Hakodate has plenty of attractive tourist spots!
From the beautiful night view from Mount Hakodate to the retro streets that blend Western and Japanese cultures, historical buildings, and delicious food, there are so many fascinating tourist spots that you simply can't see them all in one day.

So, this time, we'll introduce seven popular tourist spots in Hakodate that you absolutely must visit.

<Contents>
100. Enjoy the breathtaking million-dollar night view from Mount Hakodate.
2. For shopping and souvenirs, this is the place! [Bay Area Red Brick Warehouse]
3. See, buy, and taste fresh seafood! [Hakodate Morning Market]
4. Goryokaku, a National Special Historic Site Where You Can Feel the History
5. Stroll through the streets overflowing with exotic charm [Motomachi area]
6. Japan's first convent for women: The Trappistine Convent
7. A scenic spot overlooking the Tsugaru Strait: [Tachimachi Cape]

The night view from Mount Hakodate, considered one of the "world's three greatest night views," is an absolute must-see attraction when visiting Hakodate.
The night view from Mount Hakodate is breathtaking, with the lights spilling out from the city sparkling like a work of art.

While the night view from the summit of Mount Hakodate is famous, the daytime view is also magnificent, offering a 360-degree panorama that stretches across the Tsugaru Strait to the Tsugaru Peninsula on clear days.

If you have the time, experience Mount Hakodate in both daytime and nighttime.

The night view from Mount Hakodate is known as the "million-dollar night view."
A breathtakingly beautiful and awe-inspiring night view unfolds before your eyes.
The view overlooking Hakodate city during the daytime is also exceptional.
It's also interesting to get a sense of the relative locations of tourist spots from here!
If you turn around, you'll be greeted by a 360-degree panoramic view overlooking the Tsugaru Strait.

<Access to the summit of Mt. Hakodate>
◆Hakodateyama Ropeway
The recommended way to climb Mount Hakodate is by the Hakodateyama Ropeway. The ride takes approximately 3 minutes.
The scenery on the way to the summit is absolutely breathtaking.

~Hakodateyama Ropeway Fares~
[Round trip] Adults 1,280 yen, children 640 yen
[One-way] Adults: 780 yen, Children: 390 yen
Ropeway operating hours
期間：4月25日～10月15日 始発10:00・登り最終21:50・下り最終22:00
10月16日～4月24日 始発10:00・登り最終20:50・下り最終21:00

◆Hakodateyama Mountain Climbing Bus
To reach the summit of Mount Hakodate, you can take a local bus that ascends the Mount Hakodate hiking trail from JR Hakodate Station.
If there's no traffic, you can reach the mountaintop from the station in about 30 minutes.

The low fare of 400 yen for a one-way trip is also an attractive feature. While there are traffic restrictions on the hiking trails during the hours when the night view can be seen, the hiking bus is not restricted and can pass through without any problems.

However, be aware that you may get stuck in traffic during peak season or at certain times of the day.

~Hakodateyama Mountain Climbing Bus Fare~
[One way] Adults 400 yen, children 200 yen

◆Taxi
If you're traveling with a group, taking a taxi is a convenient option. Taxis, like mountain buses, are not affected by traffic restrictions, so you can still climb even during restricted hours.
Similar to mountain buses, the fare can increase if you get caught in traffic, so it's a good idea to check with the driver before boarding.

◆Private car, rental car
It's very convenient because you can easily head to the mountaintop, but there are traffic restrictions during the hours when you can see the night view.
（2018年は4月25日～9月30日が17時～22時、10月1日～11月12日は16時～21時まで一般車は通行できません）

For those who want to enjoy the night view in their own car or a rental car.
If you're driving your own car or a rental car, be sure to line up near the entrance to Mount Hakodate at least 15 minutes before the traffic restrictions are lifted. The parking lot at the summit of Mount Hakodate is small, so if you can't start climbing as soon as the restrictions are lifted, you could get stuck in traffic halfway up the mountain and be trapped in your car for over an hour. There are no toilets along the way, and you can't turn around and go back, so be sure to check this beforehand.

◆Hakodateyama Mountain Climbing Trail (on foot)
Mount Hakodate has well-maintained walking trails with gentle slopes.
Since you can reach the summit in about an hour, you can choose to hike up via the trail and take the cable car down.

