially those related to the historical significance of the place.

Souvenir List

Seafood and Food Items:

• Ikasumi (Squid Ink) Products : Ikasumi or squid ink is a local specialty. You can find items such as squid ink ice cream, pasta, and even bread.
• Shio Ramen : While Sapporo is known for miso ramen, Hakodate prides itself on its salt (shio) ramen. Purchase instant versions to recreate the taste at home.
• Kombu (Seaweed) : Hakodate is known for its high-quality kombu which is an essential ingredient for making Japanese broths.

Sweets and Snacks:

• Hakodate Milk Products : From ice creams to cheeses, the dairy products from Hakodate are creamy and flavorful.
• Shio Caramel : A delightful treat, these are caramels made with a hint of salt.
• Lucky Pierrot Original Goods : From their signature burgers to quirky merchandise, items from this famous local fast-food chain make for unique souvenirs.

Crafts and Miscellaneous:

• Woodcraft : Purchase items like ‘Maru-Kibori’ (round wood carving) or intricate wooden trays, boxes, and other handicrafts that reflect the city’s artisanal heritage.
• Matsumae Tsuishu Lacquerware : This is a traditional craft from the nearby Matsumae area, characterized by its vibrant red lacquer.
• Glassware : Hakodate has several glass studios where you can buy beautifully crafted glass items, from jewelry to tableware.
• Music Boxes : There are shops where you can buy intricate music boxes, some even allow you to create a custom tune.

Fashion and Accessories:

• Ainu Craft : Inspired by the indigenous Ainu people, these crafts include clothes, accessories, and even fabrics with traditional patterns.
• Hakodate Retro : Due to its history as one of the first international ports in Japan, Hakodate has a mix of Japanese and Western-influenced retro fashion items that are unique to the area.

Tips for Shopping in Hakodate:

• Tax-Free Shopping : If you’re a tourist, look for shops offering tax-free shopping to save on your purchases.
• Try Before You Buy : Many food shops offer samples. This is particularly true at the morning market.
• Local Currency : While credit cards are accepted in many places, smaller shops or stalls may only accept cash. It’s wise to have some Japanese yen with you.
• Ask for Recommendations : Locals know the best spots. Don’t hesitate to ask someone for their favorite place to buy a specific item.

Remember, the best souvenirs are those that evoke memories of your trip. Whether it’s the taste of shio caramel, the tune of a music box, or the intricate designs of traditional crafts, make sure to choose items that will remind you of your time in Hakodate.

Where To Visit After Your Trip To Hakodate?

After your trip to Hakodate, there are several nearby destinations worth considering for further exploration. Here are some suggestions:

• Sapporo: As the capital city of Hokkaido, Sapporo is a vibrant urban center known for its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and cultural attractions. Explore the city’s parks, visit the Sapporo Beer Museum, and try Sapporo’s famous soup curry. Don’t miss the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, featuring incredible ice sculptures.
• Otaru: Located on the coast not far from Sapporo, Otaru is a charming town known for its romantic canal area, preserved historical buildings, and glassworks. Stroll along the canal, visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, and indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants.
• Niseko: If you enjoy winter sports, consider a visit to Niseko, one of Japan’s premier ski resorts. Located about 2 hours from Hakodate by train, Niseko offers excellent powder snow and a range of skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The area also has natural hot springs, making it an ideal destination for relaxation .
• Noboribetsu: Known for its hot springs and volcanic activity, Noboribetsu is a popular destination for onsen lovers. Explore the Hell Valley (Jigokudani) with its steaming geysers and vibrant colors, and unwind in one of the numerous hot spring resorts. Noboribetsu is around 3 hours from Hakodate by train and bus.
• Lake Toya: Enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Toya, a volcanic caldera lake known for its stunning landscapes. Take a boat cruise on the lake, visit the Showa Shinzan volcanic mountain, and relax in the hot springs. Lake Toya is approximately 2 hours from Hakodate by train and bus.
• Aomori: If you’re interested in experiencing more of the Tohoku region, consider visiting Aomori. This city is known for its Nebuta Festival, featuring enormous illuminated floats, and is a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakami Sanchi. Aomori is accessible from Hakodate by ferry or train.
• Lake Shikotsu: Located southeast of Sapporo, Lake Shikotsu is a tranquil caldera lake known for its crystal-clear waters. Enjoy scenic walks around the lake, go hiking in the surrounding mountains, or relax at one of the lakeside hot springs.
• Furano: Situated in the center of Hokkaido, Furano is famous for its picturesque lavender fields that bloom from late June to early August. Visit Farm Tomita, one of the region’s most popular lavender farms, and enjoy the stunning floral landscapes. In winter, Furano is also a popular ski resort.
• Asahikawa: Known for its Asahiyama Zoo, one of Japan’s most popular zoos, Asahikawa offers a range of attractions. Explore the zoo and see unique animal exhibits, visit the Asahikawa Ramen Village to taste the city’s renowned ramen, and discover the Otokoyama Sake Brewery for a taste of local sake.
• Shiretoko National Park: Located in northeastern Hokkaido, Shiretoko National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its pristine nature and wildlife. Take a boat tour to explore the rugged coastline, hike scenic trails, and keep an eye out for brown bears, deer, and marine life.
• Kushiro: Known for its Kushiro Marsh, a designated national park, Kushiro offers beautiful wetlands and abundant birdlife. Take a boat tour through the marshes, visit the Kushiro Fisherman’s Wharf MOO for fresh seafood, and explore the picturesque Washo Market.
• Akan National Park: Located in eastern Hokkaido, Akan National Park is known for its picturesque landscapes and hot springs. Explore Lake Akan and take a boat tour to see the marimo, unique spherical algae formations. You can also visit the nearby town of Kushiro for its famous Tancho cranes.
• Sounkyo Gorge: Situated in Daisetsuzan National Park, Sounkyo Gorge offers stunning views of steep cliffs, waterfalls, and hot springs. Take a cable car ride to Mount Kurodake for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and go hiking in the area.
• Tomakomai: Located on the southern coast of Hokkaido, Tomakomai is known for its seafood and hot springs. Visit the Mitsui Outlet Park to shop for discounted goods, enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants, and relax in the hot spring resorts.
• Obihiro: Known as the “Tokachi region’s kitchen,” Obihiro is famous for its agricultural products and delicious food. Visit the Obihiro Zoo to see animals like polar bears and penguins, explore the Tokachi Millennium Forest, and savor local specialties like butadon (grilled pork rice bowl).
• Otofuke and Tokachigawa Onsen: Located near Obihiro, Otofuke is famous for its vast fields of sunflowers. During the summer, you can witness the vibrant yellow blooms stretching as far as the eye can see. Afterward, head to nearby Tokachigawa Onsen for a relaxing hot spring experience.
• Furukawa: Located in the eastern part of Hokkaido, Furukawa is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities . Explore the Furukawa-cho Lavender Garden, go hiking in the nearby mountains, and visit the Furukawa Fisherman’s Wharf for fresh seafood.
• Rishiri Island: Situated off the coast of Hokkaido, Rishiri Island offers breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Hike to the summit of Mount Rishiri for panoramic views, explore the coastal cliffs, and enjoy the island’s serene atmosphere.
• Shikabe Kanketsusen Park: Located near Hakodate, Shikabe Kanketsusen Park is a unique attraction featuring ice sculptures and frozen waterfalls. Visit during the winter months to witness the magical ice formations and enjoy winter activities like ice skating.
• Muroran: A coastal city near Hakodate, Muroran offers beautiful beaches, hot springs, and scenic views. Visit Cape Chikyu for panoramic vistas of the coastline, explore Muroran Port for fresh seafood, and relax in the hot spring resorts.
• Kushiro Marshland: Located in eastern Hokkaido, Kushiro Marshland is the largest wetland in Japan and a paradise for nature lovers. Take a boat tour to observe the diverse bird species, enjoy nature walks along the boardwalks, and experience the unique ecosystem of the marshland.
• Abashiri: Known for its drifting sea ice and prison museum, Abashiri offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and history. Take a cruise to see the ice floes, visit the Abashiri Prison Museum to learn about its past, and explore the nearby Lake Notoro for its stunning sunsets.

