Rainer CheungLying in the shadows of Mt. Hakodate is a quaint little city of the same name. Hokkaido’s port-of-call and one of the most beautiful spots in Japan, Hakodate is a town that sees more domestic tourist than international, and we can’t seem to figure out why.
If you’re looking for some world adventure inspiration, head on over to Hakodate and experience this sophisticated countryside for yourself! From lush parklands to culturally rich harbours, delicious local produce to intricate handicraft workshops, there’s no limit to what you can see in Hakodate, so here’s a list of some of the best thing to look out for!
1. Unwind at Hakodate Port
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One of the signature features of Hakodate is the Red-Brick Warehouse district along Hakodate Port, which dates back to the start of the 20th century when Hakodate became an important port-of-call. While the exterior still retains the same stylish vintage feel, the inside of the warehouses has since been transformed into a bustling shopping mall perfect for shopping and a quick tea break.
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The outdoor panorama has also been awarded a one-star recommendation by the Michelin Green Guide Japon, and it’s plain to see why the view of the harbour would take anyone’s breath away. If you wait till nightfall, the red-brick warehouses will light up and create a distinctly romantic atmosphere.
2. Feast on squid
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There’s no hiding the fact that Hokkaido is perhaps the best place in Japan to get rich and fatty seafood, but what’s extra special here is, in fact, their squid! Rather than the usual limp sticky pieces you might be used to, the ones served here are so fresh that the squid is still moving on the plate. Superbly thick and crunchy, the flavour of the squid continues to evolve and intensify in your mouth as you chew.
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One of the best ways to enjoy squid, though, is surprisingly in a bowl of ramen! Hakodate Shio Ramen makes their broth using squid stock rather than pork bones for an extremely slurp-worthy bowl of noodles. For something even more unique, do give their ika-meshi (rice stuffed squid) a try, too.
3. Have a hearty meal at Daimon Yokocho
Image credit: UU Hokkaido
If you can’t get enough of Hakodate’s squid or any other of Hakodate’s culinary delicacies, then you can’t possibly pass up on visiting Daimon Yokocho! You might have seen popular Netflix series like “Tokyo Diner” and this is Hakodate’s answer to an intimate hole-in-the-wall diner concept. Essentially a food stall village, Daimon Yokocho is lined with 26 restaurants serving up a plethora of local Japanese cuisine, though it also does offer Korean Cuisine and even Genghis Khan.
Image credit: Hokudai
Beyond just addictive mouth-watering food, this is also one of the best places to rub shoulders with the locals. As all of these shops are rather small and only with counter seats, it’s all too easy to saddle right in and make yourself comfortable among the regulars. Feel free to mingle and chat with the rest as everyone is considered family once inside the diner. What better way to take a pleasant experience a level up?
4. Shop at Hakodate Morning Market
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On a corner close to Hakodate Station is a haven brimming with sea gems that you’d be daft to miss out on. Just like Tsukiji Market, Hakodate Asaichi (Morning Market) is known for the array of delectable produce that makes it the perfect place to sample some of the best and freshest food around.
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What’s interesting enough to take your attention away from the food though is a peculiar blue tank filled with live swimming squids in the middle of the market. Here you get to experience the thrill of squid fishing yourself so flex those arm muscles and see how many you can hook! Once caught, a chef will take your catch and prepare a feast of squid sashimi for you to enjoy. It doesn’t get any fresher than that!
5. Be mesmerised by Goryokaku’s sweeping views
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Of course, you can’t mention Hakodate without Goryokaku coming to mind! This iconic star-shaped park was once a fort built at the end of the Edo period but is now Hakodate’s most iconic sightseeing spot.
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The surrounding park is particularly resplendent during spring and autumn when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom or when it’s dyed in the rich hues of the momiji leaves. Of course, you can’t visit Goryokaku without going up the Goryokaku tower observatory for the best panoramic view!
6. Immerse in Motomachi’s history
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Stepping into Motomachi district makes you feel as though you’ve walked into 19th century Europe rather than modern day Japan. The Motomachi neighbourhood is full of stylish foreign buildings and gorgeous architecture. Couple the exotic atmosphere with the sweeping views of the port; this real-life movie-set is the perfect place to take everything you need for the gram.
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History buffs would be delighted to take a spin through places like the Russian Orthodox Church, the Chinese Memorial Hall, and other similarly iconic foreign buildings. If you’re not into history or walking, fret not. Head over to Minatogaoka Street, affectionately nicknamed “Soft Serve Ice Cream Street”, and indulge in all the ice cream flavours you can find! There are even exotic flavours such as Melon and Squid Ink, too!
7. Visit Onuma Quasi-National Park
Image credit: Travel Hakodate
Can this really be considered a park? Surrounded by island-dotted lakes, volcano Komagatake and Mt. Kisokoma, it feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale instead! Should you have time to spare, this side trip is definitely worth the 30-minute journey from Hakodate.
Image credit: Travel Hakodate
There’s more to do than to just take pictures — no, that’s too much of a waste. You can partake in a numerous amount of activities. In summer, it’s perfect for setting up a tent to go camping or taking in the scenery from the comfort of a sightseeing boat ride; in winter, the snow-covered wonderland means fishing enthusiasts crowding around holes in the ice. Should you fancy a horseback ride around your fairytale kingdom, there are horses for rent all year round, too!
8. Enjoy the night view from Mt. Hakodate
Image credit: Travel Hakodate
To say the least, if it shares the same namesake, Mt. Hakodate definitely has to have a view worthy of the name Hakodate. With a three-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japon, it’s safe to say it deserves the title of being Hokkaido’s million dollar view.
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Take the ropeway to the summit before sunset to be blown away by the views of the fiery orange sun setting behind the horizon. While the day time view is stunning as it is, the twinkling lights from the city below in contrast with the inky waters of the bay really is a sight to behold.
Now you know that Hakodate should be on your list next time you plan a Japanese getaway!
Also read: Panorama Galore: A 6-day Itinerary to Catch Hokkaido’s Best Views
