22 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Hakodate | Apr 2025
Hakodate 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Hakodate! Hakodate has a long history of international trade and as such hosted a small foreign community.
5.00 (3 reviews)
From $118.92
Port Pick-Up: Hakodate Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover Hakodate's highlights efficiently in a private vehicle accompanied by a government-licensed and experienced English-speaking guide! Hakodate has a long history of international trade and as such hosted a small foreign community.
From $737.47
Hakodate 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Hakodate! Hakodate has a long history of international trade and as such hosted a small foreign community.
4.92 (13 reviews)
From $153.90
Hakodate Food and Exploration Tour with Private Guide
This tour will take you around Hakodate's main sightseeing areas by streetcar, bus and ropeway. Visitors can walk through each area, feeling the history of Japan from the end of the Edo Shogunate, the prosperity of the Meiji Era, and the end of the war to the present.
4.00 (1 reviews)
From $403.92
Hakodate Private Customizable 6-Hour Tour
Our customizable experience allows you to delve deeper into the city's charm, discovering unique sights and experiences hand-picked for you.
From $202.87
Dress Up High-Quality “Hakama” Kimono and 30-min Rickshaw Tour
【OUTLINE】 This tour allows visitors to explore Hakodate's local neighborhoods in traditional Japanese dress, guided by a local rickshaw puller.
From $133.62
Time Slip Experience in Hakodate With Kimono “Hakama”
【OUTLINE】 You can have an authentic experience of dressing like a Japanese in the 19th century in Hakodate. Easy to change clothes.
From $61.56
Private Full Day Guided Tour In Hakodate
We can enjoy taking city buses or city tram from spot to spot. First, we walk to Hakodate morning market, so you can grab some food and fruits if you will.
5.00 (2 reviews)
From $370.77
Make Piroshki in Hakodate and Visit Hidden Spots While Baking
【OUTLINE】 Hakodate, which has been developed as a settlement for people from different countries, is a hub of various cultures.
5.00 (3 reviews)
From $46.87
Hakodate Rickshaw Tour
Explore the historic city of Hakodate with a rickshaw, a traditional Japanese ride. You can experience hospitality that you can not do by yourself, such as town guides and photos.
4.94 (18 reviews)
From $34.98
Half Day Hakodate Tour with Government Licensed English guide
Let’s enjoy this half-day tour. We take some transportations, or taxi. This is a standard half day tour for Hakodate sight seeing.
5.00 (3 reviews)
From $321.80
Taught by a professional! Making sushi with Hakodate's Fresh Fish
You can experience sushi-making using freshly caught seafood in the seaside town Hakodate. After making your own sushi, taste three kinds of dashi (Japanese soup stock) and create your own miso soup using the one you like best! As a souvenir, you will receive a special sushi chef's hat to wear during the experience! When you go home, you can be the sushi chef and throw a Sushi party for your guests! ・Learn how to make sushi from a professional chef using fresh ingredients from the seaside town Hakodate ・With the careful and professional lecture, even beginners can try with confidence ・You can enjoy making miso soup using your favorite dashi (Japanese soup stock) ・Take home the sushi chef's cap you wear during the experience as a souvenir ・The experience takes place in a popular area of Hakodate.
5.00 (2 reviews)
From $93.39
Walk Around Hakodate's Hidden Spots Guided by Local Residents
・Hosted by the café loved by the local community as a space of relaxation ・You are shown to little-known but good spots not listed in the guidebooks! ・Fun and safe tour with a friendly tour guide ・Appreciate cuisine related to the town's history (optional) ・A good location for going sightseeing in Hakodate before and after the tour In this tour, you will visit precious buildings and places, founded in the 19th century, with the owner of the local Russian café.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $46.87
Time Slip Experience in Hakodate with Custom Dress
【OUTLINE】 You can have an authentic makeover experience in Hakodate. Rest assured that the dressing staff is all professional, kind, and courteous.