The hiking trail, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a superb location.
Please note that the hiking trails on Mt. Hakodate are closed during the winter months.

*Trail closure period in 2018
Monday, November 12, 2018 - Scheduled for mid-April 2019

The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse is a striking red brick building that stands out in the bay area.

If you visit the red brick warehouses of "Hakodate History Plaza," "Kanemori Western Goods Museum," and "BAY Hakodate," as well as the nearby "Hakodate Seafood Market Main Store" and "Hakodate West Wharf," it's no exaggeration to say that you can find almost all the souvenirs you could want from Hakodate and Hokkaido, with a wide variety of items ranging from seafood to sweets and desserts.

This is an essential spot for shopping and buying souvenirs.

◆ "Hakodate History Plaza"
This red brick building, constructed over 100 years ago, houses the glass museum and shop "Hakodate Romankan," the "Hakodate Beer Hall," and the handmade chopstick workshop "Yuzen."
As you venture further inside, you'll be drawn in by the savory aroma of "traditional-style mochi-grilled rice crackers," and you'll find yourself wanting to enjoy a freshly made cracker right there.

◆ "Kanamori Western-Style Goods Museum"
The Kanamori Western Goods Store, themed around "the rich lifestyle and culture of Western Europe," houses a variety of shops including antique shops, Christmas shops, accessory and lifestyle goods stores, and souvenir shops.
Among them, the place I always find myself stopping by is "Pastry Snuffles," which offers free samples of its fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth cheese omelets.
In addition to souvenirs, there is also a 35-seat tearoom where you can enjoy cakes and drinks on the spot.

◆ "BAY Hakodate"
"BAY Hakodate" is located along a canal that was constructed around 1882 (Meiji 15).
With a monument inspired by the name of the Kanemori Warehouse and the open-air bayside restaurant "Minato no Mori," it's the perfect place to take a break.
There's a "Bell of Happiness" in the square, so give it a ring! (It's quite loud, so be careful not to ring it too loudly.)

Inside the building is the "Hakodate Music Box Museum," where many music boxes with beautiful melodies are on display.
How about this as a souvenir of your trip?

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
address:14-12 Toyokawacho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido
Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 19:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
Parking: 100 cars (Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse large parking lot)
200 yen for the first hour, then 100 yen for every 30 minutes thereafter.
*Free parking for up to 2 hours with a minimum purchase of 1,000 yen.
Access: Get off at the "Jujigai" tram stop and walk for about 2 minutes.
About 15 minutes walk from JR Hakodate Station
URL:http://www.hakodate-kanemori.com

◆ "Hakodate Seafood Market Main Store"
The store boasts an extensive selection of goods, including fresh fish, delicacies, kelp, sweets, and souvenirs, making it possible to find almost any souvenir you need in one place.

The restaurant also has a fish tank, and in the eat-in area, you can enjoy freshly prepared dishes such as sashimi made from live squid, crab soup, grilled scallops, squid rice, and steamed buns.

At "Kaisen Shokudo Ikaika-tei," a seafood restaurant located inside the shop, you can choose your own fish from the selection displayed inside, and they also offer a wide variety of seafood dishes, including seafood bowls, set meals, and à la carte items.

Furthermore, this shop is barrier-free, so people in wheelchairs can use it with peace of mind.

Hakodate Seafood Market Main Store
address:12-12 Toyokawa-cho, Hakodate City (Meijikan Street)
Telephone number: 0138-22-5656
Hours: 6: 30 ~ 20: 00
Parking: 40 spaces *1 hour free parking with purchases of 1,000 yen or more
Access: 7-minute walk from the "Jujigai" tram stop, or approximately 12-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station.

Ikaika-tei Seafood Restaurant
address:12-12 Toyokawa-cho, Hakodate City (Meijikan Street), inside the main store of the seafood market
Telephone number: 0138-22-9600
Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM - 15:00 PM, 16:30 PM - 21:00 PM (subject to change depending on the season)
Parking: 40 spaces (shared with the main seafood market parking lot) *1 hour free parking with purchases of 1,000 yen or more.
Access: 7-minute walk from the "Jujigai" tram stop, or approximately 12-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station.

◆ "Hakodate West Wharf"
"Hakodate Nishihatoba" is a sister store of "Hakodate Kaisen Ichiba Honten," which I mentioned earlier.
It's located on the seaside, across the road from the red brick warehouses.
Compared to other souvenir shops in the area, this one has relatively spacious aisles and low display shelves, creating an open and airy atmosphere.

