Hakodate is the gateway to Hokkaido and one of Japan’s most charming port cities. A world-famous night view, historic Western-influenced streets, a star-shaped fort and superb seafood make it a perfect first or last stop on a northern trip. This guide brings together our individual Hakodate travel guides.

Our Hakodate Travel Guides

• Mount Hakodate: One of the World’s Great Night Views — the iconic panorama.
• Motomachi and the Bay: Historic Hakodate — Western heritage and red-brick warehouses.
• Hakodate Morning Market and Seafood — crab, squid and uni.
• Goryokaku: Hakodate’s Star-Shaped Fort — history and cherry blossoms.

How Long to Stay

One full day and an evening cover the highlights: the market and Goryokaku by day, Motomachi in the afternoon and the night view to finish. A second day lets you relax in the Yunokawa hot springs or take a day trip into southern Hokkaido. Hakodate is easily reached by shinkansen from Tokyo via Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto.

Best Time to Visit

Spring brings cherry blossoms to Goryokaku, summer is cool and pleasant, and winter adds snow and illuminations. The night view is rewarding year-round, weather permitting.

Use the guides above to plan your route, then check our hotel recommendations to choose where to stay.

Where to Stay in Hakodate

• Where to Stay in Hakodate: Station and Bay Hotels — central and convenient.
• Where to Stay in Hakodate: Yunokawa Onsen Hotels — relaxing hot springs.

For everything in one place, see The Complete Hakodate Guide.