What to know
Hakodate (函館) is Hokkaido's third-largest city, situated at the island's southern tip. It is renowned for the breathtaking views from Mount Hakodate and its delicious fresh seafood.
Hakodate was one of the first Japanese port cities opened to international trade after the country's isolation period. Consequently, the city shows significant foreign influence, with the former foreign residential district and a Western-style fort among its main attractions.
Onuma Park, a quasi-national park featuring beautiful lakes dotted with islands, lies just half an hour north of Hakodate. It makes a great side trip or a stop on the journey between Hakodate and Sapporo.
Activities and attractions
Mount HakodateMountain with spectacular views of the city
Onuma Quasi National ParkNational park 20 kilometers north of Hakodate
Fort GoryokakuJapan's first Western-style fortress
Morning MarketEnjoy fresh seafood for breakfast
MotomachiFormer residential area of foreign traders
Red Brick WarehousesAtmospheric shopping complex in the bay area
MatsumaeThe only former castle town on Hokkaido