They stock a wide variety of seafood and delicacies, and it's usually not too crowded, so you can shop at your leisure.
Inside the store, you'll find "Hakodate Shio Ramen Specialty Shop Enraku," and next door is a "Starbucks Coffee."

★Let's go on a long-distance trip to Hakodate with JAL!★

Hakodate is known for its fresh seafood, isn't it?
Hakodate Morning Market is located just a one-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station.
Hakodate Morning Market is always bustling with activity, boasting approximately 250 shops.
You can enjoy shopping while having fun with activities like buying and sampling fresh seafood caught locally, and even trying squid fishing.

Hakodate morning market
address:9-15 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido
Opening hours: Vary by store
Access: 1 minute walk from JR Hakodate Station
Parking: At stores recommended by the association, parking is free for 1 hour with purchases of 2,100 yen or more (when using the morning market parking lot). URL:http://www.hakodate-asaichi.com/

Additionally, Hakodate Morning Market has an attached restaurant called "Hakodate Morning Market Donburi Yokocho."
Around 10 shops line the street, where you can enjoy fresh seafood to your heart's content.

My top recommendation is the "Dancing Squid Rice Bowl" from "Ichikatei Tabiji".
Freshly taken from the tank, live squid are quickly prepared and served on top of a bowl piled high with salmon roe.

When you pour soy sauce on it, its body and legs start flailing around, showing just how fresh it is that you might hesitate to eat it.
The body and legs can be prepared for you, so if you want to eat the whole fish, just ask a staff member.

Hakodate Morning Market Donburi Alley
address:9-15 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido
Opening hours: Vary by store
Access: 1 minute walk from JR Hakodate Station
Parking: At stores recommended by the association, parking is free for one hour with a purchase of 2,100 yen or more (when using the morning market parking lot).
URL:http://donburiyokocho.com/

★Check out Hokkaido Lab's special feature on Hakodate sightseeing!★

4. Goryokaku, a National Special Historic Site Where You Can Feel the History

◆ Goryokaku Park
Goryokaku is a star-shaped fortress designated as a National Special Historic Site. In 22, the Hakodate Magistrate's Office was restored within Goryokaku and its interior is now open to the public.
Every year during Golden Week, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the area becomes bustling with many people.

◆ Goryokaku Tower
From the 107-meter-tall Goryokaku Tower, which overlooks Goryokaku Park, you can see the entire star-shaped Goryokaku fort.
The atrium on the first floor of Goryokaku Tower features a spacious area for relaxation, souvenir shops, a cafe, and an event space. Goryokaku Tower's mascot character, "GO-ta-kun," also makes appearances on weekends and holidays.

Located near the bay area, at the foot of Mount Hakodate, lies the hilly Motomachi area. It boasts numerous historical buildings and offers a charming, exotic atmosphere.
This is one of Hakodate's most representative tourist spots. The area is characterized by its many hills and numerous historical buildings, making it an essential and must-see tourist destination in Hakodate.

◆ Orthodox Church
The "Orthodox Church of Christ" is a nationally important cultural property, known for its beautiful green roof and white stucco walls.
Initially, the temple was affectionately known as "Gangan-ji" (meaning "Banging Temple") by the locals because of the five bells that were rung like musical instruments.
(Christos is the Greek word for Christ.)

Orthodox Church
address:3-13 Motomachi, Hakodate City
Opening hours: (Weekdays) 10:00-17:00 (Saturdays) 10:00-16:00 (Sundays) 13:00-16:00
Admission fee: 200 yen (as a donation for viewing the exhibits)
Access: 10-minute walk from the "Suehirocho" streetcar stop.

◆Catholic Motomachi Church
The Catholic Motomachi Church, with its hexagonal roof and weather vane, is a must-see spot where you can tour the interior when no church events are taking place.

The building's interior features blue ceilings, stained glass windows, and beautiful decorations, with the central altar, side altars, and religious paintings, all gifts from Pope Benedict XV, being particularly worth seeing.

From the moment you step inside the building, you are enveloped in a solemn and mystical atmosphere.

Catholic Motomachi Church
address:15-30 Motomachi, Hakodate City
Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 16:00 PM (excluding Saturday and Sunday mornings and worship services)
Admission fee: Free
Access: 10-minute walk from the "Suehirocho" streetcar stop.