5.00 (3 reviews)
From $61.56
Enjoy Hakodate Night View by Rickshaw Tours
【OUTLINE】 Hakodate is a major city of Hokkaido that is open to the world. You will tour around the beautifully illuminated Preservation District by rickshaw.
From $41.62
Enjoy a rickshaw tour with a local guide and the sunset
【OUTLINE】 Hakodate is a major city of Hokkaido that is open to the world. You will tour around the townscape aglow with the setting sun by rickshaw.
From $41.62
Goryokaku Tower Ticket in Hokkaido
Discover Hakodate’s most stunning views at Goryokaku Tower! Ascend to the observation deck and take in the breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort and the cityscape below.
From $9.99
Experience Japanese tea packing in Hakodate
【OUTLINE】 In Hakodate, a trading city in the north, you will first enjoy the aroma of three or four types of tea while listening to an explanation of Japanese tea history and culture.
From $43.72
Private Transfer from Muroran Cruise Port to Sapporo Airport(CTS)
Book your Private Transfer from Muroran Cruise Port to Sapporo New Chitose Airport (CTS). Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door airport/port transfer.
From $312.95
Hakodate Private Customizable Full Day Tour
Our customizable experience allows you to delve deeper into the city's charm, discovering unique sights and experiences hand-picked for you.
From $246.24
Private Transfer from Muroran Cruise Port to Sapporo City Hotels
Book your Private Transfer from Muroran Cruise Port to Sapporo city hotels or any addres. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door port/city transfer.
From $312.95
Hokkaido Cherry Blossoms: Goryokaku Park and Matsumae Park
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms on this hassle-free day trip. Travel comfortably by coach to two of the region’s most stunning sakura spots—Goryokaku Park, where cherry blossoms frame the star-shaped historic fortress, and Matsumae Park, home to Japan’s only castle in Hokkaido and thousands of blooming cherry trees.
From $62.69
What activities can I do in Hakodate?
There are plenty of things to do in Hakodate, Japan. Here are some suggestions: 1. Visit the Hakodate Morning Market: Start your day by exploring the lively Hakodate Morning Market, where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and various street food stalls. Don't forget to try the famous Hakodate squid! 2. Explore Goryokaku Park: This star-shaped fort is a historical landmark and a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. You can walk around the park, rent a paddleboat on the moat, or visit the Goryokaku Tower for a panoramic view. 3. Ride the Hakodate Ropeway: Take a cable car ride up Mount Hakodate to enjoy breathtaking views of the city, especially during sunset. The night view from the observation deck is also considered one of the best in Japan. 4. Visit the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse: This waterfront complex offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Explore the various shops, enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants, or attend live performances at the event space. 5. Discover the Motomachi District: Stroll through the charming Motomachi area, known for its Western-style buildings and historical atmosphere. Visit the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, the Russian Orthodox Church, and explore the unique shops and cafes. 6. Try Hakodate's local cuisine: Hakodate is famous for its delicious seafood. Don't miss trying specialties like Hakodate ramen, seafood rice bowls (kaisendon), and ikura (salmon roe). There are many seafood restaurants and izakayas to choose from. 7. Visit the Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples: Learn about the indigenous Ainu culture and the history of the northern peoples at this museum. It showcases traditional artifacts, exhibits, and offers insights into their way of life. 8. Relax at Onuma Quasi-National Park: Located just outside Hakodate, this picturesque park offers beautiful lakes, walking trails, and stunning views of Mount Komagatake. Rent a bike or take a boat ride to explore the area. 9. Take a dip in Yunokawa Onsen: Hakodate is known for its hot springs, and Yunokawa Onsen is one of the most popular in the city. Enjoy a relaxing soak in one of the many traditional Japanese inns (ryokans) or public bathhouses. 10. Visit the Hakodate Beer Hall: If you are a beer lover, make sure to visit the Hakodate Beer Hall, which is housed in a historic red brick building. Enjoy a variety of local craft beers and try some delicious German-style food. These are just a few highlights of what you can do in Hakodate. The city offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, making it a great destination to explore.
