Overview
Hakodate: Where East Meets West by the Sea
At the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate blends old-world charm, natural beauty, and a touch of international history. Once a key port for foreign trade, its hillside Motomachi district still showcases 19th-century Western-style buildings. The view from Mount Hakodate, especially at night, is one of Japan’s most famous and breathtaking.
In spring, visit Goryokaku Park, a star-shaped fort known for cherry blossoms and its unique aerial shape, best seen from the nearby observation tower. Seafood lovers will enjoy the bustling Hakodate Morning Market, where you can try local specialties like live squid sashimi and sea urchin rice bowls.
Whether you fly in from Tokyo or take the Shinkansen through scenic countryside, Hakodate is a city worth the journey.
