Time zone
GMT +09:00
No time difference
Currency
Japanese Yen
1EUR = 183.17JPY
Official languages
Japanese
Best time to visit
APR - MAY
Cherry blossoms and mild weather enhance coastal town visits.
Recommended trip duration
2 days

Hakodate
Hakodate is a charming port city in southern Hokkaido, Japan, known for its rich history, fresh seafood, and spectacular views. It was one of the first in Japan to open for foreign trade, bringing Japanese and Western cultures together. From Hakodate Airport, you can reach the city in under four hours from Tokyo via the Hokkaido Shinkansen, making it a popular spot to explore Hakodate, Hokkaido.
Start your morning at the Hakodate Morning Market near JR Hakodate Station, where you can eat fresh seafood like sea urchin and try squid fishing. Take the Mount Hakodate Ropeway up Mount Hakodate for spectacular views of the two bays and ocean views of the Tsugaru Strait.
Don’t miss Goryokaku Park and Goryokaku Tower, built on the old castle town where the Boshin War took place. Plus, relax in Yunokawa Onsen, visit Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden, or explore Onuma Park near the active volcano Mount Komagatake.
From spring cherry blossoms in Hakodate Park to cozy public baths in winter, Hakodate City is full of hidden gems and the best things to explore all year. If you love food, history, or city views, you shouldn’t miss a chance to visit Hakodate and book your Hakodate attractions and tours today.
Top things to do in Hakodate
Goryokaku Tower Ticket in Hokkaido
Mt. Hakodate Night View Sightseeing Bus Tour
[Hakodate 5-hour chartered car] Cape Tachimachi - Goryokaku Park - Tropical Botanical Garden (5 & 10-seater green license plate car + Japanese driver)
Hakodate/Hokkaido Private Tour with Local Guide
Top attractions in Hakodate
Hakodate Ropeway
Mount Hakodate
Yunokawa Onsen
Goryokaku Tower
Hakodate Morning Market
Hakodate Park
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses
Fort Goryokaku
Daimon Yokocho
Cape Tachimachi
Goryokaku Park
Hakodate Orthodox Church
Transport in Hakodate
JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
JR Whole Japan Rail Pass
JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass
JR Tohoku-South Hokkaido Rail Pass
Sapporo Car Rental With Driver to Niseko/ Toyako/ Furano/ Hakodate/ Otaru
Hakodate car rentals | Choose from multiple car models
Hotels in Hakodate
Tokyu Stay Hakodate Asaichi Akarinoyu
Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen Umi to Akari / Hewitt Resort
Reviews of Hakodate activities
Quick facts about Hakodate

What to know before visiting Hakodate
Top Hakodate Attractions
Mount Hakodate
Take the Mount Hakodate Ropeway for one of the most spectacular views in Japan. From the top, you can see the two bays surrounding Hakodate City, especially stunning at night when the city lights sparkle. It’s one of the best photo spots in southern Hokkaido.
Hakodate Morning Market
Start your day at the Hakodate Morning Market near JR Hakodate Station. You can eat fresh seafood like sea urchin, crab, and squid, or even try squid fishing at one of the stalls. It’s the best place to taste local Hakodate flavors.
Goryokaku Park and Tower
Visit Goryokaku Park, a star-shaped fort that shows Hakodate’s history as one of Japan’s first cities to open for foreign trade. Climb the Goryokaku Tower for a full view of the fort and see beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
Motomachi and the Historic District
Walk through Motomachi, Hakodate’s historic district, filled with Western-style buildings from the 19th century. You’ll see landmarks like the Russian Orthodox Church, the Old British Consulate, and the Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, which reflect the city’s international past.
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
Head to the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse in the Bay Area, one of Hakodate’s most famous spots. Once used for foreign trade, it’s now a lively shopping and dining area where you can buy souvenirs, try soy sauce ice cream, or enjoy ocean views of Hakodate Port.
Tips before visiting Hakodate
Bring cash for markets
Many stalls at the Hakodate Morning Market only accept cash, so keep some yen on hand. You’ll also be able to grab small snacks and souvenirs more quickly without relying on card machines.
Go early for the best views
Visit Mount Hakodate before sunset to get a good spot for the famous night view. The crowds grow fast, so arriving early helps you avoid long lines for the ropeway.
Use the tram
Hakodate City has a convenient tram system that connects major spots like Goryokaku Park, Motomachi, and the Bay Area. It’s also cheaper and easier than navigating by taxi if you’re visiting multiple attractions.
Try local specialties
Don’t miss fresh squid, sea urchin, and soy sauce ramen, dishes that make Hakodate one of the best food cities in Hokkaido. Many restaurants open early, so you can enjoy seafood breakfasts like locals do.
FAQs about Hakodate
Is Hakodate a walkable city?
Is Hakodate a walkable city?
Yes, Hakodate is quite walkable, especially around the Bay Area, Motomachi, and Mount Hakodate. You can take the tram to reach places farther away like Goryokaku Park, but most attractions can be explored easily on foot.
What is the best month to visit Hokkaido?
What is the best month to visit Hokkaido?
The best time to visit Hokkaido depends on what you want to see. July and August are great for summer flowers, February is perfect for snow festivals, and late April to early May offers beautiful cherry blossoms. For autumn colors and mild weather, September or October is ideal.
Where to stay in Hakodate?
Where to stay in Hakodate?
Stay near Hakodate Station if you want easy access to trains and the morning market, or choose the Bay Area for beautiful ocean views. For hot springs, the Yunokawa Onsen area is ideal. Popular places include La Vista Hakodate Bay, Hotel Resol Hakodate, and Umi to Akari Hewitt Resort.
How many days should I stay in Hakodate?
How many days should I stay in Hakodate?
You’ll need around 2 to 3 days to see Hakodate’s top spots, including Mount Hakodate, Goryokaku Park, and the Morning Market. Stay 4 to 5 days if you want to take day trips to places like Onuma Park or relax at Yunokawa Onsen.
Is Hakodate worth visiting?
Is Hakodate worth visiting?
Yes, Hakodate is definitely worth visiting. You can enjoy amazing city views from Mount Hakodate, explore historic districts like Motomachi, and try local seafood at the Morning Market. The Goryokaku Fort and the red brick buildings along the bay show the city’s mix of history, culture, and charm, making it a great stop when traveling through Hokkaido.
What is Hakodate famous for?
What is Hakodate famous for?
Hakodate is famous for its stunning night view from Mount Hakodate, delicious fresh seafood, and lively morning market. The city also stands out for its Western-style architecture and Goryokaku Fort, a star-shaped fort that shows its unique mix of Japanese and foreign influences from its days as a port city open to international trade.