Hakodate Must-Sees

Hakodate features a unique architectural landscape shaped by its history as one of Japan's first international trading ports. The city is home to Goryōkaku, a massive star-shaped Western-style fort, and the historic Motomachi district, which contains 19th-century European churches and consulates. Key landmarks include the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses and vibrant morning markets specializing in local seafood like squid and crab. Mount Hakodate provides a panoramic view of the city’s narrow isthmus between Hakodate Bay and the Tsugaru Strait.

Goryōkaku

Goryōkaku is a star fort in the Japanese city of Hakodate on the island of Hokkaido. The fortress was completed in 1866.

Mount Hakodate Ropeway

The Mt. Hakodate Ropeway is the name of an aerial lift, as well as its operator. The line climbs Mount Hakodate in Hakodate, Japan.

Hachiman-zaka Slope

Come here for wonderful views of the harbour and the whole city! Stroll down the pavement and take some great photographs.

Hakodate Morning Market Square

Indoor market facility featuring local seafood stalls, produce vendors, and food courts. It serves as a central hub for the larger morning market area near Hakodate Station.

Old Hakodate Public Hall

Completed in 1910, this colonial-style building features a distinctive yellow and blue exterior. It served as a community center and historically hosted members of the Imperial family during their visits to Hokkaido.

Goryokaku Tower

A 107-meter tall observation tower providing bird's-eye views of the star-shaped Goryōkaku fort, Mount Hakodate, and the Tsugaru Strait.

Hakodate Asaichi (Morning Market)

Expansive market area comprising hundreds of shops selling fresh seafood, including the city's signature squid, alongside restaurants specializing in seafood bowls known as kaisen-don.

Trappistine Monastery

Our Lady of the Angels Trappistine Abbey is a women's abbey of Trappists located in the outskirts of Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan.

Hakodate Yama

The 334-meter summit of the mountain offers panoramic views of the city's unique geography, positioned on a narrow strip of land between Hakodate Bay and the Tsugaru Strait.

Hakodate Mountain

Mount Hakodate is an inactive volcanic mountain in Hakodate, Hokkaidō, Japan.

Hakodate Saint John Church

Anglican church established in 1874. The current building, completed in 1979, features a cross-shaped brown roof that is clearly visible from the summit of Mount Hakodate.

Roman Catholic Church

Originally founded in 1877, the current Gothic-style structure was rebuilt in 1924. It features a prominent bell tower and an altar gifted by Pope Benedict XV.

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse

A series of 19th-century waterfront warehouses converted into a commercial complex featuring local craft shops, restaurants, and a brewery.