Located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate is a city of dramatic landscapes and deep history. As one of the first ports in Japan to open to international trade in 1859, the city has a unique, cosmopolitan vibe with Western-style churches and red-brick buildings blending seamlessly with Japanese tradition.
The Million-Dollar Night View
The absolute highlight of any trip to Hakodate is the view from the top of Mount Hakodate. Accessible by a ropeway, the observation deck offers what is famously called the “Million-Dollar Night View.”
The view is unique because of the city’s geography; the urban center sits on a narrow hourglass-shaped isthmus, flanked by the dark ocean on both sides. The contrast between the sparkling city lights and the black sea creates a breathtaking spectacle that is consistently ranked among the best night views in Japan.
Goryokaku: The Star-Shaped Fort
Another defining landmark is Goryokaku. Built as Japan’s first Western-style citadel, it is shaped like a massive five-pointed star. While it was the site of the final battle of the Boshin War (the civil war between the Shogunate and Imperial forces), it is now a peaceful public park.
To fully appreciate its design, visit the Goryokaku Tower nearby. From the observatory, you can look down and see the perfect star shape of the fort, which turns pink with cherry blossoms in spring and white with snow in winter.
Morning Market and Seafood
Hakodate is a paradise for seafood lovers. The Hakodate Morning Market (Asaichi), located right next to the main station, bustles with energy from the early hours.
- Squid (Ika): Hakodate is famous for its squid. You can try fishing for a live squid from a tank and have it prepared as sashimi on the spot—it is so fresh it is still moving.
- Red Brick Warehouses: For a more relaxed atmosphere, stroll through the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses in the bay area. These historic buildings now house charming boutiques, souvenir shops, and beer halls, perfect for an afternoon walk by the sea.
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