When is the best time to travel to Hakodate?
The best time to travel to Hakodate, Japan is during the months of May to October. During this time, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). One of the highlights of visiting Hakodate is its stunning cherry blossom season, which usually occurs in late April to early May. The city is known for its beautiful cherry blossom spots, such as Goryokaku Park and Mount Hakodate, where you can enjoy hanami (flower viewing) and take scenic walks. Summer, from June to September, is also a great time to visit Hakodate. The city experiences a milder summer compared to other parts of Japan, with temperatures averaging around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). This is a good time to explore outdoor attractions like the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden and Onuma Quasi-National Park. Autumn, from September to November, is another recommended time to visit Hakodate. The city's foliage turns into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a picturesque scenery. The weather is cool and comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It's worth noting that Hakodate can get quite cold during winter, with temperatures dropping below freezing and heavy snowfall. However, if you enjoy winter activities like skiing or snowboarding, this can be a great time to visit. The city also has various winter festivals, such as the Hakodate Christmas Fantasy and Hakodate Winter Illumination, which add a magical touch to the winter season. Overall, the best time to travel to Hakodate depends on your preferences and interests. Whether you want to experience cherry blossoms, enjoy mild summer weather, or witness the autumn foliage, Hakodate offers something unique throughout the year.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Hakodate
Hakodate, located in the southern part of Hokkaido, is a city rich in history and culture. Here are some aspects of Hakodate's travel culture that you should know: 1. Historical Sites: Hakodate has a significant historical background, as it was one of the first ports in Japan to open to international trade in the mid-19th century. The city's historical sites include the Goryokaku Fort, a star-shaped Western-style citadel, and the Hakodate Magistrate's Office, a former government building showcasing Western architectural influence. 2. Night View: Hakodate is renowned for having one of the most beautiful night views in Japan. From the top of Mount Hakodate, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the cityscape illuminated by countless lights. The view is particularly breathtaking during the winter season when the city is covered in snow. 3. Fresh Seafood: Being a coastal city, Hakodate is famous for its fresh seafood. The morning fish market, known as Hakodate Asaichi, is a must-visit spot for seafood lovers. Here, you can find a wide variety of seafood, including crabs, squid, scallops, and salmon. Don't miss the opportunity to try Hakodate's specialty, the ""Hakodate Shio Ramen,"" which is a local version of ramen with a seafood-based broth. 4. Onsen (Hot Springs): Hokkaido is known for its natural hot springs, and Hakodate is no exception. There are several hot spring resorts in and around the city where you can relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters. Yunokawa Onsen, located just a short distance from Hakodate Airport, is a popular choice for visitors. 5. Festivals: Hakodate hosts various festivals throughout the year, showcasing the city's vibrant culture. One of the most famous festivals is the Hakodate Yosakoi Soran Festival, held in early June. During this event, teams of dancers perform traditional Yosakoi Soran dances on the streets, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. 6. Western Influence: Due to its history as an international trading port, Hakodate has a unique blend of Japanese and Western influences. This is evident in the architecture of buildings like the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, which features a mix of Japanese and Western design elements. Exploring the Motomachi district will give you a glimpse into the city's Western-influenced past. Overall, Hakodate offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Hakodate
