Hakodate is a vibrant port city in the south of Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. With its charming streets, natural beauty, and cultural attractions, Hakodate is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.
Stroll along the waterfront of Hakodate Bay and take in the stunning views of the nearby mountains, or enjoy the old-fashioned charm of the city's historic neighborhoods. Visit the iconic Goryokaku Tower to get the best views of the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort, and be sure to explore the nearby Motomachi district with its fashionable shops and cozy cafes.
Hakodate also has plenty of cultural attractions, such as the Hakodate City Art Museum, where you can explore the city's rich history and culture. The nearby Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples is also worth a visit, and the city also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year.
If you're looking for outdoor adventure, Hakodate has plenty to offer. Take a boat tour to explore the local coastline or hike through the nearby mountains. In the winter, ski and snowboard at the nearby ski resorts or relax in a hot spring.
No matter what time of year you visit, Hakodate is sure to provide a unique and memorable experience.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Hakodate Morning Market: Located in the heart of the city, Hakodate Morning Market is a lively market that is open from early morning until noon. Here, you will find a variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and souvenirs.
2. Mount Hakodate: Mount Hakodate is a must-visit for any traveler in Hakodate. From the peak of the mountain, you can admire the stunning views of the city and the bay.
3. Goryokaku Fort: Built during the Edo period, Goryokaku Fort is the largest star-shaped fortress in Japan. Now a public park, visitors can explore the fort and admire the cherry blossoms in the spring.
4. Bay Area: Hakodate’s bay area is home to many of the city’s most popular attractions. From the bay, you can admire the beautiful night views of the city and take a ferry ride to explore the nearby islands.
5. Motomachi: Located close to the bay, Motomachi is a vibrant area that has a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. The streets are lined with a variety of traditional buildings, making for a great place to explore.
1. Mt. Hakodate: Mt. Hakodate is one of the most popular attractions in Hakodate, providing stunning views of the city and bay below. It is a great spot for watching the sunset or sunrise and offers hiking trails and a cable car.
2. Motomachi District: This historic district is known for its well-preserved European-style buildings, cobblestone streets, and shopping areas.
3. Goryokaku Fort: This star-shaped fort was built during the Edo period and is now a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.
4. Hakodate Morning Market: This vibrant market is a great place to buy fresh seafood, local produce, and souvenirs.
5. Onuma National Park: This national park is located near Hakodate and is known for its picturesque volcanic lakes, hiking trails, and beautiful cherry blossoms.
1. Morning Market Sushi: Freshly prepared sushi made with local seafood from the nearby morning markets. It is a popular breakfast choice among locals and tourists alike.
2. Jumbo Crab: The large crab from Hokkaido is a popular delicacy. The sweet and tender meat is usually boiled or grilled and served with soy sauce and wasabi.
3. Genghis Khan: Genghis Khan is a popular dish of grilled lamb and vegetables. It is usually served with a variety of condiments, including garlic, scallions, and chili paste.
4. Miso Ramen: Miso ramen is a popular dish in Hakodate that is made with a rich miso broth and noodles. It is often topped with chashu pork, seaweed, and a soft-boiled egg.
5. Shiroi Koibito: Shiroi Koibito is a popular type of biscuit produced in Hakodate. The biscuits are made with a layer of white chocolate and a layer of cookie, and are usually filled with sweet red bean paste.