These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant city life to natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or culinary delights, these places provide ample opportunities to continue your exploration of Hokkaido and beyond. Consider your interests and the amount of time you have available to determine which destination suits you best.

Hakodate Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Hakodate is a captivating city in Hokkaido, Japan, offering a rich blend of history, natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites, indulging in fresh seafood, or enjoying panoramic views, Hakodate has something to offer every traveler.

During your visit, be sure to experience the stunning views from Mount Hakodate, immerse yourself in the charm of the Motomachi district, and savor the local specialties at the Hakodate Morning Market. Don’t forget to explore the city’s cultural attractions, such as the Goryokaku Park and the Hakodate Museum of Northern Peoples.

Beyond Hakodate, consider venturing to nearby destinations like Sapporo, Otaru, and the beautiful natural landscapes of Hokkaido. Each place offers unique experiences that complement your visit to Hakodate.

Remember to plan your visit according to the seasons, taking advantage of the cherry blossoms in spring, the vibrant festivals in summer, the stunning foliage in autumn, and the winter illuminations. And don’t miss the opportunity to relax in the local hot springs and savor the flavors of Hokkaido’s cuisine.

Throughout your journey, embrace the spirit of Hakodate, known for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a nature enthusiast, Hakodate welcomes you with open arms.

As you explore the city, immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere and create lasting memories. Enjoy the beauty of Hakodate and the surrounding region, and take home a piece of its charm with you.

We hope this travel guide has provided you with the information you need to make the most of your visit to Hakodate. Safe travels and enjoy your time in this enchanting city!

In Hakodate’s embrace, where land meets sea, A city of charm and history, it beckons me. Mount Hakodate stands tall, offering a view, A panorama of beauty, a mesmerizing hue.

Stroll through Motomachi, with its European flair, Cobblestone streets, buildings with stories to share. Goryokaku’s star-shaped fort, a historic sight, Cherry blossoms bloom, painting the day and night.

Hakodate Morning Market, a bustling scene, Seafood delights, fresh and pristine. Taste the savory ikura, melt-in-your-mouth squid, A culinary journey, where flavors are bid.

Hakodate Bay’s allure, a waterfront delight, Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, alive both day and night. As nightfall casts its spell, the city comes alive, Illuminated streets, a spectacle to thrive.

Beyond the city’s grasp, nature’s wonders await, Onuma Quasi-National Park, a tranquil landscape. Explore the lakes, the volcanic trails, Nature’s masterpiece, where peace prevails.

Hakodate, a city of contrasts, old and new, Where traditions thrive, with modernity in view. In hot springs’ embrace, find respite and ease, A moment of tranquility, a moment of peace.

From Hakodate to beyond, a journey to embark, Sapporo’s lively streets, Otaru’s canal’s spark. Hokkaido’s wonders, diverse and grand, In this captivating land, memories are planned.

So, traveler, embrace Hakodate’s allure, Immerse yourself in its stories, both past and future. Let the city’s spirit guide your way, In Hakodate’s embrace, may you find joy each day.