When visiting Hakodate, Japan, there are several shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider purchasing. Here are some popular options: 1. Hakodate Ramen: Hakodate is known for its delicious ramen noodles. Consider buying instant ramen packs or dried noodles to take home and enjoy the authentic taste of Hakodate. 2. Seafood Products: Hakodate is a coastal city famous for its fresh seafood. Look for dried squid, scallops, or other seafood products that can be great gifts or snacks. 3. Yubari Melon: Yubari melons are a famous luxury fruit from Hokkaido, and you can find them in Hakodate as well. These melons are known for their sweet and juicy taste and make for an excellent gift. 4. Shio Ramen Soup Base: Hakodate-style ramen is known for its shio (salt-based) soup. Consider buying a bottle of shio ramen soup base to recreate the flavors at home. 5. Sweets and Confectionery: Hakodate has a variety of local sweets and confectionery items. Look for items like Yubari melon-flavored chocolates, Shio Caramel (salted caramel), or Hokkaido milk-based sweets. 6. Hakodate Beer: Hakodate has its own local brewery called Hakodate Beer. You can find a range of craft beers with unique flavors, making them a great souvenir for beer enthusiasts. 7. Hakodate Glassware: Hakodate is also famous for its glassware production. Look for beautifully crafted glassware items like cups, plates, or vases that can be a unique and elegant souvenir. 8. Ainu Crafts: The Ainu are the indigenous people of Hokkaido, and their traditional crafts are popular in Hakodate. Look for items like woodcarvings, embroidered textiles, or traditional Ainu patterned items. 9. Kitakaro Products: Kitakaro is a famous Hokkaido-based confectionery company. Look for their products like Shiroi Koibito (white chocolate cookies), Baumkuchen (layered cake), or various other sweets. 10. Local Crafts and Souvenirs: Explore local markets or shops for unique handicrafts, pottery, or traditional Japanese items like fans, tea sets, or calligraphy brushes. Remember to check the customs regulations of your home country regarding food products before purchasing any perishable items.
Hakodate travel review
Hakodate: A Blend of History and Natural Beauty Nestled on the southern tip of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, Hakodate is a city that effortlessly combines its rich history with stunning natural landscapes. From its picturesque bay and majestic mountains to its charming streets lined with historic buildings, Hakodate offers a unique travel experience that is sure to captivate any visitor. One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Hakodate Bay, which provides a breathtaking backdrop to the city. The bay offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts, such as boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the surrounding waters and witness the stunning views of the city skyline. The bay is particularly enchanting during sunset when the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink, creating a magical atmosphere that is hard to forget. For history buffs, Hakodate's star attraction is the Goryokaku Fort, a star-shaped fortress that was built during the Edo period. This historical site played a significant role in Japan's history as it was the site of the last battle between the shogunate and the new government forces during the Meiji Restoration. Today, visitors can explore the fort's grounds, walk along its ramparts, and even visit the Goryokaku Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the entire fort and its surroundings. Another must-visit historical site in Hakodate is the Motomachi district. This area is known for its well-preserved Western-style buildings that date back to the late 19th century when Hakodate was one of the first ports opened to foreign trade. Strolling through the streets of Motomachi feels like stepping back in time, with its elegant churches, old-fashioned houses, and charming shops. The area also offers stunning views of the city and the bay from its elevated position. No visit to Hakodate would be complete without indulging in its local cuisine. The city is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly its succulent squid and mouthwatering crab. Visitors can enjoy these delicacies at the numerous seafood markets and restaurants scattered throughout the city. One must-try dish is Hakodate's famous seafood ramen, a hearty bowl of noodles topped with an array of seafood delights that will leave your taste buds craving for more. In addition to its historical and culinary offerings, Hakodate also boasts natural wonders that are worth exploring. Mount Hakodate, accessible by ropeway or hiking trails, offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Whether you choose to visit during the day or at night when the city lights twinkle below, the view from the mountain is simply awe-inspiring. For those seeking relaxation and tranquility, a visit to the Onuma Quasi-National Park is a must. Located just outside the city, this park is home to a cluster of small islands and picturesque lakes, surrounded by lush forests and mountains. Visitors can rent bicycles or take a leisurely boat ride to explore the park and admire its natural beauty. The park is particularly popular during autumn when the foliage turns into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a breathtaking scene. Hakodate truly offers a unique travel experience that combines the best of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, this charming city has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to Hakodate, where the past meets the present, and beauty awaits at every turn.