Hakodate, Japan cruises

Hakodate is one of the most popular city destinations in Japan located on the island of Hokkaido.

With prosperous agriculture, diverse dynastic architecture, and impressive mountain landscapes, the port city of Hakodate offers both urban charm and natural beauty.

Hakodate port guide

Over 150 years ago, Hakodate was the first port in Japan to open its gates to and welcome trade from the outside world. Today, the notable port town attracts over four million visitors each year.

Abundant in history, culture, food, activities and attractions, Hakodate has transformed from an ancient Ainu settlement to the internationally recognised city that it is today.

A trip to Hakodate allows you to experience the pleasures of city life alongside the great outdoors from the moment you sail into port with a crisp breeze and city lights shining ahead.

Here is our guide on everything you need to know about exploring the thriving port city of Hakodate.

Top landmarks and sights in Hakodate

Mount Hakodate

Mount Hakodate is an inactive volcano in Hakodate, Japan. The 334-metre-tall mountain peak overlooks the city and provides exceptional views of Hakodate and its bay.

There are well-maintained paths from the base to the summit of Mount Hakodate for keen hikers and outdoor explorers. Alternatively, choose to ride the Mount Hakodate Ropeway and get transported to the observatory area via aerial lift.

Goryōkaku Tower and Park

Goryōkaku Tower stands 107 metres high and offers outstanding views of mountains, Goryōkaku Park, and the star-shaped fort below from the observation deck.

At the site where the last battle of the Japanese civil war was fought, Goryōkaku Tower and Park is a Special Historical Site best known for its peaceful atmosphere and fragrant cherry blossom trees.

Motomachi District

The Motomachi District lies at the foot of Mount Hakodate and showcases many European-style buildings with Western influence. Historically, this is the neighbourhood where the first foreign traders settled and therefore is home to a number of foreign buildings including the Russian Orthodox Church, the Chinese Memorial Hall, and a Buddhist temple.

Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward

The Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward is a heritage building in Japan overlooking the Hakodate Port. Completed in 1910, this building is widely considered to be one of the very best examples of colonial architecture. The main hall with period interiors, is used for events even today.

Fusing Western and Japanese design, the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward is a bright and bold architectural gem perfect for photographing all year round.

Things to do in Hakodate

Hakodate Morning Market

To sample the produce on the island of Hokkaido, consider a trip to the Hakodate Morning Market located at the main bay. Here you will find a range of gourmet food delicacies including the city’s famous fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits.

Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples

The Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples first opened in 1989 and contains exhibits on the city’s native people and early settlers such as the Ainu. Notable exhibits showcase Ainu folkcrafts, musical instruments, and traditional papercutting methods.

This museum will provide you with great knowledge of the history, living conditions, and cultures of the land through interactive and static displays.

Former British Consulate of Hakodate

The Former British Consulate of Hakodate, also known as the Opening-Port Memorial Hall, is a historic house museum to remember the opening of Hokkaido to foreign trade. The museum showcases significant historical material and cultural relics in addition to a groomed Western-style rose garden. On-site, you will also find a British-style refreshments coffee shop.

Eating and drinking in Hakodate

A trading port city with a thriving coastline, it is no wonder why Hakodate is also known as the ‘city of food’. Surrounded by the ocean, Hakodate is a seafood lover's paradise. Since the first inhabitants set food on the land, Hakodate has been renowned for its delicious squid, crab, scallops, and seaweed.

Among other popular choices, sushi and seafood rice bowls capture the uncompromised flavours of the sea. Another favourite is the Hakodate Ramen, featuring a seafood soup base that provides a rich and satisfying taste. Hakodate is the ideal location to taste authentic Japanese delicacies and flavours at an affordable price.

Getting around, Hakodate transport

The well-established network of trams running through the city is the main transportation system for sightseeing in Hakodate. Trams run regularly, all day.

Buses are also reliable in Hakodate and run to the main ferry port and cruise terminal. In addition, a direct shuttle is also available between the ferry terminal and the train station.

If you are sightseeing in the city, a hire car may not seem necessary but if you wish to explore the suburbs or distant attractions, hire cars are available from the train station.

Hakodate port facilities

The port facilities at Hakodate Port include shuttle bus connections.

Hakodate quick tips

Currency

The Yen is the local currency in Hakodate, Japan. Credit and debit cards are accepted at most major stores and restaurants, but Japan remains a mostly cash society. For this reason, it is advised you carry sufficient cash.

Tipping is not customary in Japan and is often considered rude. In Japan, it is thought that you pay for good service and therefore, tipping is not expected.

Weather

Hakodate has a humid continental climate with warm, wet summers and snowy winters. Hakodate receives a significant amount of rainfall during the year.

Temperatures are expected to reach highs of 26°C during the summer in Hakodate while the winter months reach lows of -7°C.

To experience the annual summer Hakodate Port Festival, visit Hakodate in the first week of August. This also coincides with the best time to visit Hakodate for warm weather and ample daylight.