Hakodate City is home to many attractive tourist spots, but the western district, located at the foot of Mount Hakodate, is famous for its many historic slopes.

But when you hear the word "slope," you tend to think of "walking up a slope = tiring," but if the scenery is nice, that's a different story, don't you think?
Hakodate's hillsides offer a unique port town atmosphere, making them a popular spot in the city.

So, this time, I'd like to introduce the charm of Hachimanzaka, one of the most popular spots among the many slopes in the area.

<Table of Contents>

1. Let's learn about the origin of Hachiman-zaka slope.
2. Sightseeing Tips! What is the appeal of Hachiman-zaka?
2-1. The view is great because it faces straight down to the sea.
2-2. Cobblestone streets, street trees, and streetlights are also important features.
2-3. The view from below is simply "spectacular."
3. Other nearby illuminated spots
Final thoughts

First, we need to know the origin of the name of Hachiman-zaka! So, let me give you a brief introduction to the slope!

This is where the Hakodate Hachimangu Shrine once stood, at the top of the hill.
However, it was destroyed in a major fire in 1878 (Meiji 11), and although Hakodate Hachimangu Shrine is now located in Yachigashira-cho, the name has remained the same.

In short, just remember that it's called Hachiman-zaka because it was the slope where the Hakodate Hachiman Shrine used to be!

Next, let's talk about the popular features and attractions of Hachiman-zaka.
This slope is often featured in various media outlets as a top viewpoint, but...

We'll delve into the "reason" behind it!

2-1. The view is great because it faces straight down to the sea.

When you reach the top of Hachiman-zaka slope and turn around, you'll be greeted by a truly magnificent view of Hakodate Bay and the Seikan Ferry Mashu Maru, a sight so beautiful that it will make anyone stop in their tracks. *The Mashu Maru is currently moored and on display as a memorial museum.

This scenery, which looks like something straight out of a movie scene, has been used in the past for filming famous commercials and other projects.
In other words, here you'll find scenery that even video professionals will be captivated by!

2-2. Cobblestone streets, street trees, and streetlights are also important features.

The cobblestone streets, trees lining the streets, and streetlights all contribute to creating that beautiful scenery.

In winter, the trees have lost their leaves, but in their place, they illuminate the slope with a magical display of lights at night.

The illuminations in question are the result of a long-running event called the "Hakodate Winter Festival - Hakodate Illuminations," which takes place every year from the end of November to the end of March.
The whole of Hakodate is bathed in light, and Hachiman-zaka is one of those places!

The lights use warm colors, so when you look at them it's just like a fireplace!
If it snows, it becomes even more romantic, and strangely enough, you don't feel the cold at all.
Even if the green leaves have withered and fallen, there's no need to be disappointed! The illuminations will keep things from feeling lonely, right?

And soon after the event ends, spring will arrive in Hakodate.
When the fresh green leaves appear, the streetlights illuminate the trees and cobblestone streets, allowing you to enjoy an even more retro landscape!

The key to enjoying it is to see both its daytime and nighttime appearances.
As for how to enjoy it, try this luxurious way: during the day, enjoy the contrast with the sea and visit the facilities around Motomachi, and at night, go to see its fantastical appearance!

And, as you might expect, cars also drive on the road, so when sightseeing, be sure to use the walkways with handrails on both sides.
If you're taking photos, please make sure there are no cars coming before stepping onto the road, as the top of the hill is a T-junction!
*The slope is approximately 270 meters long, and it takes about 7-8 minutes to reach the top if you walk slowly.

2-3. The view from below is simply "spectacular."

Hachiman-zaka offers more than just a view from above.
That's because... you can actually see the top of Mount Hakodate!

At night, the ropeway and gondolas are lit up, and the sight of people going back and forth is quite impressive.
The lights of the gondola move up and down, creating a scene that resembles a moving nightscape.

Furthermore, if you want to climb Mount Hakodate to see the night view, please be mindful of the time of day you go up the mountain.
It gets quite crowded around sunset, so I think it would be best to take a leisurely stroll up Hachiman-zaka first, and then head to Mount Hakodate!
*The gondola station is about a 3-minute walk away.

If you're going for a night stroll, I recommend you also enjoy visiting the churches.

As you climb Hachiman-zaka slope, you'll come across some of Motomachi's famous churches... and among them, the most famous, located right on the slope, are St. John's Church and the Orthodox Church. These are must-see spots!

St. John's Church is an Anglican church, and the Orthodox Church is a Russian Byzantine-style church... *It belongs to the Orthodox Church of Japan.

Standing there in person, you're greeted by an exotic atmosphere, and the rows of beautiful buildings make you almost forget you're in Japan.
And the lighting effect is just fantastic! It's so beautiful, it would be a shame not to take pictures.

Why not also enjoy some of the retro, historically-tinged buildings?
By the way, if you go behind the church, you can take a photo with the sea in the background! If you visit during the daytime, be sure to give it a try♪

Final thoughts

The charm of Hachiman-zaka lies in the fact that it offers different scenery depending on the season and time of day.
For example, even when it rains, the streetlights reflect off the wet cobblestones, making them look even more beautiful...the way things look changes depending on the weather.

There are also many other slopes running parallel to Hachiman-zaka in the surrounding area, so you might want to take a leisurely stroll around them.

Furthermore, the Hakodate Bay Area is within walking distance, and it's right near the tram stop, so the location is perfect! You should be able to get there without getting lost!
Take your time and enjoy Hachiman-zaka, which could be considered one of Hakodate's top spots.

[Check these out too!]
・Lots of delicious food and fun! A casual stroll around Hakodate Morning Market♪
・[Hakodate] Tracing the history of the romantic Bakumatsu period! What kind of place was the Hakodate Magistrate's Office?
・Hokkaido's "Monkey Hot Springs" are here! The charm of Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden!
Enjoy a leisurely trip around Hakodate by streetcar! A model itinerary for exploring Hakodate by streetcar.
・Spectacular Views! Everything You Need to Know and Hidden Gems to Enjoy Hakodate's Night View to the Fullest

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