We know you will love Hakodate, a beautiful coastal city located on the southern tip of Hokkaido, Japan. Known for its stunning views, delicious seafood, and rich history, there is no shortage of things to do in this charming city. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, trying some local delicacies, or learning about the city’s past, Hakodate has something for everyone.
Here, we’ll be sharing the best things to do in Hakodate, so you can make the most of your visit. From hiking to mountain resorts to exploring charming neighborhoods, there is no shortage of fun and interesting activities to enjoy in Hakodate. So let’s get started and discover all that this amazing city has to offer!
Visit Onuma Quasi-National Park
Just a short train ride from Hakodate, Onuma Quasi-National Park is a beautiful natural area that is perfect for a day trip. The park is home to a number of stunning lakes and hot springs, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. Take a dip in one of the hot springs, go for a hike, or rent a kayak and explore the lakes.
Eat Seafood at the Hakodate Morning Market
The Hakodate Morning Market is a great place to try some of the city’s famous seafood. Open every day from 5:00 AM to noon, this market is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Be sure to try the uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe) while you’re there!
Climb to the top of Mt. Hakodate
Mt. Hakodate is a 333-meter-high mountain that offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding area. The mountain is easily accessible via a ropeway or a hiking trail, and the view from the top is worth the effort. Make sure to visit at night to see the city lights twinkling below.
So if you’re looking for some fun and interesting things to do in Hakodate, be sure to add these 3 activities to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!
Goryokaku Fort
Goryokaku Fort is a star-shaped fort located in the center of Hakodate. The fort was the site of a number of important events in Japan’s history, including the final battle of the Boshin War in 1869. Today, the fort is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring and has a number of walking trails, a museum, and a restaurant.
Goryokaku Tower
The Goryokaku Tower is a 111-meter-tall observation tower located in Goryokaku Park. The tower offers panoramic views of the fort and the surrounding area and has interactive exhibits on the fort’s history and the city of Hakodate.
Visit the Old British Consulate
The Old British Consulate is a historic building located in the Motomachi District of Hakodate. Built-in the late 1800s, the building is a beautiful example of Western-style architecture and is now open to the public as a museum. Learn about the history of Hakodate and its role in Japan’s opening to the world.
Hachimanzaka Slope and Street
The Hachimanzaka Slope and Street is a historic area located in the Motomachi District of Hakodate. The slope and street are lined with charming houses and shops, and offer a glimpse into Hakodate’s past. The area is a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in the spring when the cherry blossom trees are in bloom. The slope and street are also home to a number of cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Hakodate City Art Museum
The Hakodate City Art Museum has a number of exhibits on modern and contemporary art from Hokkaido and beyond. The museum is a great place to see works by local artists and get a sense of the art scene in the region.
Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden
The Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden located on the slopes of Mt. Hakodate. The garden is home to a number of tropical plants and flowers, including palm trees, bromeliads, and orchids. The garden also has a number of walking trails and a greenhouse, making it a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Hakodate City Museum
The Hakodate City Museum is located in a historic building in the Motomachi District. The museum has a number of exhibits on the history and culture of Hakodate, including displays on the city’s early days as a port and its role in the Meiji Restoration.
Hakodate City Museum of Photography
The Hakodate City Museum of Photography is a great place to see both historic and contemporary photographs from the region. The museum has a collection of photographs from the early days of photography in Japan, as well as contemporary works by local and international photographers.
Where to stay in Hakodate?
There are a number of great places to stay in Hakodate, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few options to consider:
Hotels: Hakodate has a number of hotels ranging from luxury to budget-friendly options. Some popular hotels in the city include the Hakodate Onuma Prince Hotel, the Hakodate Kokusai Hotel, and the Hakodate Bay Hotel.
Ryokans: Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer a more authentic and cultural experience. Some popular ryokans in Hakodate include the Hakodate Yama no Ie, the Kameido Ryokan, and the Shiosai no Yado.
No matter where you stay, be sure to book early, as accommodation in Hakodate can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