◆Former Hakodate Ward Public Hall
Standing out in the Motomachi area is the beautiful Western-style building in blue-gray and yellow: the "Former Hakodate District Public Hall."
The former Hakodate District Public Hall, which still retains the appearance of that time, is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
At the "High-Collar Costume Museum," you could take commemorative photos wearing gorgeous dresses and tailcoats in the former Hakodate Public Hall. (As of December 2018, the museum is closed for preservation and repair work and has ceased operations.)

Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward
address:11-13 Motomachi, Hakodate City
Opening hours: (April to October) 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (November to March) 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Admission fee: Adults 300 yen, Students/Children 150 yen
Access: 7-minute walk from the "Suehirocho" streetcar stop.
About 25 minutes walk from JR Hakodate Station
URL:http://www.zaidan-hakodate.com/koukaido/index.html

◆Hachimanzaka
Hachiman-zaka has become quite famous thanks to its use as a filming location for TV commercials and on Hakodate's tourist posters. It's a scenic spot where a cobblestone path stretches straight down to the sea.

◆Nijukkenzaka
As the name suggests, it is a large slope with a width of 20 ken (approximately 36 meters).
In Hakodate, due to repeated experiences with large fires, straight, wide slopes are used as firebreaks, which is why these wide slopes were created.

◆Daisanzaka
This slope, selected as one of Japan's 100 Best Roads, is characterized by its cobblestone streets. Numerous historical buildings line the slope.

The Trappistine Convent was founded in April 1898 (Meiji 31) by eight nuns sent from France.

Even today, the Trappistine monastery continues to be a place of life dedicated to serving God and people through prayer and labor, and it is not permitted to enter the monastery at all.

Here, through the adjoining museum and gift shop, you can find valuable items and panels that offer insights into the daily lives of nuns, creating a solemn atmosphere.

The first statue you see after passing through the gate is the "Statue of Saint Michael the Archangel," a gift from France.
He is one of the archangels who drives away demons and saves righteous people.
"Our Lady of Lourdes" is a statue modeled after the grotto of Lourdes in southern France.
The young girl kneeling and looking up at the Virgin Mary is Bernadette. Bernadette discovered the spring after receiving a message from the Virgin Mary.

This spring became well known as "Lourdes Spring" because of its miraculous ability to cure various illnesses.

Trappistine Monastery
address:346 Kamiyukawa-cho, Hakodate City
Opening hours: (summer) 8:00-17:00 (winter) 8:00-16:30
Closed: December 30th - January 2nd
Admission fee: Free
Access: 20 minutes by car from JR Hakodate Station
Parking: There are paid parking lots nearby (the parking lots further back are more economical than the ones closer to the entrance!).

Located southeast of Mount Hakodate, Tachimachi Cape is situated on a sheer cliff overlooking the Tsugaru Strait.
The magnificent scenery unfolding before your eyes is breathtaking.

In a small square nearby, there is a monument inscribed with poems by Yosano Hiroshi and Akiko.
Also, on your way here, you will pass through a cemetery, and on a hill overlooking the sea, you will find the "Grave of Ishikawa Takuboku and his family."

Cape Tachimachi
address:Sumiyoshi-cho, Hakodate City
Access: 20-minute walk from the "Yachigashira" tram stop. (Road closed at night) 20:00 PM to 6:00 AM the following morning.
*Vehicle traffic is prohibited from mid-November to late March.
Parking: Free

<Conclusion>

Hakodate is a very attractive city with delicious food, magnificent scenery, a historic townscape where Western and Japanese cultures intertwine, and where you can enjoy yourself just by walking around the city.

This time, we introduced seven tourist spots that are a little too crowded to explore in just one day, but there are still many more fascinating places to visit.

Be sure to set aside two days to fully enjoy Hakodate!

【Related article】
Enjoy a leisurely trip around Hakodate by streetcar! A model itinerary for exploring Hakodate by streetcar.
・A magical night in Hakodate! Hakodate illuminations & winter events
・Spectacular Views! Everything You Need to Know and Hidden Gems to Enjoy Hakodate's Night View to the Fullest
・A roundup of 10 recommended souvenirs from Hakodate and places to buy them!

↓↓Click here for great deals on tours to Hakodate↓↓

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